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Moretti A, Iolascon G. Sclerostin: clinical insights in muscle-bone crosstalk. J Int Med Res 2023; 51:3000605231193293. [PMID: 37632438 PMCID: PMC10467411 DOI: 10.1177/03000605231193293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Sclerostin, a protein encoded by the sclerostin (SOST) gene, is mostly expressed in osteocytes. First described in the pathogenesis of three disorders, sclerosteosis, van Buchem's disease, and craniodiaphyseal dysplasia, sclerostin has been identified as an important regulator of bone homeostasis, controlling bone formation by osteoblasts through inhibition of the canonical Wnt signaling pathway. Recent studies have highlighted a hypothetical role of sclerostin in myogenesis, thus modulating the interaction between bone and muscle. This narrative review provides an overview of the clinical implications of sclerostin modulation on skeletal muscle mass and function, and bone metabolism. Improving knowledge about muscle-bone crosstalk may represent a turning point in the development of therapeutic strategies for musculoskeletal disorders, particularly osteosarcopenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antimo Moretti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties and Dentistry, University of Campania ‘Luigi Vanvitelli’, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Iolascon
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties and Dentistry, University of Campania ‘Luigi Vanvitelli’, Naples, Italy
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2
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O'Brien S, Chidiac R, Angers S. Modulation of Wnt-β-catenin signaling with antibodies: therapeutic opportunities and challenges. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2023; 44:354-365. [PMID: 37085400 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2023.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023]
Abstract
Since the recognition that mutations in components of the Wnt-β-catenin pathway underlie some human cancers, considerable attention has been dedicated to developing therapeutic modalities to block its activity. Despite numerous efforts, no drug directly inhibiting Wnt signaling is currently clinically available. Conversely, activating the Wnt pathway in a specific manner has recently been made possible with new molecules mimicking the activity of Wnt proteins, thus offering new possibilities for controlling tissue stem cell activity and for the rational treatment of various degenerative conditions. We describe the landscape of antibody modalities that modulate the Wnt-β-catenin pathway, and detail the advances and challenges in both cancer and regenerative medicine drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siobhan O'Brien
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Rony Chidiac
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Stephane Angers
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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3
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Li M, Li T, Yin J, Xie C, Zhu J. Evaluation of toxicological effects of bisphenol S with an in vitro human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell: Implications for bone health. Toxicology 2023; 484:153408. [PMID: 36565802 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2022.153408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
As the use of bisphenol A (BPA) has been restricted in consumer products, bisphenol S (BPS) is one major alternative to BPA for various materials, leading to growing concerns about its health risks in human beings. However, little is known about the toxic effects of BPS on bone health. We employed human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) for the in vitro assessment of BPS on cell proliferation, differentiation, and self-renewal. Our study revealed that BPS at concentrations of 10-10-10-7 M increased cell viability but induced the morphological changes of hBMSCs. Moreover, BPS decreased ROS generation and increased Nrf2 expression. Furthermore, BPS not only activated ERα/β expression but also increased β-catenin expression and induced the replicative senescence of hBMSCs. Furthermore, we found that the upregulation of β-catenin induced by BPS was mediated, in part, by ER signaling. Overall, our results suggested BPS exposure caused the homeostatic imbalance of hBMSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Li
- The Laboratory Center for Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; School of Biomedical Engineering and Informatics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Tenglong Li
- The Laboratory Center for Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Juan Yin
- Department of Laboratory, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou 215008, China
| | - Chunfeng Xie
- Department of Nutrition and Food Safety, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China.
| | - Jianyun Zhu
- Department of Laboratory, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou 215008, China.
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4
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Mahoney JP, Bruguera ES, Vasishtha M, Killingsworth LB, Kyaw S, Weis WI. PI(4,5)P 2-stimulated positive feedback drives the recruitment of Dishevelled to Frizzled in Wnt-β-catenin signaling. Sci Signal 2022; 15:eabo2820. [PMID: 35998232 PMCID: PMC9528458 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.abo2820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In the Wnt-β-catenin pathway, Wnt binding to Frizzled (Fzd) and LRP5 or LRP6 (LRP5/6) co-receptors inhibits the degradation of the transcriptional coactivator β-catenin by recruiting the cytosolic effector Dishevelled (Dvl). Polymerization of Dvl at the plasma membrane recruits the β-catenin destruction complex, enabling the phosphorylation of LRP5/6, a key step in inhibiting β-catenin degradation. Using purified Fzd proteins reconstituted in lipid nanodiscs, we investigated the factors that promote the recruitment of Dvl to the plasma membrane. We found that the affinity of Fzd for Dvl was not affected by Wnt ligands, in contrast to other members of the GPCR superfamily for which the binding of extracellular ligands affects the affinity for downstream transducers. Instead, Fzd-Dvl binding was enhanced by increased concentration of the lipid PI(4,5)P2, which is generated by Dvl-associated lipid kinases in response to Wnt and which is required for LRP5/6 phosphorylation. Moreover, binding to Fzd did not promote Dvl DEP domain dimerization, which has been proposed to be required for signaling downstream of Fzd. Our findings suggest a positive feedback loop in which Wnt-stimulated local PI(4,5)P2 production enhances Dvl recruitment and further PI(4,5)P2 production to support Dvl polymerization, LRP5/6 phosphorylation, and β-catenin stabilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob P Mahoney
- Departments of Structural Biology and Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94035, USA
| | - Elise S Bruguera
- Departments of Structural Biology and Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94035, USA
| | - Mansi Vasishtha
- Departments of Structural Biology and Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94035, USA
| | - Lauren B Killingsworth
- Departments of Structural Biology and Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94035, USA
| | - Saw Kyaw
- Departments of Structural Biology and Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94035, USA
| | - William I Weis
- Departments of Structural Biology and Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94035, USA
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5
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Abstract
The Wnt pathway is central to a host of developmental and disease-related processes. The remarkable conservation of this intercellular signaling cascade throughout metazoan lineages indicates that it coevolved with multicellularity to regulate the generation and spatial arrangement of distinct cell types. By regulating cell fate specification, mitotic activity, and cell polarity, Wnt signaling orchestrates development and tissue homeostasis, and its dysregulation is implicated in developmental defects, cancer, and degenerative disorders. We review advances in our understanding of this key pathway, from Wnt protein production and secretion to relay of the signal in the cytoplasm of the receiving cell. We discuss the evolutionary history of this pathway as well as endogenous and synthetic modulators of its activity. Finally, we highlight remaining gaps in our knowledge of Wnt signal transduction and avenues for future research. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Biochemistry, Volume 91 is June 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Youngsoo Rim
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Developmental Biology, and Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA;
| | - Hans Clevers
- Hubrecht Institute and Oncode Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Roel Nusse
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Developmental Biology, and Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA;
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6
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Zalenskaya IA, Chandra N, Yousefieh N, Fang X, Adedipe OE, Jackson SS, Anderson SM, Mauck CK, Schwartz JL, Thurman AR, Doncel GF. Use of contraceptive depot medroxyprogesterone acetate is associated with impaired cervicovaginal mucosal integrity. J Clin Invest 2018; 128:4622-4638. [PMID: 30222141 DOI: 10.1172/jci120583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/31/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Injectable depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) is one of the most popular contraception methods in areas of high HIV seroprevalence. Evidence is accumulating that use of DMPA might be associated with an increased risk of HIV-1 acquisition by women; however, mechanisms of this association are not completely understood. The goal of this study was to gain insight into mechanisms underlying the possible link between use of DMPA and risk of HIV-1 acquisition, exploring transcription profiling of ectocervical tissues. METHODS Healthy women received either DMPA (n = 31) or combined oral contraceptive (COC), which has not been linked to an increased risk of HIV acquisition (n = 32). We conducted a comparative microarray-based whole-genome transcriptome profiling of human ectocervical tissues before and after 6 weeks of hormonal contraception use. RESULTS The analysis identified that expression of 235 and 76 genes was significantly altered after DMPA and COC use, respectively. The most striking effect of DMPA, but not COC, was significantly altered expression (mostly downregulation) of many genes strategically involved in the maintenance of mucosal barrier function; the alterations, as indicated by Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA), were most likely due to the DMPA-induced estrogen deficiency. Furthermore, IPA predicted that transcriptome alterations related to ectocervical immune responses were in general compatible with an immunosuppressive effect of DMPA, but, in some women, also with an inflammatory-like response. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that impairment of cervicovaginal mucosal integrity in response to DMPA administration is an important mechanism contributing to the potential increased risk of HIV-1 acquisition in DMPA users. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01421368. FUNDING This study was supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) under Cooperative Agreement GPO-A-00-08-00005-00.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Neelima Chandra
- CONRAD, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | | | - Xi Fang
- CONRAD, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Jill L Schwartz
- CONRAD, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Arlington, Virginia, USA
| | | | - Gustavo F Doncel
- CONRAD, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA.,CONRAD, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Arlington, Virginia, USA
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7
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Chen D, Xie R, Shu B, Landay AL, Wei C, Reiser J, Spagnoli A, Torquati A, Forsyth CB, Keshavarzian A, Sumner DR. Wnt signaling in bone, kidney, intestine, and adipose tissue and interorgan interaction in aging. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2018; 1442:48-60. [PMID: 30101565 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.13945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2018] [Revised: 07/02/2018] [Accepted: 07/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Over the last two decades, it has become increasingly apparent that Wnt signaling plays a critical role in development and adult tissue homeostasis in multiple organs and in the pathogenesis of many diseases. In particular, a crucial role for Wnt signaling in bone development and bone tissue homeostasis has been well recognized. Numerous genome-wide association studies confirmed the importance of Wnt signaling in controlling bone mass. Moreover, ample evidence suggests that Wnt signaling is essential for kidney, intestine, and adipose tissue development and homeostasis. Recent emerging evidence demonstrates that Wnt signaling may play a fundamental role in the aging process of those organs. New discoveries show that bone is not only the major reservoir for calcium and phosphate storage, but also the largest organ with multiple functions, including mineral and energy metabolism. The interactions among bone, kidney, intestine, and adipose tissue are controlled and regulated by several endocrine signals, including FGF23, klotho, sclerostin, osteocalcin, vitamin D, and leptin. Since the aging process is characterized by structural and functional decline in almost all tissues and organs, understanding the Wnt signaling-related interactions among bone, kidney, intestine, and adipose tissue in aging may shed light on the pathogenesis of age-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Chen
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Rong Xie
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Bing Shu
- Spine Research Institute, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Alan L Landay
- Department of Microbial Pathogens and Immunity, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Changli Wei
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Jochen Reiser
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Anna Spagnoli
- Department of Pediatrics, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Alfonso Torquati
- Department of Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | | | - Ali Keshavarzian
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - D Rick Sumner
- Department of Cell and Molecular Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
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8
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Hamzehzadeh L, Caraglia M, Atkin SL, Sahebkar A. Dickkopf homolog 3 (DKK3): A candidate for detection and treatment of cancers? J Cell Physiol 2018; 233:4595-4605. [PMID: 29206297 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.26313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 12/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Wnt signaling is an evolutionary highly conserved pathway that is modulated by several inhibitors and activators, and plays a key role in numerous physiological processes. One of the extracellular Wnt inhibitors is the DKK (Dickkopf Homolog) family which has four members (Dkk1-4) and a unique Dkk3-related gene, Dkkl1 (soggy). DKK3 is a divergent member of the DKK protein family. Evidence suggests that DKK3 may serve as a potential therapeutic target in several types of human cancers. We review here the biological role of DKK3 as a tumor suppressor gene (TSG) or oncogene, and its correlation with various miRNAs. In addition, we discuss the role of polymorphisms and promoter methylation of the DKK3 gene, and of its expression in regulating cancer cell proliferation. Finally, we propose that DKK3 may be considered as both a biomarker and a therapeutic target in different cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Hamzehzadeh
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Michele Caraglia
- Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and General Pathology, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | | | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad, Iran.,School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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9
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Surrogate Wnt agonists that phenocopy canonical Wnt and β-catenin signalling. Nature 2017; 545:234-237. [PMID: 28467818 PMCID: PMC5815871 DOI: 10.1038/nature22306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 235] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2016] [Accepted: 03/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Wnt proteins modulate cell proliferation and differentiation and the self-renewal of stem cells by inducing β-catenin-dependent signalling through the Wnt receptor frizzled (FZD) and the co-receptors LRP5 and LRP6 to regulate cell fate decisions and the growth and repair of several tissues. The 19 mammalian Wnt proteins are cross-reactive with the 10 FZD receptors, and this has complicated the attribution of distinct biological functions to specific FZD and Wnt subtype interactions. Furthermore, Wnt proteins are modified post-translationally by palmitoylation, which is essential for their secretion, function and interaction with FZD receptors. As a result of their acylation, Wnt proteins are very hydrophobic and require detergents for purification, which presents major obstacles to the preparation and application of recombinant Wnt proteins. This hydrophobicity has hindered the determination of the molecular mechanisms of Wnt signalling activation and the functional importance of FZD subtypes, and the use of Wnt proteins as therapeutic agents. Here we develop surrogate Wnt agonists, water-soluble FZD-LRP5/LRP6 heterodimerizers, with FZD5/FZD8-specific and broadly FZD-reactive binding domains. Similar to WNT3A, these Wnt agonists elicit a characteristic β-catenin signalling response in a FZD-selective fashion, enhance the osteogenic lineage commitment of primary mouse and human mesenchymal stem cells, and support the growth of a broad range of primary human organoid cultures. In addition, the surrogates can be systemically expressed and exhibit Wnt activity in vivo in the mouse liver, regulating metabolic liver zonation and promoting hepatocyte proliferation, resulting in hepatomegaly. These surrogates demonstrate that canonical Wnt signalling can be activated by bi-specific ligands that induce receptor heterodimerization. Furthermore, these easily produced, non-lipidated Wnt surrogate agonists facilitate functional studies of Wnt signalling and the exploration of Wnt agonists for translational applications in regenerative medicine.
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10
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Zhou S, Zhu Y, Mashrah M, Zhang X, He Z, Yao Z, Zhang C, Guo F, Hu Y, Zhang C. Expression pattern of DKK3, dickkopf WNT signaling pathway inhibitor 3, in the malignant progression of oral submucous fibrosis. Oncol Rep 2016; 37:979-985. [DOI: 10.3892/or.2016.5307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2016] [Accepted: 06/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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11
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Thompson ML, Jimenez-Andrade JM, Mantyh PW. Sclerostin Immunoreactivity Increases in Cortical Bone Osteocytes and Decreases in Articular Cartilage Chondrocytes in Aging Mice. J Histochem Cytochem 2015; 64:179-89. [PMID: 26701970 DOI: 10.1369/0022155415626499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2015] [Accepted: 12/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Sclerostin is a 24-kDa secreted glycoprotein that has been identified as a negative modulator of new bone formation and may play a major role in age-related decline in skeletal function. Although serum levels of sclerostin markedly increase with age, relatively little is known about whether cells in the skeleton change their expression of sclerostin with aging. Using immunohistochemistry and confocal microscopy, we explored sclerostin immunoreactivity (sclerostin-IR) in the femurs of 4-, 9-, and 24-month-old adult C3H/HeJ male mice. In the femur, the only two cell types that expressed detectable levels of sclerostin-IR were bone osteocytes and articular cartilage chondrocytes. At three different sites along the diaphysis of the femur, only a subset of osteocytes expressed sclerostin-IR and the percentage of osteocytes that expressed sclerostin-IR increased from approximately 36% to 48% in 4- vs. 24-month-old mice. In marked contrast, in the same femurs, there were ~40% fewer hypertrophic chondrocytes of articular cartilage that expressed sclerostin-IR when comparing 24- vs. 4-month-old mice. Understanding the mechanism(s) that drive these divergent changes in sclerostin-IR may provide insight into understanding and treating the age-related decline of the skeleton.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle L Thompson
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona (MLT, JMJA, PWM)
| | - Juan Miguel Jimenez-Andrade
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona (MLT, JMJA, PWM),Unidad Académica Multidisciplinaria Reynosa Aztlan, Universidad Autónoma de Tamaulipas, Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Mexico (JMJA)
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12
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Lee HJ, Bao J, Miller A, Zhang C, Wu J, Baday YC, Guibao C, Li L, Wu D, Zheng JJ. Structure-based Discovery of Novel Small Molecule Wnt Signaling Inhibitors by Targeting the Cysteine-rich Domain of Frizzled. J Biol Chem 2015; 290:30596-606. [PMID: 26504084 PMCID: PMC4683279 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m115.673202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Frizzled is the earliest discovered glycosylated Wnt protein receptor and is critical for the initiation of Wnt signaling. Antagonizing Frizzled is effective in inhibiting the growth of multiple tumor types. The extracellular N terminus of Frizzled contains a conserved cysteine-rich domain that directly interacts with Wnt ligands. Structure-based virtual screening and cell-based assays were used to identify five small molecules that can inhibit canonical Wnt signaling and have low IC50 values in the micromolar range. NMR experiments confirmed that these compounds specifically bind to the Wnt binding site on the Frizzled8 cysteine-rich domain with submicromolar dissociation constants. Our study confirms the feasibility of targeting the Frizzled cysteine-rich domain as an effective way of regulating canonical Wnt signaling. These small molecules can be further optimized into more potent therapeutic agents for regulating abnormal Wnt signaling by targeting Frizzled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ho-Jin Lee
- From the Department of Structural Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105
| | - Ju Bao
- From the Department of Structural Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105
| | - Ami Miller
- From the Department of Structural Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105
| | - Chi Zhang
- From the Department of Structural Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, the Department of Ophthalmology, Stein Eye Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095
| | - Jibo Wu
- the State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China, and the Department of Pharmacology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510
| | - Yiressy C Baday
- From the Department of Structural Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105
| | - Cristina Guibao
- From the Department of Structural Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105
| | - Lin Li
- the State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China, and
| | - Dianqing Wu
- the Department of Pharmacology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510
| | - Jie J Zheng
- From the Department of Structural Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, the Department of Ophthalmology, Stein Eye Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095,
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13
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Remote activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway using functionalised magnetic particles. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0121761. [PMID: 25781466 PMCID: PMC4363733 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0121761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2014] [Accepted: 02/11/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Wnt signalling pathways play crucial roles in developmental biology, stem cell fate and tissue patterning and have become an attractive therapeutic target in the fields of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Wnt signalling has also been shown to play a role in human Mesenchymal Stem Cell (hMSC) fate, which have shown potential as a cell therapy in bone and cartilage tissue engineering. Previous work has shown that biocompatible magnetic nanoparticles (MNP) can be used to stimulate specific mechanosensitive membrane receptors and ion channels in vitro and in vivo. Using this strategy, we determined the effects of mechano-stimulation of the Wnt Frizzled receptor on Wnt pathway activation in hMSC. Frizzled receptors were tagged using anti-Frizzled functionalised MNP (Fz-MNP). A commercially available oscillating magnetic bioreactor (MICA Biosystems) was used to mechanically stimulate Frizzled receptors remotely. Our results demonstrate that Fz-MNP can activate Wnt/β-catenin signalling at key checkpoints in the signalling pathway. Immunocytochemistry indicated nuclear localisation of the Wnt intracellular messenger β-catenin after treatment with Fz-MNP. A Wnt signalling TCF/LEF responsive luciferase reporter transfected into hMSC was used to assess terminal signal activation at the nucleus. We observed an increase in reporter activity after treatment with Fz-MNP and this effect was enhanced after mechano-stimulation using the magnetic array. Western blot analysis was used to probe the mechanism of signalling activation and indicated that Fz-MNP signal through an LRP independent mechanism. Finally, the gene expression profiles of stress response genes were found to be similar when cells were treated with recombinant Wnt-3A or Fz-MNP. This study provides proof of principle that Wnt signalling and Frizzled receptors are mechanosensitive and can be remotely activated in vitro. Using magnetic nanoparticle technology it may be possible to modulate Wnt signalling pathways and thus control stem cell fate for therapeutic purposes.
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14
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Ke J, Harikumar KG, Erice C, Chen C, Gu X, Wang L, Parker N, Cheng Z, Xu W, Williams BO, Melcher K, Miller LJ, Xu HE. Structure and function of Norrin in assembly and activation of a Frizzled 4-Lrp5/6 complex. Genes Dev 2013; 27:2305-19. [PMID: 24186977 PMCID: PMC3828517 DOI: 10.1101/gad.228544.113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Norrin is an important growth factor and Wnt ligand required for angiogenesis in the eye, ear, brain, and female reproductive organs. Structural and functional studies by Ke et al. now reveal that Norrin forms a unique dimer required for binding and activation of the Frizzled 4 (Fz4) receptor. Interestingly, Norrin contains separate binding sites for Wnt ligand coreceptors Lrp5/6 and induces the formation of a ternary complex with Fz4 and Lrp5/6 extracellular domains. This study provides critical new insight into the Wnt and Norrin signaling pathways. Norrin is a cysteine-rich growth factor that is required for angiogenesis in the eye, ear, brain, and female reproductive organs. It functions as an atypical Wnt ligand by specifically binding to the Frizzled 4 (Fz4) receptor. Here we report the crystal structure of Norrin, which reveals a unique dimeric structure with each monomer adopting a conserved cystine knot fold. Functional studies demonstrate that the novel Norrin dimer interface is required for Fz4 activation. Furthermore, we demonstrate that Norrin contains separate binding sites for Fz4 and for the Wnt ligand coreceptor Lrp5 (low-density lipoprotein-related protein 5) or Lrp6. Instead of inducing Fz4 dimerization, Norrin induces the formation of a ternary complex with Fz4 and Lrp5/6 by binding to their respective extracellular domains. These results provide crucial insights into the assembly and activation of the Norrin–Fz4–Lrp5/6 signaling complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyuan Ke
- Laboratory of Structural Sciences, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503, USA
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15
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Ring L, Neth P, Weber C, Steffens S, Faussner A. β-Catenin-dependent pathway activation by both promiscuous "canonical" WNT3a-, and specific "noncanonical" WNT4- and WNT5a-FZD receptor combinations with strong differences in LRP5 and LRP6 dependency. Cell Signal 2013; 26:260-7. [PMID: 24269653 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2013.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2013] [Revised: 11/04/2013] [Accepted: 11/18/2013] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The WNT/β-catenin signalling cascade is the best-investigated frizzled receptor (FZD) pathway, however, whether and how specific combinations of WNT/FZD and co-receptors LRP5 and LRP6 differentially affect this pathway are not well understood. This is mostly due to the fact that there are 19 WNTs, 10 FZDs and at least two co-receptors. In our attempt to identify the signalling capabilities of specific WNT/FZD/LRP combinations we made use of our previously reported TCF/LEF Gaussia luciferase reporter gene HEK293 cell line (Ring et al., 2011). Generation of WNT/FZD fusion constructs - but not their separate transfection - without or with additional isogenic overexpression of LRP5 and LRP6 in our reporter cells permitted the investigation of specific WNT/FZD/LRP combinations. The canonical WNT3a in fusion to almost all FZDs was able to induce β-catenin-dependent signalling with strong dependency on LRP6 but not LRP5. Interestingly, noncanonical WNT ligands, WNT4 and WNT5a, were also able to act "canonically" but only in fusion with specific FZDs and with selective dependence on LRP5 or LRP6. These data and extension of this experimental setup to the poorly characterized other WNTs should facilitate deeper insight into the complex WNT/FZD signalling system and its function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larisa Ring
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Pettenkoferstraße 9, 80336 Munich, Germany.
| | - Peter Neth
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Pettenkoferstraße 9, 80336 Munich, Germany.
| | - Christian Weber
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Pettenkoferstraße 9, 80336 Munich, Germany; DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, 80336 Munich, Germany.
| | - Sabine Steffens
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Pettenkoferstraße 9, 80336 Munich, Germany; DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, 80336 Munich, Germany.
| | - Alexander Faussner
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Pettenkoferstraße 9, 80336 Munich, Germany.
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16
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Wnt pathway inhibition via the targeting of Frizzled receptors results in decreased growth and tumorigenicity of human tumors. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2012; 109:11717-22. [PMID: 22753465 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1120068109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 449] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The Wnt/β-catenin pathway, which signals through the Frizzled (Fzd) receptor family and several coreceptors, has long been implicated in cancer. Here we demonstrate a therapeutic approach to targeting the Wnt pathway with a monoclonal antibody, OMP-18R5. This antibody, initially identified by binding to Frizzled 7, interacts with five Fzd receptors through a conserved epitope within the extracellular domain and blocks canonical Wnt signaling induced by multiple Wnt family members. In xenograft studies with minimally passaged human tumors, this antibody inhibits the growth of a range of tumor types, reduces tumor-initiating cell frequency, and exhibits synergistic activity with standard-of-care chemotherapeutic agents.
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17
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Ke J, Zhang C, Harikumar KG, Zylstra-Diegel CR, Wang L, Mowry LE, Miller LJ, Williams BO, Xu HE. Modulation of β-catenin signaling by glucagon receptor activation. PLoS One 2012; 7:e33676. [PMID: 22438981 PMCID: PMC3306284 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0033676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2011] [Accepted: 02/14/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The glucagon receptor (GCGR) is a member of the class B G protein–coupled receptor family. Activation of GCGR by glucagon leads to increased glucose production by the liver. Thus, glucagon is a key component of glucose homeostasis by counteracting the effect of insulin. In this report, we found that in addition to activation of the classic cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA) pathway, activation of GCGR also induced β-catenin stabilization and activated β-catenin–mediated transcription. Activation of β-catenin signaling was PKA-dependent, consistent with previous reports on the parathyroid hormone receptor type 1 (PTH1R) and glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1R) receptors. Since low-density-lipoprotein receptor–related protein 5 (Lrp5) is an essential co-receptor required for Wnt protein mediated β-catenin signaling, we examined the role of Lrp5 in glucagon-induced β-catenin signaling. Cotransfection with Lrp5 enhanced the glucagon-induced β-catenin stabilization and TCF promoter–mediated transcription. Inhibiting Lrp5/6 function using Dickkopf-1(DKK1) or by expression of the Lrp5 extracellular domain blocked glucagon-induced β-catenin signaling. Furthermore, we showed that Lrp5 physically interacted with GCGR by immunoprecipitation and bioluminescence resonance energy transfer assays. Together, these results reveal an unexpected crosstalk between glucagon and β-catenin signaling, and may help to explain the metabolic phenotypes of Lrp5/6 mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyuan Ke
- Laboratory of Structural Sciences, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States of America
- * E-mail: (JK); (HEX)
| | - Chenghai Zhang
- Laboratory of Structural Sciences, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Kaleeckal G. Harikumar
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Cassandra R. Zylstra-Diegel
- Laboratory of Cell Signaling and Carcinogenesis, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Liren Wang
- Laboratory of Structural Sciences, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Laura E. Mowry
- Laboratory of Cell Signaling and Carcinogenesis, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Laurence J. Miller
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Bart O. Williams
- Laboratory of Cell Signaling and Carcinogenesis, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States of America
| | - H. Eric Xu
- Laboratory of Structural Sciences, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States of America
- VARI/SIMM Center, Center for Structure and Function of Drug Targets, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- * E-mail: (JK); (HEX)
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18
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Kagermeier-Schenk B, Wehner D, Ozhan-Kizil G, Yamamoto H, Li J, Kirchner K, Hoffmann C, Stern P, Kikuchi A, Schambony A, Weidinger G. Waif1/5T4 inhibits Wnt/β-catenin signaling and activates noncanonical Wnt pathways by modifying LRP6 subcellular localization. Dev Cell 2011; 21:1129-43. [PMID: 22100263 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2011.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2010] [Revised: 09/09/2011] [Accepted: 10/20/2011] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Wnt proteins can activate distinct signaling pathways, but little is known about the mechanisms regulating pathway selection. Here we show that the metastasis-associated transmembrane protein Wnt-activated inhibitory factor 1 (Waif1/5T4) interferes with Wnt/β-catenin signaling and concomitantly activates noncanonical Wnt pathways. Waif1 inhibits β-catenin signaling in zebrafish and Xenopus embryos as well as in mammalian cells, and zebrafish waif1a acts as a direct feedback inhibitor of wnt8-mediated mesoderm and neuroectoderm patterning during zebrafish gastrulation. Waif1a binds to the Wnt coreceptor LRP6 and inhibits Wnt-induced LRP6 internalization into endocytic vesicles, a process that is required for pathway activation. Thus, Waif1a modifies Wnt/β-catenin signaling by regulating LRP6 subcellular localization. In addition, Waif1a enhances β-catenin-independent Wnt signaling in zebrafish embryos and Xenopus explants by promoting a noncanonical function of Dickkopf1. These results suggest that Waif1 modulates pathway selection in Wnt-receiving cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birgit Kagermeier-Schenk
- Biotechnology Center and Center for Regenerative Therapies, Technische Universität Dresden, Tatzberg 47, 01307 Dresden, Germany
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19
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Cadigan KM, Peifer M. Wnt signaling from development to disease: insights from model systems. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2010; 1:a002881. [PMID: 20066091 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a002881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 240] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
One of the early surprises in the study of cell adhesion was the discovery that beta-catenin plays dual roles, serving as an essential component of cadherin-based cell-cell adherens junctions and also serving as the key regulated effector of the Wnt signaling pathway. Here, we review our current model of Wnt signaling and discuss how recent work using model organisms has advanced our understanding of the roles Wnt signaling plays in both normal development and in disease. These data help flesh out the mechanisms of signaling from the membrane to the nucleus, revealing new protein players and providing novel information about known components of the pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ken M Cadigan
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-1048, USA
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20
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Inhibition of tumorigenesis driven by different Wnt proteins requires blockade of distinct ligand-binding regions by LRP6 antibodies. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2010; 107:15473-8. [PMID: 20713706 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1007428107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Disregulated Wnt/beta-catenin signaling has been linked to various human diseases, including cancers. Inhibitors of oncogenic Wnt signaling are likely to have a therapeutic effect in cancers. LRP5 and LRP6 are closely related membrane coreceptors for Wnt proteins. Using a phage-display library, we identified anti-LRP6 antibodies that either inhibit or enhance Wnt signaling. Two classes of LRP6 antagonistic antibodies were discovered: one class specifically inhibits Wnt proteins represented by Wnt1, whereas the second class specifically inhibits Wnt proteins represented by Wnt3a. Epitope-mapping experiments indicated that Wnt1 class-specific antibodies bind to the first propeller and Wnt3a class-specific antibodies bind to the third propeller of LRP6, suggesting that Wnt1- and Wnt3a-class proteins interact with distinct LRP6 propeller domains. This conclusion is further supported by the structural functional analysis of LRP5/6 and the finding that the Wnt antagonist Sclerostin interacts with the first propeller of LRP5/6 and preferentially inhibits the Wnt1-class proteins. We also show that Wnt1 or Wnt3a class-specific anti-LRP6 antibodies specifically block growth of MMTV-Wnt1 or MMTV-Wnt3 xenografts in vivo. Therapeutic application of these antibodies could be limited without knowing the type of Wnt proteins expressed in cancers. This is further complicated by our finding that bivalent LRP6 antibodies sensitize cells to the nonblocked class of Wnt proteins. The generation of a biparatopic LRP6 antibody blocks both Wnt1- and Wnt3a-mediated signaling without showing agonistic activity. Our studies provide insights into Wnt-induced LRP5/6 activation and show the potential utility of LRP6 antibodies in Wnt-driven cancer.
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21
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Bhat RA, Stauffer B, Della Pietra A, Bodine PVN. Wnt3-frizzled 1 chimera as a model to study canonical Wnt signaling. J Cell Biochem 2010; 109:876-84. [PMID: 20039315 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.22447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Wnt proteins initiate signaling by binding to seven transmembrane spanning receptors of the frizzled (Fz) family together with the members of the low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein (LRP) 5 and 6. A chimera of human Wnt3 and Fz1 receptor was developed that efficiently activated the TCF-luciferase reporter. Deletion of the cytoplasmic tail and point mutations in the PDZ binding region in the chimera resulted in the loss of Wnt signaling, suggesting a critical role for the Fz cytoplasmic region in Wnt signaling. The Fz CRD is also critical for Wnt signaling, as a deletion of 29 amino acids in the 2nd cysteine loop resulted in the total loss of TCF-luciferase activation. DKK-1 protein blocks upregulation of the TCF-luciferase reporter by the Wnt3-Fz1 chimera, suggesting involvement of LRP in Wnt3-Fz1 signaling. Expression of a Wnt3-Fz1 chimera in C3H10T1/2 cells resulted in the upregulation of alkaline phosphatase activity and inhibition of adipocyte formation, demonstrating that the Wnt3-Fz1 chimera is a potent activator of differentiation of C3H10T1/2 cells into osteoblasts and an inhibitor of their differentiation into the adipocyte lineage. In summary, the Wnt-Fz chimera approach has the potential to better our understanding of the mechanism of Wnt action and its role, particularly in stem cell differentiation. In addition, this methodology can be utilized to identify inhibitors of either Wnt, Fz or interactors of the canonical pathway, which may have potential therapeutic value in the treatment of cancers and other diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramesh A Bhat
- Department of Osteoporosis & Frailty, Women's Health & Musculoskeletal Biology, Wyeth Research, Collegeville, PA 19426, USA.
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22
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Verheyen EM, Gottardi CJ. Regulation of Wnt/beta-catenin signaling by protein kinases. Dev Dyn 2010; 239:34-44. [PMID: 19623618 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.22019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The Wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway plays essential roles during development and adult tissue homeostasis. Inappropriate activation of the pathway can result in a variety of malignancies. Protein kinases have emerged as key regulators at multiple steps of the Wnt pathway. In this review, we present a synthesis covering the latest information on how Wnt signaling is regulated by diverse protein kinases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther M Verheyen
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada.
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23
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Sato A, Yamamoto H, Sakane H, Koyama H, Kikuchi A. Wnt5a regulates distinct signalling pathways by binding to Frizzled2. EMBO J 2009; 29:41-54. [PMID: 19910923 DOI: 10.1038/emboj.2009.322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 242] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2009] [Accepted: 10/02/2009] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Wnt5a regulates multiple intracellular signalling cascades, but how Wnt5a determines the specificity of these pathways is not well understood. This study examined whether the internalization of Wnt receptors affects the ability of Wnt5a to regulate its signalling pathways. Wnt5a activated Rac in the beta-catenin-independent pathway, and Frizzled2 (Fz2) and Ror1 or Ror2 were required for this action. Fz2 was internalized through a clathrin-mediated route in response to Wnt5a, and inhibition of clathrin-dependent internalization suppressed the ability of Wnt5a to activate Rac. As another action of Wnt5a, it inhibited Wnt3a-dependent lipoprotein receptor-related protein 6 (LRP6) phosphorylation and beta-catenin accumulation. Wnt3a-dependent phosphorylation of LRP6 was enhanced in Wnt5a knockout embryonic fibroblasts. Fz2 was also required for the Wnt3a-dependent accumulation of beta-catenin, and Wnt5a competed with Wnt3a for binding to Fz2 in vitro and in intact cells, thereby inhibiting the beta-catenin pathway. This inhibitory action of Wnt5a was not affected by the impairment of clathrin-dependent internalization. These results suggest that Wnt5a regulates distinct pathways through receptor internalization-dependent and -independent mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akira Sato
- Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
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24
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van Amerongen R, Nusse R. Towards an integrated view of Wnt signaling in development. Development 2009; 136:3205-14. [PMID: 19736321 DOI: 10.1242/dev.033910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 886] [Impact Index Per Article: 59.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Wnt signaling is crucial for embryonic development in all animal species studied to date. The interaction between Wnt proteins and cell surface receptors can result in a variety of intracellular responses. A key remaining question is how these specific responses take shape in the context of a complex, multicellular organism. Recent studies suggest that we have to revise some of our most basic ideas about Wnt signal transduction. Rather than thinking about Wnt signaling in terms of distinct, linear, cellular signaling pathways, we propose a novel view that considers the integration of multiple, often simultaneous, inputs at the level of both Wnt-receptor binding and the downstream, intracellular response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renée van Amerongen
- Department of Developmental Biology and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Beckman Center, 279 Campus Drive, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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25
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Abstract
Signaling by the Wnt family of secreted glycolipoproteins via the transcriptional coactivator beta-catenin controls embryonic development and adult homeostasis. Here we review recent progress in this so-called canonical Wnt signaling pathway. We discuss Wnt ligands, agonists, and antagonists, and their interactions with Wnt receptors. We also dissect critical events that regulate beta-catenin stability, from Wnt receptors to the cytoplasmic beta-catenin destruction complex, and nuclear machinery that mediates beta-catenin-dependent transcription. Finally, we highlight some key aspects of Wnt/beta-catenin signaling in human diseases including congenital malformations, cancer, and osteoporosis, and discuss potential therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan T MacDonald
- F. M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Children's Hospital Boston, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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26
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MacDonald BT, Tamai K, He X. Wnt/beta-catenin signaling: components, mechanisms, and diseases. Dev Cell 2009. [PMID: 19619488 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Signaling by the Wnt family of secreted glycolipoproteins via the transcriptional coactivator beta-catenin controls embryonic development and adult homeostasis. Here we review recent progress in this so-called canonical Wnt signaling pathway. We discuss Wnt ligands, agonists, and antagonists, and their interactions with Wnt receptors. We also dissect critical events that regulate beta-catenin stability, from Wnt receptors to the cytoplasmic beta-catenin destruction complex, and nuclear machinery that mediates beta-catenin-dependent transcription. Finally, we highlight some key aspects of Wnt/beta-catenin signaling in human diseases including congenital malformations, cancer, and osteoporosis, and discuss potential therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan T MacDonald
- F. M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Children's Hospital Boston, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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27
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Abstract
Signaling by the Wnt family of secreted glycolipoproteins via the transcriptional coactivator beta-catenin controls embryonic development and adult homeostasis. Here we review recent progress in this so-called canonical Wnt signaling pathway. We discuss Wnt ligands, agonists, and antagonists, and their interactions with Wnt receptors. We also dissect critical events that regulate beta-catenin stability, from Wnt receptors to the cytoplasmic beta-catenin destruction complex, and nuclear machinery that mediates beta-catenin-dependent transcription. Finally, we highlight some key aspects of Wnt/beta-catenin signaling in human diseases including congenital malformations, cancer, and osteoporosis, and discuss potential therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan T MacDonald
- F. M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Children's Hospital Boston, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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28
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Rostral paraxial mesoderm regulates refinement of the eye field through the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) pathway. Dev Biol 2009; 330:389-98. [PMID: 19362544 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2009.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2008] [Revised: 03/27/2009] [Accepted: 04/06/2009] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The eye field is initially a large single domain at the anterior end of the neural plate and is the first indication of optic potential in the vertebrate embryo. During the course of development, this domain is subject to interactions that shape and refine the organogenic field. The action of the prechordal mesoderm in bisecting this single region into two bilateral domains has been well described, however the role of signalling interactions in the further restriction and refinement of this domain has not been previously characterised. Here we describe a role for the rostral cephalic paraxial mesoderm in limiting the extent of the eye field. The anterior transposition of this mesoderm or its ablation disrupted normal development of the eye. Importantly, perturbation of optic vesicle development occurred in the absence of any detectable changes in the pattern of neighbouring regions of the neural tube. Furthermore, negative regulation of eye development is a property unique to the rostral paraxial mesoderm. The rostral paraxial mesoderm expresses members of the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) family of signalling molecules and manipulation of endogenous BMP signalling resulted in abnormalities of the early optic primordia.
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29
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Zeng X, Huang H, Tamai K, Zhang X, Harada Y, Yokota C, Almeida K, Wang J, Doble B, Woodgett J, Wynshaw-Boris A, Hsieh JC, He X. Initiation of Wnt signaling: control of Wnt coreceptor Lrp6 phosphorylation/activation via frizzled, dishevelled and axin functions. Development 2007; 135:367-75. [PMID: 18077588 DOI: 10.1242/dev.013540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 351] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Canonical Wnt/beta-catenin signaling has central roles in development and diseases, and is initiated by the action of the frizzled (Fz) receptor, its coreceptor LDL receptor-related protein 6 (Lrp6), and the cytoplasmic dishevelled (Dvl) protein. The functional relationships among Fz, Lrp6 and Dvl have long been enigmatic. We demonstrated previously that Wnt-induced Lrp6 phosphorylation via glycogen synthase kinase 3 (Gsk3) initiates Wnt/beta-catenin signaling. Here we show that both Fz and Dvl functions are critical for Wnt-induced Lrp6 phosphorylation through Fz-Lrp6 interaction. We also show that axin, a key scaffolding protein in the Wnt pathway, is required for Lrp6 phosphorylation via its ability to recruit Gsk3, and inhibition of Gsk3 at the plasma membrane blocks Wnt/beta-catenin signaling. Our results suggest a model that upon Wnt-induced Fz-Lrp6 complex formation, Fz recruitment of Dvl in turn recruits the axin-Gsk3 complex, thereby promoting Lrp6 phosphorylation to initiate beta-catenin signaling. We discuss the dual roles of the axin-Gsk3 complex and signal amplification by Lrp6-axin interaction during Wnt/beta-catenin signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zeng
- The F. M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Children's Hospital Boston, Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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30
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Avvisato CL, Yang X, Shah S, Hoxter B, Li W, Gaynor R, Pestell R, Tozeren A, Byers SW. Mechanical force modulates global gene expression and β-catenin signaling in colon cancer cells. J Cell Sci 2007; 120:2672-82. [PMID: 17635998 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.03476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
At various stages during embryogenesis and cancer cells are exposed to tension, compression and shear stress; forces that can regulate cell proliferation and differentiation. In the present study, we show that shear stress blocks cell cycle progression in colon cancer cells and regulates the expression of genes linked to the Wnt/β-catenin, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and NFκB pathways. The shear stress-induced increase of the secreted Wnt inhibitor DKK1 requires p38 and activation of NFκB requires IκB kinase-β. Activation of β-catenin, important in Wnt signaling and the cause of most colon cancers, is inhibited by shear stress through a pathway involving laminin-5, α6β4 integrin, phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI 3-kinase) and Rac1 coupled with changes in the distribution of dephosphorylated β-catenin. These data show that colon cancer cells respond to fluid shear stress by activation of specific signal transduction pathways and genetic regulatory circuits to affect cell proliferation, and indicate that the response of colon cancers to mechanical forces such as fluid shear stress should be taken into account in the management of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher L Avvisato
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Catholic University of America, Washington, DC, USA
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31
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Abstract
Human genetic studies have firmly established a link between bone mass in humans and gain-of-function or loss-of-function mutations in a Wnt coreceptor, low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 5 (LRP5), or in the Wnt antagonist sclerostin, and several molecular genetic studies in mice have consistently confirmed the critical importance of the Wnt signaling pathway in skeletal biology and disease. In what may be a novel paradigm, the ubiquitous nature of LRP5/6 and Wnt signaling is counterbalanced by the bone-restricted and regulated expression of Wnt antagonists such as sclerostin and Dickkopf-1 (Dkk1) in adult tissues, offering new and potentially safe therapeutic means of intervention to stimulate bone formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roland Baron
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520-8044, USA.
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32
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Abstract
Dickkopf (Dkk) genes comprise an evolutionary conserved small gene family of four members (Dkk1-4) and a unique Dkk3-related gene, Dkkl1 (soggy). They encode secreted proteins that typically antagonize Wnt/beta-catenin signaling, by inhibiting the Wnt coreceptors Lrp5 and 6. Additionally, Dkks are high affinity ligands for the transmembrane proteins Kremen1 and 2, which also modulate Wnt signaling. Dkks play an important role in vertebrate development, where they locally inhibit Wnt regulated processes such as antero-posterior axial patterning, limb development, somitogenesis and eye formation. In the adult, Dkks are implicated in bone formation and bone disease, cancer and Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Niehrs
- Department of Molecular Embryology, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany.
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33
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Semenov MV, He X. LRP5 Mutations Linked to High Bone Mass Diseases Cause Reduced LRP5 Binding and Inhibition by SOST. J Biol Chem 2006; 281:38276-84. [PMID: 17052975 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m609509200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 168] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The low density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor-related protein 5 (LRP5) is a co-receptor for Wnt proteins and a major regulator in bone homeostasis. Human genetic studies have shown that recessive loss-of-function mutations in LRP5 are linked to osteoporosis, while on the contrary, dominant missense LRP5 mutations are associated with high bone mass (HBM) diseases. All LRP5 HBM mutations are clustered in a single region in the LRP5 extracellular domain and presumably result in elevated Wnt signaling in bone forming cells. Here we show that LRP5 HBM mutant proteins exhibit reduced binding to a secreted bone-specific LRP5 antagonist, SOST, and consequently are more refractory to inhibition by SOST. As loss-of-function mutations in the SOST gene are associated with Sclerosteosis, another disorder of excessive bone growth, our study suggests that the SOST-LRP5 antagonistic interaction plays a central role in bone mass regulation and may represent a nodal point for therapeutic intervention for osteoporosis and other bone diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikhail V Semenov
- Neurobiology Program, Children's Hospital Boston, 61 Binmney Street, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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34
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Gordon MD, Nusse R. Wnt signaling: multiple pathways, multiple receptors, and multiple transcription factors. J Biol Chem 2006; 281:22429-33. [PMID: 16793760 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.r600015200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 995] [Impact Index Per Article: 55.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Gordon
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Department of Developmental Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305, USA
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35
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Abstract
Wnts are secreted proteins that are essential for a wide array of developmental and physiological processes. They signal across the plasma membrane by interacting with serpentine receptors of the Frizzled (Fz) family and members of the low-density-lipoprotein-related protein (LRP) family. Activation of Fz-LRP promotes the stability and nuclear localization of beta-catenin by compromising the ability of a multiprotein complex containing axin, adenomatosis polyposis coli (APC) and glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3) to target it for degradation and block its nuclear import. The Fz-LRP receptor complex probably accomplishes this by generating multiple signals in the cytoplasm. These involve activation of Dishevelled (Dsh), possibly through trimeric G proteins and LRP-mediated axin binding and/or degradation. However, individual Wnts and Fzs can activate both beta-catenin-dependent and -independent pathways, and Fz co-receptors such as LRP probably provide some of this specificity. Additional, conflicting data concern the role of the atypical receptor tyrosine kinase Ryk, which might mediate Wnt signaling independently of Fz and/or function as a Fz co-receptor in some cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ken M Cadigan
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Natural Science Building, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1048, USA.
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Mi K, Dolan PJ, Johnson GVW. The Low Density Lipoprotein Receptor-related Protein 6 Interacts with Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3 and Attenuates Activity. J Biol Chem 2006; 281:4787-94. [PMID: 16365045 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m508657200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3) is a widely expressed Ser/Thr protein kinase that phosphorylates numerous substrates. This large number of substrates requires precise and specific regulation of GSK3 activity, which is achieved by a combination of phosphorylation, localization, and interactions with GSK3-binding proteins. Members of the Wnt canonical pathway have been shown to influence GSK3 activity. Through a yeast two-hybrid screen, we identified the Wnt canonical pathway co-receptor protein low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 6 (LRP6) as a GSK3-binding protein. The interaction between the C terminus of LRP6 and GSK3 was also confirmed by in vitro GST pull-down assays and in situ coimmunoprecipitation assays. In vitro assays using immunoprecipitated proteins demonstrated that the C terminus of LRP6 significantly attenuated the activity of GSK3beta. In situ, LRP6 significantly decreased GSK3beta-mediated phosphorylation of tau at both primed and unprimed sites. Finally, it was also demonstrated that GSK3beta phosphorylates the PPP(S/T)P motifs in the C terminus of LRP6. This is the first identification of a direct interaction between LRP6 and GSK3, which results in an attenuation of GSK3 activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaihong Mi
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama 35294-0017, USA
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Abstract
The identification of a link between bone mass in humans and gain- [high bone mass (HBM) trait] or loss-of-function [osteoporosis pseudoglioma (OPPG) syndrome] mutations in the Wnt coreceptor lipoprotein receptor-related protein (LRP)5 or in the Wnt antagonist sclerostin (sclerosteosis, Van Buchem syndrome) has called the attention of academic and industry scientists and clinicians to the importance of this signaling pathway in skeletal biology and disease. Multiple genetic and pharmacological manipulations of Wnt signaling in mice have since then confirmed the central role of this pathway in both the establishment of peak bone mass and its maintenance throughout life. Wnt signaling appears to be located downstream of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), itself induced by Hedgehog (Hh) signaling, suggesting that it is the successive recruitment of these three intracellular signaling cascades that allow the full expression of the genetic patterns that characterize the osteoblast, the cell responsible for the formation of bone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roland Baron
- Yale University School of Medicine New Haven, Connecticut 06520, USA
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