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Yoshimura A, Horinaka M, Yaoi T, Ono H, Itoh K, Yamada T, Takayama K, Sakai T. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition status is a remarkable biomarker for the combination treatment with avutometinib and defactinib in KRAS-mutated non-small cell lung cancer. Br J Cancer 2024:10.1038/s41416-024-02727-2. [PMID: 38822146 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-024-02727-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent therapeutic strategies for KRAS-mutated cancers that inhibit the MAPK pathway have attracted considerable attention. The RAF/MEK clamp avutometinib (VS-6766/CH5126766/RO5126766/CKI27) is promising for patients with KRAS-mutated cancers. Although avutometinib monotherapy has shown clinical activity in patients with KRAS-mutated cancers, effective combination strategies will be important to develop. METHODS Using a phosphorylation kinase array kit, we explored the feedback mechanism of avutometinib in KRAS-mutated NSCLC cells, and investigated the efficacy of combining avutometinib with inhibitors of the feedback signal using in vitro and in vivo experiments. Moreover, we searched for a biomarker for the efficacy of combination therapy through an in vitro study and analysis using the The Cancer Genome Atlas Programme dataset. RESULTS Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) phosphorylation/activation was increased after avutometinib treatment and synergy between avutometinib and FAK inhibitor, defactinib, was observed in KRAS-mutated NSCLC cells with an epithelial rather than mesenchymal phenotype. Combination therapy with avutometinib and defactinib induced apoptosis with upregulation of Bim in cancer cells with an epithelial phenotype in an in vitro and in vivo study. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate that the epithelial-mesenchymal transition status may be a promising biomarker for the efficacy of combination therapy with avutometinib and defactinib in KRAS-mutated NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akihiro Yoshimura
- Department of Drug Discovery Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 465, Kajii-cho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto, 602-8566, Japan
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 465, Kajii-cho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto, 602-8566, Japan
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Japanese Red Cross Kyoto Daini Hospital, 355-5, Haruobi-cho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto, 602-8026, Japan
| | - Mano Horinaka
- Department of Drug Discovery Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 465, Kajii-cho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto, 602-8566, Japan.
| | - Takeshi Yaoi
- Department of Pathology and Applied Neurobiology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 465, Kajii-cho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto, 602-8566, Japan
| | - Hisako Ono
- Department of Drug Discovery Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 465, Kajii-cho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto, 602-8566, Japan
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Japanese Red Cross Kyoto Daini Hospital, 355-5, Haruobi-cho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto, 602-8026, Japan
| | - Kyoko Itoh
- Department of Pathology and Applied Neurobiology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 465, Kajii-cho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto, 602-8566, Japan
| | - Tadaaki Yamada
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 465, Kajii-cho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto, 602-8566, Japan
| | - Koichi Takayama
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 465, Kajii-cho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto, 602-8566, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Sakai
- Department of Drug Discovery Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 465, Kajii-cho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto, 602-8566, Japan
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2
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Lehman CE, Spencer A, Hall S, Shaw JJP, Wulfkuhle J, Petricoin EF, Bekiranov S, Jameson MJ, Gioeli D. IGF1R and Src inhibition induce synergistic cytotoxicity in HNSCC through inhibition of FAK. Sci Rep 2021; 11:10826. [PMID: 34031486 PMCID: PMC8144381 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-90289-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and neck cancer is the sixth most common cancer worldwide with a 5-year survival of only 65%. Targeting compensatory signaling pathways may improve therapeutic responses and combat resistance. Utilizing reverse phase protein arrays (RPPA) to assess the proteome and explore mechanisms of synergistic growth inhibition in HNSCC cell lines treated with IGF1R and Src inhibitors, BMS754807 and dasatinib, respectively, we identified focal adhesion signaling as a critical node. Focal Adhesion Kinase (FAK) and Paxillin phosphorylation were decreased as early as 15 min after treatment, and treatment with a FAK inhibitor, PF-562,271, was sufficient to decrease viability in vitro. Treatment of 3D spheroids demonstrated robust cytotoxicity suggesting that the combination of BMS754807 and dasatinib is effective in multiple experimental models. Furthermore, treatment with BMS754807 and dasatinib significantly decreased cell motility, migration, and invasion in multiple HNSCC cell lines. Most strikingly, treatment with BMS754807 and dasatinib, or a FAK inhibitor alone, significantly increased cleaved-PARP in human ex-vivo HNSCC patient tissues demonstrating a potential clinical utility for targeting FAK or the combined targeting of the IGF1R with Src. This ex-vivo result further confirms FAK as a vital signaling node of this combinatorial treatment and demonstrates therapeutic potential for targeting FAK in HNSCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine E Lehman
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Adam Spencer
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Sarah Hall
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Jeremy J P Shaw
- Department of Experimental Pathology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Julia Wulfkuhle
- Center for Applied Proteomics and Molecular Medicine, George Mason University, Manassas, VA, USA
| | - Emanuel F Petricoin
- Center for Applied Proteomics and Molecular Medicine, George Mason University, Manassas, VA, USA
| | - Stefan Bekiranov
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Mark J Jameson
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- UVA Cancer Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Daniel Gioeli
- Department of Microbiology Immunology and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA.
- UVA Cancer Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
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3
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De Vincenzo A, Belli S, Franco P, Telesca M, Iaccarino I, Botti G, Carriero MV, Ranson M, Stoppelli MP. Paracrine recruitment and activation of fibroblasts by c-Myc expressing breast epithelial cells through the IGFs/IGF-1R axis. Int J Cancer 2019; 145:2827-2839. [PMID: 31381136 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.32613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Revised: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Fibroblasts are among the most abundant stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME), progressively differentiating into activated, motile, myofibroblast-like, protumorigenic cells referred to as Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts (CAFs). To investigate the mechanisms by which epithelial cells direct this transition, the early stages of tumorigenesis were exemplified by indirect cocultures of WI-38 or human primary breast cancer fibroblasts with human mammary epithelial cells expressing an inducible c-Myc oncogene (MCF10A-MycER). After c-Myc activation, the conditioned medium (CM) of MCF10A-MycER cells significantly enhanced fibroblast activation and mobilization. As this was accompanied by decreased insulin-like growth factor binding protein-6 (IGFBP-6) and increased insulin-like growth factor-1 and IGF-II (IGF-I, IGF-II) in the CM, IGFs were investigated as key chemotactic factors. Silencing IGFBP-6 or IGF-I or IGF-II expression in epithelial cells or blocking Insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R) activity on fibroblasts significantly altered fibroblast mobilization. Exposure of WI-38 fibroblasts to CM from induced MCF10A-MycER cells or to IGF-II upregulated FAK phosphorylation on Tyr397 , as well as the expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), features associated with CAF phenotype and increased cell migratory/invasive behavior. In three-dimensional (3D)-organotypic assays, WI-38 or human primary fibroblasts, preactivated with either CM from MCF10A-MycER cells or IGFs, resulted in a permissive TME that enabled nontransformed MCF10A matrix invasion. This effect was abolished by inhibiting IGF-1R activity. Thus, breast epithelial cell oncogenic activation and stromal fibroblast transition to CAFs are linked through the IGFs/IGF-1R axis, which directly promotes TME remodeling and increases tumor invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna De Vincenzo
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "Adriano Buzzati Traverso", National Research Council, Naples, Italy
| | - Stefania Belli
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "Adriano Buzzati Traverso", National Research Council, Naples, Italy
| | - Paola Franco
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "Adriano Buzzati Traverso", National Research Council, Naples, Italy
| | - Marialucia Telesca
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "Adriano Buzzati Traverso", National Research Council, Naples, Italy
| | - Ingram Iaccarino
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "Adriano Buzzati Traverso", National Research Council, Naples, Italy.,Hematopathology Section, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, Christian-Albrechts University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Gerardo Botti
- Pathology Unit, IRCCS National Cancer Institute "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Maria V Carriero
- Department of Experimental Oncology, IRCCS National Cancer Institute "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Marie Ranson
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Maria Patrizia Stoppelli
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "Adriano Buzzati Traverso", National Research Council, Naples, Italy
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4
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Yan Y, Qin Q, Wu L, Jing X, Deng S, She Q. Insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor signaling regulates embryonic epicardial cell proliferation through focal adhesion kinase pathway. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2018; 50:976-983. [PMID: 30184089 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmy103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2018] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryonic epicardial cells (EPCs) can facilitate cardiomyocyte growth through secreting several essential growth factors, and participate in cardiac development through auto-differentiating into many cardiac cell lineages. Proper proliferation of EPCs is the precondition of these functions, so it is quite necessary to explore the mechanisms involving in EPC proliferation. In this study, we aimed to explore whether insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) signaling participated in regulating the proliferation of EPCs. Our results showed that the expressions of IGF1R and its ligands IGF1 and IGF2 can be clearly spotted on the epicardium layer from E11.5d to E17.5d. Inhibition of IGF1R signaling using picropodophyllin or NVP-AEW541 significantly decreased the proliferation activity and blocked the cell cycle progression of epicardial cells in vitro. On the contrary, activating IGF1R with recombinant IGF1 and IGF2 promoted epicardial cell proliferation and cell cycle. We also found that decreased expression and phosphorylation of FAK in IGF1R inhibitor-treated cells and use of FAK inhibitor Y15 could significantly inhibit the IGFs-induced EPC proliferation. In conclusion, our results suggest that IGF1R signaling plays an important role in regulating EPC proliferation, and this effect may be mediated by FAK pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuling Yan
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qin Qin
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ling Wu
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaodong Jing
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Songbai Deng
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qiang She
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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5
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Targeting Focal Adhesion Kinase Using Inhibitors of Protein-Protein Interactions. Cancers (Basel) 2018; 10:cancers10090278. [PMID: 30134553 PMCID: PMC6162372 DOI: 10.3390/cancers10090278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Revised: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is a cytoplasmic non-receptor protein tyrosine kinase that is overexpressed and activated in many human cancers. FAK transmits signals to a wide range of targets through both kinase-dependant and independent mechanism thereby playing essential roles in cell survival, proliferation, migration and invasion. In the past years, small molecules that inhibit FAK kinase function have been developed and show reduced cancer progression and metastasis in several preclinical models. Clinical trials have been conducted and these molecules display limited adverse effect in patients. FAK contain multiple functional domains and thus exhibit both important scaffolding functions. In this review, we describe the major FAK interactions relevant in cancer signalling and discuss how such knowledge provide rational for the development of Protein-Protein Interactions (PPI) inhibitors.
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6
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FAK and paxillin, two potential targets in pancreatic cancer. Oncotarget 2017; 7:31586-601. [PMID: 26980710 PMCID: PMC5058780 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.8040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2015] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a devastating cancer in large part due to late diagnosis and a lack of effective screening tests. In spite of recent progress in imaging, surgery and new therapeutic options for pancreatic cancer, the overall five-year survival still remains unacceptably low. Numerous studies have shown that focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is activated in many cancers including PDAC and promotes cancer progression and metastasis. Paxillin, an intracellular adaptor protein that plays a key role in cytoskeletal organization, connects integrins to FAK and plays a key role in assembly and disassembly of focal adhesions. Here, we have reviewed evidence in support of FAK as a potential therapeutic target and summarized related combinatorial therapies.
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7
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Voudouri K, Nikitovic D, Berdiaki A, Kletsas D, Karamanos NK, Tzanakakis GN. IGF-I/EGF and E2 signaling crosstalk through IGF-IR conduit point affects breast cancer cell adhesion. Matrix Biol 2016; 56:95-113. [DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2016.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2016] [Revised: 06/22/2016] [Accepted: 06/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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8
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Marlowe TA, Lenzo FL, Figel SA, Grapes AT, Cance WG. Oncogenic Receptor Tyrosine Kinases Directly Phosphorylate Focal Adhesion Kinase (FAK) as a Resistance Mechanism to FAK-Kinase Inhibitors. Mol Cancer Ther 2016; 15:3028-3039. [PMID: 27638858 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-16-0366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2016] [Revised: 08/15/2016] [Accepted: 08/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is a major drug target in cancer and current inhibitors targeted to the ATP-binding pocket of the kinase domain have entered clinical trials. However, preliminary results have shown limited single-agent efficacy in patients. Despite these unfavorable data, the molecular mechanisms that drive intrinsic and acquired resistance to FAK-kinase inhibitors are largely unknown. We have demonstrated that receptor tyrosine kinases (RTK) can directly bypass FAK-kinase inhibition in cancer cells through phosphorylation of FAK's critical tyrosine 397 (Y397). We also showed that HER2 forms a direct protein-protein interaction with the FAK-FERM-F1 lobe, promoting direct phosphorylation of Y397. In addition, FAK-kinase inhibition induced two forms of compensatory RTK reprogramming: (i) the rapid phosphorylation and activation of RTK signaling pathways in RTKHigh cells and (ii) the long-term acquisition of RTKs novel to the parental cell line in RTKLow cells. Finally, HER2 +: cancer cells displayed resistance to FAK-kinase inhibition in 3D growth assays using a HER2 isogenic system and HER2+ cancer cell lines. Our data indicate a novel drug resistance mechanism to FAK-kinase inhibitors whereby HER2 and other RTKs can rescue and maintain FAK activation (pY397) even in the presence of FAK-kinase inhibition. These data may have important ramifications for existing clinical trials of FAK inhibitors and suggest that individual tumor stratification by RTK expression would be important to predict patient response to FAK-kinase inhibitors. Mol Cancer Ther; 15(12); 3028-39. ©2016 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy A Marlowe
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, New York
| | - Felicia L Lenzo
- Department of Cell Stress Biology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, New York
| | - Sheila A Figel
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, New York
| | - Abigail T Grapes
- Department of Cell Stress Biology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, New York
| | - William G Cance
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, New York. .,FAKnostics, LLC, Buffalo, New York
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9
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Taliaferro-Smith L, Oberlick E, Liu T, McGlothen T, Alcaide T, Tobin R, Donnelly S, Commander R, Kline E, Nagaraju GP, Havel L, Marcus A, Nahta R, O'Regan R. FAK activation is required for IGF1R-mediated regulation of EMT, migration, and invasion in mesenchymal triple negative breast cancer cells. Oncotarget 2016; 6:4757-72. [PMID: 25749031 PMCID: PMC4467113 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.3023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2014] [Accepted: 12/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly metastatic disease that currently lacks effective prevention and treatment strategies. The insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) and focal adhesion kinase (FAK) signaling pathways function in numerous developmental processes, and alterations in both are linked with a number of common pathological diseases. Overexpression of IGF1R and FAK are closely associated with metastatic breast tumors. The present study investigated the interrelationship between IGF1R and FAK signaling in regulating the malignant properties of TNBC cells. Using small hairpin RNA (shRNA)-mediated IGF1R silencing methods, we showed that IGF1R is essential for sustaining mesenchymal morphologies of TNBC cells and modulates the expression of EMT-related markers. We further showed that IGF1R overexpression promotes migratory and invasive behaviors of TNBC cell lines. Most importantly, IGF1R-driven migration and invasion is predominantly mediated by FAK activation and can be suppressed using pharmacological inhibitors of FAK. Our findings in TNBC cells demonstrate a novel role of the IGF1R/FAK signaling pathway in regulating critical processes involved in the metastatic cascade. These results may improve the current understanding of the basic molecular mechanisms of TNBC metastasis and provide a strong rationale for co-targeting of IGF1R and FAK as therapy for mesenchymal TNBCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- LaTonia Taliaferro-Smith
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322 USA
| | - Elaine Oberlick
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322 USA.,Graduate Program in Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115 USA
| | - Tongrui Liu
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322 USA
| | - Tanisha McGlothen
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322 USA
| | - Tiffanie Alcaide
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322 USA
| | - Rachel Tobin
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322 USA
| | - Siobhan Donnelly
- Department of Pharmacology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322 USA
| | - Rachel Commander
- Department of Pharmacology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322 USA
| | - Erik Kline
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322 USA
| | - Ganji Purnachandra Nagaraju
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322 USA
| | - Lauren Havel
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322 USA
| | - Adam Marcus
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322 USA
| | - Rita Nahta
- Department of Pharmacology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322 USA
| | - Ruth O'Regan
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322 USA.,Georgia Cancer Center for Excellence at Grady Memorial Hospital, Atlanta, GA, 30303 USA
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Focal adhesion kinase-promoted tumor glucose metabolism is associated with a shift of mitochondrial respiration to glycolysis. Oncogene 2015; 35:1926-42. [PMID: 26119934 PMCID: PMC4486081 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2015.256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2014] [Revised: 05/10/2015] [Accepted: 05/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Cancer cells often gains a growth advantage by taking up glucose at a high rate and undergoing aerobic glycolysis through intrinsic cellular factors that reprogram glucose metabolism. Focal adhesion kinase (FAK), a key transmitter of growth factor and anchorage stimulation, is aberrantly overexpressed or activated in most solid tumors, including pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDACs). We determined whether FAK can act as an intrinsic driver to promote aerobic glycolysis and tumorigenesis. FAK inhibition decreases and overexpression increases intracellular glucose levels during unfavorable conditions, including growth factor deficiency and cell detachment. Amplex glucose assay, fluorescence and carbon-13 tracing studies demonstrate that FAK promotes glucose consumption and glucose-to-lactate conversion. Extracellular flux analysis indicates that FAK enhances glycolysis and decreases mitochondrial respiration. FAK increases key glycolytic proteins, including enolase, pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2), lactate dehydrogenase and monocarboxylate transporter. Furthermore, active/tyrosine-phosphorylated FAK directly binds to PKM2 and promotes PKM2-mediated glycolysis. On the other hand, FAK-decreased levels of mitochondrial complex I can result in reduced oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). Attenuation of FAK-enhanced glycolysis re-sensitizes cancer cells to growth factor withdrawal, decreases cell viability and reduces growth of tumor xenografts. These observations, for the first time, establish a vital role of FAK in cancer glucose metabolism through alterations in the OXPHOS-to-glycolysis balance. Broadly targeting the common phenotype of aerobic glycolysis and more specifically FAK-reprogrammed glucose metabolism will disrupt the bioenergetic and biosynthetic supply for uncontrolled growth of tumors, particularly glycolytic PDAC.
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11
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Ucar DA, Magis AT, He DH, Lawrence NJ, Sebti SM, Kurenova E, Zajac-Kaye M, Zhang J, Hochwald SN. Inhibiting the interaction of cMET and IGF-1R with FAK effectively reduces growth of pancreatic cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2014; 13:595-602. [PMID: 23272972 DOI: 10.2174/1871520611313040009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2012] [Revised: 09/24/2012] [Accepted: 09/26/2012] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal diseases with no effective treatment. Previously, we have shown that FAK is overexpressed in pancreatic cancer and plays a key role in cancer cell survival and proliferation. FAK has been shown to interact with growth factor receptors including cMET and IGF-1R. As a novel therapeutic approach, we targeted the protein interaction of FAK with growth factor receptors to block tumor growth, alter signaling pathways and sensitize cells to chemotherapy. We have selected a small molecule compound (INT2-31) that decreases phosphorylation of AKT via disrupting interaction of FAK with cMET and IGF-1R. Our results demonstrate that interaction of a small molecule compound with FAK decreases phosphorylation of FAK Y397 while increasing FAK Y407 phosphorylation, without inhibiting the kinase activity of FAK and dramatically reduces downstream signaling to AKT. Our lead compound, INT2-31, demonstrates significant inhibition of tumor cell growth in two orthotopic models of pancreatic cancer. In addition, INT2-31 increases sensitivity to gemcitabine chemotherapy in a direct fresh biopsy xenograft model of pancreatic cancer growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deniz A Ucar
- Department of Surgery, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA
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12
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Roberts VA, Thompson EE, Pique ME, Perez MS, Ten Eyck LF. DOT2: Macromolecular docking with improved biophysical models. J Comput Chem 2013; 34:1743-58. [PMID: 23695987 PMCID: PMC4370774 DOI: 10.1002/jcc.23304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2012] [Revised: 02/20/2013] [Accepted: 04/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Computational docking is a useful tool for predicting macromolecular complexes, which are often difficult to determine experimentally. Here, we present the DOT2 software suite, an updated version of the DOT intermolecular docking program. DOT2 provides straightforward, automated construction of improved biophysical models based on molecular coordinates, offering checkpoints that guide the user to include critical features. DOT has been updated to run more quickly, allow flexibility in grid size and spacing, and generate an infinitive complete list of favorable candidate configurations. Output can be filtered by experimental data and rescored by the sum of electrostatic and atomic desolvation energies. We show that this rescoring method improves the ranking of correct complexes for a wide range of macromolecular interactions and demonstrate that biologically relevant models are essential for biologically relevant results. The flexibility and versatility of DOT2 accommodate realistic models of complex biological systems, improving the likelihood of a successful docking outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria A Roberts
- San Diego Supercomputer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA.
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13
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Thom SR, Bhopale VM, Milovanova TN, Yang M, Bogush M, Buerk DG. Nitric-oxide synthase-2 linkage to focal adhesion kinase in neutrophils influences enzyme activity and β2 integrin function. J Biol Chem 2013; 288:4810-8. [PMID: 23297409 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m112.426353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
This investigation was to elucidate the basis for augmentation of nitric-oxide synthesis in neutrophils exposed to hyperbaric oxygen. Hyperoxia increases synthesis of reactive species leading to S-nitrosylation of β-actin, which causes temporary inhibition of β(2) integrin adherence. Impaired β(2) integrin function and actin S-nitrosylation do not occur in neutrophils from mice lacking type-2 nitric-oxide synthase (iNOS) or when incubated with 1400W, an iNOS inhibitor. Similarly, effects of hyperoxia were abrogated in cells depleted of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) by treatment with small inhibitory RNA and those exposed to a specific FAK inhibitor concurrent with hyperoxia. Nitric oxide production doubles within 10 min exposure to hyperoxia but declines to approximately half-maximum production over an additional 10 min. Elevated nitric oxide production did not occur after FAK depletion or inhibition, or when filamentous actin formation was inhibited by cytochalasin D. Intracellular content of iNOS triples over the course of a 45-min exposure to hyperoxia and iNOS dimers increase in a commensurate fashion. Confocal microscopy and immunoprecipitation demonstrated that co-localization/linkage of FAK, iNOS, and filamentous actin increased within 15 min exposure to hyperoxia but then decreased below the control level. Using isolated enzymes in ex vivo preparations an association between iNOS and filamentous actin mediated by FAK could be demonstrated and complex formation was impeded when actin was S-nitrosylated. We conclude that iNOS activity is increased by an FAK-mediated association with actin filaments but peak nitric oxide production is transient due to actin S-nitrosylation during exposure to hyperoxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen R Thom
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center and School of Biomedical Engineering, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA.
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Ucar DA, Kurenova E, Garrett TJ, Cance WG, Nyberg C, Cox A, Massoll N, Ostrov DA, Lawrence N, Sebti SM, Zajac-Kaye M, Hochwald SN. Disruption of the protein interaction between FAK and IGF-1R inhibits melanoma tumor growth. Cell Cycle 2012; 11:3250-9. [PMID: 22894899 DOI: 10.4161/cc.21611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
FAK (focal adhesion kinase) and IGF-1R (insulin-like growth factor receptor-1) directly interact with each other and thereby activate crucial signaling pathways that benefit cancer cells. Inhibition of FAK and IGF-1R function has been shown to significantly decrease cancer cell proliferation and increase sensitivity to chemotherapy and radiation treatment. As a novel approach in human melanoma, we evaluated the effect of a small-molecule compound that disrupts the protein interaction of FAK and IGF-1R. Previously, using virtual screening and functional testing, we identified a lead compound (INT2-31) that targets the known FAK-IGF-1R protein interaction site. We studied the ability of this compound to disrupt FAK-IGF-1R protein interactions, inhibit downstream signaling, decrease human melanoma cell proliferation, alter cell cycle progression, induce apoptosis and decrease tumor growth in vivo. INT2-31 blocked the interaction of FAK and IGF-1R in vitro and in vivo in melanoma cells and tumor xenografts through precluding the activation of IRS-1, leading to reduced phosphorylation of AKT upon IGF-1 stimulation. As a result, INT2-31 significantly inhibited cell proliferation and viability (range 0.05-10 μM). More importantly, 15 mg/kg of INT2-31 given for 21 d via intraperitoneal injection disrupted the interaction of FAK and IGF-1R and effectively decreased phosphorylation of tumor AKT, resulting in significant melanoma tumor regression in vivo. Our data suggest that the FAK-IGF-1R protein interaction is an important target, and disruption of this interaction with a novel small molecule (INT2-31) has potential anti-neoplastic therapeutic effects in human melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deniz A Ucar
- Department of Surgery, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA
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Thom SR, Bhopale VM, Milovanova TN, Yang M, Bogush M. Thioredoxin reductase linked to cytoskeleton by focal adhesion kinase reverses actin S-nitrosylation and restores neutrophil β(2) integrin function. J Biol Chem 2012; 287:30346-57. [PMID: 22778269 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m112.355875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The investigation goal was to identify mechanisms for reversal of actin S-nitrosylation in neutrophils after exposure to high oxygen partial pressures. Prior work has shown that hyperoxia causes S-nitrosylated actin (SNO-actin) formation, which mediates β(2) integrin dysfunction, and these changes can be reversed by formylmethionylleucylphenylalanine or 8-bromo-cyclic GMP. Herein we show that thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) is responsible for actin denitrosylation. Approximately 80% of cellular TrxR is localized to the cytosol, divided between the G-actin and short filamentous actin (sF-actin) fractions based on Triton solubility of cell lysates. TrxR linkage to sF-actin requires focal adhesion kinase (FAK) based on immunoprecipitation studies. S-Nitrosylation accelerates actin filament turnover (by mechanisms described previously (Thom, S. R., Bhopale, V. M., Yang, M., Bogush, M., Huang, S., and Milovanova, T. (2011) Neutrophil β(2) integrin inhibition by enhanced interactions of vasodilator stimulated phosphoprotein with S-nitrosylated actin. J. Biol. Chem. 286, 32854-32865), which causes FAK to disassociate from sF-actin. TrxR subsequently dissociates from FAK, and the physical separation from actin impedes denitrosylation. If SNO-actin is photochemically reduced with UV light or if actin filament turnover is impeded by incubations with cytochalasin D, latrunculin B, 8-bromo-cGMP, or formylmethionylleucylphenylalanine, FAK and TrxR reassociate with sF-actin and cause SNO-actin removal. FAK-TrxR association can also be demonstrated using isolated enzymes in ex vivo preparations. Uniquely, the FAK kinase domain is the site of TrxR linkage. We conclude that through its scaffold function, FAK influences TrxR activity and actin S-nitrosylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen R Thom
- Institute for Environmental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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16
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An activity-based probe reveals dynamic protein-protein interactions mediating IGF-1R transactivation by the GABA(B) receptor. Biochem J 2012; 443:627-34. [PMID: 22394253 DOI: 10.1042/bj20120188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Many GPCRs (G-protein-coupled receptors) can activate RTKs (receptor tyrosine kinases) in the absence of RTK ligands, a phenomenon called transactivation. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain undefined. In the present study we investigate the molecular basis of GABA(B) (γ-aminobutyric acid B) receptor-mediated transactivation of IGF-1R (insulin-like growth factor type I receptor) in primary neurons. We take a chemical biology approach by developing an activity-based probe targeting the GABA(B) receptor. This probe enables us first to lock the GABA(B) receptor in an inactive state and then activate it with a positive allosteric modulator, thereby permitting monitoring of the dynamic of the protein complex associated with IGF-1R transactivation. We find that activation of the GABA(B) receptor induces a dynamic assembly and disassembly of a protein complex, including both receptors and their downstream effectors. FAK (focal adhesion kinase), a non-RTK, plays a key role in co-ordinating this dynamic process. Importantly, this dynamic of the GABA(B) receptor-associated complex is critical for transactivation and transactivation-dependent neuronal survival. The present study has identified an important mechanism underlying GPCR transactivation of RTKs, which was enabled by a new chemical biology tool generally applicable for dissecting GPCR signalling.
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Frost RA, Lang CH. Multifaceted role of insulin-like growth factors and mammalian target of rapamycin in skeletal muscle. Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am 2012; 41:297-322, vi. [PMID: 22682632 PMCID: PMC3376019 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecl.2012.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
This review describes the current literature on the interaction between insulin-like growth factors, endocrine hormones, and branched-chain amino acids on muscle physiology in healthy young individuals and during select pathologic conditions. Emphasis is placed on the mechanism by which physical and hormonal signals are transduced at the cellular level to either grow or atrophy skeletal muscle. The key role of the mammalian target of rapamycin and its ability to respond to hypertrophic and atrophic signals informs our understanding how a combination of physical, nutritional, and pharmacologic therapies may be used in tandem to prevent or ameliorate reductions in muscle mass.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert A. Frost
- Associate Professor, Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey PA, 17033
- Professor and Vice Chairman, Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey PA, 17033
| | - Charles H. Lang
- Associate Professor, Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey PA, 17033
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Article withdrawal: Disruption of the protein interaction between FAK and IGF-1R inhibits melanoma tumor growth. Carcinogenesis 2012; 33:473. [DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgr115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Bourboulia D, Jensen-Taubman S, Stetler-Stevenson WG. TIMP-2: An Endogenous Angiogenesis Inhibitor with Distinct Antitumoral Properties. TREATMENT STRATEGIES. HEMATOLOGY 2012; 2:31-35. [PMID: 31380106 PMCID: PMC6677273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Dimitra Bourboulia
- Radiation Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI/NIH, Advanced Technology Center, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Sandra Jensen-Taubman
- Radiation Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI/NIH, Advanced Technology Center, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - William G Stetler-Stevenson
- Chief, Extracellular Matrix Pathology Section, Radiation Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, NCI/NIH, Advanced Technology Center, Bethesda, Maryland
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Ludwig JA, Lamhamedi-Cherradi SE, Lee HY, Naing A, Benjamin R. Dual targeting of the insulin-like growth factor and collateral pathways in cancer: combating drug resistance. Cancers (Basel) 2011; 3:3029-54. [PMID: 24212944 PMCID: PMC3759185 DOI: 10.3390/cancers3033029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2011] [Revised: 07/06/2011] [Accepted: 07/19/2011] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The insulin-like growth factor pathway, regulated by a complex interplay of growth factors, cognate receptors, and binding proteins, is critically important for many of the hallmarks of cancer such as oncogenesis, cell division, growth, and antineoplastic resistance. Naturally, a number of clinical trials have sought to directly abrogate insulin-like growth factor receptor 1 (IGF-1R) function and/or indirectly mitigate its downstream mediators such as mTOR, PI3K, MAPK, and others under the assumption that such therapeutic interventions would provide clinical benefit, demonstrable by impaired tumor growth as well as prolonged progression-free and overall survival for patients. Though a small subset of patients enrolled within phase I or II clinical trials revealed dramatic clinical response to IGF-1R targeted therapies (most using monoclonal antibodies to IGF-1R), in toto, the anticancer effect has been underwhelming and unsustained, as even those with marked clinical responses seem to rapidly acquire resistance to IGF-1R targeted agents when used alone through yet to be identified mechanisms. As the IGF-1R receptor is just one of many that converge upon common intracellular signaling cascades, it is likely that effective IGF-1R targeting must occur in parallel with blockade of redundant signaling paths. Herein, we present the rationale for dual targeting of IGF-1R and other signaling molecules as an effective strategy to combat acquired drug resistance by carcinomas and sarcomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph A. Ludwig
- Departments of Sarcoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA; E-Mails: (S.L.C.); (R.B.)
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +1 (713) 792-3626; Fax: +1 (713) 794-1934
| | - Salah-Eddine Lamhamedi-Cherradi
- Departments of Sarcoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA; E-Mails: (S.L.C.); (R.B.)
| | - Ho-Young Lee
- Departments of Thoracic Head & Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA; E-Mail: (H.Y.L.)
| | - Aung Naing
- Investigational Cancer Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA; E-Mail: (A.N.)
| | - Robert Benjamin
- Departments of Sarcoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA; E-Mails: (S.L.C.); (R.B.)
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Zebda N, Dubrovskyi O, Birukov KG. Focal adhesion kinase regulation of mechanotransduction and its impact on endothelial cell functions. Microvasc Res 2011; 83:71-81. [PMID: 21741394 DOI: 10.1016/j.mvr.2011.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2011] [Revised: 06/19/2011] [Accepted: 06/20/2011] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial cells lining the blood vessels form the interface between the bloodstream and the vessel wall and as such they are continuously subjected to shear and cyclic stress from the flowing blood in the lumen. Additional mechanical stimuli are also imposed on these cells in the form of substrate stiffness transmitted from the extracellular matrix components in the basement membrane, and additional mechanical loads imposed on the lung endothelium as the result of respiration or mechanical ventilation in clinical settings. Focal adhesions (FAs) are complex structures assembled at the abluminal endothelial plasma membrane which connect the extracellular filamentous meshwork to the intracellular cytoskeleton and hence constitute the ideal checkpoint capable of controlling or mediating transduction of bidirectional mechanical signals. In this review we focus on focal adhesion kinase (FAK), a component of FAs, which has been studied for a number of years with regards to its involvement in mechanotransduction. We analyzed the recent advances in the understanding of the role of FAK in the signaling cascade(s) initiated by various mechanical stimuli with particular emphasis on potential implications on endothelial cell functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noureddine Zebda
- Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Lung Injury Center, Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago, IL 60637, USA
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Tu H, Xu C, Zhang W, Liu Q, Rondard P, Pin JP, Liu J. GABAB receptor activation protects neurons from apoptosis via IGF-1 receptor transactivation. J Neurosci 2010; 30:749-59. [PMID: 20071540 PMCID: PMC6633015 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2343-09.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2009] [Revised: 11/23/2009] [Accepted: 11/25/2009] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) play key roles in cell-cell communication. Several studies revealed important synergisms between these two types of receptors, with some of the actions of either receptor being mediated through transactivation of the other. Among the large GPCR family, GABA(B) receptor is activated by the neurotransmitter GABA, and is expressed in most neurons where it mediates slow and prolonged inhibition of synaptic transmission. Here we show that this receptor is involved in the regulation of life and death decisions of cerebellar granule neurons (CGNs). We show that specific activation of GABA(B) receptor can protect neurons from apoptosis through a mechanism that involves transactivation of the IGF-1 receptor (IGF-1R). Further work demonstrated that this cross talk was dependent on G(i/o)-protein, PLC, cytosolic Ca(2+), and FAK1 but independent of PKC, while IGF-1R-induced signaling involved Src kinase, PI3 kinase, and Akt activation. These results reveal a new function for this important GPCR and further highlight the importance of functional cross-talk networks between GPCRs and RTKs. Our results reveal GABA(B) receptor as a potential drug target for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haijun Tu
- Sino-France Laboratory for Drug Screening, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430074 Wuhan, Hubei, China, and
| | - Chanjuan Xu
- Sino-France Laboratory for Drug Screening, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430074 Wuhan, Hubei, China, and
| | - Wenhua Zhang
- Sino-France Laboratory for Drug Screening, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430074 Wuhan, Hubei, China, and
| | - Qiuyao Liu
- Sino-France Laboratory for Drug Screening, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430074 Wuhan, Hubei, China, and
| | - Philippe Rondard
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR5203, Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, Inserm, U661 and Université Montpellier 1, 2, Montpellier F-34000, France
| | - Jean-Philippe Pin
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR5203, Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, Inserm, U661 and Université Montpellier 1, 2, Montpellier F-34000, France
| | - Jianfeng Liu
- Sino-France Laboratory for Drug Screening, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430074 Wuhan, Hubei, China, and
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