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Liu J, Liu S, Li D, Li H, Zhang F. Prevalence and Associations of Co-occurrence of NFE2L2 Mutations and Chromosome 3q26 Amplification in Lung Cancer. Glob Med Genet 2024; 11:150-158. [PMID: 38628662 PMCID: PMC11018393 DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1786004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background NFE2L2 (nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor-2) encodes a basic leucine zipper (bZIP) transcription factor and exhibits variations in various tumor types, including lung cancer. In this study, we comprehensively investigated the impact of simultaneous mutations on the survival of NFE2L2 -mutant lung cancer patients within specific subgroups. Methods A cohort of 1,103 lung cancer patients was analyzed using hybridization capture-based next-generation sequencing. Results The NFE2L2 gene had alterations in 3.0% (33/1,103) of lung cancer samples, including 1.5% (15/992) in adenocarcinoma and 16.2% (18/111) in squamous cell carcinoma. Thirty-four variations were found, mainly in exons 2 (27/34). New variations in exon 2 (p.D21H, p.V36_E45del, p.F37_E45del, p.R42P, p.E67Q, and p.L76_E78delinsQ) were identified. Some patients had copy number amplifications. Co-occurrence with TP53 (84.8%), CDKN2A (33.3%), KMT2B (33.3%), LRP1B (33.3%), and PIK3CA (27.3%) mutations was common. Variations of NFE2L2 displayed the tightest co-occurrence with IRF2 , TERC , ATR , ZMAT3 , and SOX2 ( p < 0.001). In The Cancer Genome Atlas Pulmonary Squamous Carcinoma project, patients with NFE2L2 variations and 3q26 amplification had longer median survival (63.59 vs. 32.04 months, p = 0.0459) and better overall survival. Conclusions NFE2L2 mutations display notable heterogeneity in lung cancer. The coexistence of NFE2L2 mutations and 3q26 amplification warrants in-depth exploration of their potential clinical implications and treatment approaches for affected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinfeng Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Sijie Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Beijing Aerospace General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Dan Li
- Department of General Surgery, Jingxing County Hospital of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Hongbin Li
- Department of Oncology, Rongcheng County People's Hospital, Baoding, China
| | - Fan Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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2
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Dakal TC, Dhabhai B, Pant A, Moar K, Chaudhary K, Yadav V, Ranga V, Sharma NK, Kumar A, Maurya PK, Maciaczyk J, Schmidt‐Wolf IGH, Sharma A. Oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes: functions and roles in cancers. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e582. [PMID: 38827026 PMCID: PMC11141506 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer, being the most formidable ailment, has had a profound impact on the human health. The disease is primarily associated with genetic mutations that impact oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes (TSGs). Recently, growing evidence have shown that X-linked TSGs have specific role in cancer progression and metastasis as well. Interestingly, our genome harbors around substantial portion of genes that function as tumor suppressors, and the X chromosome alone harbors a considerable number of TSGs. The scenario becomes even more compelling as X-linked TSGs are adaptive to key epigenetic processes such as X chromosome inactivation. Therefore, delineating the new paradigm related to X-linked TSGs, for instance, their crosstalk with autosome and involvement in cancer initiation, progression, and metastasis becomes utmost importance. Considering this, herein, we present a comprehensive discussion of X-linked TSG dysregulation in various cancers as a consequence of genetic variations and epigenetic alterations. In addition, the dynamic role of X-linked TSGs in sex chromosome-autosome crosstalk in cancer genome remodeling is being explored thoroughly. Besides, the functional roles of ncRNAs, role of X-linked TSG in immunomodulation and in gender-based cancer disparities has also been highlighted. Overall, the focal idea of the present article is to recapitulate the findings on X-linked TSG regulation in the cancer landscape and to redefine their role toward improving cancer treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tikam Chand Dakal
- Department of BiotechnologyGenome and Computational Biology LabMohanlal Sukhadia UniversityUdaipurRajasthanIndia
| | - Bhanupriya Dhabhai
- Department of BiotechnologyGenome and Computational Biology LabMohanlal Sukhadia UniversityUdaipurRajasthanIndia
| | - Anuja Pant
- Department of BiochemistryCentral University of HaryanaMahendergarhHaryanaIndia
| | - Kareena Moar
- Department of BiochemistryCentral University of HaryanaMahendergarhHaryanaIndia
| | - Kanika Chaudhary
- School of Life Sciences. Jawaharlal Nehru UniversityNew DelhiIndia
| | - Vikas Yadav
- School of Life Sciences. Jawaharlal Nehru UniversityNew DelhiIndia
| | - Vipin Ranga
- Dearptment of Agricultural BiotechnologyDBT‐NECAB, Assam Agricultural UniversityJorhatAssamIndia
| | | | - Abhishek Kumar
- Manipal Academy of Higher EducationManipalKarnatakaIndia
- Institute of Bioinformatics, International Technology ParkBangaloreIndia
| | - Pawan Kumar Maurya
- Department of BiochemistryCentral University of HaryanaMahendergarhHaryanaIndia
| | - Jarek Maciaczyk
- Department of Stereotactic and Functional NeurosurgeryUniversity Hospital of BonnBonnGermany
| | - Ingo G. H. Schmidt‐Wolf
- Department of Integrated OncologyCenter for Integrated Oncology (CIO)University Hospital BonnBonnGermany
| | - Amit Sharma
- Department of Stereotactic and Functional NeurosurgeryUniversity Hospital of BonnBonnGermany
- Department of Integrated OncologyCenter for Integrated Oncology (CIO)University Hospital BonnBonnGermany
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3
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Gorska-Arcisz M, Popeda M, Braun M, Piasecka D, Nowak JI, Kitowska K, Stasilojc G, Okroj M, Romanska HM, Sadej R. FGFR2-triggered autophagy and activation of Nrf-2 reduce breast cancer cell response to anti-ER drugs. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2024; 29:71. [PMID: 38745155 PMCID: PMC11092031 DOI: 10.1186/s11658-024-00586-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genetic abnormalities in the FGFR signalling occur in 40% of breast cancer (BCa) patients resistant to anti-ER therapy, which emphasizes the potential of FGFR-targeting strategies. Recent findings indicate that not only mutated FGFR is a driver of tumour progression but co-mutational landscapes and other markers should be also investigated. Autophagy has been recognized as one of the major mechanisms underlying the role of tumour microenvironment in promotion of cancer cell survival, and resistance to anti-ER drugs. The selective autophagy receptor p62/SQSTM1 promotes Nrf-2 activation by Keap1/Nrf-2 complex dissociation. Herein, we have analysed whether the negative effect of FGFR2 on BCa cell response to anti-ER treatment involves the autophagy process and/or p62/Keap1/Nrf-2 axis. METHODS The activity of autophagy in ER-positive MCF7 and T47D BCa cell lines was determined by analysis of expression level of autophagy markers (p62 and LC3B) and monitoring of autophagosomes' maturation. Western blot, qPCR and proximity ligation assay were used to determine the Keap1/Nrf-2 interaction and Nrf-2 activation. Analysis of 3D cell growth in Matrigel® was used to assess BCa cell response to applied treatments. In silico gene expression analysis was performed to determine FGFR2/Nrf-2 prognostic value. RESULTS We have found that FGFR2 signalling induced autophagy in AMPKα/ULK1-dependent manner. FGFR2 activity promoted dissociation of Keap1/Nrf-2 complex and activation of Nrf-2. Both, FGFR2-dependent autophagy and activation of Nrf-2 were found to counteract the effect of anti-ER drugs on BCa cell growth. Moreover, in silico analysis showed that high expression of NFE2L2 (gene encoding Nrf-2) combined with high FGFR2 expression was associated with poor relapse-free survival (RFS) of ER+ BCa patients. CONCLUSIONS This study revealed the unknown role of FGFR2 signalling in activation of autophagy and regulation of the p62/Keap1/Nrf-2 interdependence, which has a negative impact on the response of ER+ BCa cells to anti-ER therapies. The data from in silico analyses suggest that expression of Nrf-2 could act as a marker indicating potential benefits of implementation of anti-FGFR therapy in patients with ER+ BCa, in particular, when used in combination with anti-ER drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Gorska-Arcisz
- Laboratory of Enzymology and Molecular Oncology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Gdansk and Medical University of Gdansk, Debinki 1, 80-211, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Marta Popeda
- Department of Pathomorphology, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Marcin Braun
- Department of Pathology, Chair of Oncology, Medical University of Lodz, Pomorska 251, 92-213, Lodz, Poland
| | - Dominika Piasecka
- Laboratory of Enzymology and Molecular Oncology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Gdansk and Medical University of Gdansk, Debinki 1, 80-211, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Joanna I Nowak
- Department of Histology, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Kamila Kitowska
- Laboratory of Enzymology and Molecular Oncology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Gdansk and Medical University of Gdansk, Debinki 1, 80-211, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Stasilojc
- Department of Cell Biology and Immunology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Gdansk and Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Marcin Okroj
- Department of Cell Biology and Immunology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Gdansk and Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Hanna M Romanska
- Department of Pathology, Chair of Oncology, Medical University of Lodz, Pomorska 251, 92-213, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Rafal Sadej
- Laboratory of Enzymology and Molecular Oncology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Gdansk and Medical University of Gdansk, Debinki 1, 80-211, Gdansk, Poland.
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Yang L, Chen Y, He S, Yu D. The crucial role of NRF2 in erythropoiesis and anemia: Mechanisms and therapeutic opportunities. Arch Biochem Biophys 2024; 754:109948. [PMID: 38452967 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2024.109948] [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: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
The nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) is a transcription factor crucial in cellular defense against oxidative and electrophilic stresses. Recent research has highlighted the significance of NRF2 in normal erythropoiesis and anemia. NRF2 regulates genes involved in vital aspects of erythroid development, including hemoglobin catabolism, inflammation, and iron homeostasis in erythrocytes. Disrupted NRF2 activity has been implicated in various pathologies involving abnormal erythropoiesis. In this review, we summarize the progress made in understanding the mechanisms of NRF2 activation in erythropoiesis and explore the roles of NRF2 in various types of anemia. This review also discusses the potential of targeting NRF2 as a new therapeutic approach to treat anemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Yang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China
| | - Yong Chen
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, 225003, China
| | - Sheng He
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defects Research and Prevention, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Birth Defects Prevention, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Women and Children Care Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi, 530000, China
| | - Duonan Yu
- Department of Hematology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610000, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Experimental & Translational Non-coding RNA Research, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defects Research and Prevention, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Birth Defects Prevention, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Women and Children Care Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi, 530000, China.
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5
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Yabaji SM, Zhernovkov V, Araveti PB, Lata S, Rukhlenko OS, Abdullatif SA, Alekseev Y, Ma Q, Dayama G, Lau NC, Bishai WR, Crossland NA, Campbell JD, Kholodenko BN, Gimelbrant AA, Kobzik L, Kramnik I. Myc Dysregulation in Activated Macrophages Initiates Iron-Mediated Lipid Peroxidation that Fuels Type I Interferon and Compromises TB Resistance. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.05.583602. [PMID: 38496444 PMCID: PMC10942339 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.05.583602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
A quarter of human population is infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis, but less than 10% of those infected develop clinical, mostly pulmonary, TB. To dissect mechanisms of susceptibility in immunocompetent individuals, we developed a genetically defined sst1-susceptible mouse model that uniquely reproduces a defining feature of human TB: development of necrotic lung lesions after infection with virulent Mtb. In this study, we explored the connectivity of the sst1-regulated pathways during prolonged macrophage activation with TNF. We determined that the aberrant response of the sst1-susceptible macrophages to TNF was primarily driven by conflicting Myc and antioxidant response pathways that resulted in a coordinated failure to properly sequester intracellular iron and activate ferroptosis inhibitor enzymes. Consequently, iron-mediated lipid peroxidation fueled IFNβ superinduction and sustained the Type I Interferon (IFN-I) pathway hyperactivity that locked the sst1-susceptible macrophages in a state of unresolving stress and compromised their resistance to Mtb. The accumulation of the aberrantly activated, stressed, macrophages within granuloma microenvironment led to the local failure of anti-tuberculosis immunity and tissue necrosis. Our findings suggest a novel link between metabolic dysregulation in macrophages and susceptibility to TB, offering insights into potential therapeutic targets aimed at modulating macrophage function and improving TB control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivraj M. Yabaji
- The National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratory, Boston University, Boston, MA
| | - Vadim Zhernovkov
- Systems Biology Ireland, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | | | - Suruchi Lata
- The National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratory, Boston University, Boston, MA
| | - Oleksii S. Rukhlenko
- Systems Biology Ireland, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Salam Al Abdullatif
- Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Yuriy Alekseev
- The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118
| | - Qicheng Ma
- Department of Biochemistry, and Cell Biology and Genome Science Institute, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine
| | - Gargi Dayama
- Department of Biochemistry, and Cell Biology and Genome Science Institute, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine
| | - Nelson C. Lau
- The National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratory, Boston University, Boston, MA
- Department of Biochemistry, and Cell Biology and Genome Science Institute, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine
| | - William R. Bishai
- Center for TB Research, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Nicholas A. Crossland
- The National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratory, Boston University, Boston, MA
- The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118
| | - Joshua D. Campbell
- Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Boris N. Kholodenko
- Systems Biology Ireland, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
- Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT, USA
| | | | | | - Igor Kramnik
- The National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratory, Boston University, Boston, MA
- Pulmonary Center, The Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine
- Dept. of Microbiology, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine
- Lead contact
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6
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Feng Q, Xu X, Zhang S. Nrf2 protein in melanoma progression, as a new means of treatment. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res 2024; 37:247-258. [PMID: 37777339 DOI: 10.1111/pcmr.13137] [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: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
Melanoma is a potentially lethal form of skin cancer resulting from the unlimited proliferation of melanocytes. Melanocytic lineage appears to have a greater rate of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, possibly as a result of exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light and the production of melanin. It has been established that nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) serves as a master regulator of the cellular response to oxidative stresses. Recent research has shown that the Nrf2 and its critical negative regulator Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) are misregulated in melanoma, and the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway has emerged as a promising new target for treating and preventing melanoma. In melanoma, Nrf2 may either limit tumor growth or promote its development. This review covers a wide range of topics, including the dual functions played by the Keap1-Nrf2 signaling pathway in melanoma and the most recent targeting techniques of the Nrf2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qun Feng
- College of Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, 130017, China
| | - Xiaolin Xu
- Cardiology Department, Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Shoulin Zhang
- Nephrology Department, Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, 130021, China
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7
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Averill-Bates D. Reactive oxygen species and cell signaling. Review. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2024; 1871:119573. [PMID: 37949302 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2023.119573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) is a term encompassing a group of highly reactive oxygen-derived molecules. In physiological systems, ROS production exists in concert with antioxidant defenses, which safeguard cells against higher, toxic levels of ROS. Oxidative stress, coined as "oxidative distress", is "a serious imbalance between the generation of ROS and antioxidant defenses in favor of ROS, causing excessive oxidative damage to biomolecules". At physiological levels, ROS are essential for many cellular processes, which is known as "oxidative eustress". Oxidants like hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) activate signaling pathways like mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK)s and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt). ROS activate transcription factors like nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α), activator protein 1 (AP-1), and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB). Redox signaling through H2O2 mainly occurs through reversible oxidation of protein cysteine thiolate residues (RS-) to form sulfenic acids (RSOH). An unresolved question is that the reaction rate of H2O2 with protein thiols is very low. In cells, the reaction of H2O2 with protein thiols is likely to be outcompeted by faster reactions of H2O2 with peroxiredoxins and glutathione peroxidases. A novel mechanism being explored is that H2O2 could react with peroxiredoxins that act as reactive redox sensor proteins, leading to peroxiredoxin-mediated relays. Very few redox signaling pathways have been well characterized. Improved understanding of precise mechanisms by which ROS regulate signaling pathways and the role of cellular sensors, is essential for deciphering their roles in physiological and pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Averill-Bates
- Département des sciences biologiques (Center of Excellence in Orphan Diseases Research - Courtois Foundation (CERMO(FC)), Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
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8
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Ngo HKC, Le H, Surh YJ. Nrf2, A Target for Precision Oncology in Cancer Prognosis and Treatment. J Cancer Prev 2023; 28:131-142. [PMID: 38205365 PMCID: PMC10774478 DOI: 10.15430/jcp.2023.28.4.131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Activating nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2), a master regulator of redox homeostasis, has been shown to suppress initiation of carcinogenesis in normal cells. However, this transcription factor has recently been reported to promote proliferation of some transformed or cancerous cells. In tumor cells, Nrf2 is prone to mutations that result in stabilization and concurrent accumulation of its protein product. A hyperactivated mutant form of Nrf2 could support the cancer cells for enhanced proliferation, invasiveness, and resistance to chemotherapeutic agents and radiotherapy, which are associated with a poor clinical outcome. Hence understanding mutations in Nrf2 would have a significant impact on the prognosis and treatment of cancer in the era of precision medicine. This perspective would provide an insight into the genetic alterations in Nrf2 and suggest the application of small molecules, RNAi, and genome editing technologies, particularly CRISR-Cas9, in therapeutic intervention of cancer in the context of the involvement of Nrf2 mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoang Kieu Chi Ngo
- Tumor Microenvironment Global Core Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hoang Le
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Young-Joon Surh
- Tumor Microenvironment Global Core Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
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9
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Milković L, Mlinarić M, Lučić I, Čipak Gašparović A. The Involvement of Peroxiporins and Antioxidant Transcription Factors in Breast Cancer Therapy Resistance. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5747. [PMID: 38136293 PMCID: PMC10741870 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15245747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is still the leading cause of death in women of all ages. The reason for this is therapy resistance, which leads to the progression of the disease and the formation of metastases. Multidrug resistance (MDR) is a multifactorial process that leads to therapy failure. MDR involves multiple processes and many signaling pathways that support each other, making it difficult to overcome once established. Here, we discuss cellular-oxidative-stress-modulating factors focusing on transcription factors NRF2, FOXO family, and peroxiporins, as well as their possible contribution to MDR. This is significant because oxidative stress is a consequence of radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, and the activation of detoxification pathways could modulate the cellular response to therapy and could support MDR. These proteins are not directly responsible for MDR, but they support the survival of cancer cells under stress conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ana Čipak Gašparović
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (L.M.); (M.M.); (I.L.)
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10
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Dayalan Naidu S, Angelova PR, Knatko EV, Leonardi C, Novak M, de la Vega L, Ganley IG, Abramov AY, Dinkova-Kostova AT. Nrf2 depletion in the context of loss-of-function Keap1 leads to mitolysosome accumulation. Free Radic Biol Med 2023; 208:478-493. [PMID: 37714439 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2023.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
Transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2 p45-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is the principal determinant of the cellular redox homeostasis, contributing to mitochondrial function, integrity and bioenergetics. The main negative regulator of Nrf2 is Kelch-like ECH associated protein 1 (Keap1), a substrate adaptor for Cul3/Rbx1 ubiquitin ligase, which continuously targets Nrf2 for ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation. Loss-of-function mutations in Keap1 occur frequently in lung cancer, leading to constitutive Nrf2 activation. We used the human lung cancer cell line A549 and its CRISPR/Cas9-generated homozygous Nrf2-knockout (Nrf2-KO) counterpart to assess the role of Nrf2 on mitochondrial health. To confirm that the observed effects of Nrf2 deficiency are not due to clonal selection or long-term adaptation to the absence of Nrf2, we also depleted Nrf2 by siRNA (siNFE2L2), thus creating populations of Nrf2-knockdown (Nrf2-KD) A549 cells. Nrf2 deficiency decreased mitochondrial respiration, but increased the mitochondrial membrane potential, mass, DNA content, and the number of mitolysosomes. The proportion of ATG7 and ATG3 within their respective LC3B conjugates was increased in Nrf2-deficient cells with mutant Keap1, whereas the formation of new autophagosomes was not affected. Thus, in lung cancer cells with loss-of-function Keap1, Nrf2 facilitates mitolysosome degradation thereby ensuring timely clearance of damaged mitochondria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharadha Dayalan Naidu
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular and Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | | | - Elena V Knatko
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular and Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Chiara Leonardi
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular and Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Miroslav Novak
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular and Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Laureano de la Vega
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular and Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Ian G Ganley
- MRC Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Andrey Y Abramov
- UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK.
| | - Albena T Dinkova-Kostova
- Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre, Division of Cellular and Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK; Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences and Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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11
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Chen Y, Jiao D, He H, Sun H, Liu Y, Shi Q, Zhang P, Li Y, Mo R, Gao K, Wang C. Disruption of the Keap1-mTORC2 axis by cancer-derived Keap1/mLST8 mutations leads to oncogenic mTORC2-AKT activation. Redox Biol 2023; 67:102872. [PMID: 37688978 PMCID: PMC10498434 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2023.102872] [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: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The mechanistic target of the rapamycin (mTOR) pathway, which participates in the regulation of cellular growth and metabolism, is aberrantly regulated in various cancer types. The mTOR complex 2 (mTORC2), which consists of the core components mTOR, Rictor, mSin1, and mLST8, primarily responds to growth signals. However, the coordination between mTORC2 assembly and activity remains poorly understood. Keap1, a major sensor of oxidative stress in cells, functions as a substrate adaptor for Cullin 3-RING E3 ubiquitin ligase (CRL3) to promote proteasomal degradation of NF-E2-related factor 2 (NRF2), which is a transcription factor that protects cells against oxidative and electrophilic stress. In the present study, we demonstrate that Keap1 binds to mLST8 via a conserved ETGE motif. The CRL3Keap1 ubiquitin ligase complex promotes non-degradative ubiquitination of mLST8, thus reducing mTORC2 complex integrity and mTORC2-AKT activation. However, this effect can be prevented by oxidative/electrophilic stresses and growth factor signaling-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) burst. Cancer-derived Keap1 or mLST8 mutations disrupt the Keap1-mLST8 interaction and allow mLST8 to evade Keap1-mediated ubiquitination, thereby enhancing mTORC2-AKT activation and promoting cell malignancy and remodeling cell metabolism. Our findings provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms of Keap1/mLST8 mutation-driven tumorigenesis by promoting mTORC2-AKT activation, which is independent of the canonical NRF2 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingji Chen
- Shanghai Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, State Key Lab of Genetic Engineering, MOE Engineering Research Center of Gene Technology, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Industrial Microorganisms, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, PR China
| | - Dongyue Jiao
- Shanghai Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, State Key Lab of Genetic Engineering, MOE Engineering Research Center of Gene Technology, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Industrial Microorganisms, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, PR China
| | - Huiying He
- Shanghai Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, State Key Lab of Genetic Engineering, MOE Engineering Research Center of Gene Technology, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Industrial Microorganisms, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, PR China
| | - Huiru Sun
- Shanghai Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, State Key Lab of Genetic Engineering, MOE Engineering Research Center of Gene Technology, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Industrial Microorganisms, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, PR China
| | - Yajuan Liu
- Shanghai Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, State Key Lab of Genetic Engineering, MOE Engineering Research Center of Gene Technology, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Industrial Microorganisms, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, PR China
| | - Qing Shi
- Shanghai Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, State Key Lab of Genetic Engineering, MOE Engineering Research Center of Gene Technology, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Industrial Microorganisms, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, PR China
| | - Pingzhao Zhang
- Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center and Department of Pathology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Yao Li
- Shanghai Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, State Key Lab of Genetic Engineering, MOE Engineering Research Center of Gene Technology, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Industrial Microorganisms, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, PR China
| | - Ren Mo
- Department of Urology, Inner Mongolia Urological Institute, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region People's Hospital, Hohhot, 010017, Inner Mongolia, PR China.
| | - Kun Gao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Shanghai, 200092, PR China.
| | - Chenji Wang
- Shanghai Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, State Key Lab of Genetic Engineering, MOE Engineering Research Center of Gene Technology, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Industrial Microorganisms, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, PR China.
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12
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Choi S, Cho N, Kim EM, Kim KK. The role of alternative pre-mRNA splicing in cancer progression. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:249. [PMID: 37875914 PMCID: PMC10594706 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-03094-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Alternative pre-mRNA splicing is a critical mechanism that generates multiple mRNA from a single gene, thereby increasing the diversity of the proteome. Recent research has highlighted the significance of specific splicing isoforms in cellular processes, particularly in regulating cell numbers. In this review, we examine the current understanding of the role of alternative splicing in controlling cancer cell growth and discuss specific splicing factors and isoforms and their molecular mechanisms in cancer progression. These isoforms have been found to intricately control signaling pathways crucial for cell cycle progression, proliferation, and apoptosis. Furthermore, studies have elucidated the characteristics and functional importance of splicing factors that influence cell numbers. Abnormal expression of oncogenic splicing isoforms and splicing factors, as well as disruptions in splicing caused by genetic mutations, have been implicated in the development and progression of tumors. Collectively, these findings provide valuable insights into the complex interplay between alternative splicing and cell proliferation, thereby suggesting the potential of alternative splicing as a therapeutic target for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunkyung Choi
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Namjoon Cho
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Mi Kim
- Department of Predictive Toxicology, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon, 34114, Republic of Korea.
| | - Kee K Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea.
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13
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Wang K, Li Z, Xuan Y, Zhao Y, Deng C, Wang M, Xie C, Yuan F, Pang Q, Mao W, Cai D, Zhong Z, Mei J. Pan-cancer analysis of NFE2L2 mutations identifies a subset of lung cancers with distinct genomic and improved immunotherapy outcomes. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:229. [PMID: 37794491 PMCID: PMC10552358 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-03056-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mutations in the KEAP1-NFE2L2 signaling pathway were linked to increased tumorigenesis and aggressiveness. Interestingly, not all hotspot mutations on NFE2L2 were damaging; some even were activating. However, there was conflicting evidence about the association between NFE2L2 mutation and Nrf2-activating mutation and responsiveness to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and other multiple cancers. METHODS The study with the largest sample size (n = 49,533) explored the landscape of NFE2L2 mutations and their impact response/resistance to ICIs using public cohorts. In addition, the in-house WXPH cohort was used to validate the efficacy of immunotherapy in the NFE2L2 mutated patients with NSCLC. RESULTS In two pan-cancer cohorts, Nrf2-activating mutation was associated with higher TMB value compared to wild-type. We identified a significant association between Nrf2-activating mutation and shorter overall survival in pan-cancer patients and NSCLC patients but not in those undergoing ICIs treatment. Similar findings were obtained in cancer patients carrying the NFE2L2 mutation. Furthermore, in NSCLC and other cancer cohorts, patients with NFE2L2 mutation demonstrated more objective responses to ICIs than patients with wild type. Our in-house WXPH cohort further confirmed the efficacy of immunotherapy in the NFE2L2 mutated patients with NSCLC. Lastly, decreased inflammatory signaling pathways and immune-depleted immunological microenvironments were enriched in Nrf2-activating mutation patients with NSCLC. CONCLUSIONS Our study found that patients with Nrf2-activating mutation had improved immunotherapy outcomes than patients with wild type in NSCLC and other tumor cohorts, implying that Nrf2-activating mutation defined a distinct subset of pan-cancers and might have implications as a biomarker for guiding ICI treatment, especially NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kewei Wang
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Zixi Li
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Ying Xuan
- Department of Physiopathology, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Yong Zhao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Chao Deng
- Department of Physiopathology, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Meidan Wang
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Chenjun Xie
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Fenglai Yuan
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Qingfeng Pang
- Department of Physiopathology, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Wenjun Mao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Affiliated Wuxi People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 299 Qingyang Road, Wuxi, 214023, China.
| | - Dongyan Cai
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, 200 Huihe Road, Wuxi, 214122, China.
| | - Zhangfeng Zhong
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, 999078, SAR, China.
| | - Jie Mei
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China.
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Wuxi People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 299 Qingyang Road, Wuxi, 214023, China.
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14
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Yan R, Lin B, Jin W, Tang L, Hu S, Cai R. NRF2, a Superstar of Ferroptosis. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1739. [PMID: 37760042 PMCID: PMC10525540 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12091739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent and lipid peroxidation-driven cell death cascade, occurring when there is an imbalance of redox homeostasis in the cell. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NFE2L2, also known as NRF2) is key for cellular antioxidant responses, which promotes downstream genes transcription by binding to their antioxidant response elements (AREs). Numerous studies suggest that NRF2 assumes an extremely important role in the regulation of ferroptosis, for its various functions in iron, lipid, and amino acid metabolism, and so on. Many pathological states are relevant to ferroptosis. Abnormal suppression of ferroptosis is found in many cases of cancer, promoting their progression and metastasis. While during tissue damages, ferroptosis is recurrently promoted, resulting in a large number of cell deaths and even dysfunctions of the corresponding organs. Therefore, targeting NRF2-related signaling pathways, to induce or inhibit ferroptosis, has become a great potential therapy for combating cancers, as well as preventing neurodegenerative and ischemic diseases. In this review, a brief overview of the research process of ferroptosis over the past decade will be presented. In particular, the mechanisms of ferroptosis and a focus on the regulation of ferroptosis by NRF2 will be discussed. Finally, the review will briefly list some clinical applications of targeting the NRF2 signaling pathway in the treatment of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Shuming Hu
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China; (R.Y.); (B.L.); (W.J.); (L.T.)
| | - Rong Cai
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China; (R.Y.); (B.L.); (W.J.); (L.T.)
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15
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Mapuskar KA, Pulliam CF, Zepeda-Orozco D, Griffin BR, Furqan M, Spitz DR, Allen BG. Redox Regulation of Nrf2 in Cisplatin-Induced Kidney Injury. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1728. [PMID: 37760031 PMCID: PMC10525889 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12091728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cisplatin, a potent chemotherapeutic agent, is marred by severe nephrotoxicity that is governed by mechanisms involving oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis pathways. The transcription factor Nrf2, pivotal in cellular defense against oxidative stress and inflammation, is the master regulator of the antioxidant response, upregulating antioxidants and cytoprotective genes under oxidative stress. This review discusses the mechanisms underlying chemotherapy-induced kidney injury, focusing on the role of Nrf2 in cancer therapy and its redox regulation in cisplatin-induced kidney injury. We also explore Nrf2's signaling pathways, post-translational modifications, and its involvement in autophagy, as well as examine redox-based strategies for modulating Nrf2 in cisplatin-induced kidney injury while considering the limitations and potential off-target effects of Nrf2 modulation. Understanding the redox regulation of Nrf2 in cisplatin-induced kidney injury holds significant promise for developing novel therapeutic interventions. This knowledge could provide valuable insights into potential strategies for mitigating the nephrotoxicity associated with cisplatin, ultimately enhancing the safety and efficacy of cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kranti A. Mapuskar
- Free Radical and Radiation Biology Program, Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Casey F. Pulliam
- Free Radical and Radiation Biology Program, Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Diana Zepeda-Orozco
- Pediatric Nephrology and Hypertension at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
- Kidney and Urinary Tract Center, Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Benjamin R. Griffin
- Division of Nephrology, The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Muhammad Furqan
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Douglas R. Spitz
- Free Radical and Radiation Biology Program, Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Bryan G. Allen
- Free Radical and Radiation Biology Program, Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
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16
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Kim JW, Kim MJ, Han TH, Lee JY, Kim S, Kim H, Oh KJ, Kim WK, Han BS, Bae KH, Ban HS, Bae SH, Lee SC, Lee H, Lee EW. FSP1 confers ferroptosis resistance in KEAP1 mutant non-small cell lung carcinoma in NRF2-dependent and -independent manner. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:567. [PMID: 37633973 PMCID: PMC10460413 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06070-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
Ferroptosis, a type of cell death induced by lipid peroxidation, has emerged as a novel anti-cancer strategy. Cancer cells frequently acquire resistance to ferroptosis. However, the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. To address this issue, we conducted a thorough investigation of the genomic and transcriptomic data derived from hundreds of human cancer cell lines and primary tissue samples, with a particular focus on non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC). It was observed that mutations in Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1) and subsequent nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2, also known as NFE2L2) activation are strongly associated with ferroptosis resistance in NSCLC. Additionally, AIFM2 gene, which encodes ferroptosis suppressor protein 1 (FSP1), was identified as the gene most significantly correlated with ferroptosis resistance, followed by multiple NRF2 targets. We found that inhibition of NRF2 alone was not sufficient to reduce FSP1 protein levels and promote ferroptosis, whereas FSP1 inhibition effectively sensitized KEAP1-mutant NSCLC cells to ferroptosis. Furthermore, we found that combined inhibition of FSP1 and NRF2 induced ferroptosis more intensely. Our findings imply that FSP1 is a crucial suppressor of ferroptosis whose expression is partially dependent on NRF2 and that synergistically targeting both FSP1 and NRF2 may be a promising strategy for overcoming ferroptosis resistance in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jong Woo Kim
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Ju Kim
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Research Institute for Drug Development, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Hee Han
- Biotherapeutics Translational Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomolecular Science, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Yoon Lee
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Sangok Kim
- Korea Bioinformation Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyerin Kim
- Korea Bioinformation Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoung-Jin Oh
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Kon Kim
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Baek-Soo Han
- Department of Functional Genomics, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea
- Biodefense Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang-Hee Bae
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Seung Ban
- Biotherapeutics Translational Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomolecular Science, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo Han Bae
- Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
- Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Chul Lee
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Functional Genomics, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea.
| | - Haeseung Lee
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Research Institute for Drug Development, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea.
| | - Eun-Woo Lee
- Metabolic Regulation Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Functional Genomics, University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea.
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea.
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17
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Adinolfi S, Patinen T, Jawahar Deen A, Pitkänen S, Härkönen J, Kansanen E, Küblbeck J, Levonen AL. The KEAP1-NRF2 pathway: Targets for therapy and role in cancer. Redox Biol 2023; 63:102726. [PMID: 37146513 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2023.102726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The KEAP1-NRF2 pathway is the key regulator of cellular defense against both extrinsic and intrinsic oxidative and electrophilic stimuli. Since its discovery in the 1990s, its seminal role in various disease pathologies has become well appreciated, motivating research to elucidate the intricacies of NRF2 signaling and its downstream effects to identify novel targets for therapy. In this graphical review, we present an updated overview of the KEAP1-NRF2 signaling, focusing on the progress made within the past ten years. Specifically, we highlight the advances made in understanding the mechanism of activation of NRF2, resulting in novel discoveries in its therapeutic targeting. Furthermore, we will summarize new findings in the rapidly expanding field of NRF2 in cancer, with important implications for its diagnostics and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Adinolfi
- A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70210, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Tommi Patinen
- A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70210, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Ashik Jawahar Deen
- A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70210, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Sini Pitkänen
- A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70210, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Jouni Härkönen
- A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70210, Kuopio, Finland; Department of Pathology, Hospital Nova of Central Finland, Jyväskylä, 40620, Finland
| | - Emilia Kansanen
- A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70210, Kuopio, Finland; Science Service Center, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Jenni Küblbeck
- A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70210, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Anna-Liisa Levonen
- A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70210, Kuopio, Finland.
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18
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Kanwugu ON, Glukhareva TV. Activation of Nrf2 pathway as a protective mechanism against oxidative stress-induced diseases: Potential of astaxanthin. Arch Biochem Biophys 2023; 741:109601. [PMID: 37086962 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2023.109601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/24/2023]
Abstract
Astaxanthin, a red-orange liposoluble carotenoid, has been the centre of considerable attention in recent years for its numerous biological activities, notably its potent antioxidant activity. It is reported that astaxanthin elicits these biological activities via a number of cellular pathways. The Nrf2/Keap1 pathway is a major regulator of the antioxidant defence system of cells; it modulates the expression of a plethora of genes related to redox homeostasis as well as cellular detoxification. The pathway has received lots of attention as a prospective therapeutic target for diseases related to oxidative stress and aging. Several reports have shown that the pathway is inducible by many natural compounds. This present work reviews the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway, its regulation and involvement in diseases, provides a brief overview of naturally occurring compounds as activators of the pathway as well as discusses the effect of astaxanthin on the pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osman N Kanwugu
- School of Natural Sciences, and ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia; Institute of Chemical Engineering, Ural Federal University Named After the First President of Russia B.N. Yeltsin, Mira Street 28, 620002, Ekaterinburg, Russia.
| | - Tatiana V Glukhareva
- Institute of Chemical Engineering, Ural Federal University Named After the First President of Russia B.N. Yeltsin, Mira Street 28, 620002, Ekaterinburg, Russia
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19
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Shilovsky GA, Dibrova DV. Regulation of Cell Proliferation and Nrf2-Mediated Antioxidant Defense: Conservation of Keap1 Cysteines and Nrf2 Binding Site in the Context of the Evolution of KLHL Family. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13041045. [PMID: 37109574 PMCID: PMC10146909 DOI: 10.3390/life13041045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Keap1 (Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1) is one of the major negative regulators of the transcription factor Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2), which induces the expression of numerous proteins defending the cell against different stress conditions. Keap1 is generally negatively regulated by post-translational modification (mostly via its cysteine residues) and interaction with other proteins that compete with Nrf2 for binding. Cysteine residues in Keap1 have different effects on protein regulation, as basic residues (Lys, Arg, and His) in close proximity to them increase cysteine modification potential. In this paper, we present an evolutionary analysis of residues involved in both mechanisms of Keap1 regulation in the broader context of the KLHL protein family in vertebrates. We identified the typical domain structure of the KLHL protein family in several proteins outside of this family (namely in KBTBD proteins 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 12 and 14). We found several cysteines that are flanked by basic residues (namely, C14, C38, C151, C226, C241, C273, C288, C297, C319, and C613) and, therefore, may be considered more susceptible to regulatory modification. The Nrf2 binding site is completely conserved in Keap1 in vertebrates but is absent or located in nonaligned DA and BC loops of the Kelch domain within the KLHL family. The development of specific substrate binding regions could be an evolutionary factor of diversification in the KLHL protein family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory A Shilovsky
- Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119192 Moscow, Russia
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119234 Moscow, Russia
- Russian Institute for Information Transmission Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences (Kharkevich Institute), 127051 Moscow, Russia
| | - Daria V Dibrova
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119234 Moscow, Russia
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20
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Hallis SP, Kim JM, Kwak MK. Emerging Role of NRF2 Signaling in Cancer Stem Cell Phenotype. Mol Cells 2023; 46:153-164. [PMID: 36994474 PMCID: PMC10070166 DOI: 10.14348/molcells.2023.2196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small population of tumor cells characterized by self-renewal and differentiation capacity. CSCs are currently postulated as the driving force that induces intra-tumor heterogeneity leading to tumor initiation, metastasis, and eventually tumor relapse. Notably, CSCs are inherently resistant to environmental stress, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy due to high levels of antioxidant systems and drug efflux transporters. In this context, a therapeutic strategy targeting the CSC-specific pathway holds a promising cure for cancer. NRF2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2-like 2; NFE2L2) is a master transcription factor that regulates an array of genes involved in the detoxification of reactive oxygen species/electrophiles. Accumulating evidence suggests that persistent NRF2 activation, observed in multiple types of cancer, supports tumor growth, aggressive malignancy, and therapy resistance. Herein, we describe the core properties of CSCs, focusing on treatment resistance, and review the evidence that demonstrates the roles of NRF2 signaling in conferring unique properties of CSCs and the associated signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steffanus P. Hallis
- Department of Pharmacy, Graduate School, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon 14662, Korea
| | - Jin Myung Kim
- Department of Pharmacy, Graduate School, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon 14662, Korea
| | - Mi-Kyoung Kwak
- Department of Pharmacy, Graduate School, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon 14662, Korea
- College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon 14662, Korea
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21
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Suzuki T, Takahashi J, Yamamoto M. Molecular Basis of the KEAP1-NRF2 Signaling Pathway. Mol Cells 2023; 46:133-141. [PMID: 36994473 PMCID: PMC10070164 DOI: 10.14348/molcells.2023.0028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Transcription factor NRF2 (NF-E2-related factor 2) is a master regulator of cellular responses against environmental stresses. NRF2 induces expression of detoxification and antioxidant enzymes and suppresses inductions of pro-inflammatory cytokine genes. KEAP1 (Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1) is an adaptor subunit of CULLIN 3 (CUL3)-based E3 ubiquitin ligase. KEAP1 regulates the activity of NRF2 and acts as a sensor for oxidative and electrophilic stresses. NRF2 has been found to be activated in many types of cancers with poor prognosis. Therapeutic strategies to control NRF2-overeactivated cancers have been considered not only by targeting cancer cells with NRF2 inhibitors or NRF2 synthetic lethal chemicals, but also by targeting host defense with NRF2 inducers. Understanding precise molecular mechanisms how the KEAP1-NRF2 system senses and regulates the cellular response is critical to overcome intractable NRF2-activated cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takafumi Suzuki
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai 980-8575, Japan
- Tohoku Medical Megabank Organization, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8573, Japan
| | - Jun Takahashi
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai 980-8575, Japan
| | - Masayuki Yamamoto
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai 980-8575, Japan
- Tohoku Medical Megabank Organization, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8573, Japan
- The Advanced Research Center for Innovations in Next-Generation Medicine (INGEM), Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8573, Japan
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22
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Weiss-Sadan T, Ge M, Hayashi M, Gohar M, Yao CH, de Groot A, Harry S, Carlin A, Fischer H, Shi L, Wei TY, Adelmann CH, Wolf K, Vornbäumen T, Dürr BR, Takahashi M, Richter M, Zhang J, Yang TY, Vijay V, Fisher DE, Hata AN, Haigis MC, Mostoslavsky R, Bardeesy N, Papagiannakopoulos T, Bar-Peled L. NRF2 activation induces NADH-reductive stress, providing a metabolic vulnerability in lung cancer. Cell Metab 2023; 35:487-503.e7. [PMID: 36841242 PMCID: PMC9998367 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2023.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
Multiple cancers regulate oxidative stress by activating the transcription factor NRF2 through mutation of its negative regulator, KEAP1. NRF2 has been studied extensively in KEAP1-mutant cancers; however, the role of this pathway in cancers with wild-type KEAP1 remains poorly understood. To answer this question, we induced NRF2 via pharmacological inactivation of KEAP1 in a panel of 50+ non-small cell lung cancer cell lines. Unexpectedly, marked decreases in viability were observed in >13% of the cell lines-an effect that was rescued by NRF2 ablation. Genome-wide and targeted CRISPR screens revealed that NRF2 induces NADH-reductive stress, through the upregulation of the NAD+-consuming enzyme ALDH3A1. Leveraging these findings, we show that cells treated with KEAP1 inhibitors or those with endogenous KEAP1 mutations are selectively vulnerable to Complex I inhibition, which impairs NADH oxidation capacity and potentiates reductive stress. Thus, we identify reductive stress as a metabolic vulnerability in NRF2-activated lung cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommy Weiss-Sadan
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Maolin Ge
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
| | - Makiko Hayashi
- Department of Pathology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA; Laura and Isaac Pelmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Magdy Gohar
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Cong-Hui Yao
- Department of Cell Biology, Blavatnik Institute Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Adriaan de Groot
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Stefan Harry
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Alexander Carlin
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Hannah Fischer
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Lei Shi
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Ting-Yu Wei
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Charles H Adelmann
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Cutaneous Biology Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Konstantin Wolf
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Tristan Vornbäumen
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Benedikt R Dürr
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Mariko Takahashi
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Marianne Richter
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Junbing Zhang
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Tzu-Yi Yang
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Vindhya Vijay
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - David E Fisher
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Cutaneous Biology Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Aaron N Hata
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Marcia C Haigis
- Department of Cell Biology, Blavatnik Institute Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Raul Mostoslavsky
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Nabeel Bardeesy
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA; The MGH Center for Regenerative Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Thales Papagiannakopoulos
- Department of Pathology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA; Laura and Isaac Pelmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Liron Bar-Peled
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA; The MGH Center for Regenerative Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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23
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Association of NRF2 with HIF-2α-induced cancer stem cell phenotypes in chronic hypoxic condition. Redox Biol 2023; 60:102632. [PMID: 36791645 PMCID: PMC9950657 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2023.102632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The acquisition of the cancer stem cell (CSC) properties is often mediated by the surrounding microenvironment, and tumor hypoxia is considered an important factor for CSC phenotype development. High levels of NRF2 (Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-Like 2; NFE2L2), a transcription factor that maintains cellular redox balance, have been associated with facilitated tumor growth and therapy resistance. In this study, we investigated the role of NRF2 in hypoxia-induced CSC phenotypes in colorectal cancer cells. Chronic hypoxia for 72 h resulted in CSC phenotypes, including elevation of krupple-like factor 4 (KLF4) and octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (OCT4), and an increase in cancer migration and spheroid growth with concomitant hypoxia-inducible factor 2α (HIF-2α) accumulation. All these chronic hypoxia-induced CSC properties were attenuated following HIF-2α-specific silencing. In this chronic hypoxia model, NRF2 inhibition by shRNA-based silencing or brusatol treatment blocked HIF-2α accumulation, which consequently resulted in decreased CSC marker expression and inhibition of CSC properties such as spheroid growth. In contrast, NRF2 overactivation by genetic or chemical approach enhanced the chronic hypoxia-induced HIF-2α accumulation and cancer migration. As a molecular mechanism of the NRF2-inhibition-mediated HIF-2α dysregulation, we demonstrated that miR-181a-2-3p, whose expression is elevated in NRF2-silenced cells, targeted the HIF-2α 3'UTR and subsequently suppressed the chronic hypoxia-induced HIF-2α and CSC phenotypes. The miR-181a-2-3p inhibitor treatment in NRF2-silenced cells could restore the levels of HIF-2α and CSC markers, and increased cancer migration and sphere formation under chronic hypoxia. In line with this, the miR-181a-2-3p inhibitor transfection could increase tumorigenicity of NRF2-silenced colorectal cancer cells. Collectively, our study suggests the involvement of NRF2/miR181a-2-3p signaling in the development of HIF-2α-mediated CSC phenotypes in sustained hypoxic environments.
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24
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Discovery of synthetic lethal interactions from large-scale pan-cancer perturbation screens. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7748. [PMID: 36517508 PMCID: PMC9751287 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-35378-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of cancer therapies is limited by the availability of suitable drug targets. Potential candidate drug targets can be identified based on the concept of synthetic lethality (SL), which refers to pairs of genes for which an aberration in either gene alone is non-lethal, but co-occurrence of the aberrations is lethal to the cell. Here, we present SLIdR (Synthetic Lethal Identification in R), a statistical framework for identifying SL pairs from large-scale perturbation screens. SLIdR successfully predicts SL pairs even with small sample sizes while minimizing the number of false positive targets. We apply SLIdR to Project DRIVE data and find both established and potential pan-cancer and cancer type-specific SL pairs consistent with findings from literature and drug response screening data. We experimentally validate two predicted SL interactions (ARID1A-TEAD1 and AXIN1-URI1) in hepatocellular carcinoma, thus corroborating the ability of SLIdR to identify potential drug targets.
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25
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Wu S, Liao X, Zhu Z, Huang R, Chen M, Huang A, Zhang J, Wu Q, Wang J, Ding Y. Antioxidant and anti-inflammation effects of dietary phytochemicals: The Nrf2/NF-κB signalling pathway and upstream factors of Nrf2. PHYTOCHEMISTRY 2022; 204:113429. [PMID: 36096269 DOI: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2022.113429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Oxidative stress (OS) is created by an imbalance between reactive oxygen species and antioxidant levels. OS promotes inflammation and is associated with many diseases, such as neurodegenerative disorders, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Nrf2 and NF-κB are critical in the cellular defence against OS and the regulators of inflammatory responses, respectively. Recent studies revealed that the Nrf2 signalling pathway interacts with the NF-κB signalling pathway in OS. More importantly, many natural compounds have long been recognized to ameliorate OS and inflammation via the Nrf2 and/or NF-κB signalling pathway. Thus, we briefly overview the potential crosstalk between Nrf2 and NF-κB and the upstream regulators of Nrf2 and review the literature on the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of dietary phytochemicals (DPs) that can activate these defence systems. The aim is to provide evidence for the development of DPs into functional food for the regulation of the Nrf2/NF-κB signalling pathway by upstream regulators of Nrf2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shujian Wu
- Institute of Microbiology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Applied Microbiology Southern China, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbial Culture Collection and Application, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiomics and Precision Application, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Guangzhou, 510070, China; Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, College of Science & Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Xiyu Liao
- Institute of Microbiology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Applied Microbiology Southern China, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbial Culture Collection and Application, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiomics and Precision Application, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Guangzhou, 510070, China; Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, College of Science & Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Zhenjun Zhu
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, College of Science & Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Rui Huang
- Institute of Microbiology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Applied Microbiology Southern China, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbial Culture Collection and Application, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiomics and Precision Application, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Guangzhou, 510070, China; Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, College of Science & Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Mengfei Chen
- Institute of Microbiology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Applied Microbiology Southern China, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbial Culture Collection and Application, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiomics and Precision Application, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Guangzhou, 510070, China; Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, College of Science & Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Aohuan Huang
- Institute of Microbiology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Applied Microbiology Southern China, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbial Culture Collection and Application, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiomics and Precision Application, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Guangzhou, 510070, China; Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, College of Science & Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Jumei Zhang
- Institute of Microbiology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Applied Microbiology Southern China, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbial Culture Collection and Application, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiomics and Precision Application, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Guangzhou, 510070, China
| | - Qingping Wu
- Institute of Microbiology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Applied Microbiology Southern China, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbial Culture Collection and Application, Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiomics and Precision Application, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Guangzhou, 510070, China
| | - Juan Wang
- College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510070, China.
| | - Yu Ding
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, College of Science & Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China.
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26
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The KEAP1-NRF2 System and Esophageal Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14194702. [PMID: 36230622 PMCID: PMC9564177 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14194702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
NRF2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2) is a transcription factor that regulates the expression of many cytoprotective genes. NRF2 activation is mainly regulated by KEAP1 (kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1) through ubiquitination and proteasome degradation. Esophageal cancer is classified histologically into two major types: esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC). ESCC harbors more genetic alterations in the KEAP-NRF2 system than EAC does, which results in NRF2 activation in these cancers. NRF2-addicted ESCC exhibits increased malignancy and acquisition of resistance to chemoradiotherapy. Therefore, it has been recognized that the development of drugs targeting the KEAP1-NRF2 system based on the molecular dissection of NRF2 function is important and urgent for the treatment of ESCC, along with efficient clinical screening for NRF2-addicted ESCC patients. Recently, the fate of NRF2-activated cells in esophageal tissues, which was under the influence of strong cell competition, and its relationship to the pathogenesis of ESCC, was clarified. In this review, we will summarize the current knowledge of the KEAP1-NRF2 system and the treatment of ESCC. We propose three main strategies for the treatment of NRF2-addicted cancer: (1) NRF2 inhibitors, (2) synthetic lethal drugs for NRF2-addicted cancers, and (3) NRF2 inducers of the host defense system.
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27
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Cannataro VL, Kudalkar S, Dasari K, Gaffney SG, Lazowski HM, Jackson LK, Yildiz I, Das RK, Gould Rothberg BE, Anderson KS, Townsend JP. APOBEC mutagenesis and selection for NFE2L2 contribute to the origin of lung squamous-cell carcinoma. Lung Cancer 2022; 171:34-41. [PMID: 35872531 PMCID: PMC10126952 DOI: 10.1016/j.lungcan.2022.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Lung squamous-cell carcinoma originates as a consequence of oncogenic molecular variants arising from diverse mutagenic processes such as tobacco, defective homologous recombination, aging, and cytidine deamination by APOBEC proteins. Only some of the many variants generated by these processes actually contribute to tumorigenesis. Therefore, molecular investigation of mutagenic processes such as cytidine deamination by APOBEC should also determine whether the mutations produced by these processes contribute substantially to the growth and survival of cancer. Here, we determine the processes that gave rise to mutations of 681 lung squamous-cell carcinomas, and quantify the probability that each mutation was the product of each process. We then calculate the contribution of each mutation to increases in cellular proliferation and survival. We performed in vitro experiments to determine cytidine deamination activity of APOBEC3B against oligonucleotides corresponding with genomic sequences that give rise to variants of high cancer effect size. The largest APOBEC-related cancer effects are attributable to mutations in PIK3CA and NFE2L2. We demonstrate that APOBEC effectively deaminates NFE2L2 at the locations that confer high cancer effect. Overall, we demonstrate that APOBEC activity can lead to mutations in NFE2L2 that have large contributions to cancer cell growth and survival, and that NFE2L2 is an attractive potential target for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Stephen G Gaffney
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | | | - Isil Yildiz
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Department of Pathology, VACT Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Rahul K Das
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Karen S Anderson
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA; Yale Cancer Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA; Department of Molecular Biophysics & Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jeffrey P Townsend
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA; Yale Cancer Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA; Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA; Program in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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28
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Proanthocyanidins Activate Nrf2/ARE Signaling Pathway in Intestinal Epithelial Cells by Inhibiting the Ubiquitinated Degradation of Nrf2. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:8562795. [PMID: 36033575 PMCID: PMC9410805 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8562795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Nrf2 plays a key role in the antioxidant system, and many antioxidants can activate the Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway and alleviate oxidative stress. However, the underlying mechanisms of antioxidants, such as proanthocyanidin- (PC-) induced Nrf2 activation, remain poorly understood. In this study, PC was used on MODE-K cells at different concentrations (0, 1, 2.5, and 5 μg/mL) and different times (0, 3, 6, 12, and 24 h); then, immunoprecipitation, immunofluorescence, and Western blotting were performed to test Nrf2, Bach1, Keap1, HO-1, and NQO1 protein expressions in MODE-K cells. Results showed that PC increased Nrf2, HO-1, and NQO1 protein expressions, decreased Keap1 and Bach1 protein expressions, and enhanced ARE gene activity. PC also decreased the ubiquitinated degradation of the Nrf2 protein, increased Nrf2 protein stability, and increased Nrf2 protein expression by inhibiting Keap1-dependent Nrf2 protein degradation, promoted Nrf2 entry into the nucleus, competed with Bach1, and activated ARE elements, which in turn initiated the Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway. Thus, we conclude that PC activates the Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway in intestinal epithelial cells by inhibiting the ubiquitinated degradation of Nrf2, increasing Nrf2 protein stability and expression, and then regulating key antioxidant enzymes such as HO-1 and NQO1 to initiate cytoprotective effects.
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29
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Khodakarami A, Adibfar S, Karpisheh V, Abolhasani S, Jalali P, Mohammadi H, Gholizadeh Navashenaq J, Hojjat-Farsangi M, Jadidi-Niaragh F. The molecular biology and therapeutic potential of Nrf2 in leukemia. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:241. [PMID: 35906617 PMCID: PMC9336077 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02660-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) transcription factor has contradictory roles in cancer, which can act as a tumor suppressor or a proto-oncogene in different cell conditions (depending on the cell type and the conditions of the cell environment). Nrf2 pathway regulates several cellular processes, including signaling, energy metabolism, autophagy, inflammation, redox homeostasis, and antioxidant regulation. As a result, it plays a crucial role in cell survival. Conversely, Nrf2 protects cancerous cells from apoptosis and increases proliferation, angiogenesis, and metastasis. It promotes resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy in various solid tumors and hematological malignancies, so we want to elucidate the role of Nrf2 in cancer and the positive point of its targeting. Also, in the past few years, many studies have shown that Nrf2 protects cancer cells, especially leukemic cells, from the effects of chemotherapeutic drugs. The present paper summarizes these studies to scrutinize whether targeting Nrf2 combined with chemotherapy would be a therapeutic approach for leukemia treatment. Also, we discussed how Nrf2 and NF-κB work together to control the cellular redox pathway. The role of these two factors in inflammation (antagonistic) and leukemia (synergistic) is also summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atefeh Khodakarami
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sara Adibfar
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Vahid Karpisheh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Shiva Abolhasani
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Pooya Jalali
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hamed Mohammadi
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Hojjat-Farsangi
- Bioclinicum, Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Farhad Jadidi-Niaragh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran. .,Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran. .,Research Center for Integrative Medicine in Aging, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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30
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Kitamura H, Takeda H, Motohashi H. Genetic, Metabolic and Immunological Features of Cancers with NRF2 Addiction. FEBS Lett 2022; 596:1981-1993. [PMID: 35899372 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-like 2 (NRF2) is a master transcription factor that coordinately regulates the expression of many cytoprotective genes and plays a central role in defense mechanisms against oxidative and electrophilic insults. Although increased NRF2 activity is principally beneficial for our health, NRF2 activation in cancer cells is detrimental. Many human cancers exhibit persistent NRF2 activation and such cancer cells rely on NRF2 for most of their malignant characteristics, such as therapeutic resistance and aggressive tumorigenesis, and thus fall into NRF2 addiction. The persistent activation of NRF2 confers great advantages on cancer cells, whereas it is not tolerated by normal cells, suggesting that certain requirements are necessary for a cell to exploit NRF2 and evolve into malignant a cancer cell. In this review, recent reports and data on the genetic, metabolic and immunological features of NRF2-activated cancer cells are summarized, and prerequisites for NRF2 addiction in cancer cells and their therapeutic applications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Kitamura
- Department of Gene Expression Regulation, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, 4-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Haruna Takeda
- Department of Gene Expression Regulation, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, 4-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Hozumi Motohashi
- Department of Gene Expression Regulation, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, 4-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
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31
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Han JH, Kim YK, Kim H, Lee J, Oh MJ, Kim SB, Kim M, Kim KH, Yoon HJ, Lee MS, Minna JD, White MA, Kim HS. Snail acetylation by autophagy-derived acetyl-coenzyme A promotes invasion and metastasis of KRAS-LKB1 co-mutated lung cancer cells. CANCER COMMUNICATIONS (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 42:716-749. [PMID: 35838183 PMCID: PMC9395322 DOI: 10.1002/cac2.12332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Background Autophagy is elevated in metastatic tumors and is often associated with active epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). However, the extent to which EMT is dependent on autophagy is largely unknown. This study aimed to identify the mechanisms by which autophagy facilitates EMT. Methods We employed a liquid chromatography‐based metabolomic approach with kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene (KRAS) and liver kinase B1 (LKB1) gene co‐mutated (KL) cells that represent an autophagy/EMT‐coactivated invasive lung cancer subtype for the identification of metabolites linked to autophagy‐driven EMT activation. Molecular mechanisms of autophagy‐driven EMT activation were further investigated by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR), Western blotting analysis, immunoprecipitation, immunofluorescence staining, and metabolite assays. The effects of chemical and genetic perturbations on autophagic flux were assessed by two orthogonal approaches: microtubule‐associated protein 1A/1B‐light chain 3 (LC3) turnover analysis by Western blotting and monomeric red fluorescent protein‐green fluorescent protein (mRFP‐GFP)‐LC3 tandem fluorescent protein quenching assay. Transcription factor EB (TFEB) activity was measured by coordinated lysosomal expression and regulation (CLEAR) motif‐driven luciferase reporter assay. Experimental metastasis (tail vein injection) mouse models were used to evaluate the impact of calcium/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase kinase 2 (CAMKK2) or ATP citrate lyase (ACLY) inhibitors on lung metastasis using IVIS luciferase imaging system. Results We found that autophagy in KL cancer cells increased acetyl‐coenzyme A (acetyl‐CoA), which facilitated the acetylation and stabilization of the EMT‐inducing transcription factor Snail. The autophagy/acetyl‐CoA/acetyl‐Snail axis was further validated in tumor tissues and in autophagy‐activated pancreatic cancer cells. TFEB acetylation in KL cancer cells sustained pro‐metastatic autophagy in a mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1)‐independent manner. Pharmacological inhibition of this axis via CAMKK2 inhibitors or ACLY inhibitors consistently reduced the metastatic capacity of KL cancer cells in vivo. Conclusions This study demonstrates that autophagy‐derived acetyl‐CoA promotes Snail acetylation and thereby facilitates invasion and metastasis of KRAS‐LKB1 co‐mutated lung cancer cells and that inhibition of the autophagy/acetyl‐CoA/acetyl‐Snail axis using CAMKK2 or ACLY inhibitors could be a potential therapeutic strategy to suppress metastasis of KL lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jang Hee Han
- Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Korea.,Department of Medical Science, Yonsei University Graduate School, Seoul, 03722, Korea.,Department of Urology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, 03722, Korea
| | - Yong Keon Kim
- Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Korea.,Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Korea
| | - Hakhyun Kim
- Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Korea.,Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Korea
| | - Jooyoung Lee
- Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Korea.,Checkmate Therapeutics Inc., Seoul, 07207, Korea
| | - Myung Joon Oh
- Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Korea.,Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Korea
| | - Sang Bum Kim
- Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Korea
| | - Minjee Kim
- Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Korea.,Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Korea
| | - Kook Hwan Kim
- Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Korea
| | - Hyun Ju Yoon
- Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Korea.,Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Korea
| | - Myung-Shik Lee
- Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Korea
| | - John D Minna
- Hamon Center for Therapeutic Oncology Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, 75390, USA
| | - Michael A White
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, 75390, USA
| | - Hyun Seok Kim
- Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Korea.,Checkmate Therapeutics Inc., Seoul, 07207, Korea.,Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Korea
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32
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Panda H, Suzuki M, Naito M, Saito R, Wen H, Baird L, Uruno A, Miyata K, Yamamoto M. Halofuginone micelle nanoparticles eradicate Nrf2-activated lung adenocarcinoma without systemic toxicity. Free Radic Biol Med 2022; 187:92-104. [PMID: 35618180 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2022.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The Keap1-Nrf2 system is the master regulator of the cellular response against oxidative and xenobiotic stresses. Constitutive activation of Nrf2 is frequently observed in various types of cancers. Nrf2 hyperactivation induces metabolic reprogramming in cancer cells, which supports the increased energy demand required for rapid proliferation and confers high-level resistance against anticancer radio/chemotherapy. Hence, Nrf2 inhibition has emerged as an attractive therapeutic strategy to counter such acquired resistance in Nrf2-activated tumors. We previously identified Halofuginone (HF) as a promising Nrf2 inhibitor. In this study, we pursued preclinical characterization of HF and found that while HF markedly reduced the viability of cancer cells, it also caused severe hematopoietic and immune cell suppression in a dose-dependent manner. Hence, to overcome this toxicity, we decided to employ a nanomedicine approach to HF. We found that encapsulation of HF into a polymeric micelle (HF micelle; HFm) largely relieved the systemic toxicity exhibited by free HF while maintaining the tumor-suppressive properties of HF. LC-MS/MS analysis revealed that the reduction in the magnitude of adverse effects was the result of the ability to release HF from the HFm core in a slow and sustained manner. These results thus support the contention that HFm will potentially counteract Nrf2-activated cancers in the clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harit Panda
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Mikiko Suzuki
- Center for Radioisotope Sciences, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan.
| | - Mitsuru Naito
- Department of Materials Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-8656, Japan
| | - Ritsumi Saito
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Huaichun Wen
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Liam Baird
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Akira Uruno
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Kanjiro Miyata
- Department of Materials Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-8656, Japan
| | - Masayuki Yamamoto
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan.
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Target Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-Related Factor 2 in Pulmonary Hypertension: Molecular Insight into Application. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:7845503. [PMID: 35707273 PMCID: PMC9192195 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7845503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a key transcription factor involved in maintaining redox balance and activates the expression of downstream antioxidant enzymes. Nrf2 has received wide attention considering its crucial role in oxidative and electrophilic stress. Large amounts of studies have demonstrated the protective role of Nrf2 activation in various pulmonary hypertension (pH) models. Additionally, various kinds of natural phytochemicals acting as Nrf2 activators prevent the development of pH and provide a novel and promising therapeutic insight for the treatment of pH. In the current review, we give a brief introduction of Nrf2 and focus on the role and mechanism of Nrf2 in the pathophysiology of pH and then review the relevant research of Nrf2 agonists in pH in both experimental research and clinical trials.
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Wolowczyk C, Neckmann U, Aure MR, Hall M, Johannessen B, Zhao S, Skotheim RI, Andersen SB, Zwiggelaar R, Steigedal TS, Lingjærde OC, Sahlberg KK, Almaas E, Bjørkøy G. NRF2 drives an oxidative stress response predictive of breast cancer. Free Radic Biol Med 2022; 184:170-184. [PMID: 35381325 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2022.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Many breast cancer patients are diagnosed with small, well-differentiated, hormone receptor-positive tumors. Risk of relapse is not easily identified in these patients, resulting in overtreatment. To identify metastasis-related gene expression patterns, we compared the transcriptomes of the non-metastatic 67NR and metastatic 66cl4 cell lines from the murine 4T1 mammary tumor model. The transcription factor nuclear factor, erythroid 2-like 2 (NRF2, encoded by NFE2L2) was constitutively activated in the metastatic cells and tumors, and correspondingly a subset of established NRF2-regulated genes was also upregulated. Depletion of NRF2 increased basal levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and severely reduced ability to form primary tumors and lung metastases. Consistently, a set of NRF2-controlled genes was elevated in breast cancer biopsies. Sixteen of these were combined into a gene expression signature that significantly improves the PAM50 ROR score, and is an independent, strong predictor of prognosis, even in hormone receptor-positive tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Wolowczyk
- Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research and Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway; Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway; Clinic of Laboratory Medicine, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Ulrike Neckmann
- Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research and Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway; Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway; Clinic of Laboratory Medicine, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Miriam Ragle Aure
- Department of Cancer Genetics, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Department of Medical Genetics, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Martina Hall
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway; K.G.Jebsen Center for Genetic Epidemiology, Department of Public Health and General Practice, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Norway
| | - Bjarne Johannessen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital-Radiumhospitalet, Oslo, Norway; Norwegian Cancer Genomics Consortium, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sen Zhao
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital-Radiumhospitalet, Oslo, Norway; Norwegian Cancer Genomics Consortium, Oslo, Norway
| | - Rolf I Skotheim
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital-Radiumhospitalet, Oslo, Norway; Norwegian Cancer Genomics Consortium, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sonja B Andersen
- Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research and Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway; Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Rosalie Zwiggelaar
- Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research and Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Tonje S Steigedal
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | | | - Kristine Kleivi Sahlberg
- Department of Cancer Genetics, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Department of Research, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Drammen, Norway
| | - Eivind Almaas
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway; K.G.Jebsen Center for Genetic Epidemiology, Department of Public Health and General Practice, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Norway
| | - Geir Bjørkøy
- Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research and Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway; Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
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Guerrero-Escalera D, Alarcón-Sánchez BR, Arellanes-Robledo J, Cruz-Rangel A, Del Pozo-Yauner L, Chagoya de Sánchez V, Resendis-Antonio O, Villa-Treviño S, Torres-Mena JE, Pérez-Carreón JI. Comparative subcellular localization of NRF2 and KEAP1 during the hepatocellular carcinoma development in vivo. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2022; 1869:119222. [PMID: 35093454 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2022.119222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
The activation of Nuclear Factor, Erythroid 2 Like 2 - Kelch Like ECH Associated Protein 1 (NRF2-KEAP1) signaling pathway plays a critical dual role by either protecting or promoting the carcinogenesis process. However, its activation or nuclear translocation during hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression has not been addressed yet. This study characterizes the subcellular localization of both NRF2 and KEAP1 during diethylnitrosamine-induced hepatocarcinogenesis in the rat. NRF2-KEAP1 pathway was continuously activated along with the increased expression of its target genes, namely Nqo1, Hmox1, Gclc, and Ptgr1. Similarly, the nuclear translocation of NRF2, MAF, and KEAP1 increased in HCC cells from weeks 12 to 22 during HCC progression. Likewise, colocalization of NRF2 with KEAP1 was higher in the cell nuclei of HCC neoplastic nodules than in surrounding cells. Moreover, immunofluorescence analyses revealed that the interaction of KEAP1 with filamentous Actin was disrupted in HCC cells. This disruption may be contributing to the release and nuclear translocation of NRF2 since the cortical actin cytoskeleton serves as anchoring of KEAP1. In conclusion, this evidence indicates that NRF2 is progressively activated and promotes the progression of experimental HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Brisa Rodope Alarcón-Sánchez
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institute of Genomic Medicine, CDMX, Mexico; Department of Cell Biology, Center for Research and Advanced Studies of the National Polytechnic Institute, CDMX, Mexico
| | - Jaime Arellanes-Robledo
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institute of Genomic Medicine, CDMX, Mexico; Directorate of Cátedras, National Council of Science and Technology, CDMX, Mexico
| | - Armando Cruz-Rangel
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institute of Genomic Medicine, CDMX, Mexico
| | - Luis Del Pozo-Yauner
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, AL, USA
| | | | | | - Saul Villa-Treviño
- Department of Cell Biology, Center for Research and Advanced Studies of the National Polytechnic Institute, CDMX, Mexico
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36
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Liu S, Li X. Long Non-Coding RNA CASC7 Promotes Proliferation and Inhibits Apoptosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells via Downregulating miR-340-5p CASC7/miR-340-5p Axis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J BIOMATER TISS ENG 2022. [DOI: 10.1166/jbt.2022.2950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common malignant tumor worldwide with a poor prognosis. Amounting studies revealed that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) show important roles in various biological processes. The purpose of this study was to explore the biological
function and potential molecular mechanism of CASC7 in HCC. Methods: CASC7 expression in HCC cell lines was detected by qRT-PCR. The expressions of CASC7 and miR-340-5p were changed by transfection of miR-340-5p mimic, the CASC7 overexpression and knockdown plasmids. The interaction
between CASC7 and miR-340-5p was assessed by a Dual-Luciferase reporter assay. The biological functions of CASC7 were evaluated by CCK-8, colony formation assay, ROS assay kit, immunofluorescence and flow cytometry (FCM). Results: CASC7 was upregulated in HCC cell lines. CASC7 overexpression
significantly promoted cell proliferation, as well as inhibited apoptosis and oxidative stress. In contrast, CASC7 knockdown could reverse these above changes. The result of the Dual-luciferase reporter assay revealed that CASC7 directly targeted miR-340-5p and negatively regulated its expression.
In addition, CASC7 promoted proliferation and inhibited apoptosis of HCC cells through activating Nrf2 pathway by downregulating miR-340-5p. Conclusions: In summary, CASC7 promotes HCC tumorigenesis and progression through the Nrf2 pathway by targeting miR-340-5p, which may provide
a new target for therapy of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengyong Liu
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China
| | - Xiangcheng Li
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China
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Tastan B, Arioz BI, Genc S. Targeting NLRP3 Inflammasome With Nrf2 Inducers in Central Nervous System Disorders. Front Immunol 2022; 13:865772. [PMID: 35418995 PMCID: PMC8995746 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.865772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The NLRP3 inflammasome is an intracellular multiprotein complex that plays an essential role in the innate immune system by identifying and eliminating a plethora of endogenous and exogenous threats to the host. Upon activation of the NLRP3 complex, pro-inflammatory cytokines are processed and released. Furthermore, activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome complex can induce pyroptotic cell death, thereby propagating the inflammatory response. The aberrant activity and detrimental effects of NLRP3 inflammasome activation have been associated with cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, metabolic, and inflammatory diseases. Therefore, clinical strategies targeting the inhibition of the self-propelled NLRP3 inflammasome activation are required. The transcription factor Nrf2 regulates cellular stress response, controlling the redox equilibrium, metabolic programming, and inflammation. The Nrf2 pathway participates in anti-oxidative, cytoprotective, and anti-inflammatory activities. This prominent regulator, through pharmacologic activation, could provide a therapeutic strategy for the diseases to the etiology and pathogenesis of which NLRP3 inflammasome contributes. In this review, current knowledge on NLRP3 inflammasome activation and Nrf2 pathways is presented; the relationship between NLRP3 inflammasome signaling and Nrf2 pathway, as well as the pre/clinical use of Nrf2 activators against NLRP3 inflammasome activation in disorders of the central nervous system, are thoroughly described. Cumulative evidence points out therapeutic use of Nrf2 activators against NLRP3 inflammasome activation or diseases that NLRP3 inflammasome contributes to would be advantageous to prevent inflammatory conditions; however, the side effects of these molecules should be kept in mind before applying them to clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bora Tastan
- Genc Laboratory, Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Izmir, Turkey,Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Burak I. Arioz
- Genc Laboratory, Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Izmir, Turkey,Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Sermin Genc
- Genc Laboratory, Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Izmir, Turkey,Department of Neuroscience, Health Sciences Institute, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey,*Correspondence: Sermin Genc,
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Multifaceted Roles of the KEAP1–NRF2 System in Cancer and Inflammatory Disease Milieu. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11030538. [PMID: 35326187 PMCID: PMC8944524 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11030538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In a multicellular environment, many different types of cells interact with each other. The KEAP1–NRF2 system defends against electrophilic and oxidative stresses in various types of cells. However, the KEAP1–NRF2 system also regulates the expression of genes involved in cell proliferation and inflammation, indicating that the system plays cell type-specific roles. In this review, we introduce the multifarious roles of the KEAP1–NRF2 system in various types of cells, especially focusing on cancer and inflammatory diseases. Cancer cells frequently hijack the KEAP1–NRF2 system, and NRF2 activation confers cancer cells with a proliferative advantage and therapeutic resistance. In contrast, the activation of NRF2 in immune cells, especially in myeloid cells, suppresses tumor development. In chronic inflammatory diseases, such as sickle cell disease, NRF2 activation in myeloid and endothelial cells represses the expression of proinflammatory cytokine and adherent molecule genes, mitigating inflammation and organ damage. Based on these cell-specific roles played by the KEAP1–NRF2 system, NRF2 inducers have been utilized for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. In addition, the use of NRF2 inducers and/or inhibitors with canonical antineoplastic drugs is an emerging approach to cancer treatment.
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Siswanto FM, Tamura A, Sakuma R, Imaoka S. Yeast β-glucan increases etoposide sensitivity in lung cancer cell line A549 by suppressing Nrf2 via the non-canonical NF-κB pathway. Mol Pharmacol 2022; 101:257-273. [PMID: 35193967 DOI: 10.1124/molpharm.121.000475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Etoposide is regarded as one of the main standard cytotoxic drugs for lung cancer. However, mutations in Keap1, the main regulator of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), are often detected in lung cancer and lead to chemoresistance. Since the aberrant activation of Nrf2 enhances drug resistance, the suppression of the Nrf2 pathway is a promising therapeutic strategy for lung cancer. We herein used the human lung adenocarcinoma cell line A549 because it harbors a Keap1 loss-of-function mutation. A treatment with β-glucan, a major component of the fungal cell wall, reduced Nrf2 protein levels, down-regulated the expression of CYP3A5, UGT1A1, and MDR1, and increased etoposide sensitivity in A549 cells. Furthermore, the ephrin type-A receptor 2 (EphA2) receptor was important for the recognition and biological activity of β-glucan in A549 cells. EphA2 signaling includes nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), STAT3, and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). However, treatment of cells with stattic (STAT3 inhibitor) or SB203580 (p38 MAPK inhibitor) did not diminish the effects of β-glucan. In contrast, knockdown of RelB abolished the effects of β-glucan, suggesting the involvement of the non-canonical NF-κB pathway. The β-glucan effects were also attenuated by the knockdown of WDR23. The β-glucan treatment and RelB overexpression induced the expression of CUL4A, which increased WDR23 ligase activity and promoted the subsequent depletion of Nrf2. These results revealed a novel property of β-glucan as a resistance-modifying agent in addition to its widely reported immunomodulatory effects for lung cancer therapy via the EphA2-RelB-CUL4A-Nrf2 axis. Significance Statement Chemotherapeutic resistance remains a major obstacle in cancer therapy despite extensive efforts to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms and overcome multidrug resistance. The present study revealed a novel resistance-modifying property of β-glucan, thereby expanding our knowledge on the beneficial roles of β-glucan and providing an alternative strategy to prevent drug resistance by cancer. The present results provide evidence for the involvement of a novel mode of NF-κB and Nrf2 crosstalk in the drug resistance phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ferbian Milas Siswanto
- Department of Biomedical Chemistry, School of Science and Technology, Kwansei Gakuin University, Japan
| | - Akiyoshi Tamura
- Department of Biomedical Chemistry, School of Science and Technology, Kwansei Gakuin University, Japan
| | - Rika Sakuma
- Department of Biomedical Chemistry, School of Science and Technology, Kwansei Gakuin University, Japan
| | - Susumu Imaoka
- Department of Biomedical Chemistry, School of Science and Technology, Kwansei Gakuin University, Japan
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40
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Gall Trošelj K, Tomljanović M, Jaganjac M, Matijević Glavan T, Čipak Gašparović A, Milković L, Borović Šunjić S, Buttari B, Profumo E, Saha S, Saso L, Žarković N. Oxidative Stress and Cancer Heterogeneity Orchestrate NRF2 Roles Relevant for Therapy Response. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27051468. [PMID: 35268568 PMCID: PMC8912061 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27051468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress and its end-products, such as 4-hydroxynonenal (HNE), initiate activation of the Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-Related Factor 2 (NRF2)/Kelch Like ECH Associated Protein 1 (KEAP1) signaling pathway that plays a crucial role in the maintenance of cellular redox homeostasis. However, an involvement of 4-HNE and NRF2 in processes associated with the initiation of cancer, its progression, and response to therapy includes numerous, highly complex events. They occur through interactions between cancer and stromal cells. These events are dependent on many cell-type specific features. They start with the extent of NRF2 binding to its cytoplasmic repressor, KEAP1, and extend to the permissiveness of chromatin for transcription of Antioxidant Response Element (ARE)-containing genes that are NRF2 targets. This review will explore epigenetic molecular mechanisms of NRF2 transcription through the specific molecular anatomy of its promoter. It will explain the role of NRF2 in cancer stem cells, with respect to cancer therapy resistance. Additionally, it also discusses NRF2 involvement at the cross-roads of communication between tumor associated inflammatory and stromal cells, which is also an important factor involved in the response to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koraljka Gall Trošelj
- Laboratory for Epigenomics, Division of Molecular Medicine, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
- Correspondence:
| | - Marko Tomljanović
- Laboratory for Epigenomics, Division of Molecular Medicine, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Morana Jaganjac
- Laboratory for Oxidative Stress (LabOS), Division of Molecular Medicine, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.J.); (A.Č.G.); (L.M.); (S.B.Š.); (N.Ž.)
| | - Tanja Matijević Glavan
- Laboratory for Personalized Medicine, Division of Molecular Medicine, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Ana Čipak Gašparović
- Laboratory for Oxidative Stress (LabOS), Division of Molecular Medicine, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.J.); (A.Č.G.); (L.M.); (S.B.Š.); (N.Ž.)
| | - Lidija Milković
- Laboratory for Oxidative Stress (LabOS), Division of Molecular Medicine, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.J.); (A.Č.G.); (L.M.); (S.B.Š.); (N.Ž.)
| | - Suzana Borović Šunjić
- Laboratory for Oxidative Stress (LabOS), Division of Molecular Medicine, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.J.); (A.Č.G.); (L.M.); (S.B.Š.); (N.Ž.)
| | - Brigitta Buttari
- Department of Cardiovascular, Endocrine-Metabolic Diseases, and Aging, Italian National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy; (B.B.); (E.P.); (S.S.)
| | - Elisabetta Profumo
- Department of Cardiovascular, Endocrine-Metabolic Diseases, and Aging, Italian National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy; (B.B.); (E.P.); (S.S.)
| | - Sarmistha Saha
- Department of Cardiovascular, Endocrine-Metabolic Diseases, and Aging, Italian National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy; (B.B.); (E.P.); (S.S.)
| | - Luciano Saso
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Neven Žarković
- Laboratory for Oxidative Stress (LabOS), Division of Molecular Medicine, Rudjer Boskovic Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.J.); (A.Č.G.); (L.M.); (S.B.Š.); (N.Ž.)
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Pillai R, Hayashi M, Zavitsanou AM, Papagiannakopoulos T. NRF2: KEAPing Tumors Protected. Cancer Discov 2022; 12:625-643. [PMID: 35101864 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-21-0922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1)/nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) pathway plays a physiologic protective role against xenobiotics and reactive oxygen species. However, activation of NRF2 provides a powerful selective advantage for tumors by rewiring metabolism to enhance proliferation, suppress various forms of stress, and promote immune evasion. Genetic, epigenetic, and posttranslational alterations that activate the KEAP1/NRF2 pathway are found in multiple solid tumors. Emerging clinical data highlight that alterations in this pathway result in resistance to multiple therapies. Here, we provide an overview of how dysregulation of the KEAP1/NRF2 pathway in cancer contributes to several hallmarks of cancer that promote tumorigenesis and lead to treatment resistance. SIGNIFICANCE: Alterations in the KEAP1/NRF2 pathway are found in multiple cancer types. Activation of NRF2 leads to metabolic rewiring of tumors that promote tumor initiation and progression. Here we present the known alterations that lead to NRF2 activation in cancer, the mechanisms in which NRF2 activation promotes tumors, and the therapeutic implications of NRF2 activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ray Pillai
- Department of Pathology, Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York.,Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, VA New York Harbor Healthcare System, New York, New York.,Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Makiko Hayashi
- Department of Pathology, Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Anastasia-Maria Zavitsanou
- Department of Pathology, Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Thales Papagiannakopoulos
- Department of Pathology, Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York.
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Shen M, Qi R, Ren J, Lv D, Yang H. Characterization With KRAS Mutant Is a Critical Determinant in Immunotherapy and Other Multiple Therapies for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 11:780655. [PMID: 35070984 PMCID: PMC8766810 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.780655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a frequent type of cancer, which is mainly characterized clinically by high aggressiveness and high mortality. KRAS oncoprotein is the most common molecular protein detected in NSCLC, accounting for 25% of all oncogenic mutations. Constitutive activation of the KRAS oncoprotein triggers an intracellular cascade in cancer cells, leading to uncontrolled cell proliferation of cancer cells and aberrant cell survival states. The results of multiple clinical trials have shown that different KRAS mutation subtypes exhibit different sensitivities to different chemotherapy regimens. Meanwhile, anti-angiogenic drugs have shown differential efficacy for different subtypes of KRAS mutated lung cancer. It was explored to find if the specificity of the KRAS mutation subtype would affect PD-L1 expression, so immunotherapy would be of potential clinical value for the treatment of some types of KRAS mutations. It was discovered that the specificity of the KRAS mutation affected PD-L1, which opened up immunotherapy as a potential clinical treatment option. After several breakthrough studies, the preliminary test data of many early clinical trials showed that it is possible to directly inhibit KRAS G12C mutation, which has been proved to be a targeted treatment that is suitable for about 10%-12% of patients with advanced NSCLC, having a significant impact on the prolongation of their survival and the improvement of their quality of life. This article reviews the latest progress of treatments for NSCLC with KRAS mutation, in order to gain insight into the biological diversity of lung cancer cells and their potential clinical implications, thereby enabling individualized treatment for patients with KRAS-mutant NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mo Shen
- Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology of Taizhou, Radiation Oncology Institute of Enze Medical Health Academy, Affiliated Taizhou Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, China
- The First Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Rongbin Qi
- Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology of Taizhou, Radiation Oncology Institute of Enze Medical Health Academy, Affiliated Taizhou Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, China
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Enze Hospital, Affiliated Taizhou Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, China
| | - Justin Ren
- Biological Sciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, Evanston, IL, United States
| | - Dongqing Lv
- Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology of Taizhou, Radiation Oncology Institute of Enze Medical Health Academy, Affiliated Taizhou Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, China
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Enze Hospital, Affiliated Taizhou Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, China
| | - Haihua Yang
- Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology of Taizhou, Radiation Oncology Institute of Enze Medical Health Academy, Affiliated Taizhou Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Enze Hospital, Affiliated Taizhou Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, China
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Transcriptomic profiling of adjuvant colorectal cancer identifies three key prognostic biological processes and a disease specific role for granzyme B. PLoS One 2022; 16:e0262198. [PMID: 34972191 PMCID: PMC8719661 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0262198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths, with a 5% 5-year survival rate for metastatic disease, yet with limited therapeutic advancements due to insufficient understanding of and inability to accurately capture high-risk CRC patients who are most likely to recur. We aimed to improve high-risk classification by identifying biological pathways associated with outcome in adjuvant stage II/III CRC. Methods and findings We included 1062 patients with stage III or high-risk stage II colon carcinoma from the prospective three-arm randomized phase 3 AVANT trial, and performed expression profiling to identify a prognostic signature. Data from validation cohort GSE39582, The Cancer Genome Atlas, and cell lines were used to further validate the prognostic biology. Our retrospective analysis of the adjuvant AVANT trial uncovered a prognostic signature capturing three biological functions—stromal, proliferative and immune—that outperformed the Consensus Molecular Subtypes (CMS) and recurrence prediction signatures like Oncotype Dx in an independent cohort. Importantly, within the immune component, high granzyme B (GZMB) expression had a significant prognostic impact while other individual T-effector genes were less or not prognostic. In addition, we found GZMB to be endogenously expressed in CMS2 tumor cells and to be prognostic in a T cell independent fashion. A limitation of our study is that these results, although robust and derived from a large dataset, still need to be clinically validated in a prospective study. Conclusions This work furthers our understanding of the underlying biology that propagates stage II/III CRC disease progression and provides scientific rationale for future high-risk stratification and targeted treatment evaluation in biomarker defined subpopulations of resectable high-risk CRC. Our results also shed light on an alternative GZMB source with context-specific implications on the disease’s unique biology.
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Bi Z, Fu Y, Wadgaonkar P, Qiu Y, Almutairy B, Zhang W, Seno A, Thakur C, Chen F. New Discoveries and Ambiguities of Nrf2 and ATF3 Signaling in Environmental Arsenic-Induced Carcinogenesis. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 11:77. [PMID: 35052581 PMCID: PMC8773296 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11010077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Environment exposure to arsenic had been linked to increased incidents of human cancers. In cellular and animal experimental systems, arsenic has been shown to be highly capable of activating several signaling pathways that play critical roles in cell growth regulation, malignant transformation and the stemness of cancer stem-like cells. Emerging evidence indicates certain oncogenic properties of the Nrf2 transcription factor that can be activated by arsenic and many other environmental hazards. In human bronchial epithelial cells, our most recent data suggested that arsenic-activated Nrf2 signaling fosters metabolic reprogramming of the cells through shifting mitochondrial TCA cycle to cytosolic glycolysis, and some of the metabolites in glycolysis shunt the hexosamine biosynthesis and serine-glycine pathways important for the energy metabolism of the cancer cells. In the current report, we further demonstrated direct regulation of oncogenic signals by arsenic-activated Nrf2 and connection of Nrf2 with ATF3 stress transcription factor. Meanwhile, we also highlighted some unanswered questions on the molecular characteristics of the Nrf2 protein, which warrants further collaborative efforts among scientists for understanding the important role of Nrf2 in human cancers either associated or not to environmental arsenic exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuoyue Bi
- Stony Brook Cancer Center, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Lauterbur Drive, Brookhaven, NY 11794, USA; (Z.B.); (Y.F.); (Y.Q.); (W.Z.); (C.T.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Wayne State University, 259 Mack Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (P.W.); (B.A.); (A.S.)
| | - Yao Fu
- Stony Brook Cancer Center, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Lauterbur Drive, Brookhaven, NY 11794, USA; (Z.B.); (Y.F.); (Y.Q.); (W.Z.); (C.T.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Wayne State University, 259 Mack Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (P.W.); (B.A.); (A.S.)
| | - Priya Wadgaonkar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Wayne State University, 259 Mack Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (P.W.); (B.A.); (A.S.)
| | - Yiran Qiu
- Stony Brook Cancer Center, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Lauterbur Drive, Brookhaven, NY 11794, USA; (Z.B.); (Y.F.); (Y.Q.); (W.Z.); (C.T.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Wayne State University, 259 Mack Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (P.W.); (B.A.); (A.S.)
| | - Bandar Almutairy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Wayne State University, 259 Mack Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (P.W.); (B.A.); (A.S.)
| | - Wenxuan Zhang
- Stony Brook Cancer Center, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Lauterbur Drive, Brookhaven, NY 11794, USA; (Z.B.); (Y.F.); (Y.Q.); (W.Z.); (C.T.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Wayne State University, 259 Mack Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (P.W.); (B.A.); (A.S.)
| | - Akimasa Seno
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Wayne State University, 259 Mack Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (P.W.); (B.A.); (A.S.)
| | - Chitra Thakur
- Stony Brook Cancer Center, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Lauterbur Drive, Brookhaven, NY 11794, USA; (Z.B.); (Y.F.); (Y.Q.); (W.Z.); (C.T.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Wayne State University, 259 Mack Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (P.W.); (B.A.); (A.S.)
- Department of Pathology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, 101 Nicolls Road, Brookhaven, NY 11794, USA
| | - Fei Chen
- Stony Brook Cancer Center, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Lauterbur Drive, Brookhaven, NY 11794, USA; (Z.B.); (Y.F.); (Y.Q.); (W.Z.); (C.T.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Wayne State University, 259 Mack Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; (P.W.); (B.A.); (A.S.)
- Department of Pathology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, 101 Nicolls Road, Brookhaven, NY 11794, USA
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Ding H, Chen Z, Wu K, Huang SM, Wu WL, LeBoeuf SE, Pillai RG, Rabinowitz JD, Papagiannakopoulos T. Activation of the NRF2 antioxidant program sensitizes tumors to G6PD inhibition. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2021; 7:eabk1023. [PMID: 34788087 PMCID: PMC8598006 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abk1023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The KEAP1/NRF2 pathway promotes metabolic rewiring to support redox homeostasis. Activation of NRF2 occurs in many cancers, often due to KEAP1 mutations, and is associated with more aggressive disease and treatment resistance. To identify metabolic dependencies in cancers with NRF2 activation, we performed a metabolism-focused CRISPR screen. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), which was recently shown to be dispensable in Ras-driven tumors, was a top dependency. G6PD catalyzes the committed step of the oxidative pentose phosphate pathway that produces NADPH and nucleotide precursors, but neither antioxidants nor nucleosides rescued. Instead, G6PD loss triggered tricarboxylic acid (TCA) intermediate depletion because of up-regulation of the alternative NADPH-producing enzymes malic enzyme and isocitrate dehydrogenase. In vivo, G6PD impairment markedly suppressed KEAP1 mutant tumor growth, and this suppression was further augmented by TCA depletion by glutaminase inhibition. Thus, G6PD inhibition–induced TCA depletion is a therapeutic vulnerability of NRF2-activated cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyu Ding
- Department of Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Zihong Chen
- Lewis Sigler Institute for Integrative Genomics, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Princeton Branch, Princeton University, 91 Prospect Avenue, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Katherine Wu
- Department of Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Shih Ming Huang
- Department of Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Warren L. Wu
- Department of Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Sarah E. LeBoeuf
- Department of Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Ray G. Pillai
- Department of Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, VA New York Harbor Healthcare System, 423 East 23rd Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Joshua D. Rabinowitz
- Lewis Sigler Institute for Integrative Genomics, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Princeton University, Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Princeton Branch, Princeton University, 91 Prospect Avenue, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Thales Papagiannakopoulos
- Department of Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
- Perlmutter NYU Cancer Center, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
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Bono S, Feligioni M, Corbo M. Impaired antioxidant KEAP1-NRF2 system in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: NRF2 activation as a potential therapeutic strategy. Mol Neurodegener 2021; 16:71. [PMID: 34663413 PMCID: PMC8521937 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-021-00479-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oxidative stress (OS) is an imbalance between oxidant and antioxidant species and, together with other numerous pathological mechanisms, leads to the degeneration and death of motor neurons (MNs) in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). MAIN BODY Two of the main players in the molecular and cellular response to OS are NRF2, the transcription nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, and its principal negative regulator, KEAP1, Kelch-like ECH (erythroid cell-derived protein with CNC homology)-associated protein 1. Here we first provide an overview of the structural organization, regulation, and critical role of the KEAP1-NRF2 system in counteracting OS, with a focus on its alteration in ALS. We then examine several compounds capable of promoting NRF2 activity thereby inducing cytoprotective effects, and which are currently in different stages of clinical development for many pathologies, including neurodegenerative diseases. CONCLUSIONS Although challenges associated with some of these compounds remain, important advances have been made in the development of safer and more effective drugs that could actually represent a breakthrough for fatal degenerative diseases such as ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Bono
- Need Institute, Laboratory of Neurobiology for Translational Medicine, c/o Casa di Cura del Policlinico (CCP), Via Dezza 48, 20144 Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Feligioni
- Need Institute, Laboratory of Neurobiology for Translational Medicine, c/o Casa di Cura del Policlinico (CCP), Via Dezza 48, 20144 Milan, Italy
- Laboratory of Neuronal Cell Signaling, EBRI Rita Levi-Montalcini Foundation, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Corbo
- Department of Neurorehabilitation Sciences, Casa di Cura del Policlinico (CCP), Via Dezza 48, 20144 Milan, Italy
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Zhang L, Zhang J, Jin Y, Yao G, Zhao H, Qiao P, Wu S. Nrf2 Is a Potential Modulator for Orchestrating Iron Homeostasis and Redox Balance in Cancer Cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:728172. [PMID: 34589492 PMCID: PMC8473703 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.728172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Iron is an essential trace mineral element in almost all living cells and organisms. However, cellular iron metabolism pathways are disturbed in most cancer cell types. Cancer cells have a high demand of iron. To maintain rapid growth and proliferation, cancer cells absorb large amounts of iron by altering expression of iron metabolism related proteins. However, iron can catalyze the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) through Fenton reaction. Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) is an important player in the resistance to oxidative damage by inducing the transcription of antioxidant genes. Aberrant activation of Nrf2 is observed in most cancer cell types. It has been revealed that the over-activation of Nrf2 promotes cell proliferation, suppresses cell apoptosis, enhances the self-renewal capability of cancer stem cells, and even increases the chemoresistance and radioresistance of cancer cells. Recently, several genes involving cellular iron homeostasis are identified under the control of Nrf2. Since cancer cells require amounts of iron and Nrf2 plays pivotal roles in oxidative defense and iron metabolism, it is highly probable that Nrf2 is a potential modulator orchestrating iron homeostasis and redox balance in cancer cells. In this hypothesis, we summarize the recent findings of the role of iron and Nrf2 in cancer cells and demonstrate how Nrf2 balances the oxidative stress induced by iron through regulating antioxidant enzymes and iron metabolism. This hypothesis provides new insights into the role of Nrf2 in cancer progression. Since ferroptosis is dependent on lipid peroxide and iron accumulation, Nrf2 inhibition may dramatically increase sensitivity to ferroptosis. The combination of Nrf2 inhibitors with ferroptosis inducers may exert greater efficacy on cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyan Zhang
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Yuanqing Jin
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Gang Yao
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Hai Zhao
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Penghai Qiao
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Shuguang Wu
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
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Nam LB, Choi WJ, Keum YS. Triptolide Downregulates the Expression of NRF2 Target Genes by Increasing Cytoplasmic Localization of NRF2 in A549 Cells. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:680167. [PMID: 34566633 PMCID: PMC8455929 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.680167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
We have identified triptolide as a novel NRF2 inhibitor, which significantly attenuates ARE-luciferase activity at nanomolar concentrations. Triptolide did not affect the level of NRF2, but significantly inhibited the expression of NRF2 target genes in A549 cells. We found that NRF2 possesses a previously unrecognized NES in the Neh2 domain, and that triptolide promotes an interaction between NRF2 and CRM1. Triptolide also decreased nuclear accumulation of NRF2, suggesting that it promotes nuclear export of NRF2. In addition, we show that triptolide decreased the expression of NRF2 target genes and increased intracellular oxidative stress, suppressing invasion and promoting cisplatin-induced apoptosis in A549 cells. Finally, oral administration of triptolide suppressed the growth of A549 xenografts in athymic mice by decreasing the expression of NRF2 target genes and promoting oxidative damages via the nuclear export of NRF2 and CRM1 in vivo. To the best of our knowledge, triptolide is the first type of compound to inhibit NRF2 by increasing cytoplasmic localization of NRF2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Ba Nam
- College of Pharmacy and Integrated Research Institute for Drug Development, Dongguk University, Goyang, South Korea
| | - Won Jun Choi
- College of Pharmacy and Integrated Research Institute for Drug Development, Dongguk University, Goyang, South Korea
| | - Young-Sam Keum
- College of Pharmacy and Integrated Research Institute for Drug Development, Dongguk University, Goyang, South Korea.,Panacea Co., Goyang, South Korea
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Torrente L, DeNicola GM. Targeting NRF2 and Its Downstream Processes: Opportunities and Challenges. Annu Rev Pharmacol Toxicol 2021; 62:279-300. [PMID: 34499527 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pharmtox-052220-104025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The transcription factor NRF2 coordinates the expression of a vast array of cytoprotective and metabolic genes in response to various stress inputs to restore cellular homeostasis. Transient activation of NRF2 in healthy tissues has been long recognized as a cellular defense mechanism and is critical to prevent cancer initiation by carcinogens. However, cancer cells frequently hijack the protective capability of NRF2 to sustain the redox balance and meet their metabolic requirements for proliferation. Further, aberrant activation of NRF2 in cancer cells confers resistance to commonly used chemotherapeutic agents and radiotherapy. During the last decade, many research groups have attempted to block NRF2 activity in tumors to counteract the survival and proliferative advantage of cancer cells and reverse resistance to treatment. In this review, we highlight the role of NRF2 in cancer progression and discuss the past and current approaches to disable NRF2 signaling in tumors. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Volume 62 is January 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Torrente
- Department of Cancer Physiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida 33612, USA;
| | - Gina M DeNicola
- Department of Cancer Physiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, Florida 33612, USA;
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An Overview of the Nrf2/ARE Pathway and Its Role in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22179592. [PMID: 34502501 PMCID: PMC8431732 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Nrf2 is a basic region leucine-zipper transcription factor that plays a pivotal role in the coordinated gene expression of antioxidant and detoxifying enzymes, promoting cell survival in adverse environmental or defective metabolic conditions. After synthesis, Nrf2 is arrested in the cytoplasm by the Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 suppressor (Keap1) leading Nrf2 to ubiquitin-dependent degradation. One Nrf2 activation mechanism relies on disconnection from the Keap1 homodimer through the oxidation of cysteine at specific sites of Keap1. Free Nrf2 enters the nucleus, dimerizes with small musculoaponeurotic fibrosarcoma proteins (sMafs), and binds to the antioxidant response element (ARE) sequence of the target genes. Since oxidative stress, next to neuroinflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction, is one of the hallmarks of neurodegenerative pathologies, a molecular intervention into Nrf2/ARE signaling and the enhancement of the transcriptional activity of particular genes are targets for prevention or delaying the onset of age-related and inherited neurogenerative diseases. In this study, we review evidence for the Nrf2/ARE-driven pathway dysfunctions leading to various neurological pathologies, such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s diseases, as well as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and the beneficial role of natural and synthetic molecules that are able to interact with Nrf2 to enhance its protective efficacy.
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