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Kofler M, Venugopal S, Gill G, Di Ciano-Oliveira C, Kapus A. M-Motif, a potential non-conventional NLS in YAP/TAZ and other cellular and viral proteins that inhibits classic protein import. iScience 2025; 28:112105. [PMID: 40224012 PMCID: PMC11986988 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2025.112105] [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: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 08/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2025] [Indexed: 04/15/2025] Open
Abstract
Multiple mechanisms were proposed to mediate the nuclear import of TAZ/YAP, transcriptional co-activators regulating organ growth and regeneration. Our earlier observations showed that TAZ/YAP harbor a C-terminal, unconventional nuclear localization signal (NLS). Here, we show that this sequence, necessary and sufficient for basal, ATP-independent nuclear import, contains an indispensable central methionine flanked by negatively charged residues. Based on these features, we define the M-motif and propose that it is a new class of NLS, also present and import-competent in other cellular (STAT1 and cyclin B1) and viral (ORF6 of SARS-CoV2, VSV-M) proteins. Accordingly, ORF6 SARS-Cov2 competitively inhibits TAZ/YAP uptake, while TAZ abrogates STAT1 import. Similar to viral M-motif proteins, TAZ binds RAE1 and inhibits classic nuclear protein import, including that of antiviral factors (IRF3 and NF-κB). However, RAE1 is dispensable for TAZ import itself. Thus, the TAZ/YAP NLS has a dual function: it mediates unconventional nuclear import and inhibits classic import, contributing to the suppression of antiviral responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Kofler
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Shruthi Venugopal
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Gary Gill
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - András Kapus
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5B 1T8, Canada
- Department Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5B 1T8, Canada
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2
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Ahuja N, Maynard C, Bierschenck T, Cleaver O. Characterization of Hippo signaling components in the early dorsal pancreatic bud. Gene Expr Patterns 2025; 55:119392. [PMID: 40081783 DOI: 10.1016/j.gep.2025.119392] [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: 11/08/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2025] [Accepted: 03/07/2025] [Indexed: 03/16/2025]
Abstract
All pancreatic lineages originate from a transitory structure known as the multipotent progenitor epithelium (MPE), which is an endodermal placode formed via epithelial stratification. Cells within the MPE undergo de novo lumenogenesis to give rise to an epithelial plexus, which serves as a progenitor niche for subsequent development of endocrine, ductal and acinar cell types. Recent evidence suggests that Hippo signaling is required for pancreatic cell differentiation, but little is known about the function of Hippo signaling in the development of the MPE. Here, we characterize the expression of YAP1, TAZ, and the Hippo regulators LATS1/2 kinases and MERLIN in early murine pancreatic epithelium, during epithelial stratification, plexus development and emergence of endocrine cells. We find that YAP1 expression is relatively low in the pancreas bud during stratification but increases by E11.5. Intriguingly, we find differing patterns of TAZ and YAP1 immunoreactivty throughout pancreatic development. We further find that MERLIN and LATS1/2 kinases are expressed during the period of rapid stratification and become markedly apical at nascent lumens. To gain a better understanding of how Hippo signaling and lumen formation are connected, we analyzed the subcellular localization of Hippo signaling components during varying stages of lumen formation and found that they are dynamically localized during lumenogenesis. Together, our results point to a previously unsuspected relationship between Hippo signaling and lumen formation during pancreatic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neha Ahuja
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Caitlin Maynard
- Department of Biology, The University of Texas at Arlington, 501 S. Nedderman Drive, Arlington, TX, 76019, USA
| | - Tyler Bierschenck
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Ondine Cleaver
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX, 75390, USA.
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3
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Gawor M, Lehka L, Lambert D, Toseland CP. Actin from within - how nuclear myosins and actin regulate nuclear architecture and mechanics. J Cell Sci 2025; 138:JCS263550. [PMID: 39927755 PMCID: PMC11883275 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.263550] [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] [Indexed: 02/11/2025] Open
Abstract
Over the past two decades, significant progress has been made in understanding mechanotransduction to the nucleus. Nevertheless, most research has focused on outside-in signalling orchestrated by external mechanical stimuli. Emerging evidence highlights the importance of intrinsic nuclear mechanisms in the mechanoresponse. The discovery of actin and associated motor proteins, such as myosins, in the nucleus, along with advances in chromatin organisation research, has raised new questions about the contribution of intranuclear architecture and mechanics. Nuclear actin and myosins are present in various compartments of the nucleus, particularly at sites of DNA processing and modification. These proteins can function as hubs and scaffolds, cross-linking distant chromatin regions and thereby impacting local and global nuclear membrane shape. Importantly, nuclear myosins are force-sensitive and nuclear actin cooperates with mechanosensors, suggesting a multi-level contribution to nuclear mechanics. The crosstalk between nuclear myosins and actin has significant implications for cell mechanical plasticity and the prevention of pathological conditions. Here, we review the recent impactful findings that highlight the roles of nuclear actin and myosins in nuclear organisation. Additionally, we discuss potential links between these proteins and emphasize the importance of using new methodologies to unravel nuclear-derived regulatory mechanisms distinct from the cytoskeleton.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Gawor
- Laboratory of Molecular Basis of Cell Motility, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 3 Pasteur St., 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Lilya Lehka
- Laboratory of Molecular Basis of Cell Motility, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 3 Pasteur St., 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Danielle Lambert
- Division of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine and Population Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2RX, UK
| | - Christopher P. Toseland
- Division of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine and Population Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2RX, UK
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del Rosario-Gilabert D, Valenzuela-Miralles A, Esquiva G. Advances in mechanotransduction and sonobiology: effects of audible acoustic waves and low-vibration stimulations on mammalian cells. Biophys Rev 2024; 16:783-812. [PMID: 39830129 PMCID: PMC11735818 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-024-01242-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 09/25/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2025] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, research on mechanotransduction has advanced considerably, focusing on the effects of audible acoustic waves (AAWs) and low-vibration stimulation (LVS), which has propelled the field of sonobiology forward. Taken together, the current evidence demonstrates the influence of these biosignals on key cellular processes, such as growth, differentiation and migration in mammalian cells, emphasizing the determining role of specific physical parameters during stimulation, such as frequency, sound pressure level/amplitude and exposure time. These mechanical waves interact with various cellular elements, including ion channels, primary cilia, cell-cell adhesion receptors, cell-matrix and extracellular matrix proteins, and focal adhesion complexes. These components connect with the cytoskeletal fibre network, enabling the transmission of mechanical stimuli towards the nucleus. The nucleus, in turn, linked to the cytoskeleton via the linkers of the nucleoskeleton and cytoskeleton complex, acts as a mechanosensitive centre, not only responding to changes in cytoskeletal stiffness and nuclear tension but also regulating gene expression through the transcriptional co-activator YAP/TAZ and interactions between chromatin and the nuclear envelope. This intricate chain of mechanisms highlights the potential of sonobiology in various fields, including dentistry, regenerative medicine, tissue engineering and cancer research. However, progress in these fields requires the establishment of standardized measurement methodologies and biocompatible experimental setups to ensure the reproducibility of results.
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Affiliation(s)
- D. del Rosario-Gilabert
- Department of Optics, Pharmacology and Anatomy, University of Alicante, San Vicente del Raspeig, Spain
- Department of Physics, Systems Engineering and Signal Theory, University of Alicante, San Vicente del Raspeig, Spain
- Department of Computer Technology, University of Alicante, San Vicente del Raspeig, Spain
- Institute for Advanced Neuroscience of Barcelona (INAB), Barcelona, Spain
| | - A. Valenzuela-Miralles
- Department of Optics, Pharmacology and Anatomy, University of Alicante, San Vicente del Raspeig, Spain
| | - G. Esquiva
- Department of Optics, Pharmacology and Anatomy, University of Alicante, San Vicente del Raspeig, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL), Alicante, Spain
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Li Y, Ge L, Ren B, Zhang X, Yin Z, Liu H, Yang Y, Liu Y, Xu H. De-Differentiation of Corneal Epithelial Cells Into Functional Limbal Epithelial Stem Cells After the Ablation of Innate Stem Cells. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2024; 65:32. [PMID: 39546294 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.65.13.32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Regeneration after tissue injury is often associated with cell fate plasticity, which restores damaged or lost cells. Here, we examined the de-differentiation of corneal epithelial cells (CECs) into functional limbal epithelial stem cells (LESCs) after the ablation of innate stem cells. Methods The regeneration of LESCs after the ablation of innate LESCs was identified by a set of markers: ApoE+/Cx43low/CK12-. CK14-CreERT2 or Slc1a3-CreERT mice were crossed with reporter mice to trace the fate of CECs. YAP-TEAD inhibitor verteporfin (VTP) and LATS inhibitor TRULI were used to examine the role of Hippo/YAP pathway in the de-differentiation of CECs. Results LESCs-ablation cornea showed to be functionally normal, including the maintenance of corneal transparency, prevention of conjunctivalization, and wound healing rate equivalent to that of normal cornea. ApoE+/Cx43low/CK12- LESCs regenerated at the limbus at 6 days after the ablation of innate stem cells, and maintained for at least 6 months. Corneal epithelial lineage tracing showed that CECs migrated back to the limbus after the ablation of innate stem cells, and de-differentiated into active and quiescent LESCs (aLESCs and qLESCs), which participated in corneal epithelial homeostasis and wound healing, respectively, like their innate counterparts. However, when the limbus niche was destroyed by NaOH (1 M, 5 seconds), CECs that occupied the limbus could not de-differentiate into ApoE+/Cx43low/CK12- LESCs and cornea developed into conjunctivalization. In addition, the protein level and activity of YAP increased at the early stage (1-2 days) after the ablation of limbal epithelium, and decreased when the de-differentiation occurred. The YAP-TEAD inhibitor VTP promoted the de-differentiation, whereas LATS inhibitor TRULI inhibited the de-differentiation of CECs. However, the persistent activation of YAP prevented the de-differentiation of CECs after an additional NaOH burn to the limbal stroma, and VTP could not rescue the capacity of CECs to de-differentiate into LESCs. Conclusions These results reveal the de-differentiation of CECs into functional LESCs after the ablation of innate stem cells, and suggest potential role of Hippo/YAP pathway in the de-differentiation of CECs in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yijian Li
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration and Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, China
| | - Lingling Ge
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration and Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, China
| | - Bangqi Ren
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration and Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, China
| | - Xue Zhang
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration and Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhiyuan Yin
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration and Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, China
| | - Hongling Liu
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration and Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuli Yang
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration and Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, China
| | - Yong Liu
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration and Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, China
- Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing, China
| | - Haiwei Xu
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration and Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, China
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Ahuja N, Maynard C, Bierschenck T, Cleaver O. Characterization of Hippo Signaling Components in the Early Dorsal Pancreatic Bud. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.10.26.619721. [PMID: 39484500 PMCID: PMC11527122 DOI: 10.1101/2024.10.26.619721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2024]
Abstract
All pancreatic lineages originate from a transitory structure known as the multipotent progenitor epithelium (MPE), which is a placode formed via epithelial stratification. Cells within the MPE undergo de novo lumenogenesis to give rise to an epithelial plexus, which serves as a progenitor niche for subsequent development of endocrine, ductal and acinar cell types. Recent evidence suggests that Hippo signaling is required for pancreatic cell differentiation, but little is known about the function of Hippo signaling in the development of the MPE. Here, we characterize the expression of YAP1, TAZ, and the Hippo regulators LATS1/2 kinases and MERLIN in early murine pancreatic epithelium, during epithelial stratification, plexus development and emergence of endocrine cells. We find that YAP1 expression is relatively low in the pancreas bud during stratification, but increases by E11.5. Intriguingly, we find that TAZ, but not YAP1, is expressed in early endocrine cells. We further find that MERLIN and LATS1/2 kinases are robustly expressed during the period of rapid stratification and become markedly apical at nascent lumens. To gain a better understanding of how Hippo signaling and lumen formation are connected, we analyzed the expression of Hippo signaling components in an in vitro model of lumen formation and found that they are dynamically regulated during lumenogenesis. Together, our results point to a relationship between Hippo signaling and lumen formation during pancreatic development. HIGHLIGHTS YAP1 expression in the early mouse pancreatic anlagen is low until approximately E11.5, when it becomes localized to cell nuclei in multipotent progenitor cells. At E14.5, we find nuclear YAP1 in ductal cells.YAP1 is not expressed in early and midgestation endocrine cells. By contrast, TAZ is expressed in first transition endocrine cells.Hippo regulators MERLIN and LATS1/2 kinases are robustly expressed in the early pancreatic bud by E10.5. Both MERLIN and LATS1/2 exhibit strong apical localization in epithelial cells at nascent microlumens. Using in vitro models of de novo pancreas lumen formation, we show that YAP1 nuclear localization is high in early phases of lumen formation and gradually decreases as lumens matures.
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7
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Meyer NP, Singh T, Kutys ML, Nystul TG, Barber DL. Arp2/3 complex activity enables nuclear YAP for naïve pluripotency of human embryonic stem cells. eLife 2024; 13:e89725. [PMID: 39319536 PMCID: PMC11509671 DOI: 10.7554/elife.89725] [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: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2024] [Indexed: 09/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Our understanding of the transitions of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) between distinct stages of pluripotency relies predominantly on regulation by transcriptional and epigenetic programs with limited insight on the role of established morphological changes. We report remodeling of the actin cytoskeleton of hESCs as they transition from primed to naïve pluripotency which includes assembly of a ring of contractile actin filaments encapsulating colonies of naïve hESCs. Activity of the Arp2/3 complex is required for formation of the actin ring, to establish uniform cell mechanics within naïve colonies, to promote nuclear translocation of the Hippo pathway effectors YAP and TAZ, and for effective transition to naïve pluripotency. RNA-sequencing analysis confirms that Arp2/3 complex activity regulates Hippo signaling in hESCs, and impaired naïve pluripotency with inhibited Arp2/3 complex activity is rescued by expressing a constitutively active, nuclear-localized YAP-S127A. Moreover, expression of YAP-S127A partially restores the actin filament fence with Arp2/3 complex inhibition, suggesting that actin filament remodeling is both upstream and downstream of YAP activity. These new findings on the cell biology of hESCs reveal a mechanism for cytoskeletal dynamics coordinating cell mechanics to regulate gene expression and facilitate transitions between pluripotency states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathaniel Paul Meyer
- Department of Cell & Tissue Biology, University of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoUnited States
| | - Tania Singh
- Department of Cell & Tissue Biology, University of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoUnited States
| | - Matthew L Kutys
- Department of Cell & Tissue Biology, University of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoUnited States
| | - Todd G Nystul
- Departments of Anatomy and OB-GYN/RS, University of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoUnited States
| | - Diane L Barber
- Department of Cell & Tissue Biology, University of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoUnited States
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Jeong W, Kwon H, Park SK, Lee IS, Jho EH. Retinoic acid-induced protein 14 links mechanical forces to Hippo signaling. EMBO Rep 2024; 25:4033-4061. [PMID: 39160347 PMCID: PMC11387738 DOI: 10.1038/s44319-024-00228-0] [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: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Cells sense and respond to various mechanical forces from the extracellular matrix primarily by modulating the actin cytoskeleton. Mechanical forces can be translated into biochemical signals in a process called mechanotransduction. Yes-associated protein (YAP) is an effector of Hippo signaling and a mediator of mechanotransduction, but how mechanical forces regulate Hippo signaling is still an open question. We propose that retinoic acid-induced protein 14 (RAI14) responds to mechanical forces and regulates Hippo signaling. RAI14 positively regulates the activity of YAP. RAI14 interacts with NF2, a key component of the Hippo pathway, and the interaction occurs on filamentous actin. When mechanical forces are kept low in cells, NF2 dissociates from RAI14 and filamentous actin, resulting in increased interactions with LATS1 and activation of the Hippo pathway. Clinical data show that tissue stiffness and expression of RAI14 and YAP are upregulated in tumor tissues and that RAI14 is strongly associated with adverse outcome in patients with gastric cancer. Our data suggest that RAI14 links mechanotransduction with Hippo signaling and mediates Hippo-related biological functions such as cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wonyoung Jeong
- Department of Life Science, University of Seoul, Seoul, 02504, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeryun Kwon
- Department of Life Science, University of Seoul, Seoul, 02504, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Ki Park
- Department of Life Sciences, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang, 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - In-Seob Lee
- Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea.
| | - Eek-Hoon Jho
- Department of Life Science, University of Seoul, Seoul, 02504, Republic of Korea.
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Bhattacharya R, Ward T, Kalejaiye TD, Mishra A, Leeman S, Arzaghi H, Seidman JG, Seidman CE, Musah S. Engineered human iPS cell models reveal altered podocytogenesis and glomerular capillary wall in CHD-associated SMAD2 mutations. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.08.02.606108. [PMID: 39211233 PMCID: PMC11360959 DOI: 10.1101/2024.08.02.606108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Early developmental programming involves extensive cell lineage diversification through shared molecular signaling networks. Clinical observations of congenital heart disease (CHD) patients carrying SMAD2 genetic variants revealed correlations with multi-organ impairments at the developmental and functional levels. For example, many CHD patients present with glomerulosclerosis, periglomerular fibrosis, and albuminuria. Still, it remains largely unknown whether SMAD2 variants associated with CHD can directly alter kidney cell fate, tissue patterning, and organ-level function. To address this question, we engineered human iPS cells (iPSCs) and organ-on-a-chip systems to uncover the role of pathogenic SMAD2 variants in kidney podocytogenesis. Our results show that abrogation of SMAD2 causes altered patterning of the mesoderm and intermediate mesoderm (IM) cell lineages, which give rise to nearly all kidney cell types. Upon further differentiation of IM cells, the mutant podocytes failed to develop arborizations and interdigitations. A reconstituted glomerulus-on-a-chip platform exhibited significant proteinuria as clinically observed in glomerulopathies. This study implicates CHD-associated SMAD2 mutations in kidney tissue malformation and provides opportunities for therapeutic discovery in the future.
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Lin S, He X, Wang Y, Chen Y, Lin A. Emerging role of lncRNAs as mechanical signaling molecules in mechanotransduction and their association with Hippo-YAP signaling: a review. J Zhejiang Univ Sci B 2024; 25:280-292. [PMID: 38584091 PMCID: PMC11009445 DOI: 10.1631/jzus.b2300497] [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: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Cells within tissues are subject to various mechanical forces, including hydrostatic pressure, shear stress, compression, and tension. These mechanical stimuli can be converted into biochemical signals through mechanoreceptors or cytoskeleton-dependent response processes, shaping the microenvironment and maintaining cellular physiological balance. Several studies have demonstrated the roles of Yes-associated protein (YAP) and its homolog transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) as mechanotransducers, exerting dynamic influence on cellular phenotypes including differentiation and disease pathogenesis. This regulatory function entails the involvement of the cytoskeleton, nucleoskeleton, integrin, focal adhesions (FAs), and the integration of multiple signaling pathways, including extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), wingless/integrated (WNT), and Hippo signaling. Furthermore, emerging evidence substantiates the implication of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) as mechanosensitive molecules in cellular mechanotransduction. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms through which YAP/TAZ and lncRNAs serve as effectors in responding to mechanical stimuli. Additionally, we summarize and elaborate on the crucial signal molecules involved in mechanotransduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyi Lin
- College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Xinyu He
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory for Cell and Gene Engineering of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Ying Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory for Cell and Gene Engineering of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yu Chen
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory for Cell and Gene Engineering of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Aifu Lin
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
- Key Laboratory for Cell and Gene Engineering of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310058, China.
- International School of Medicine, International Institutes of Medicine, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu 322000, China.
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education, Hangzhou 310058, China.
- Future Health Laboratory, Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta, Zhejiang University, Jiaxing 314100, China.
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11
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Borkúti P, Kristó I, Szabó A, Kovács Z, Vilmos P. FERM domain-containing proteins are active components of the cell nucleus. Life Sci Alliance 2024; 7:e202302489. [PMID: 38296350 PMCID: PMC10830384 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202302489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The FERM domain is a conserved and widespread protein module that appeared in the common ancestor of amoebae, fungi, and animals, and is therefore now found in a wide variety of species. The primary function of the FERM domain is localizing to the plasma membrane through binding lipids and proteins of the membrane; thus, for a long time, FERM domain-containing proteins (FDCPs) were considered exclusively cytoskeletal. Although their role in the cytoplasm has been extensively studied, the recent discovery of the presence and importance of cytoskeletal proteins in the nucleus suggests that FDCPs might also play an important role in nuclear function. In this review, we collected data on their nuclear localization, transport, and possible functions, which are still scattered throughout the literature, with special regard to the role of the FERM domain in these processes. With this, we would like to draw attention to the exciting, new dimension of the role of FDCPs, their nuclear activity, which could be an interesting novel direction for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Anikó Szabó
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Kovács
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Multidisciplinary Medical Science, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Péter Vilmos
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
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12
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Zhong Z, Jiao Z, Yu FX. The Hippo signaling pathway in development and regeneration. Cell Rep 2024; 43:113926. [PMID: 38457338 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.113926] [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: 12/02/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The Hippo signaling pathway is a central growth control mechanism in multicellular organisms. By integrating diverse mechanical, biochemical, and stress cues, the Hippo pathway orchestrates proliferation, survival, differentiation, and mechanics of cells, which in turn regulate organ development, homeostasis, and regeneration. A deep understanding of the regulation and function of the Hippo pathway therefore holds great promise for developing novel therapeutics in regenerative medicine. Here, we provide updates on the molecular organization of the mammalian Hippo signaling network, review the regulatory signals and functional outputs of the pathway, and discuss the roles of Hippo signaling in development and regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenxing Zhong
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, and the Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Zhihan Jiao
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, and the Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Fa-Xing Yu
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, and the Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
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13
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Ma N, Wibowo YC, Wirtz P, Baltus D, Wieland T, Jansen S. Tankyrase inhibition interferes with junction remodeling, induces leakiness, and disturbs YAP1/TAZ signaling in the endothelium. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 397:1763-1789. [PMID: 37741944 PMCID: PMC10858845 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02720-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
Tankyrase inhibitors are increasingly considered for therapeutic use in malignancies that are characterized by high intrinsic β-catenin activity. However, how tankyrase inhibition affects the endothelium after systemic application remains poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to investigate how the tankyrase inhibitor XAV939 affects endothelial cell function and the underlying mechanism involved. Endothelial cell function was analyzed using sprouting angiogenesis, endothelial cell migration, junctional dynamics, and permeability using human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and explanted mouse retina. Underlying signaling was studied using western blot, immunofluorescence, and qPCR in HUVEC in addition to luciferase reporter gene assays in human embryonic kidney cells. XAV939 treatment leads to altered junctional dynamics and permeability as well as impaired endothelial migration. Mechanistically, XAV939 increased stability of the angiomotin-like proteins 1 and 2, which impedes the nuclear translocation of YAP1/TAZ and consequently suppresses TEAD-mediated transcription. Intriguingly, XAV939 disrupts adherens junctions by inducing RhoA-Rho dependent kinase (ROCK)-mediated F-actin bundling, whereas disruption of F-actin bundling through the ROCK inhibitor H1152 restores endothelial cell function. Unexpectedly, this was accompanied by an increase in nuclear TAZ and TEAD-mediated transcription, suggesting differential regulation of YAP1 and TAZ by the actin cytoskeleton in endothelial cells. In conclusion, our findings elucidate the complex relationship between the actin cytoskeleton, YAP1/TAZ signaling, and endothelial cell function and how tankyrase inhibition disturbs this well-balanced signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Ma
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim, European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Mannheim Medical Faculty, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Yohanes Cakrapradipta Wibowo
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim, European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Mannheim Medical Faculty, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Phillip Wirtz
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim, European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Mannheim Medical Faculty, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Doris Baltus
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim, European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Mannheim Medical Faculty, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Thomas Wieland
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim, European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Mannheim Medical Faculty, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany.
- DZHK, German Center for Cardiovascular Research, partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany.
| | - Sepp Jansen
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim, European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Mannheim Medical Faculty, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
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14
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Nakamura F. The Role of Mechanotransduction in Contact Inhibition of Locomotion and Proliferation. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2135. [PMID: 38396812 PMCID: PMC10889191 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Contact inhibition (CI) represents a crucial tumor-suppressive mechanism responsible for controlling the unbridled growth of cells, thus preventing the formation of cancerous tissues. CI can be further categorized into two distinct yet interrelated components: CI of locomotion (CIL) and CI of proliferation (CIP). These two components of CI have historically been viewed as separate processes, but emerging research suggests that they may be regulated by both distinct and shared pathways. Specifically, recent studies have indicated that both CIP and CIL utilize mechanotransduction pathways, a process that involves cells sensing and responding to mechanical forces. This review article describes the role of mechanotransduction in CI, shedding light on how mechanical forces regulate CIL and CIP. Emphasis is placed on filamin A (FLNA)-mediated mechanotransduction, elucidating how FLNA senses mechanical forces and translates them into crucial biochemical signals that regulate cell locomotion and proliferation. In addition to FLNA, trans-acting factors (TAFs), which are proteins or regulatory RNAs capable of directly or indirectly binding to specific DNA sequences in distant genes to regulate gene expression, emerge as sensitive players in both the mechanotransduction and signaling pathways of CI. This article presents methods for identifying these TAF proteins and profiling the associated changes in chromatin structure, offering valuable insights into CI and other biological functions mediated by mechanotransduction. Finally, it addresses unanswered research questions in these fields and delineates their possible future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumihiko Nakamura
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, 92 Weijin Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300072, China
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15
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Claude-Taupin A, Dupont N. To squeeze or not: Regulation of cell size by mechanical forces in development and human diseases. Biol Cell 2024; 116:e2200101. [PMID: 38059665 DOI: 10.1111/boc.202200101] [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: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Physical constraints, such as compression, shear stress, stretching and tension play major roles during development and tissue homeostasis. Mechanics directly impact physiology, and their alteration is also recognized as having an active role in driving human diseases. Recently, growing evidence has accumulated on how mechanical forces are translated into a wide panel of biological responses, including metabolism and changes in cell morphology. The aim of this review is to summarize and discuss our knowledge on the impact of mechanical forces on cell size regulation. Other biological consequences of mechanical forces will not be covered by this review. Moreover, wherever possible, we also discuss mechanosensors and molecular and cellular signaling pathways upstream of cell size regulation. We finally highlight the relevance of mechanical forces acting on cell size in physiology and human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurore Claude-Taupin
- Institut Necker Enfants Malades (INEM), INSERM UMR-S1151, CNRS UMR-S8253, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Dupont
- Institut Necker Enfants Malades (INEM), INSERM UMR-S1151, CNRS UMR-S8253, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
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16
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Jhunjhunwala M, Yu LS, Kuo PC, Li CY, Chen CS. Tumor-Derived Membrane Vesicles Restrain Migration in Gliomas By Altering Collective Polarization. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2023; 6:4764-4774. [PMID: 37862244 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c00533] [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] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Mechanobiology is a cornerstone in physiology. However, its role in biomedical applications remains considerably undermined. In this study, we employed cell membrane vesicles (CMVs), which are currently being used as nanodrug carriers, as tactile cues for mechano-regulation of collective cell behaviors. Gliomas, which are among the most resilient brain tumors and have a low patient survival rate, were used as the cell model. We observed that mechanical responses due to the application of glioma- or microglia-derived CMVs resulted in the doubling of the traction stress of glioma cell collectives with a 10-fold increase in the CMV concentration. Glioma-CMVs constrained cell protrusions and hindered their collective migration, with the migration speed of such cells declining by almost 40% compared to the untreated cells. We speculated that the alteration of collective polarization leads to migration speed changes, and this phenomenon was elucidated using the cellular Potts model. In addition to intracellular force modulation and cytoskeletal reorganization, glioma-CMVs altered drug diffusion within glioma spheroids by downregulating the mechano-signaling protein YAP-1 while also marginally enhancing the associated apoptotic events. Our results suggest that glioma-CMVs can be applied as an adjuvant to current treatment approaches to restrict tumor invasion and enhance the penetration of reagents within tumors. Considering the broad impact of mechano-transduction on cell functions, the regulation of cell mechanics through CMVs can provide a foundation for alternative therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lin-Sheng Yu
- National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300044, Republic of China
| | - Ping-Chen Kuo
- National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300044, Republic of China
| | - Chia-Yang Li
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Republic of China
- Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 80708, Republic of China
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung 91201, Republic of China
| | - Chi-Shuo Chen
- National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300044, Republic of China
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17
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Kofler M, Kapus A. Nuclear Import and Export of YAP and TAZ. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4956. [PMID: 37894323 PMCID: PMC10605228 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15204956] [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: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Yes-associated Protein (YAP) and its paralog Transcriptional Coactivator with PDZ-binding Motif (TAZ) are major regulators of gene transcription/expression, primarily controlled by the Hippo pathway and the cytoskeleton. Integrating an array of chemical and mechanical signals, they impact growth, differentiation, and regeneration. Accordingly, they also play key roles in tumorigenesis and metastasis formation. Their activity is primarily regulated by their localization, that is, Hippo pathway- and/or cytoskeleton-controlled cytosolic or nuclear sequestration. While many details of such prevailing retention models have been elucidated, much less is known about their actual nuclear traffic: import and export. Although their size is not far from the cutoff for passive diffusion through the nuclear pore complex (NPC), and they do not contain any classic nuclear localization (NLS) or nuclear export signal (NES), evidence has been accumulating that their shuttling involves mediated and thus regulatable/targetable processes. The aim of this review is to summarize emerging information/concepts about their nucleocytoplasmic shuttling, encompassing the relevant structural requirements (NLS, NES), nuclear transport receptors (NTRs, karyophererins), and NPC components, along with the potential transport mechanisms and their regulation. While dissecting retention vs. transport is often challenging, the emerging picture suggests that YAP/TAZ shuttles across the NPC via multiple, non-exclusive, mediated mechanisms, constituting a novel and intriguing facet of YAP/TAZ biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Kofler
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada;
| | - András Kapus
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada;
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 1P5, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5B 1T8, Canada
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18
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Ke W, Liao Z, Liang H, Tong B, Song Y, Li G, Ma L, Wang K, Feng X, Li S, Hua W, Wang B, Yang C. Stiff Substrate Induces Nucleus Pulposus Cell Ferroptosis via YAP and N-Cadherin Mediated Mechanotransduction. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2300458. [PMID: 37022980 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202300458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
Abstract
Increased tissue stiffness is associated with various pathological processes, such as fibrosis, inflammation, and aging. The matrix stiffness of the nucleus pulposus (NP) tissues increases gradually during intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD), while the mechanism through which NP cells sense and react to matrix stiffness remains unclear. In this study, the results indicate that ferroptosis is involved in stiff substrate-induced NP cell death. The expression of acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 4 (ACSL4) increases in NP cells of the stiff group, which mediates lipid peroxidation and ferroptosis in NP cells. In addition, stiff substrate activates the hippo signaling cascade and induces the nuclear translocation of yes-associated protein (YAP). Interestingly, inhibition of YAP is efficient to reverse the increase of ACSL4 expression caused by matrix stiffness. Furthermore, stiff substrate suppresses the expression of N-cadherin in NP cells. N-cadherin overexpression can inhibit YAP nuclear translocation via the formation of the N-cadherin/β-catenin/YAP complex, and reverse matrix stiffness-induced ferroptosis in NP cells. Finally, the effects of YAP inhibition and N-cadherin overexpression on IDD progression are further illustrated in animal models. These findings reveal a new mechanism of mechanotransduction in NP cells, providing novel insights into the development of therapies for the treatment of IDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wencan Ke
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Zhiwei Liao
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Huaizhen Liang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Bide Tong
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Yu Song
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Gaocai Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Liang Ma
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Kun Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Xiaobo Feng
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Shuai Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Wenbin Hua
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Bingjin Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Cao Yang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
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19
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Wei Y, Hui VLZ, Chen Y, Han R, Han X, Guo Y. YAP/TAZ: Molecular pathway and disease therapy. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e340. [PMID: 37576865 PMCID: PMC10412783 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The Yes-associated protein and its transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (YAP/TAZ) are two homologous transcriptional coactivators that lie at the center of a key regulatory network of Hippo, Wnt, GPCR, estrogen, mechanical, and metabolism signaling. YAP/TAZ influences the expressions of downstream genes and proteins as well as enzyme activity in metabolic cycles, cell proliferation, inflammatory factor expression, and the transdifferentiation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts. YAP/TAZ can also be regulated through epigenetic regulation and posttranslational modifications. Consequently, the regulatory function of these mechanisms implicates YAP/TAZ in the pathogenesis of metabolism-related diseases, atherosclerosis, fibrosis, and the delicate equilibrium between cancer progression and organ regeneration. As such, there arises a pressing need for thorough investigation of YAP/TAZ in clinical settings. In this paper, we aim to elucidate the signaling pathways that regulate YAP/TAZ and explore the mechanisms of YAP/TAZ-induce diseases and their potential therapeutic interventions. Furthermore, we summarize the current clinical studies investigating treatments targeting YAP/TAZ. We also address the limitations of existing research on YAP/TAZ and propose future directions for research. In conclusion, this review aims to provide fresh insights into the signaling mediated by YAP/TAZ and identify potential therapeutic targets to present innovative solutions to overcome the challenges associated with YAP/TAZ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzi Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Victoria Lee Zhi Hui
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Yilin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
- Department of OrthodonticsWest China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Ruiying Han
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
- Department of OrthodonticsWest China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Xianglong Han
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
- Department of OrthodonticsWest China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Yongwen Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
- Department of OrthodonticsWest China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
- Department of OrthodonticsLanzhou Stomatological HospitalLanzhouGansuChina
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20
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He S, Liu R, Luo Q, Song G. Tensile Overload Injures Human Alveolar Epithelial Cells through YAP/F-Actin/MAPK Signaling. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1833. [PMID: 37509472 PMCID: PMC10376431 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11071833] [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: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Explosion shockwaves can generate overloaded mechanical forces and induce lung injuries. However, the mechanism of lung injuries caused by tensile overload is still unclear. METHODS Flow cytometry was used to detect the apoptosis of human alveolar epithelial cells (BEAS-2B) induced by tensile overload, and cell proliferation was detected using 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU). Immunofluorescence and Western blot analysis were used to identify the tensile overload on the actin cytoskeleton, proteins related to the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signal pathway, and the Yes-associated protein (YAP). RESULTS Tensile overload reduced BEAS-2B cell proliferation and increased apoptosis. In terms of the mechanism, we found that tensile overload led to the depolymerization of the actin cytoskeleton, the activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and extracellular-signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), and the upregulation of YAP expression. Jasplakinolide (Jasp) treatment promoted the polymerization of the actin cytoskeleton and reduced the phosphorylation of tension-overload-activated JNK and ERK1/2 and the apoptosis of BEAS-2B cells. Moreover, the inhibition of the JNK and ERK1/2 signaling pathways, as well as the expression of YAP, also reduced apoptosis caused by tensile overload. CONCLUSION Our study establishes the role of the YAP/F-actin/MAPK axis in tensile-induced BEAS-2B cell injury and proposes new strategies for the treatment and repair of future lung injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Guanbin Song
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China; (S.H.); (R.L.); (Q.L.)
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21
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Le TPH, Nguyen NTT, Le DDT, Anwar MA, Lee SY. Lipid kinase PIP5Kα contributes to Hippo pathway activation via interaction with Merlin and by mediating plasma membrane targeting of LATS1. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:149. [PMID: 37337213 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01161-w] [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: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Hippo pathway plays a critical role in controlled cell proliferation. The tumor suppressor Merlin and large tumor suppressor kinase 1 (LATS1) mediate activation of Hippo pathway, consequently inhibiting the primary effectors, Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ). Phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2), a lipid present in the plasma membrane (PM), binds to and activates Merlin. Phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate 5-kinase α (PIP5Kα) is an enzyme responsible for PIP2 production. However, the functional role of PIP5Kα in regulation of Merlin and LATS1 under Hippo signaling conditions remains unclear. METHODS PIP5Kα, Merlin, or LATS1 knockout or knockdown cells and transfected cells with them were used. LATS1, YAP, and TAZ activities were measured using biochemical methods and PIP2 levels were evaluated using cell imaging. Low/high cell density and serum starvation/stimulation conditions were tested. Colocalization of PIP5Kα and PIP2 with Merlin and LATS1, and their protein interactions were examined using transfection, confocal imaging, immunoprecipitation, western blotting, and/or pull-down experiments. Colony formation and adipocyte differentiation assays were performed. RESULTS We found that PIP5Kα induced LATS1 activation and YAP/TAZ inhibition in a kinase activity-dependent manner. Consistent with these findings, PIP5Kα suppressed cell proliferation and enhanced adipocyte differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells. Moreover, PIP5Kα protein stability and PIP2 levels were elevated at high cell density compared with those at low cell density, and both PIP2 and YAP phosphorylation levels initially declined, then recovered upon serum stimulation. Under these conditions, YAP/TAZ activity was aberrantly regulated by PIP5Kα deficiency. Mechanistically, either Merlin deficiency or LATS1 deficiency abrogated PIP5Kα-mediated YAP/TAZ inactivation. Additionally, the catalytic domain of PIP5Kα directly interacted with the band 4.1/ezrin/radixin/moesin domain of Merlin, and this interaction reinforced interaction of Merlin with LATS1. In accordance with these findings, PIP5Kα and PIP2 colocalized with Merlin and LATS1 in the PM. In PIP5Kα-deficient cells, Merlin colocalization with PIP2 was reduced, and LATS1 solubility increased. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, our results support that PIP5Kα serves as an activator of the Hippo pathway through interaction and colocalization with Merlin, which promotes PIP2-dependent Merlin activation and induces local recruitment of LATS1 to the PIP2-rich PM and its activation, thereby negatively regulating YAP/TAZ activity. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Truc Phan Hoang Le
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ajou University Graduate School of Medicine, Suwon, Gyeonggi, 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Nga Thi Thanh Nguyen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ajou University Graduate School of Medicine, Suwon, Gyeonggi, 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Duong Duy Thai Le
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ajou University Graduate School of Medicine, Suwon, Gyeonggi, 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Muhammad Ayaz Anwar
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Kyung Hee University International Campus, Yongin, Gyeonggi, 17104, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Yoon Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ajou University Graduate School of Medicine, Suwon, Gyeonggi, 16499, Republic of Korea.
- Institute of Medical Science, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Gyeonggi, 16499, Republic of Korea.
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22
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Meli VS, Veerasubramanian PK, Downing TL, Wang W, Liu WF. Mechanosensation to inflammation: Roles for YAP/TAZ in innate immune cells. Sci Signal 2023; 16:eadc9656. [PMID: 37130167 PMCID: PMC10625748 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.adc9656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Innate immune cells are responsible for eliminating foreign infectious agents and cellular debris, and their ability to perceive, respond to, and integrate biochemical and mechanical cues from their microenvironment eventually determines their behavior. In response to tissue injury, pathogen invasion, or a biomaterial implant, immune cells activate many pathways to initiate inflammation in the tissue. In addition to common inflammatory pathways, studies have demonstrated the role of the mechanosensitive proteins and transcriptional coactivators YAP and TAZ (YAP/TAZ) in inflammation and immunity. We review our knowledge of YAP/TAZ in controlling inflammation and immunity in innate immune cells. Furthermore, we discuss the roles of YAP/TAZ in inflammatory diseases, wound healing, and tissue regeneration and how they integrate mechanical cues with biochemical signaling during disease progression. Last, we comment on possible approaches that can be exploited to harness the therapeutic potential of YAP/TAZ in inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijaykumar S. Meli
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California Irvine, CA 92697
- UCI Edwards Lifesciences Foundation Cardiovascular Innovation and Research Center, (CIRC), University of California Irvine, CA 92697
| | - Praveen Krishna Veerasubramanian
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California Irvine, CA 92697
- UCI Edwards Lifesciences Foundation Cardiovascular Innovation and Research Center, (CIRC), University of California Irvine, CA 92697
| | - Timothy L. Downing
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California Irvine, CA 92697
- UCI Edwards Lifesciences Foundation Cardiovascular Innovation and Research Center, (CIRC), University of California Irvine, CA 92697
- NSF-Simons Center for Multiscale Cell Fate Research, University of California Irvine, CA 92697
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California Irvine, CA 92697
| | - Wenqi Wang
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California Irvine, CA 92697
| | - Wendy F. Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California Irvine, CA 92697
- UCI Edwards Lifesciences Foundation Cardiovascular Innovation and Research Center, (CIRC), University of California Irvine, CA 92697
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Irvine, CA 92697
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California Irvine, CA 92697
- Institute for Immunology, University of California Irvine, CA 92697
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23
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Ashour DJ, Durney CH, Planelles-Herrero VJ, Stevens TJ, Feng JJ, Röper K. Zasp52 strengthens whole embryo tissue integrity through supracellular actomyosin networks. Development 2023; 150:dev201238. [PMID: 36897564 PMCID: PMC10112930 DOI: 10.1242/dev.201238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
During morphogenesis, large-scale changes of tissue primordia are coordinated across an embryo. In Drosophila, several tissue primordia and embryonic regions are bordered or encircled by supracellular actomyosin cables, junctional actomyosin enrichments networked between many neighbouring cells. We show that the single Drosophila Alp/Enigma-family protein Zasp52, which is most prominently found in Z-discs of muscles, is a component of many supracellular actomyosin structures during embryogenesis, including the ventral midline and the boundary of the salivary gland placode. We reveal that Zasp52 contains within its central coiled-coil region a type of actin-binding motif usually found in CapZbeta proteins, and this domain displays actin-binding activity. Using endogenously-tagged lines, we identify that Zasp52 interacts with junctional components, including APC2, Polychaetoid and Sidekick, and actomyosin regulators. Analysis of zasp52 mutant embryos reveals that the severity of the embryonic defects observed scales inversely with the amount of functional protein left. Large tissue deformations occur where actomyosin cables are found during embryogenesis, and in vivo and in silico analyses suggest a model whereby supracellular Zasp52-containing cables aid to insulate morphogenetic changes from one another.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dina J. Ashour
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0QH, UK
| | - Clinton H. Durney
- Department of Mathematics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 1Z2Canada
| | | | - Tim J. Stevens
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0QH, UK
| | - James J. Feng
- Department of Mathematics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 1Z2Canada
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 1Z3Canada
| | - Katja Röper
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0QH, UK
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Piskova T, Kozyrina AN, Di Russo J. Mechanobiological implications of age-related remodelling in the outer retina. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2023; 147:213343. [PMID: 36801797 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2023.213343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
The outer retina consists of the light-sensitive photoreceptors, the pigmented epithelium, and the choroid, which interact in a complex manner to sustain homeostasis. The organisation and function of these cellular layers are mediated by the extracellular matrix compartment named Bruch's membrane, situated between the retinal epithelium and the choroid. Like many tissues, the retina experiences age-related structural and metabolic changes, which are relevant for understanding major blinding diseases of the elderly, such as age-related macular degeneration. Compared with other tissues, the retina mainly comprises postmitotic cells, making it less able to maintain its mechanical homeostasis over the years functionally. Aspects of retinal ageing, like the structural and morphometric changes of the pigment epithelium and the heterogenous remodelling of the Bruch's membrane, imply changes in tissue mechanics and may affect functional integrity. In recent years, findings in the field of mechanobiology and bioengineering highlighted the importance of mechanical changes in tissues for understanding physiological and pathological processes. Here, we review the current knowledge of age-related changes in the outer retina from a mechanobiological perspective, aiming to generate food for thought for future mechanobiology studies in the outer retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teodora Piskova
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Clinical Research, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelstrasse 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany; Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH Aachen University, Wendlingweg 2, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Aleksandra N Kozyrina
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Clinical Research, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelstrasse 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany; Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH Aachen University, Wendlingweg 2, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Jacopo Di Russo
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Clinical Research, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelstrasse 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany; Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH Aachen University, Wendlingweg 2, 52074 Aachen, Germany; DWI - Leibniz-Institute for Interactive Materials, Forckenbeckstrasse 50, 52074 Aachen, Germany.
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25
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Liu J, Smith S, Wang C. Photothermal Attenuation of Cancer Cell Stemness, Chemoresistance, and Migration Using CD44-Targeted MoS 2 Nanosheets. NANO LETTERS 2023; 23:1989-1999. [PMID: 36827209 PMCID: PMC10497231 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.3c00089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) play key roles in chemoresistance, tumor metastasis, and clinical relapse. However, current CSC inhibitors lack specificity, efficacy, and applicability to different cancers. Herein, we introduce a nanomaterial-based approach to photothermally induce the differentiation of CSCs, termed "photothermal differentiation", leading to the attenuation of cancer cell stemness, chemoresistance, and metastasis. MoS2 nanosheets and a moderate photothermal treatment were applied to target a CSC surface receptor (i.e., CD44) and modulate its downstream signaling pathway. This treatment forces the more stem-like cancer cells to lose the mesenchymal phenotype and adopt an epithelial, less stem-like state, which shows attenuated self-renewal capacity, more response to anticancer drugs, and less invasiveness. This approach could be applicable to various cancers due to the broad availability of the CD44 biomarker. The concept of using photothermal nanomaterials to regulate specific cellular activities driving the differentiation of CSCs offers a new avenue for treating refractory cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyuan Liu
- Nanoscience and Biomedical Engineering, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, 501 E St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota, 57701, United States
- BioSystems Networks & Translational Research (BioSNTR), 501 E St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota, 57701, United States
| | - Steve Smith
- Nanoscience and Biomedical Engineering, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, 501 E St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota, 57701, United States
- BioSystems Networks & Translational Research (BioSNTR), 501 E St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota, 57701, United States
| | - Congzhou Wang
- Nanoscience and Biomedical Engineering, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, 501 E St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota, 57701, United States
- BioSystems Networks & Translational Research (BioSNTR), 501 E St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota, 57701, United States
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Wong DCP, Ding JL. The mechanobiology of NK cells- 'Forcing NK to Sense' target cells. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188860. [PMID: 36791921 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are innate immune lymphocytes that recognize and kill cancer and infected cells, which makes them unique 'off-the-shelf' candidates for a new generation of immunotherapies. Biomechanical forces in homeostasis and pathophysiology accrue additional immune regulation for NK immune responses. Indeed, cellular and tissue biomechanics impact NK receptor clustering, cytoskeleton remodeling, NK transmigration through endothelial cells, nuclear mechanics, and even NK-dendritic cell interaction, offering a plethora of unexplored yet important dynamic regulation for NK immunotherapy. Such events are made more complex by the heterogeneity of human NK cells. A significant question remains on whether and how biochemical and biomechanical cues collaborate for NK cell mechanotransduction, a process whereby mechanical force is sensed, transduced, and translated to downstream mechanical and biochemical signalling. Herein, we review recent advances in understanding how NK cells perceive and mechanotransduce biophysical cues. We focus on how the cellular cytoskeleton crosstalk regulates NK cell function while bearing in mind the heterogeneity of NK cells, the direct and indirect mechanical cues for NK anti-tumor activity, and finally, engineering advances that are of translational relevance to NK cell biology at the systems level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darren Chen Pei Wong
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 117543, Singapore.
| | - Jeak Ling Ding
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 117543, Singapore; Integrative Sciences and Engineering Programme, National University of Singapore, 119077, Singapore.
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Chan CH, Lin P, Yang TY, Bao BY, Jhong JY, Weng YP, Lee TH, Cheng HF, Lu TL. Epithelial polarization in the 3D matrix requires MST3 signaling to regulate ZO-1 position. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0285217. [PMID: 37155619 PMCID: PMC10166550 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0285217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Apical-basal cell polarity must be tightly controlled for epithelial cyst and tubule formation, and these are important functional units in various epithelial organs. Polarization is achieved through the coordination of several molecules that divide cells into an apical domain and a basolateral domain, which are separated from tight and adherens junctions. Cdc42 regulates cytoskeletal organization and the tight junction protein ZO-1 at the apical margin of epithelial cell junctions. MST kinases control organ size through the regulation of cell proliferation and cell polarity. For example, MST1 relays the Rap1 signal to induce cell polarity and adhesion of lymphocytes. Our previous study showed that MST3 was involved in E-cadherin regulation and migration in MCF7 cells. In vivo, MST3 knockout mice exhibited higher ENaC expression at the apical site of renal tubules, resulting in hypertension. However, it was not clear whether MST3 was involved in cell polarity. Here, control MDCK cells, HA-MST3 and HA-MST3 kinase-dead (HA-MST3-KD) overexpressing MDCK cells were cultured in collagen or Matrigel. We found that the cysts of HA-MST3 cells were fewer and smaller than those of control MDCK cells; ZO-1 was delayed to the apical site of cysts and in cell-cell contact in the Ca2+ switch assay. However, HA-MST3-KD cells exhibited multilumen cysts. Intensive F-actin stress fibers were observed in HA-MST3 cells with higher Cdc42 activity; in contrast, HA-MST3-KD cells had lower Cdc42 activity and weaker F-actin staining. In this study, we identified a new MST3 function in the establishment of cell polarity through Cdc42 regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chee-Hong Chan
- Department of Nephrology, Chang Bing Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Lukang, Changhua, Taiwan
| | - Pei Lin
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, An Nan Hospital, China Medical University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Tse-Yen Yang
- Molecular and Genomic Epidemiology Center, Department of Medical Research, China Medical University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Bo-Ying Bao
- College of School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Jhen-Yang Jhong
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Sin-Lau Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Yui-Ping Weng
- Department of Acupressure Technology, Chung Hwa University of Medical Technology, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Te-Hsiu Lee
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Chung Hwa University of Medical Technology, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Fen Cheng
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Tainan Municipal Hospital (Managed by Show Chwan Medical Care Corporation), Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Te-Ling Lu
- College of School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Tainan, Taiwan
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Hennigan RF, Thomson CS, Stachowski K, Nassar N, Ratner N. Merlin tumor suppressor function is regulated by PIP2-mediated dimerization. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0281876. [PMID: 36809290 PMCID: PMC9942953 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0281876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis Type 2 is an inherited disease characterized by Schwann cell tumors of cranial and peripheral nerves. The NF2 gene encodes Merlin, a member of the ERM family consisting of an N-terminal FERM domain, a central α-helical region, and a C-terminal domain. Changes in the intermolecular FERM-CTD interaction allow Merlin to transition between an open, FERM accessible conformation and a closed, FERM-inaccessible conformation, modulating Merlin activity. Merlin has been shown to dimerize, but the regulation and function Merlin dimerization is not clear. We used a nanobody based binding assay to show that Merlin dimerizes via a FERM-FERM interaction, orientated with each C-terminus close to each other. Patient derived and structural mutants show that dimerization controls interactions with specific binding partners, including HIPPO pathway components, and correlates with tumor suppressor activity. Gel filtration experiments showed that dimerization occurs after a PIP2 mediated transition from closed to open conformation monomers. This process requires the first 18 amino acids of the FERM domain and is inhibited by phosphorylation at serine 518. The discovery that active, open conformation Merlin is a dimer represents a new paradigm for Merlin function with implications for the development of therapies designed to compensate for Merlin loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert F. Hennigan
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Craig S. Thomson
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
| | - Kye Stachowski
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
| | - Nicolas Nassar
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
| | - Nancy Ratner
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
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Mazzei A, Pagliara P, Del Vecchio G, Giampetruzzi L, Croce F, Schiavone R, Verri T, Barca A. Cytoskeletal Responses and Aif-1 Expression in Caco-2 Monolayers Exposed to Phorbol-12-Myristate-13-Acetate and Carnosine. BIOLOGY 2022; 12:biology12010036. [PMID: 36671729 PMCID: PMC9855102 DOI: 10.3390/biology12010036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The dis(re)organization of the cytoskeletal actin in enterocytes mediates epithelial barrier dys(re)function, playing a key role in modulating epithelial monolayer's integrity and remodeling under transition from physiological to pathological states. Here, by fluorescence-based morphological and morphometric analyses, we detected differential responses of cytoskeletal actin in intestinal epithelial Caco-2 cell monolayers at two different stages of their spontaneous differentiation, i.e., undifferentiated cells at 7 days post-seeding (dps) and differentiated enterocyte-like cells at 21 dps, upon challenge in vitro with the inflammation-mimicking stimulus of phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA). In addition, specific responses were found in the presence of the natural dipeptide carnosine detecting its potential counteraction against PMA-induced cytoskeletal alterations and remodeling in differentiated Caco-2 monolayers. In such an experimental context, by both immunocytochemistry and Western blot assays in Caco-2 monolayers, we identified the expression of the allograft inflammatory factor 1 (AIF-1) as protein functionally related to both inflammatory and cytoskeletal pathways. In 21 dps monolayers, particularly, we detected variations of its intracellular localization associated with the inflammatory stimulus and its mRNA/protein increase associated with the differentiated 21 dps enterocyte-like monolayer compared to the undifferentiated cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurora Mazzei
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies (DeBEST), University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy
| | - Patrizia Pagliara
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies (DeBEST), University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy
- Correspondence: (P.P.); (A.B.); Tel.: +39-0832-298662 (A.B.)
| | - Gianmarco Del Vecchio
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies (DeBEST), University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy
| | - Lucia Giampetruzzi
- Institute for Microelectronics and Microsystems IMM-CNR, Via per Monteroni “Campus Ecotekne”, 73100 Lecce, Italy
| | - Francesca Croce
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies (DeBEST), University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy
| | - Roberta Schiavone
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies (DeBEST), University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy
| | - Tiziano Verri
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies (DeBEST), University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy
| | - Amilcare Barca
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies (DeBEST), University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy
- Correspondence: (P.P.); (A.B.); Tel.: +39-0832-298662 (A.B.)
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Burt MA, Kalejaiye TD, Bhattacharya R, Dimitrakakis N, Musah S. Adriamycin-Induced Podocyte Injury Disrupts the YAP-TEAD1 Axis and Downregulates Cyr61 and CTGF Expression. ACS Chem Biol 2022; 17:3341-3351. [PMID: 34890187 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.1c00678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The most severe forms of kidney diseases are often associated with irreversible damage to the glomerular podocytes, the highly specialized epithelial cells that encase glomerular capillaries and regulate the removal of toxins and waste from the blood. Several studies revealed significant changes to podocyte cytoskeletal structure during disease onset, suggesting possible roles of cellular mechanosensing in podocyte responses to injury. Still, this topic remains underexplored partly due to the lack of appropriate in vitro models that closely recapitulate human podocyte biology. Here, we leveraged our previously established method for the derivation of mature podocytes from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) to help uncover the roles of yes-associated protein (YAP), a transcriptional coactivator and mechanosensor, in podocyte injury response. We found that while the total expression levels of YAP remain relatively unchanged during Adriamycin (ADR)-induced podocyte injury, the YAP target genes connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and cysteine-rich angiogenic inducer 61 (Cyr61) are significantly downregulated. Intriguingly, TEAD1 is significantly downregulated in podocytes injured with ADR. By examining multiple independent modes of cellular injury, we found that CTGF and Cyr61 expression are downregulated only when podocytes were exposed to molecules known to disrupt the cell's mechanical integrity or cytoskeletal structure. To our knowledge, this is the first report that the YAP-TEAD1 signaling axis is disrupted when stem cell-derived human podocytes experience biomechanical injury. Together, these results could help improve the understanding of kidney disease mechanisms and highlight CTGF and Cyr61 as potential therapeutic targets or biomarkers for patient stratification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan A Burt
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Titilola D Kalejaiye
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Rohan Bhattacharya
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
- Center for Biomolecular and Tissue Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Nikolaos Dimitrakakis
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Samira Musah
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
- Center for Biomolecular and Tissue Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina 27710, United States
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27710, United States
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Thanuthanakhun N, Kim MH, Kino-oka M. Cell Behavioral Dynamics as a Cue in Optimizing Culture Stabilization in the Bioprocessing of Pluripotent Stem Cells. Bioengineering (Basel) 2022; 9:669. [PMID: 36354580 PMCID: PMC9687444 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering9110669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) are important for future regenerative medicine therapies. However, in the production of PSCs and derivatives, the control of culture-induced fluctuations in the outcome of cell quality remains challenging. A detailed mechanistic understanding of how PSC behaviors are altered in response to biomechanical microenvironments within a culture is necessary for rational bioprocessing optimization. In this review, we discuss recent insights into the role of cell behavioral and mechanical homeostasis in modulating the states and functions of PSCs during culture processes. We delineate promising ways to manipulate the culture variability through regulating cell behaviors using currently developed tools. Furthermore, we anticipate their potential implementation for designing a culture strategy based on the concept of Waddington's epigenetic landscape that may provide a feasible solution for tuning the culture quality and stability in the bioprocessing space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naruchit Thanuthanakhun
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita 565-0871, Osaka, Japan
| | - Mee-Hae Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita 565-0871, Osaka, Japan
| | - Masahiro Kino-oka
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita 565-0871, Osaka, Japan
- Research Base for Cell Manufacturability, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita 565-0871, Osaka, Japan
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Howard A, Bojko J, Flynn B, Bowen S, Jungwirth U, Walko G. Targeting the Hippo/YAP/TAZ signalling pathway: Novel opportunities for therapeutic interventions into skin cancers. Exp Dermatol 2022; 31:1477-1499. [PMID: 35913427 PMCID: PMC9804452 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Skin cancers are by far the most frequently diagnosed human cancers. The closely related transcriptional co-regulator proteins YAP and TAZ (WWTR1) have emerged as important drivers of tumour initiation, progression and metastasis in melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers. YAP/TAZ serve as an essential signalling hub by integrating signals from multiple upstream pathways. In this review, we summarize the roles of YAP/TAZ in skin physiology and tumorigenesis and discuss recent efforts of therapeutic interventions that target YAP/TAZ in in both preclinical and clinical settings, as well as their prospects for use as skin cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jodie Bojko
- Department of Life SciencesUniversity of BathBathUK
| | | | - Sophie Bowen
- Department of Life SciencesUniversity of BathBathUK
| | - Ute Jungwirth
- Department of Life SciencesUniversity of BathBathUK,Centre for Therapeutic InnovationUniversity of BathBathUK
| | - Gernot Walko
- Department of Life SciencesUniversity of BathBathUK,Centre for Therapeutic InnovationUniversity of BathBathUK
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Liu Q, van der Stel W, van der Noord VE, Leegwater H, Coban B, Elbertse K, Pruijs JTM, Béquignon OJM, van Westen G, Dévédec SEL, Danen EHJ. Hypoxia Triggers TAZ Phosphorylation in Basal A Triple Negative Breast Cancer Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231710119. [PMID: 36077517 PMCID: PMC9456181 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231710119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia and HIF signaling drive cancer progression and therapy resistance and have been demonstrated in breast cancer. To what extent breast cancer subtypes differ in their response to hypoxia has not been resolved. Here, we show that hypoxia similarly triggers HIF1 stabilization in luminal and basal A triple negative breast cancer cells and we use high throughput targeted RNA sequencing to analyze its effects on gene expression in these subtypes. We focus on regulation of YAP/TAZ/TEAD targets and find overlapping as well as distinct target genes being modulated in luminal and basal A cells under hypoxia. We reveal a HIF1 mediated, basal A specific response to hypoxia by which TAZ, but not YAP, is phosphorylated at Ser89. While total YAP/TAZ localization is not affected by hypoxia, hypoxia drives a shift of [p-TAZ(Ser89)/p-YAP(Ser127)] from the nucleus to the cytoplasm in basal A but not luminal breast cancer cells. Cell fractionation and YAP knock-out experiments confirm cytoplasmic sequestration of TAZ(Ser89) in hypoxic basal A cells. Pharmacological and genetic interference experiments identify c-Src and CDK3 as kinases involved in such phosphorylation of TAZ at Ser89 in hypoxic basal A cells. Hypoxia attenuates growth of basal A cells and the effect of verteporfin, a disruptor of YAP/TAZ-TEAD–mediated transcription, is diminished under those conditions, while expression of a TAZ-S89A mutant does not confer basal A cells with a growth advantage under hypoxic conditions, indicating that other hypoxia regulated pathways suppressing cell growth are dominant.
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Di Meglio I, Trushko A, Guillamat P, Blanch-Mercader C, Abuhattum S, Roux A. Pressure and curvature control of the cell cycle in epithelia growing under spherical confinement. Cell Rep 2022; 40:111227. [PMID: 36001958 PMCID: PMC9433880 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Morphogenesis requires spatiotemporal regulation of proliferation, both by biochemical and mechanical cues. In epithelia, this regulation is called contact inhibition of proliferation, but disentangling biochemical from mechanical cues remains challenging. Here, we show that epithelia growing under confinement accumulate pressure that inhibits proliferation above a threshold value. During growth, epithelia spontaneously buckle, and cell proliferation is transiently reactivated within the fold. Reactivation of proliferation within folds correlated with the local reactivation of the mechano-sensing YAP/TAZ pathway. At late time points, when the pressure is highest, β-catenin activity increases. The threshold pressure increases when β-catenin is overactivated and decreases when β-catenin is inhibited. Altogether, our results suggest that different mechanical cues resulting from pressure inhibition of proliferation are at play through different mechano-sensing pathways: the β-catenin pathway sustains cell division under high pressure, and the YAP pathway senses local curvature. Encapsulation of MDCK cells enables quantification of growth-induced pressure Confined epithelia reach a threshold pressure that inhibits cell-cycle progression Overactivation of β-catenin activity sustains cell division under high pressure
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Di Meglio
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Anastasiya Trushko
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Pau Guillamat
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Carles Blanch-Mercader
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland; Department of Theoretical Physics, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Shada Abuhattum
- Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light and Max-Planck-Zentrum für Physik und Medizin, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Aurélien Roux
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland; National Center of Competence in Research Chemical Biology, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
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35
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The deubiquitinase USP7 promotes HNSCC progression via deubiquitinating and stabilizing TAZ. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:677. [PMID: 35931679 PMCID: PMC9356134 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05113-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Dysregulated abundance, location and transcriptional output of Hippo signaling effector TAZ have been increasingly linked to human cancers including head neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). TAZ is subjected to ubiquitination and degradation mediated by E3 ligase β-TRCP. However, the deubiquitinating enzymes and mechanisms responsible for its protein stability remain underexplored. Here, we exploited customized deubiquitinases siRNA and cDNA library screen strategies and identified USP7 as a bona fide TAZ deubiquitinase in HNSCC. USP7 promoted cell proliferation, migration, invasion in vitro and tumor growth by stabilizing TAZ. Mechanistically, USP7 interacted with, deubiquitinated and stabilized TAZ by selectively removing its K48-linked ubiquitination chain independent of canonical Hippo kinase cascade. USP7 potently antagonized β-TRCP-mediated ubiquitin-proteasomal degradation of TAZ and enhanced its nuclear retention and transcriptional output. Importantly, overexpression of USP7 correlated with TAZ upregulation, tumor aggressiveness and unfavorable prognosis in HNSCC patients. Pharmacological inhibition of USP7 significantly suppressed tumor growth in both xenograft and PDX models. Collectively, these findings identify USP7 as an essential regulator of TAZ and define USP7-TAZ signaling axis as a novel biomarker and potential therapeutic target for HNSCC.
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Luo Q, Zhang J, Huang M, Lin G, Tanaka M, Lepler S, Guan J, Siemann D, Tang X. Automatic Multi-functional Integration Program (AMFIP) towards all-optical mechano-electrophysiology interrogation. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0266098. [PMID: 35901062 PMCID: PMC9333221 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0266098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Automatic operations of multi-functional and time-lapse live-cell imaging are necessary for the biomedical science community to study active, multi-faceted, and long-term biological phenomena. To achieve automatic control, most existing solutions often require the purchase of extra software programs and hardware that rely on the manufacturers’ own specifications. However, these software programs are usually non-user-programmable and unaffordable for many laboratories. To address this unmet need, we have developed a novel open-source software program, titled Automatic Multi-functional Integration Program (AMFIP), as a new Java-based and hardware-independent system that provides proven advantages over existing alternatives to the scientific community. Without extra hardware, AMFIP enables the functional synchronization of the μManager software platform, the Nikon NIS-Elements platform, and other 3rd party software to achieve automatic operations of most commercially available microscopy systems, including but not limited to those from Nikon. AMFIP provides a user-friendly and programmable graphical user interface (GUI), opening the door to expanding the customizability for myriad hardware and software systems according to user-specific experimental requirements and environments. To validate the intended purposes of developing AMFIP, we applied it to elucidate the question whether single cells, prior to their full spreading, can sense and respond to a soft solid substrate, and if so, how does the interaction depend on the cell spreading time and the stiffness of the substrate. Using a CRISPR/Cas9-engineered human epithelial Beas2B (B2B) cell line that expresses mNeonGreen2-tagged mechanosensitive Yes-associated protein (YAP), we show that single B2B cells develop distinct substrate-stiffness-dependent YAP expressions within 10 hours at most on the substrate, suggesting that cells are able to sense, distinguish, and respond to mechanical cues prior to the establishment of full cell spreading. In summary, AMFIP provides a reliable, open-source, and cost-free solution that has the validated long-term utility to satisfy the need of automatic imaging operations in the scientific community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Luo
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Justin Zhang
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, California, United States of America
| | - Miao Huang
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering, UF, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Gaoming Lin
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Mai Tanaka
- Department of Radiation Oncology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
- UF Health Cancer Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Sharon Lepler
- Department of Radiation Oncology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
- UF Health Cancer Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Juan Guan
- UF Health Cancer Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
- Department of Physics, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Dietmar Siemann
- Department of Radiation Oncology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
- UF Health Cancer Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Xin Tang
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering, UF, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
- UF Health Cancer Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Kastan NR, Oak S, Liang R, Baxt L, Myers RW, Ginn J, Liverton N, Huggins DJ, Pichardo J, Paul M, Carroll TS, Nagiel A, Gnedeva K, Hudspeth AJ. Development of an improved inhibitor of Lats kinases to promote regeneration of mammalian organs. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2206113119. [PMID: 35867764 PMCID: PMC9282237 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2206113119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The Hippo signaling pathway acts as a brake on regeneration in many tissues. This cascade of kinases culminates in the phosphorylation of the transcriptional cofactors Yap and Taz, whose concentration in the nucleus consequently remains low. Various types of cellular signals can reduce phosphorylation, however, resulting in the accumulation of Yap and Taz in the nucleus and subsequently in mitosis. We earlier identified a small molecule, TRULI, that blocks the final kinases in the pathway, Lats1 and Lats2, and thus elicits proliferation of several cell types that are ordinarily postmitotic and aids regeneration in mammals. In the present study, we present the results of chemical modification of the original compound and demonstrate that a derivative, TDI-011536, is an effective blocker of Lats kinases in vitro at nanomolar concentrations. The compound fosters extensive proliferation in retinal organoids derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells. Intraperitoneal administration of the substance to mice suppresses Yap phosphorylation for several hours and induces transcriptional activation of Yap target genes in the heart, liver, and skin. Moreover, the compound initiates the proliferation of cardiomyocytes in adult mice following cardiac cryolesions. After further chemical refinement, related compounds might prove useful in protective and regenerative therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathaniel R. Kastan
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Laboratory of Sensory Neuroscience, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065
| | - Sanyukta Oak
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Laboratory of Sensory Neuroscience, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065
| | - Rui Liang
- Tri-Institutional Therapeutics Discovery Institute, New York, NY 10021
| | - Leigh Baxt
- Tri-Institutional Therapeutics Discovery Institute, New York, NY 10021
| | - Robert W. Myers
- Tri-Institutional Therapeutics Discovery Institute, New York, NY 10021
| | - John Ginn
- Tri-Institutional Therapeutics Discovery Institute, New York, NY 10021
| | - Nigel Liverton
- Tri-Institutional Therapeutics Discovery Institute, New York, NY 10021
| | - David J. Huggins
- Tri-Institutional Therapeutics Discovery Institute, New York, NY 10021
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY 10065
| | - John Pichardo
- Tri-Institutional Therapeutics Discovery Institute, New York, NY 10021
| | - Matthew Paul
- Bioinformatics Resource Center, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065
| | - Thomas S. Carroll
- Bioinformatics Resource Center, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065
| | - Aaron Nagiel
- The Vision Center, Department of Surgery, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90027
- The Saban Research Institute, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90027
- Roski Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033
| | - Ksenia Gnedeva
- Eli and Edythe Broad CIRM Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033
- Tina and Rick Caruso Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033
| | - A. J. Hudspeth
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Laboratory of Sensory Neuroscience, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065
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Chen D, Zhang H, Zhang X, Sun X, Qin Q, Hou Y, Jia M, Chen Y. Roles of Yes-associated protein and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif in non-neoplastic liver diseases. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 151:113166. [PMID: 35609372 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113166] [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: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of liver disease has been increasing worldwide. Moreover, the burden of end-stage liver disease, including cirrhosis and liver cancer, is high because of high mortality and suboptimal treatment. The pathological process of liver disease includes steatosis, hepatocyte death, and fibrosis, which ultimately lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer. Clinical and preclinical evidence indicates that non-neoplastic liver diseases, particularly cirrhosis, are major risk factors for liver cancer, although the mechanism underlying this association remains unclear. Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) are transcriptional activators that regulate organ size and cancer development. YAP and TAZ play important roles in liver development, regeneration, and homeostasis. Abnormal YAP and TAZ levels have also been implicated in non-neoplastic liver diseases (e.g., non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, alcoholic liver disease, liver injury, and liver fibrosis). Here, we review recent findings on the roles of YAP and TAZ in non-neoplastic liver diseases and discuss directions for future research. This review provides a basis for the study of non-neoplastic liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Chen
- Institute of Basic and Translational Medicine, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Brain Disorders, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710021, China; School of Basic and Medical Sciences, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710021, China
| | - Hongmei Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710077, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Institute of Basic and Translational Medicine, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Brain Disorders, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710021, China
| | - Xia Sun
- Institute of Basic and Translational Medicine, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Brain Disorders, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710021, China; School of Basic and Medical Sciences, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710021, China
| | - Qiaohong Qin
- Institute of Basic and Translational Medicine, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Brain Disorders, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710021, China
| | - Ying Hou
- Institute of Basic and Translational Medicine, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Brain Disorders, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710021, China
| | - Min Jia
- Institute of Basic and Translational Medicine, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Brain Disorders, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710021, China
| | - Yulong Chen
- Institute of Basic and Translational Medicine, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Brain Disorders, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710021, China.
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Unraveling the Biology of Epithelioid Hemangioendothelioma, a TAZ-CAMTA1 Fusion Driven Sarcoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14122980. [PMID: 35740643 PMCID: PMC9221450 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14122980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (EHE) is a rare vascular cancer that involves a gain-of-function gene fusion involving TAZ, a transcriptional coactivator, and one of two end effectors of the Hippo pathway. Although the activity of TAZ and/or YAP, a paralog of TAZ, is consistently altered in many cancers, genetic alterations involving YAP/TAZ are rare, and the precise mechanisms by which YAP/TAZ are activated are not well understood in most cancers. Because WWTR1(TAZ)–CAMTA1 is the only genetic alteration in approximately half of EHE, EHE is a genetically clean and homogenous system for understanding how the dysregulation of TAZ promotes tumorigenesis. Therefore, by using EHE as a model system, we hope to elucidate the essential biological pathways mediated by TAZ and identify mechanisms to target them. The findings of EHE research can be applied to other cancers that are addicted to high YAP/TAZ activity. Abstract The activities of YAP and TAZ, the end effectors of the Hippo pathway, are consistently altered in cancer, and this dysregulation drives aggressive tumor phenotypes. While the actions of these two proteins aid in tumorigenesis in the majority of cancers, the dysregulation of these proteins is rarely sufficient for initial tumor development. Herein, we present a unique TAZ-driven cancer, epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (EHE), which harbors a WWTR1(TAZ)–CAMTA1 gene fusion in at least 90% of cases. Recent investigations have elucidated the mechanisms by which YAP/TAP-fusion oncoproteins function and drive tumorigenesis. This review presents a critical evaluation of this recent work, with a particular focus on how the oncoproteins alter the normal activity of TAZ and YAP, and, concurrently, we generate a framework for how we can target the gene fusions in patients. Since EHE represents a paradigm of YAP/TAZ dysregulation in cancer, targeted therapies for EHE may also be effective against other YAP/TAZ-dependent cancers.
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40
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Guo CL. Self-Sustained Regulation or Self-Perpetuating Dysregulation: ROS-dependent HIF-YAP-Notch Signaling as a Double-Edged Sword on Stem Cell Physiology and Tumorigenesis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:862791. [PMID: 35774228 PMCID: PMC9237464 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.862791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Organ development, homeostasis, and repair often rely on bidirectional, self-organized cell-niche interactions, through which cells select cell fate, such as stem cell self-renewal and differentiation. The niche contains multiplexed chemical and mechanical factors. How cells interpret niche structural information such as the 3D topology of organs and integrate with multiplexed mechano-chemical signals is an open and active research field. Among all the niche factors, reactive oxygen species (ROS) have recently gained growing interest. Once considered harmful, ROS are now recognized as an important niche factor in the regulation of tissue mechanics and topology through, for example, the HIF-YAP-Notch signaling pathways. These pathways are not only involved in the regulation of stem cell physiology but also associated with inflammation, neurological disorder, aging, tumorigenesis, and the regulation of the immune checkpoint molecule PD-L1. Positive feedback circuits have been identified in the interplay of ROS and HIF-YAP-Notch signaling, leading to the possibility that under aberrant conditions, self-organized, ROS-dependent physiological regulations can be switched to self-perpetuating dysregulation, making ROS a double-edged sword at the interface of stem cell physiology and tumorigenesis. In this review, we discuss the recent findings on how ROS and tissue mechanics affect YAP-HIF-Notch-PD-L1 signaling, hoping that the knowledge can be used to design strategies for stem cell-based and ROS-targeting therapy and tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chin-Lin Guo
- Institute of Physics, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
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41
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Peussa H, Kreutzer J, Mäntylä E, Mäki AJ, Nymark S, Kallio P, Ihalainen TO. Pneumatic equiaxial compression device for mechanical manipulation of epithelial cell packing and physiology. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0268570. [PMID: 35657824 PMCID: PMC9165817 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0268570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well established that mechanical cues, e.g., tensile- compressive- or shear forces, are important co-regulators of cell and tissue physiology. To understand the mechanistic effects these cues have on cells, technologies allowing precise mechanical manipulation of the studied cells are required. As the significance of cell density i.e., packing on cellular behavior is beginning to unravel, we sought to design an equiaxial cell compression device based on our previously published cell stretching system. We focused on improving the suitability for microscopy and the user-friendliness of the system. By introducing a hinge structure to the substrate stretch generating vacuum chamber, we managed to decrease the z-displacement of the cell culture substrate, thus reducing the focal plane drift. The vacuum battery, the mini-incubator, as well as the custom-made vacuum pressure controller make the experimental setup more flexible and portable. Furthermore, we improved the efficiency and repeatability of manufacture of the device by designing a mold that can be used to cast the body of the device. We also compared several different silicone membranes, and chose SILPURAN® due to its best microscopy imaging properties. Here, we show that the device can produce a maximum 8.5% radial pre-strain which leads to a 15% equiaxial areal compression as the pre-strain is released. When tested with epithelial cells, upon compression, we saw a decrease in cell cross-sectional area and an increase in cell layer height. Additionally, before compression the cells had two distinct cell populations with different cross-sectional areas that merged into a more uniform population due to compression. In addition to these morphological changes, we detected an alteration in the nucleo-cytoplasmic distribution of YAP1, suggesting that the cellular packing is enough to induce mechanical signaling in the epithelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Peussa
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Joose Kreutzer
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Elina Mäntylä
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Antti-Juhana Mäki
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Soile Nymark
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Pasi Kallio
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Teemu O. Ihalainen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- * E-mail:
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42
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Marivin A, Ho RXY, Garcia-Marcos M. DAPLE orchestrates apical actomyosin assembly from junctional polarity complexes. J Biophys Biochem Cytol 2022; 221:213115. [PMID: 35389423 PMCID: PMC8996326 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202111002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Establishment of apicobasal polarity and the organization of the cytoskeleton must operate coordinately to ensure proper epithelial cell shape and function. However, the precise molecular mechanisms by which polarity complexes directly instruct the cytoskeletal machinery to determine cell shape are poorly understood. Here, we define a mechanism by which the PAR polarity complex (PAR3–PAR6–aPKC) at apical cell junctions leads to efficient assembly of the apical actomyosin network to maintain epithelial cell morphology. We found that the PAR polarity complex recruits the protein DAPLE to apical cell junctions, which in turn triggers a two-pronged mechanism that converges upon assembly of apical actomyosin. More specifically, DAPLE directly recruits the actin-stabilizing protein CD2AP to apical junctions and, concomitantly, activates heterotrimeric G protein signaling in a GPCR-independent manner to favor RhoA-myosin activation. These observations establish DAPLE as a direct molecular link between junctional polarity complexes and the formation of apical cytoskeletal assemblies that support epithelial cell shape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur Marivin
- Department of Biochemistry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Rachel Xi-Yeen Ho
- Department of Biochemistry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Mikel Garcia-Marcos
- Department of Biochemistry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA
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Ha-RasV12-Induced Multilayer Cellular Aggregates Is Mediated by Rac1 Activation Rather Than YAP Activation. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10050977. [PMID: 35625714 PMCID: PMC9138672 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10050977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We demonstrate that Ha-RasV12 overexpression induces the nuclear translocation of Hippo effector Yes-associated protein (YAP) in MDCK cells via the hippo-independent pathway at the confluent stage. Ha-RasV12 overexpression leads to the downregulation of Caveolin-1 (Cav1) and the disruption of junction integrity. It has been shown that the disruption of actin belt integrity causes YAP nuclear translocation in epithelial cells at high density. Therefore, we hypothesized that Ha-RasV12-decreased Cav1 leads to the disruption of cell junction integrity, which subsequently facilitates YAP nuclear retention. We revealed that Ha-RasV12 downregulated Cav1 through the ERK pathway. Furthermore, the distribution and expression of Cav1 mediated the cell junction integrity and YAP nuclear localization. This suggests that the downregulation of Cav1 induced by Ha-RasV12 disrupted the cell junction integrity and promoted YAP nuclear translocation. We further indicated the consequence of Ha-RasV12-induced YAP activation. Surprisingly, the activation of YAP is not required for Ha-RasV12-induced multilayer cellular aggregates. Instead, Ha-RasV12 triggered the ERK-Rac pathway to promote cellular aggregate formation. Moreover, the overexpression of constitutively active Rac is sufficient to trigger cellular aggregation in MDCK cells at the confluent stage. This highlights that Rac activity is essential for cellular aggregates.
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44
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Faraji F, Ramirez SI, Anguiano Quiroz PY, Mendez-Molina AN, Gutkind JS. Genomic Hippo Pathway Alterations and Persistent YAP/TAZ Activation: New Hallmarks in Head and Neck Cancer. Cells 2022; 11:1370. [PMID: 35456049 PMCID: PMC9028246 DOI: 10.3390/cells11081370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) represents a highly prevalent and deadly malignancy worldwide. The prognosis for locoregionally advanced HNSCC has not appreciably improved over the past 30 years despite advances in surgical, radiation, and targeted therapies and less than 20% of HNSCC patients respond to recently approved immune checkpoint inhibitors. The Hippo signaling pathway, originally discovered as a mechanism regulating tissue growth and organ size, transduces intracellular and extracellular signals to regulate the transcriptional co-activators YAP and TAZ. Alterations in the Hippo pathway resulting in persistent YAP and TAZ activation have emerged as major oncogenic drivers. Our analysis of the human HNSCC oncogenome revealed multiple genomic alterations impairing Hippo signaling and activating YAP and TAZ, which in turn contribute to HNSCC development. This includes mutations and deletions of the FAT1 gene (29%) and amplification of the WWTR1 (encoding TAZ, 14%) and YAP1 genes (8%), together representing one of the most genetically altered signaling mechanisms in this malignancy. Here, we discuss key elements of the mammalian Hippo pathway, detail mechanisms by which perturbations in Hippo signaling promote HNSCC initiation and progression and outline emerging strategies to target Hippo signaling vulnerabilities as part of novel multimodal precision therapies for HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farhoud Faraji
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California San Diego Health, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Gleiberman Head and Neck Cancer Center, University of California San Diego Health, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA;
| | - Sydney I. Ramirez
- Department of Pharmacology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA;
- Division of Infectious Disease and Global Public Health, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | | | | | - J. Silvio Gutkind
- Gleiberman Head and Neck Cancer Center, University of California San Diego Health, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA;
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45
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ETV4 potentiates nuclear YAP retention and activities to enhance the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Lett 2022; 537:215640. [PMID: 35296440 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.215640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Dysregulation of the Hippo pathway that promotes cell survival, proliferation and tumorigenesis, relays on the coordinated interactions of YAP with the factors that determine YAP translocation and the related transcriptional programming. Here, we demonstrate that ETV4, a transcriptional factor participating in various protumorigenic processes, enhances YAP-mediated transactivation and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression. Mechanistically, the enhancement of YAP activities is mediated by the interaction between ETV4 and YAP, which not only increases nuclear YAP accumulation but also directly augments the YAP/TEAD4-mediated transcriptional activation in tumor cells. Functionally, the interplay of ETV4 and YAP promotes growth of liver tumor cells, and activates the genes related to myeloid cell recruitment, including CXCL1 and CXCL5, leading to an enriched presence of myeloid-derived suppressive cells and macrophages but a decreased infiltration of T cells and NK cells in transplanted tumors. More importantly, the correlations between YAP activation, the altered immune cell distribution and ETV4 expression are observed in human HCCs. Therefore, our study reveals a functional interaction between ETV4 and YAP that contributes to HCC progression, and provides mechanistic insights into the regulation of nuclear YAP retention and transactivation.
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46
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Liu J, Smith S, Wang C. Reversing the Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Metastatic Cancer Cells Using CD146-Targeted Black Phosphorus Nanosheets and a Mild Photothermal Treatment. ACS NANO 2022; 16:3208-3220. [PMID: 35089691 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.1c11070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Cancer metastasis leads to most deaths in cancer patients, and the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is the key mechanism that endows the cancer cells with strong migratory and invasive abilities. Here, we present a nanomaterial-based approach to reverse the EMT in cancer cells by targeting an EMT inducer, CD146, using engineered black phosphorus nanosheets (BPNSs) and a mild photothermal treatment. We demonstrate this approach can convert highly metastatic, mesenchymal-type breast cancer cells to an epithelial phenotype (i.e., reversing EMT), leading to a complete stoppage of cancer cell migration. By using advanced nanomechanical and super-resolution imaging, complemented by immunoblotting, we validate the phenotypic switch in the cancer cells, as evidenced by the altered actin organization and cell morphology, downregulation of mesenchymal protein markers, and upregulation of epithelial protein markers. We also elucidate the molecular mechanism behind the reversal of EMT. Our results reveal that CD146-targeted BPNSs and a mild photothermal treatment synergistically contribute to EMT reversal by downregulating membrane CD146 and perturbing its downstream EMT-related signaling pathways. Considering CD146 overexpression has been confirmed on the surface of a variety of metastatic, mesenchymal-like cancer cells, this approach could be applicable for treating various cancer metastasis via modulating the phenotype switch in cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyuan Liu
- Nanoscience and Nanoengineering, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, 501 East St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701, United States
- BioSystems Networks & Translational Research (BioSNTR), 501 East St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701, United States
| | - Steve Smith
- Nanoscience and Nanoengineering, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, 501 East St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701, United States
- BioSystems Networks & Translational Research (BioSNTR), 501 East St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701, United States
| | - Congzhou Wang
- Nanoscience and Nanoengineering, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, 501 East St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701, United States
- BioSystems Networks & Translational Research (BioSNTR), 501 East St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701, United States
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47
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Liang C, Huang M, Li T, Li L, Sussman H, Dai Y, Siemann DW, Xie M, Tang X. Towards an integrative understanding of cancer mechanobiology: calcium, YAP, and microRNA under biophysical forces. SOFT MATTER 2022; 18:1112-1148. [PMID: 35089300 DOI: 10.1039/d1sm01618k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
An increasing number of studies have demonstrated the significant roles of the interplay between microenvironmental mechanics in tissues and biochemical-genetic activities in resident tumor cells at different stages of tumor progression. Mediated by molecular mechano-sensors or -transducers, biomechanical cues in tissue microenvironments are transmitted into the tumor cells and regulate biochemical responses and gene expression through mechanotransduction processes. However, the molecular interplay between the mechanotransduction processes and intracellular biochemical signaling pathways remains elusive. This paper reviews the recent advances in understanding the crosstalk between biomechanical cues and three critical biochemical effectors during tumor progression: calcium ions (Ca2+), yes-associated protein (YAP), and microRNAs (miRNAs). We address the molecular mechanisms underpinning the interplay between the mechanotransduction pathways and each of the three effectors. Furthermore, we discuss the functional interactions among the three effectors in the context of soft matter and mechanobiology. We conclude by proposing future directions on studying the tumor mechanobiology that can employ Ca2+, YAP, and miRNAs as novel strategies for cancer mechanotheraputics. This framework has the potential to bring insights into the development of novel next-generation cancer therapies to suppress and treat tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyu Liang
- Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering (HWCOE), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Miao Huang
- Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering (HWCOE), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Tianqi Li
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine (COM), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
| | - Lu Li
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine (COM), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
| | - Hayley Sussman
- Department of Radiation Oncology, COM, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Yao Dai
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
- UF Genetics Institute (UFGI), University of Florida (UF), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Dietmar W Siemann
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
- UF Genetics Institute (UFGI), University of Florida (UF), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Mingyi Xie
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine (COM), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering (COE), University of Delaware (UD), Newark, DE, 19716, USA
| | - Xin Tang
- Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering (HWCOE), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
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48
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Esposito D, Pant I, Shen Y, Qiao RF, Yang X, Bai Y, Jin J, Poulikakos PI, Aaronson SA. ROCK1 mechano-signaling dependency of human malignancies driven by TEAD/YAP activation. Nat Commun 2022; 13:703. [PMID: 35121738 PMCID: PMC8817028 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-28319-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Rho family mechano-signaling through the actin cytoskeleton positively regulates physiological TEAD/YAP transcription, while the evolutionarily conserved Hippo tumor suppressor pathway antagonizes this transcription through YAP cytoplasmic localization/degradation. The mechanisms responsible for oncogenic dysregulation of these pathways, their prevalence in tumors, as well as how such dysregulation can be therapeutically targeted are not resolved. We demonstrate that p53 DNA contact mutants in human tumors, indirectly hyperactivate RhoA/ROCK1/actomyosin signaling, which is both necessary and sufficient to drive oncogenic TEAD/YAP transcription. Moreover, we demonstrate that recurrent lesions in the Hippo pathway depend on physiological levels of ROCK1/actomyosin signaling for oncogenic TEAD/YAP transcription. Finally, we show that ROCK inhibitors selectively antagonize proliferation and motility of human tumors with either mechanism. Thus, we identify a cancer driver paradigm and a precision medicine approach for selective targeting of human malignancies driven by TEAD/YAP transcription through mechanisms that either upregulate or depend on homeostatic RhoA mechano-signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Esposito
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Ila Pant
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Yao Shen
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Rui F Qiao
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Xiaobao Yang
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Departments of Pharmacological Sciences and Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Yiyang Bai
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Jian Jin
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Departments of Pharmacological Sciences and Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Poulikos I Poulikakos
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Dermatology, The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Stuart A Aaronson
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
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49
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Ahmad US, Parkinson EK, Wan H. Desmoglein-3 induces YAP phosphorylation and inactivation during collective migration of oral carcinoma cells. Mol Oncol 2022; 16:1625-1649. [PMID: 35000271 PMCID: PMC9019900 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Alterations of the Hippo-YAP pathway are potential targets for oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) therapy, but heterogeneity in this pathway could be responsible for therapeutic resistance. We analysed the Hippo-YAP signatures in a cohort of characterised keratinocyte cell lines derived from the mouth floor and buccal mucosa from different stages of OSCC tumour progression and focused on the specific role of YAP on invasive and metastatic potential. We confirmed heterogeneity in the Hippo-YAP pathway in OSCC lines, including overexpression of YAP1, WWTR1 (often referred to as TAZ) and the major Hippo signalling components, as well as the variations in the genes encoding the intercellular anchoring junctional proteins, which could potentially regulate the Hippo pathway. Specifically, desmoglein-3 (DSG3) exhibits a unique and mutually exclusive regulation of YAP via YAP phosphorylation during the collective migration of OSCC cells. Mechanistically, such regulation is associated with inhibition of phosphorylation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) (S695/Y1086) and its downstream effectors heat shock protein beta-1 (Hsp27) (S78/S82) and transcription factor AP-1 (c-Jun) (S63), leading to YAP phosphorylation coupled with its cytoplasmic translocation and inactivation. Additionally, OSCC lines display distinct phenotypes of YAP dependency or a mixed YAP and TAZ dependency for cell migration, and present distinct patterns in YAP abundance and activity, with the latter being associated with YAP nuclear localisation. In conclusion, this study has provided evidence for a newly identified paradigm in the Hippo-YAP pathway and suggests a new regulation mechanism involved in the control of collective migration in OSCC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Usama Sharif Ahmad
- Centre for Oral Immunobiology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Dentistry, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Barts and The London, London, UK
| | - Eric Kenneth Parkinson
- Centre for Oral Immunobiology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Dentistry, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Barts and The London, London, UK
| | - Hong Wan
- Centre for Oral Immunobiology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Dentistry, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Barts and The London, London, UK
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50
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Miyazaki S, Funamoto T, Sekimoto T, Kurogi S, Ohta T, Nagai T, Tajima T, Imasaka M, Yoshinobu K, Araki K, Araki M, Choijookhuu N, Hishikawa Y, Chosa E. EPLINβ Is Involved in the Assembly of Cadherin-catenin Complexes in Osteoblasts and Affects Bone Formation. Acta Histochem Cytochem 2022; 55:99-110. [PMID: 35821749 PMCID: PMC9253499 DOI: 10.1267/ahc.22-00027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial protein lost in neoplasm (EPLIN) is an actin-associated cytoskeletal protein that plays an important role in epithelial cell adhesion. EPLIN has two isoforms: EPLINα and EPLINβ. In this study, we investigated the role of EPLINβ in osteoblasts using EPLINβ-deficient (EPLINβGT/GT) mice. The skeletal phenotype of EPLINβGT/GT mice is indistinguishable from the wildtype (WT), but bone properties and strength were significantly decreased compared with WT littermates. Histomorphological analysis revealed altered organization of bone spicules and osteoblast cell arrangement, and decreased alkaline phosphatase activity in EPLINβGT/GT mouse bones. Transmission electron microscopy revealed wider intercellular spaces between osteoblasts in EPLINβGT/GT mice, suggesting aberrant cell adhesion. In EPLINβGT/GT osteoblasts, α- and β-catenins and F-actin were observed at the cell membrane, but OB-cadherin was localized at the perinuclear region, indicating that cadherin-catenin complexes were not formed. EPLINβ knockdown in MC3T3-e1 osteoblast cells showed similar results as in calvaria cell cultures. Bone formation markers, such as RUNX2, Osterix, ALP, and Col1a1 mRNA were reduced in EPLINβ knockdown cells, suggesting an important role for EPLINβ in osteoblast formation. In conclusion, we propose that EPLINβ is involved in the assembly of cadherin-catenin complexes in osteoblasts and affects bone formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shihoko Miyazaki
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Medicine of Sensory and Motor Organs, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki
| | - Taro Funamoto
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Medicine of Sensory and Motor Organs, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki
| | - Tomohisa Sekimoto
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Medicine of Sensory and Motor Organs, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki
| | - Syuji Kurogi
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Medicine of Sensory and Motor Organs, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki
| | - Tomomi Ohta
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Medicine of Sensory and Motor Organs, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki
| | - Takuya Nagai
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Medicine of Sensory and Motor Organs, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki
| | - Takuya Tajima
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Medicine of Sensory and Motor Organs, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki
| | - Mai Imasaka
- Department of Genetics, Hyogo College of Medicine
| | - Kumiko Yoshinobu
- Institute of Resource Development and Analysis, Kumamoto University
| | - Kimi Araki
- Institute of Resource Development and Analysis, Kumamoto University
| | - Masatake Araki
- Institute of Resource Development and Analysis, Kumamoto University
| | - Narantsog Choijookhuu
- Department of Anatomy, Histochemistry and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki
| | - Yoshitaka Hishikawa
- Department of Anatomy, Histochemistry and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki
| | - Etsuo Chosa
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Medicine of Sensory and Motor Organs, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki
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