Structural insight into the interaction of ADP-ribose with the PARP WWE domains

Mono-ADP-ribosylation, a MARylationmultifaced modification of protein, DNA and RNA: characterizations, functions and mechanisms

The functional alterations of proteins and nucleic acids mainly rely on their modifications. ADP-ribosylation is a NAD+-dependent modification of proteins and, in some cases, of nucleic acids. This modification is broadly categorized as Mono(ADP-ribosyl)ation (MARylation) or poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation (PARylation). MARylation catalyzed by mono(ADP-ribosyl) transferases (MARTs) is more common in cells and the number of MARTs is much larger than poly(ADP-ribosyl) transferases. Unlike PARylation is well-characterized, research on MARylation is at the starting stage. However, growing evidence demonstrate the cellular functions of MARylation, supporting its potential roles in human health and diseases. In this review, we outlined MARylation-associated proteins including MARTs, the ADP-ribosyl hydrolyses and ADP-ribose binding domains. We summarized up-to-date findings about MARylation onto newly identified substrates including protein, DNA and RNA, and focused on the functions of these reactions in pathophysiological conditions as well as speculated the potential mechanisms. Furthermore, new strategies of MARylation detection and the current state of MARTs inhibitors were discussed. We also provided an outlook for future study, aiming to revealing the unknown biological properties of MARylation and its relevant mechanisms, and establish a novel therapeutic perspective in human diseases.

Bradysia (Sciara) coprophila larvae up-regulate DNA repair pathways and down-regulate developmental regulators in response to ionizing radiation

The level of resistance to radiation and the developmental and molecular responses can vary between species, and even between developmental stages of one species. For flies (order: Diptera), prior studies concluded that the fungus gnat Bradysia (Sciara) coprophila (sub-order: Nematocera) is more resistant to irradiation-induced mutations that cause visible phenotypes than the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster (sub-order: Brachycera). Therefore, we characterized the effects of and level of resistance to ionizing radiation on B. coprophila throughout its life cycle. Our data show that B. coprophila embryos are highly sensitive to even low doses of gamma-irradiation, whereas late-stage larvae can tolerate up to 80 Gy (compared to 40 Gy for D. melanogaster) and still retain their ability to develop to adulthood, though with a developmental delay. To survey the genes involved in the early transcriptional response to irradiation of B. coprophila larvae, we compared larval RNA-seq profiles with and without radiation treatment. The up-regulated genes were enriched for DNA damage response genes, including those involved in DNA repair, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis, whereas the down-regulated genes were enriched for developmental regulators, consistent with the developmental delay of irradiated larvae. Interestingly, members of the PARP and AGO families were highly up-regulated in the B. coprophila radiation response. We compared the transcriptome responses in B. coprophila to the transcriptome responses in D. melanogaster from 3 previous studies: whereas pathway responses are highly conserved, specific gene responses are less so. Our study lays the groundwork for future work on the radiation responses in Diptera.

Iso-ADP-Ribose Fluorescence Polarization Probe for the Screening of RNF146 WWE Domain Inhibitors

Poly-ADP-ribosylation is an important protein post-translational modification with diverse biological consequences. After binding poly-ADP-ribose on axis inhibition protein 1 (AXIN1) through its WWE domain, RING finger protein 146 (RNF146) can ubiquitinate AXIN1 and promote its proteasomal degradation and thus the oncogenic WNT signaling. Therefore, inhibiting the RNF146 WWE domain is a potential antitumor strategy. However, due to a lack of suitable screening methods, no inhibitors for this domain have been reported. Here, we developed a fluorescence polarization (FP)-based competition assay for the screening of RNF146 WWE inhibitors. This assay relies on a fluorescently tagged iso-ADP-ribose tracer compound, TAMRA-isoADPr. We report the design and synthesis of this tracer compound and show that it is a high-affinity tracer for the RNF146 WWE domain. This provides a convenient assay and will facilitate the development of small-molecule inhibitors for the RNF146 WWE domain.

Updated protein domain annotation of the PARP protein family sheds new light on biological function

AlphaFold2 and related computational tools have greatly aided studies of structural biology through their ability to accurately predict protein structures. In the present work, we explored AF2 structural models of the 17 canonical members of the human PARP protein family and supplemented this analysis with new experiments and an overview of recent published data. PARP proteins are typically involved in the modification of proteins and nucleic acids through mono or poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation, but this function can be modulated by the presence of various auxiliary protein domains. Our analysis provides a comprehensive view of the structured domains and long intrinsically disordered regions within human PARPs, offering a revised basis for understanding the function of these proteins. Among other functional insights, the study provides a model of PARP1 domain dynamics in the DNA-free and DNA-bound states and enhances the connection between ADP-ribosylation and RNA biology and between ADP-ribosylation and ubiquitin-like modifications by predicting putative RNA-binding domains and E2-related RWD domains in certain PARPs. In line with the bioinformatic analysis, we demonstrate for the first time PARP14's RNA-binding capability and RNA ADP-ribosylation activity in vitro. While our insights align with existing experimental data and are probably accurate, they need further validation through experiments.

Regulation of Biomolecular Condensates by Poly(ADP-ribose)

Biomolecular condensates are reversible compartments that form through a process called phase separation. Post-translational modifications like ADP-ribosylation can nucleate the formation of these condensates by accelerating the self-association of proteins. Poly(ADP-ribose) (PAR) chains are remarkably transient modifications with turnover rates on the order of minutes, yet they can be required for the formation of granules in response to oxidative stress, DNA damage, and other stimuli. Moreover, accumulation of PAR is linked with adverse phase transitions in neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. In this review, we provide a primer on how PAR is synthesized and regulated, the diverse structures and chemistries of ADP-ribosylation modifications, and protein-PAR interactions. We review substantial progress in recent efforts to determine the molecular mechanism of PAR-mediated phase separation, and we further delineate how inhibitors of PAR polymerases may be effective treatments for neurodegenerative pathologies. Finally, we highlight the need for rigorous biochemical interrogation of ADP-ribosylation in vivo and in vitro to clarify the exact pathway from PARylation to condensate formation.

Structural features of the Notch ankyrin domain-Deltex WWE2 domain heterodimer determined by NMR spectroscopy and functional implications

The Notch signaling pathway, an important cell fate determination pathway, is modulated by the ubiquitin ligase Deltex. Here, we investigate the structural basis for Deltex-Notch interaction. We used nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy to assign the backbone of the Drosophila Deltex WWE2 domain and mapped the binding site of the Notch ankyrin (ANK) domain to the N-terminal WWEA motif. Using cultured Drosophila S2R+ cells, we find that point substitutions within the ANK-binding surface of Deltex disrupt Deltex-mediated enhancement of Notch transcriptional activation and disrupt ANK binding in cells and in vitro. Likewise, ANK substitutions that disrupt Notch-Deltex heterodimer formation in vitro block disrupt Deltex-mediated stimulation of Notch transcription activation and diminish interaction with full-length Deltex in cells. Surprisingly, the Deltex-Notch intracellular domain (NICD) interaction is not disrupted by deletion of the Deltex WWE2 domain, suggesting a secondary Notch-Deltex interaction. These results show the importance of the WWEA:ANK interaction in enhancing Notch signaling.

PARsylation-mediated ubiquitylation: lessons from rare hereditary disease Cherubism

Modification of proteins by ADP-ribose (PARsylation) is catalyzed by the poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) family of enzymes exemplified by PARP1, which controls chromatin organization and DNA repair. Additionally, PARsylation induces ubiquitylation and proteasomal degradation of its substrates because PARsylation creates a recognition site for E3-ubiquitin ligase. The steady-state levels of the adaptor protein SH3-domain binding protein 2 (3BP2) is negatively regulated by tankyrase (PARP5), which coordinates ubiquitylation of 3BP2 by the E3-ligase ring finger protein 146 (RNF146). 3BP2 missense mutations uncouple 3BP2 from tankyrase-mediated negative regulation and cause Cherubism, an autosomal dominant autoinflammatory disorder associated with craniofacial dysmorphia. In this review, we summarize the diverse biological processes, including bone dynamics, metabolism, and Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling controlled by tankyrase-mediated PARsylation of 3BP2, and highlight the therapeutic potential of this pathway.

E3-ubiquitin ligases and recent progress in osteoimmunology

Ubiquitin-mediated proteasomal degradation is a post-transcriptional protein modification that is comprised of various components including the 76-amino acid protein ubiquitin (Ub), Ub-activating enzyme (E1), Ub-conjugating enzyme (E2), ubiquitin ligase (E3), deubiquitinating enzyme (DUB) and proteasome. We and others have recently provided genetic evidence showing that E3-ubiquitin ligases are associated with bone metabolism, the immune system and inflammation through ubiquitylation and subsequent degradation of their substrates. Dysregulation of the E3-ubiquitin ligase RNF146-mediated degradation of the adaptor protein 3BP2 (SH3 domain-binding protein 2) causes cherubism, an autosomal dominant disorder associated with severe inflammatory craniofacial dysmorphia syndrome in children. In this review, on the basis of our discoveries in cherubism, we summarize new insights into the roles of E3-ubiquitin ligases in the development of human disorders caused by an abnormal osteoimmune system by highlighting recent genetic evidence obtained in both human and animal model studies.

Identification of the Major Effector StSROs in Potato: A Potential StWRKY-SRO6 Regulatory Pathway Enhances Plant Tolerance to Cadmium Stress

SIMILAR TO RCD-ONE (SRO) family members and transcription factors (TFs) often improve plant antioxidant capacity through interaction and co-regulation and participate in plant resistance to drought and high-salt stress. However, whether SROs are involved in the response to heavy metal stress, especially SRO genes with a specific response and tolerance characteristics to cadmium (Cd) stress, remains unclear. We first identified six SRO genes in the potato genome by PARP and RST domains. Special and conserved StSROs were found, and the spatio temporal tissue-specific expression patterns and co-expression network diagrams of StSROs under the stress of 5 heavy metals were constructed. Second, we identified StSRO6 as a major effector gene (StSRO6-MEG) and StSRO5 as a secondary effector gene (StSRO5-SEG) through a comprehensive analysis. Interestingly, they may hold true for various physiological or stress responses in plants. In addition, using systematic genomics and comparative omics techniques, the key gene StSRO6 that affects the difference in Cd accumulation was discovered, cloned in the low-Cd accumulation "Yunshu 505", and transformed into the yeast mutant ycf1 for overexpression. The results proved that StSRO6 could confer Cd tolerance. Finally, through transient expression and in vitro culture tests, we hypothesized that StSROs 5/6 are regulated by the transcription factor StWRKY6 and mediates the reactive oxygen species (ROS) system to confer Cd tolerance. These findings offer a new perspective for understanding the mechanisms underlying Cd tolerance in plants, and simultaneously provide clues for the development of biological agents for preventing and controlling Cd migration and transformation.

Functional roles of ADP-ribosylation writers, readers and erasers

ADP-ribosylation is a reversible post-translational modification (PTM) tightly regulated by the dynamic interplay between its writers, readers and erasers. As an intricate and versatile PTM, ADP-ribosylation plays critical roles in various physiological and pathological processes. In this review, we discuss the major players involved in the ADP-ribosylation cycle, which may facilitate the investigation of the ADP-ribosylation function and contribute to the understanding and treatment of ADP-ribosylation associated disease.

Medicinal Chemistry Perspective on Targeting Mono-ADP-Ribosylating PARPs with Small Molecules

Major advances have recently defined functions for human mono-ADP-ribosylating PARP enzymes (mono-ARTs), also opening up potential applications for targeting them to treat diseases. Structural biology combined with medicinal chemistry has allowed the design of potent small molecule inhibitors which typically bind to the catalytic domain. Most of these inhibitors are at the early stages, but some have already a suitable profile to be used as chemical tools. One compound targeting PARP7 has even progressed to clinical trials. In this review, we collect inhibitors of mono-ARTs with a typical "H-Y-Φ" motif (Φ = hydrophobic residue) and focus on compounds that have been reported as active against one or a restricted number of enzymes. We discuss them from a medicinal chemistry point of view and include an analysis of the available crystal structures, allowing us to craft a pharmacophore model that lays the foundation for obtaining new potent and more specific inhibitors.

Research Progress on Mono-ADP-Ribosyltransferases in Human Cell Biology

ADP-ribosylation is a well-established post-translational modification that is inherently connected to diverse processes, including DNA repair, transcription, and cell signaling. The crucial roles of mono-ADP-ribosyltransferases (mono-ARTs) in biological processes have been identified in recent years by the comprehensive use of genetic engineering, chemical genetics, and proteomics. This review provides an update on current methodological advances in the study of these modifiers. Furthermore, the review provides details on the function of mono ADP-ribosylation. Several mono-ARTs have been implicated in the development of cancer, and this review discusses the role and therapeutic potential of some mono-ARTs in cancer.

Functions and Molecular Mechanisms of Deltex Family Ubiquitin E3 Ligases in Development and Disease

Ubiquitination is a posttranslational modification of proteins that significantly affects protein stability and function. The specificity of substrate recognition is determined by ubiquitin E3 ligase during ubiquitination. Human Deltex (DTX) protein family, which functions as ubiquitin E3 ligases, comprises five members, namely, DTX1, DTX2, DTX3, DTX3L, and DTX4. The characteristics and functional diversity of the DTX family proteins have attracted significant attention over the last decade. DTX proteins have several physiological and pathological roles and are closely associated with cell signal transduction, growth, differentiation, and apoptosis, as well as the occurrence and development of various tumors. Although they have been extensively studied in various species, data on structural features, biological functions, and potential mechanisms of action of the DTX family proteins remain limited. In this review, recent research progress on each member of the DTX family is summarized, providing insights into future research directions and potential strategies in disease diagnosis and therapy.

Why structure and chain length matter: on the biological significance underlying the structural heterogeneity of poly(ADP-ribose)

Poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation (PARylation) is a multifaceted post-translational modification, carried out by poly(ADP-ribosyl)transferases (poly-ARTs, PARPs), which play essential roles in (patho-) physiology, as well as cancer therapy. Using NAD⁺ as a substrate, acceptors, such as proteins and nucleic acids, can be modified with either single ADP-ribose units or polymers, varying considerably in length and branching. Recently, the importance of PAR structural heterogeneity with regards to chain length and branching came into focus. Here, we provide a concise overview on the current knowledge of the biochemical and physiological significance of such differently structured PAR. There is increasing evidence revealing that PAR’s structural diversity influences the binding characteristics of its readers, PAR catabolism, and the dynamics of biomolecular condensates. Thereby, it shapes various cellular processes, such as DNA damage response and cell cycle regulation. Contrary to the knowledge on the consequences of PAR’s structural diversity, insight into its determinants is just emerging, pointing to specific roles of different PARP members and accessory factors. In the future, it will be interesting to study the interplay with other post-translational modifications, the contribution of natural PARP variants, and the regulatory role of accessory molecules. This has the exciting potential for new therapeutic approaches, with the targeted modulation and tuning of PARPs’ enzymatic functions, rather than their complete inhibition, as a central premise.

ADP-ribosyltransferase PARP11 suppresses Zika virus in synergy with PARP12

BACKGROUND

Zika virus (ZIKV) infection and ZIKV epidemic have been continuously spreading silently throughout the world and its associated microcephaly and other serious congenital neurological complications poses a significant global threat to public health. Type I interferon response to ZIKV infection in host cells suppresses viral replication by inducing the expression of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs).

METHODS

The study aims to demonstrate the anti-ZIKV mechanism of PARP11. PARP11 knock out and overexpressing A549 cell lines were constructed to evaluate the anti-ZIKV function of PARP11. PARP11-/-, PARP12-/- and PARP11-/-PARP12-/- HEK293T cell lines were constructed to explain the synergistic effect of PARP11 and PARP12 on NS1 and NS3 protein degradation. Western blotting, immunofluorescence and immunoprecipitation assay were performed to illustrate the interaction between PARP11 and PARP12.

RESULTS

Both mRNA and protein levels of PARP11 were induced in WT but not IFNAR1-/- cells in response to IFNα or IFNβ stimulation and ZIKV infection. ZIKV replication was suppressed in cells expressed PARP11 but was enhanced in PARP11-/- cells. PARP11 suppressed ZIKV independently on itself PARP enzyme activity. PARP11 interacted with PARP12 and promoted PARP12-mediated ZIKV NS1 and NS3 protein degradation.

CONCLUSION

We identified ADP-ribosyltransferase PARP11 as an anti-ZIKV ISG and found that it cooperated with PARP12 to enhance ZIKV NS1 and NS3 protein degradation. Our findings have broadened the understanding of the anti-viral function of ADP-ribosyltransferase family members, and provided potential therapeutic targets against viral ZIKV infection.

Tankyrases as modulators of pro-tumoral functions: molecular insights and therapeutic opportunities

Tankyrase 1 (TNKS1) and tankyrase 2 (TNKS2) are two homologous proteins that are gaining increasing importance due to their implication in multiple pathways and diseases such as cancer. TNKS1/2 interact with a large variety of substrates through the ankyrin (ANK) domain, which recognizes a sequence present in all the substrates of tankyrase, called Tankyrase Binding Motif (TBM). One of the main functions of tankyrases is the regulation of protein stability through the process of PARylation-dependent ubiquitination (PARdU). Nonetheless, there are other functions less studied that are also essential in order to understand the role of tankyrases in many pathways. In this review, we concentrate in different tankyrase substrates and we analyze in depth the biological consequences derived of their interaction with TNKS1/2. We also examine the concept of both canonical and non-canonical TBMs and finally, we focus on the information about the role of TNKS1/2 in different tumor context, along with the benefits and limitations of the current TNKS inhibitors targeting the catalytic PARP domain and the novel strategies to develop inhibitors against the ankyrin domain. Available data indicates the need for further deepening in the knowledge of tankyrases to elucidate and improve the current view of the role of these PARP family members and get inhibitors with a better therapeutic and safety profile.

In silico family-wide profiling and 3D modelling of the poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase superfamily

Background: Due to the conserved nature of the poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) catalytic domain, the identification of unique residues is critical for the design of selective inhibitors. With inhibitors of the DNA-dependent PARP members already clinically approved, new efforts lie in discovering selective inhibitors for PARP5a and beyond. Targeting the noncatalytic domains, such as the macro2 and WWE domains may also provide a way to achieve selectivity. Methodology & results: This paper details the in silico profiling of x-ray crystal structures and homology models of the PARP catalytic, WWE and macro2 domains. PARP10 was the least conserved catalytic domain, with the macro2 and WWE domains possessing more unique residues than their catalytic counterparts. Conclusion: Overall, we identify unique residues to target when designing selective PARP inhibitors including HIS1610, TYR1620, ALA1627 and ARG1658 of the PARP14 catalytic domain, along with multiple unique residues across the PARP WWE and macro2 domains.

DELTEX2 C-terminal domain recognizes and recruits ADP-ribosylated proteins for ubiquitination

Cross-talk between ubiquitination and ADP-ribosylation regulates spatiotemporal recruitment of key players in many signaling pathways. The DELTEX family ubiquitin ligases (DTX1 to DTX4 and DTX3L) are characterized by a RING domain followed by a C-terminal domain (DTC) of hitherto unknown function. Here, we use two label-free mass spectrometry techniques to investigate the interactome and ubiquitinated substrates of human DTX2 and identify a large proportion of proteins associated with the DNA damage repair pathway. We show that DTX2-catalyzed ubiquitination of these interacting proteins requires PARP1/2-mediated ADP-ribosylation and depends on the DTC domain. Using a combination of structural, biochemical, and cell-based techniques, we show that the DTX2 DTC domain harbors an ADP-ribose-binding pocket and recruits poly-ADP-ribose (PAR)-modified proteins for ubiquitination. This PAR-binding property of DTC domain is conserved across the DELTEX family E3s. These findings uncover a new ADP-ribose-binding domain that facilitates PAR-dependent ubiquitination.

TiPARP forms nuclear condensates to degrade HIF-1α and suppress tumorigenesis

Precisely controlling the activation of transcription factors is crucial for physiology. After a transcription factor is activated and carries out its transcriptional activity, it also needs to be properly deactivated. Here, we report a deactivation mechanism of HIF-1 and several other oncogenic transcription factors. HIF-1 promotes the transcription of an ADP ribosyltransferase, TiPARP, which serves to deactivate HIF-1. Mechanistically, TiPARP forms distinct nuclear condensates or nuclear bodies in an ADP ribosylation-dependent manner. The TiPARP nuclear bodies recruit both HIF-1α and an E3 ubiquitin ligase HUWE1, which promotes the ubiquitination and degradation of HIF-1α. Similarly, TiPARP promotes the degradation of c-Myc and estrogen receptor. By suppressing HIF-1α and other oncogenic transcription factors, TiPARP exerts strong antitumor effects both in cell culture and in mouse xenograft models. Our work reveals TiPARP as a negative-feedback regulator for multiple oncogenic transcription factors, provides insights into the functions of protein ADP-ribosylation, and suggests activating TiPARP as an anticancer strategy.

Poly(ADP-ribose)-dependent ubiquitination and its clinical implications

ADP-ribosylation-the addition of one or multiple ADP-ribose units onto proteins-is a therapeutically important post-translational modification implicated in cancer, neurodegeneration, and infectious diseases. The protein modification regulates a broad range of biological processes, including DNA repair, transcription, RNA metabolism, and the structural integrity of nonmembranous structures. The polymeric form of ADP-ribose, poly(ADP-ribose), was recently identified as a signal for triggering protein degradation through the ubiquitin-proteasome system. Using informatics analyses, we found that these ubiquitinated substrates tend to be low abundance proteins, which may serve as rate-limiting factors within signaling networks or metabolic processes. In this review, we summarize the current literature on poly(ADP-ribose)-dependent ubiquitination (PARdU) regarding its biological mechanisms, substrates, and relevance to diseases.

Arabidopsis downy mildew effector HaRxL106 suppresses plant immunity by binding to RADICAL-INDUCED CELL DEATH1

The oomycete pathogen Hyaloperonospora arabidopsidis (Hpa) causes downy mildew disease on Arabidopsis. To colonize its host, Hpa translocates effector proteins that suppress plant immunity into infected host cells. Here, we investigate the relevance of the interaction between one of these effectors, HaRxL106, and Arabidopsis RADICAL-INDUCED CELL DEATH1 (RCD1). We use pathogen infection assays as well as molecular and biochemical analyses to test the hypothesis that HaRxL106 manipulates RCD1 to attenuate transcriptional activation of defense genes. We report that HaRxL106 suppresses transcriptional activation of salicylic acid (SA)-induced defense genes and alters plant growth responses to light. HaRxL106-mediated suppression of immunity is abolished in RCD1 loss-of-function mutants. We report that RCD1-type proteins are phosphorylated, and we identified Mut9-like kinases (MLKs), which function as phosphoregulatory nodes at the level of photoreceptors, as RCD1-interacting proteins. An mlk1,3,4 triple mutant exhibits stronger SA-induced defense marker gene expression compared with wild-type plants, suggesting that MLKs also affect transcriptional regulation of SA signaling. Based on the combined evidence, we hypothesize that nuclear RCD1/MLK complexes act as signaling nodes that integrate information from environmental cues and pathogen sensors, and that the Arabidopsis downy mildew pathogen targets RCD1 to prevent activation of plant immunity.

ADP-Ribosylation, a Multifaceted Posttranslational Modification Involved in the Control of Cell Physiology in Health and Disease

Posttranslational modifications (PTMs) regulate protein functions and interactions. ADP-ribosylation is a PTM, in which ADP-ribosyltransferases use nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD⁺) to modify target proteins with ADP-ribose. This modification can occur as mono- or poly-ADP-ribosylation. The latter involves the synthesis of long ADP-ribose chains that have specific properties due to the nature of the polymer. ADP-Ribosylation is reversed by hydrolases that cleave the glycosidic bonds either between ADP-ribose units or between the protein proximal ADP-ribose and a given amino acid side chain. Here we discuss the properties of the different enzymes associated with ADP-ribosylation and the consequences of this PTM on substrates. Furthermore, the different domains that interpret either mono- or poly-ADP-ribosylation and the implications for cellular processes are described.

PARP1-produced poly-ADP-ribose causes the PARP12 translocation to stress granules and impairment of Golgi complex functions

Poly-ADP-ribose-polymerases (PARPs) 1 and 2 are nuclear enzymes that catalyze the poly-ADP-ribosylation of nuclear proteins transferring poly-ADP-ribose (PAR) polymers to specific residues. PARPs and PAR intervene in diverse functions, including DNA repair in the nucleus and stress granule assembly in the cytoplasm. Stress granules contribute to the regulation of translation by clustering and stabilizing mRNAs as well as several cytosolic PARPs and signaling proteins to modulate cell metabolism and survival. Our study is focused on one of these PARPs, PARP12, a Golgi-localized mono-ADP-ribosyltransferase that under stress challenge reversibly translocates from the Golgi complex to stress granules. PARP1 activation and release of nuclear PAR drive this translocation by direct PAR binding to the PARP12-WWE domain. Thus, PAR formation functionally links the activity of the nuclear and cytosolic PARPs during stress response, determining the release of PARP12 from the Golgi complex and the disassembly of the Golgi membranes, followed by a block in anterograde-membrane traffic. Notably, these functions can be rescued by reverting the stress condition (by drug wash-out). Altogether these data point at a novel, reversible nuclear signaling that senses stress to then act on cytosolic PARP12, which in turn converts the stress response into a reversible block in intracellular-membrane traffic.

Ubiquitin Modification by the E3 Ligase/ADP-Ribosyltransferase Dtx3L/Parp9

ADP-ribosylation of proteins is emerging as an important regulatory mechanism. Depending on the family member, ADP-ribosyltransferases either conjugate a single ADP-ribose to a target or generate ADP-ribose chains. Here we characterize Parp9, a mono-ADP-ribosyltransferase reported to be enzymatically inactive. Parp9 undergoes heterodimerization with Dtx3L, a histone E3 ligase involved in DNA damage repair. We show that the Dtx3L/Parp9 heterodimer mediates NAD⁺-dependent mono-ADP-ribosylation of ubiquitin, exclusively in the context of ubiquitin processing by E1 and E2 enzymes. Dtx3L/Parp9 ADP-ribosylates the carboxyl group of Ub Gly76. Because Gly76 is normally used for Ub conjugation to substrates, ADP-ribosylation of the Ub carboxyl terminus precludes ubiquitylation. Parp9 ADP-ribosylation activity therefore restrains the E3 function of Dtx3L. Mutation of the NAD⁺ binding site in Parp9 increases the DNA repair activity of the heterodimer. Moreover, poly(ADP-ribose) binding to the Parp9 macrodomains increases E3 activity. Dtx3L heterodimerization with Parp9 enables NAD⁺ and poly(ADP-ribose) regulation of E3 activity.

ADP-ribosyltransferases and poly ADP-ribosylation

Protein ADP-ribosylation is an important posttranslational modification that plays versatile roles in multiple biological processes. ADP-ribosylation is catalyzed by a group of enzymes known as ADP-ribosyltransferases (ARTs). Using nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD(+)) as the donor, ARTs covalently link single or multiple ADP-ribose moieties from NAD(+) to the substrates, forming mono ADP-ribosylation or poly ADP-ribosylation (PARylation). Novel functions of ARTs and ADPribosylation have been revealed over the past few years. Here we summarize the current knowledge on ARTs and PARylation.

Analysis of Chromatin ADP-Ribosylation at the Genome-wide Level and at Specific Loci by ADPr-ChAP

Chromatin ADP-ribosylation regulates important cellular processes. However, the exact location and magnitude of chromatin ADP-ribosylation are largely unknown. A robust and versatile method for assessing chromatin ADP-ribosylation is therefore crucial for further understanding its function. Here, we present a chromatin affinity precipitation method based on the high specificity and avidity of two well-characterized ADP-ribose binding domains to map chromatin ADP-ribosylation at the genome-wide scale and at specific loci. Our ADPr-ChAP method revealed that in cells exposed to oxidative stress, ADP-ribosylation of chromatin scales with histone density, with highest levels at heterochromatic sites and depletion at active promoters. Furthermore, in growth factor-induced adipocyte differentiation, increased chromatin ADP-ribosylation was observed at PPARγ target genes, whose expression is ADP-ribosylation dependent. In combination with deep-sequencing and conventional chromatin immunoprecipitation, the established ADPr-ChAP provides a valuable resource for the bioinformatic comparison of ADP-ribosylation with other chromatin modifications and for addressing its role in other biologically important processes.

Novel drug targets for personalized precision medicine in relapsed/refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: a comprehensive review

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a clinically heterogeneous lymphoid malignancy and the most common subtype of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in adults, with one of the highest mortality rates in most developed areas of the world. More than half of DLBLC patients can be cured with standard R-CHOP regimens, however approximately 30 to 40 % of patients will develop relapsed/refractory disease that remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality due to the limited therapeutic options.Recent advances in gene expression profiling have led to the identification of at least three distinct molecular subtypes of DLBCL: a germinal center B cell-like subtype, an activated B cell-like subtype, and a primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma subtype. Moreover, recent findings have not only increased our understanding of the molecular basis of chemotherapy resistance but have also helped identify molecular subsets of DLBCL and rational targets for drug interventions that may allow for subtype/subset-specific molecularly targeted precision medicine and personalized combinations to both prevent and treat relapsed/refractory DLBCL. Novel agents such as lenalidomide, ibrutinib, bortezomib, CC-122, epratuzumab or pidilizumab used as single-agent or in combination with (rituximab-based) chemotherapy have already demonstrated promising activity in patients with relapsed/refractory DLBCL. Several novel potential drug targets have been recently identified such as the BET bromodomain protein (BRD)-4, phosphoribosyl-pyrophosphate synthetase (PRPS)-2, macrodomain-containing mono-ADP-ribosyltransferase (ARTD)-9 (also known as PARP9), deltex-3-like E3 ubiquitin ligase (DTX3L) (also known as BBAP), NF-kappaB inducing kinase (NIK) and transforming growth factor beta receptor (TGFβR).This review highlights the new insights into the molecular basis of relapsed/refractory DLBCL and summarizes the most promising drug targets and experimental treatments for relapsed/refractory DLBCL, including the use of novel agents such as lenalidomide, ibrutinib, bortezomib, pidilizumab, epratuzumab, brentuximab-vedotin or CAR T cells, dual inhibitors, as well as mechanism-based combinatorial experimental therapies. We also provide a comprehensive and updated list of current drugs, drug targets and preclinical and clinical experimental studies in DLBCL. A special focus is given on STAT1, ARTD9, DTX3L and ARTD8 (also known as PARP14) as novel potential drug targets in distinct molecular subsets of DLBCL.

The Promise of Proteomics for the Study of ADP-Ribosylation

ADP-ribosylation is a post-translational modification where single units (mono-ADP-ribosylation) or polymeric chains (poly-ADP-ribosylation) of ADP-ribose are conjugated to proteins by ADP-ribosyltransferases. This post-translational modification and the ADP-ribosyltransferases (also known as PARPs) responsible for its synthesis have been found to play a role in nearly all major cellular processes, including DNA repair, transcription, translation, cell signaling, and cell death. Furthermore, dysregulation of ADP-ribosylation has been linked to diseases including cancers, diabetes, neurodegenerative disorders, and heart failure, leading to the development of therapeutic PARP inhibitors, many of which are currently in clinical trials. The study of this therapeutically important modification has recently been bolstered by the application of mass spectrometry-based proteomics, arguably the most powerful tool for the unbiased analysis of protein modifications. Unfortunately, progress has been hampered by the inherent challenges that stem from the physicochemical properties of ADP-ribose, which as a post-translational modification is highly charged, heterogeneous (linear or branched polymers, as well as monomers), labile, and found on a wide range of amino acid acceptors. In this Perspective, we discuss the progress that has been made in addressing these challenges, including the recent breakthroughs in proteomics techniques to identify ADP-ribosylation sites, and future developments to provide a proteome-wide view of the many cellular processes regulated by ADP-ribosylation.

Structures and Mechanisms of Enzymes Employed in the Synthesis and Degradation of PARP-Dependent Protein ADP-Ribosylation

The poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases (PARPs) are a major family of enzymes capable of modifying proteins by ADP-ribosylation. Due to the large size and diversity of this family, PARPs affect almost every aspect of cellular life and have fundamental roles in DNA repair, transcription, heat shock and cytoplasmic stress responses, cell division, protein degradation, and much more. In the past decade, our understanding of the PARP enzymatic mechanism and activation, as well as regulation of ADP-ribosylation signals by the readers and erasers of protein ADP-ribosylation, has been significantly advanced by the emergence of new structural data, reviewed herein, which allow for better understanding of the biological roles of this widespread post-translational modification.

Tankyrases: structure, function and therapeutic implications in cancer

Several cellular signaling pathways are regulated by ADP-ribosylation, a posttranslational modification catalyzed by members of the ARTD superfamily. Tankyrases are distinguishable from the rest of this family by their unique domain organization, notably the sterile alpha motif responsible for oligomerization and ankyrin repeats mediating protein-protein interactions. Tankyrases are involved in various cellular functions, such as telomere homeostasis, Wnt/β-catenin signaling, glucose metabolism, and cell cycle progression. In these processes, Tankyrases regulate the interactions and stability of target proteins by poly (ADP-ribosyl)ation. Modified proteins are subsequently recognized by the E3 ubiquitin ligase RNF146, poly-ubiquitinated and predominantly guided to 26S proteasomal degradation. Several small molecule inhibitors have been described for Tankyrases; they compete with the co-substrate NAD+ for binding to the ARTD catalytic domain. The recent, highly potent and selective inhibitors possess several properties of lead compounds and can be used for proof-of-concept studies in cancer and other Tankyrase linked diseases.

Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-13 and RNA regulation in immunity and cancer

Post-transcriptional regulation of RNA is an important mechanism for activating and resolving cellular stress responses. Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-13 (PARP13), also known as ZC3HAV1 and zinc-finger antiviral protein (ZAP), is an RNA-binding protein that regulates the stability and translation of specific mRNAs, and modulates the miRNA silencing pathway to globally affect miRNA targets. These functions of PARP13 are important components of the cellular response to stress. In addition, the ability of PARP13 to restrict oncogenic viruses and to repress the prosurvival cytokine receptor tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related apoptosis-inducing ligand receptor 4 (TRAILR4) suggests that it can be protective against malignant transformation and cancer development. The relevance of PARP13 to human health and disease make it a promising therapeutic target.

Nuclear ADP-Ribosylation and Its Role in Chromatin Plasticity, Cell Differentiation, and Epigenetics

Protein ADP-ribosylation is an ancient posttranslational modification with high biochemical complexity. It alters the function of modified proteins or provides a scaffold for the recruitment of other proteins and thus regulates several cellular processes. ADP-ribosylation is governed by ADP-ribosyltransferases and a subclass of sirtuins (writers), is sensed by proteins that contain binding modules (readers) that recognize specific parts of the ADP-ribosyl posttranslational modification, and is removed by ADP-ribosylhydrolases (erasers). The large amount of experimental data generated and technical progress made in the last decade have significantly advanced our knowledge of the function of ADP-ribosylation at the molecular level. This review summarizes the current knowledge of nuclear ADP-ribosylation reactions and their role in chromatin plasticity, cell differentiation, and epigenetics and discusses current progress and future perspectives.

Spermatid head elongation with normal nuclear shaping requires ADP-ribosyltransferase PARP11 (ARTD11) in mice

Sperm are highly differentiated cells characterized by their species-specific nuclear shapes and extremely condensed chromatin. Abnormal head shapes represent a form of teratozoospermia that can impair fertilization capacity. This study shows that poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-11 (ARTD11/PARP11), a member of the ADP-ribosyltransferase (ARTD) family, is expressed preferentially in spermatids undergoing nuclear condensation and differentiation. Deletion of the Parp11 gene results in teratozoospermia and male infertility in mice due to the formation of abnormally shaped fertilization-incompetent sperm, despite normal testis weights and sperm counts. At the subcellular level, PARP11-deficient elongating spermatids reveal structural defects in the nuclear envelope and chromatin detachment associated with abnormal nuclear shaping, suggesting functional relevance of PARP11 for nuclear envelope stability and nuclear reorganization during spermiogenesis. In vitro, PARP11 exhibits mono(ADP-ribosyl)ation activity with the ability to ADP-ribosylate itself. In transfected somatic cells, PARP11 colocalizes with nuclear pore components, such as NUP153. Amino acids Y77, Q86, and R95 in the N-terminal WWE domain, as well as presence of the catalytic domain, are essential for colocalization of PARP11 with the nuclear envelope, but catalytic activity of the protein is not required for colocalization with NUP153. This study demonstrates that PARP11 is a novel enzyme important for proper sperm head shaping and identifies it as a potential factor involved in idiopathic mammalian teratozoospermia.

Comparative structural analysis of the putative mono-ADP-ribosyltransferases of the ARTD/PARP family

The existence and significance of endogenous cytosolic and nuclear mono-ADP-ribosylation has been a matter of debate. Today, evidence suggests that the human enzymes that catalyze the reaction have been rounded up. Moreover, substrate proteins and specific functions for mono-ADP-ribosyltransferases are beginning to be defined. Reader domains that specifically recognize mono-ADP-ribosylated target proteins and erasers that remove the mono-ADP-ribosyl mark have been identified. Here, we review the contribution of crystal structures to our understanding of the putative mono-ADP-ribosyltransferases with Diphtheria toxin and ARTD1/PARP1 homology.

Reprogramming cellular events by poly(ADP-ribose)-binding proteins

Poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation is a posttranslational modification catalyzed by the poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases (PARPs). These enzymes covalently modify glutamic, aspartic and lysine amino acid side chains of acceptor proteins by the sequential addition of ADP-ribose (ADPr) units. The poly(ADP-ribose) (pADPr) polymers formed alter the physico-chemical characteristics of the substrate with functional consequences on its biological activities. Recently, non-covalent binding to pADPr has emerged as a key mechanism to modulate and coordinate several intracellular pathways including the DNA damage response, protein stability and cell death. In this review, we describe the basis of non-covalent binding to pADPr that has led to the emerging concept of pADPr-responsive signaling pathways. This review emphasizes the structural elements and the modular strategies developed by pADPr-binding proteins to exert a fine-tuned control of a variety of pathways. Poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation reactions are highly regulated processes, both spatially and temporally, for which at least four specialized pADPr-binding modules accommodate different pADPr structures and reprogram protein functions. In this review, we highlight the role of well-characterized and newly discovered pADPr-binding modules in a diverse set of physiological functions.

Functional and genomic analyses of alpha-solenoid proteins

Alpha-solenoids are flexible protein structural domains formed by ensembles of alpha-helical repeats (Armadillo and HEAT repeats among others). While homology can be used to detect many of these repeats, some alpha-solenoids have very little sequence homology to proteins of known structure and we expect that many remain undetected. We previously developed a method for detection of alpha-helical repeats based on a neural network trained on a dataset of protein structures. Here we improved the detection algorithm and updated the training dataset using recently solved structures of alpha-solenoids. Unexpectedly, we identified occurrences of alpha-solenoids in solved protein structures that escaped attention, for example within the core of the catalytic subunit of PI3KC. Our results expand the current set of known alpha-solenoids. Application of our tool to the protein universe allowed us to detect their significant enrichment in proteins interacting with many proteins, confirming that alpha-solenoids are generally involved in protein-protein interactions. We then studied the taxonomic distribution of alpha-solenoids to discuss an evolutionary scenario for the emergence of this type of domain, speculating that alpha-solenoids have emerged in multiple taxa in independent events by convergent evolution. We observe a higher rate of alpha-solenoids in eukaryotic genomes and in some prokaryotic families, such as Cyanobacteria and Planctomycetes, which could be associated to increased cellular complexity. The method is available at http://cbdm.mdc-berlin.de/~ard2/.

Poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation in regulation of chromatin structure and the DNA damage response

Poly(ADP-ribose) (PAR) is a post-translational modification of proteins and is synthesised by PAR polymerases (PARPs), which have long been associated with the coordination of the cellular response to DNA damage, amongst other processes. Binding of some PARPs such as PARP1 to broken DNA induces a substantial wave of PARylation, which results in significant re-structuring of the chromatin microenvironment through modification of chromatin-associated proteins and recruitment of chromatin-modifying proteins. Similarly, other DNA damage response proteins are recruited to the damaged sites via PAR-specific binding modules, and in this way, PAR mediates not only local chromatin architecture but also DNA repair. Here, we discuss the expanding role of PAR in the DNA damage response, with particular focus on chromatin regulation.

The recognition and removal of cellular poly(ADP-ribose) signals

Poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation is involved in the regulation of a variety of cellular pathways, including, but not limited to, transcription, chromatin, DNA damage and other stress signalling. Similar to other tightly regulated post-translational modifications, poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation employs 'writers', 'readers' and 'erasers' to confer regulatory functions. The generation of poly(ADP-ribose) is catalyzed by poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase enzymes, which use NAD(+) as a cofactor to sequentially transfer ADP-ribose units generating long polymers, which, in turn, can affect protein function or serve as a recruitment platform for additional factors. Historically, research has focused on poly(ADP-ribose) generation pathways, with knowledge about PAR recognition and degradation lagging behind. Over recent years, several discoveries have significantly furthered our understanding of poly(ADP-ribose) recognition and, even more so, of poly(ADP-ribose) degradation. In this review, we summarize current knowledge about the protein modules recognizing poly(ADP-ribose) and discuss the newest developments on the complete reversibility of poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation.

Structural biology of the writers, readers, and erasers in mono- and poly(ADP-ribose) mediated signaling

ADP-ribosylation of proteins regulates protein activities in various processes including transcription control, chromatin organization, organelle assembly, protein degradation, and DNA repair. Modulating the proteins involved in the metabolism of ADP-ribosylation can have therapeutic benefits in various disease states. Protein crystal structures can help understand the biological functions, facilitate detailed analysis of single residues, as well as provide a basis for development of small molecule effectors. Here we review recent advances in our understanding of the structural biology of the writers, readers, and erasers of ADP-ribosylation.

PARP-1 mechanism for coupling DNA damage detection to poly(ADP-ribose) synthesis

Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP-1) regulates gene transcription, cell death signaling, and DNA repair through production of the posttranslational modification poly(ADP-ribose). During the cellular response to genotoxic stress PARP-1 rapidly associates with DNA damage, which robustly stimulates poly(ADP-ribose) production over a low basal level of PARP-1 activity. DNA damage-dependent PARP-1 activity is central to understanding PARP-1 biological function, but structural insights into the mechanisms underlying this mode of regulation have remained elusive, in part due to the highly modular six-domain architecture of PARP-1. Recent structural studies have illustrated how PARP-1 uses specialized zinc fingers to detect DNA breaks through sequence-independent interaction with exposed nucleotide bases, a common feature of damaged and abnormal DNA structures. The mechanism of coupling DNA damage detection to elevated poly(ADP-ribose) production has been elucidated based on a crystal structure of the essential domains of PARP-1 in complex with a DNA strand break. The multiple domains of PARP-1 collapse onto damaged DNA, forming a network of interdomain contacts that introduce destabilizing alterations in the catalytic domain leading to an enhanced rate of poly(ADP-ribose) production.