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Li LG, Peng XC, Yang ZY, Han N, Gou CL, Shi J, Yu LL, Chen NN, Yu TT, Li TF, Li XY, Hu J. Dihydroartemisinin-driven selective anti-lung cancer proliferation by binding to EGFR and inhibition of NRAS signaling pathway-induced DNA damage. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11704. [PMID: 38778121 PMCID: PMC11111767 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62126-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapeutic agents can inhibit the proliferation of malignant cells due to their cytotoxicity, which is limited by collateral damage. Dihydroartemisinin (DHA), has a selective anti-cancer effect, whose target and mechanism remain uncovered. The present work aims to examine the selective inhibitory effect of DHA as well as the mechanisms involved. The findings revealed that the Lewis cell line (LLC) and A549 cell line (A549) had an extremely rapid proliferation rate compared with the 16HBE cell line (16HBE). LLC and A549 showed an increased expression of NRAS compared with 16HBE. Interestingly, DHA was found to inhibit the proliferation and facilitate the apoptosis of LLC and A549 with significant anti-cancer efficacy and down-regulation of NRAS. Results from molecular docking and cellular thermal shift assay revealed that DHA could bind to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) molecules, attenuating the EGF binding and thus driving the suppressive effect. LLC and A549 also exhibited obvious DNA damage in response to DHA. Further results demonstrated that over-expression of NRAS abated DHA-induced blockage of NRAS. Moreover, not only the DNA damage was impaired, but the proliferation of lung cancer cells was also revitalized while NRAS was over-expression. Taken together, DHA could induce selective anti-lung cancer efficacy through binding to EGFR and thereby abolishing the NRAS signaling pathway, thus leading to DNA damage, which provides a novel theoretical basis for phytomedicine molecular therapy of malignant tumors.
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Grants
- YC2022027, YC2023009 Innovative Research Program for Graduates of Hubei University of Medicine
- YC2022027, YC2023009 Innovative Research Program for Graduates of Hubei University of Medicine
- 202213249001, 202210929001, S202210929004, S202210929007, S202210929010 National Training Program of Innovation and Entrepreneurship for Undergraduates
- Q20222107, B2022128 Natural Science Foundation of Hubei Provincial Department of Education
- Q20222107, B2022128 Natural Science Foundation of Hubei Provincial Department of Education
- 2021-2025, 2023XKQT2 Advantages Discipline Group (Medicine) Project in Higher Education of Hubei Province
- 2023AFB837, 2022CFB994 Natural Science Foundation of Hubei Province
- 2020QDJZR002, 2021QDJZR015, 2019QDJZR02, 2021QDJZR007, 2020QDJZR020 Cultivating Project for Young Scholar at Hubei University of Medicine
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Affiliation(s)
- Liu-Gen Li
- Shiyan Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine Nanoformulation ResearchHubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, Renmin road No. 30, Shiyan, 442000, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Xing-Chun Peng
- Department of Pathology, Shenzhen Pingle Orthopedic Hospital (Shenzhen Pingshan Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital), Shenzhen, 518118, Guangzhou Province, People's Republic of China
- Department of Pathology, Sinopharm DongFeng General Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Renmin road No. 30, Shiyan, 442000, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Zi-Yi Yang
- Shiyan Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine Nanoformulation ResearchHubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, Renmin road No. 30, Shiyan, 442000, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Ning Han
- Shiyan Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine Nanoformulation ResearchHubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, Renmin road No. 30, Shiyan, 442000, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Chang-Long Gou
- Department of Ultrasound Medicine, Taihe Hospital of Shiyan, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, 442000, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Shi
- Shenzhen Stomatology Hospital (Pingshan) of Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, 518000, People's Republic of China
| | - Li-Li Yu
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Dianjiang, Chongqing, 408300, People's Republic of China
| | - Nan-Nan Chen
- Shiyan Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine Nanoformulation ResearchHubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, Renmin road No. 30, Shiyan, 442000, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Ting-Ting Yu
- Shiyan Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine Nanoformulation ResearchHubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, Renmin road No. 30, Shiyan, 442000, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Tong-Fei Li
- Shiyan Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine Nanoformulation ResearchHubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, Renmin road No. 30, Shiyan, 442000, Hubei, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xian-Yu Li
- Shiyan Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine Nanoformulation ResearchHubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, Renmin road No. 30, Shiyan, 442000, Hubei, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jun Hu
- Shiyan Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine Nanoformulation ResearchHubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, Renmin road No. 30, Shiyan, 442000, Hubei, People's Republic of China.
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Dinter L, Karitzky PC, Schulz A, Wurm AA, Mehnert MC, Sergon M, Tunger A, Lesche M, Wehner R, Müller A, Käubler T, Niessner H, Dahl A, Beissert S, Schmitz M, Meier F, Seliger B, Westphal D. BRAF and MEK inhibitor combinations induce potent molecular and immunological effects in NRAS-mutant melanoma cells: Insights into mode of action and resistance mechanisms. Int J Cancer 2024; 154:1057-1072. [PMID: 38078628 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.34807] [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: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
About 25% of melanoma harbor activating NRAS mutations, which are associated with aggressive disease therefore requiring a rapid antitumor intervention. However, no efficient targeted therapy options are currently available for patients with NRAS-mutant melanoma. MEK inhibitors (MEKi) appear to display a moderate antitumor activity and also immunological effects in NRAS-mutant melanoma, providing an ideal backbone for combination treatments. In our study, the MEKi binimetinib, cobimetinib and trametinib combined with the BRAF inhibitors (BRAFi) encorafenib, vemurafenib and dabrafenib were investigated for their ability to inhibit proliferation, induce apoptosis and alter the expression of immune modulatory molecules in sensitive NRAS-mutant melanoma cells using two- and three-dimensional cell culture models as well as RNA sequencing analyses. Furthermore, NRAS-mutant melanoma cells resistant to the three BRAFi/MEKi combinations were established to characterize the mechanisms contributing to their resistance. All BRAFi induced a stress response in the sensitive NRAS-mutant melanoma cells thereby significantly enhancing the antiproliferative and proapoptotic activity of the MEKi analyzed. Furthermore, BRAFi/MEKi combinations upregulated immune relevant molecules, such as ICOS-L, components of antigen-presenting machinery and the "don't eat me signal" molecule CD47 in the melanoma cells. The BRAFi/MEKi-resistant, NRAS-mutant melanoma cells counteracted the molecular and immunological effects of BRAFi/MEKi by upregulating downstream mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway molecules, inhibiting apoptosis and promoting immune escape mechanisms. Together, our study reveals potent molecular and immunological effects of BRAFi/MEKi in sensitive NRAS-mutant melanoma cells that may be exploited in new combinational treatment strategies for patients with NRAS-mutant melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Dinter
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Dresden, a partnership between German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at TU Dresden, and Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden - Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
| | - Paula C Karitzky
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Alexander Schulz
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Dresden, a partnership between German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at TU Dresden, and Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden - Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
| | - Alexander A Wurm
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Dresden, a partnership between German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at TU Dresden, and Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden - Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
- Department of Translational Medical Oncology, NCT Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Mildred Scheel Early Career Center, NCT Dresden, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Marie-Christin Mehnert
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Dresden, a partnership between German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at TU Dresden, and Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden - Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
| | - Mildred Sergon
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Antje Tunger
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Dresden, a partnership between German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at TU Dresden, and Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden - Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
- Institute of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Mathias Lesche
- DRESDEN-Concept Genome Center, Technology Platform at the Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Rebekka Wehner
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Dresden, a partnership between German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at TU Dresden, and Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden - Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
- Institute of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Dresden, and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Anja Müller
- Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Theresa Käubler
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Heike Niessner
- Department of Dermatology, Oncology, University Medical Center, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Andreas Dahl
- DRESDEN-Concept Genome Center, Technology Platform at the Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Stefan Beissert
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Dresden, a partnership between German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at TU Dresden, and Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden - Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
| | - Marc Schmitz
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Dresden, a partnership between German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at TU Dresden, and Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden - Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
- Institute of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Dresden, and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Friedegund Meier
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Dresden, a partnership between German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at TU Dresden, and Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden - Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
- Skin Cancer Center at the University Cancer Center Dresden, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Barbara Seliger
- Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
- Institute of Translational Immunology, Medical School "Theodor Fontane", Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Dana Westphal
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Dresden, a partnership between German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at TU Dresden, and Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden - Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
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Newell S, van der Watt PJ, Leaner VD. Therapeutic targeting of nuclear export and import receptors in cancer and their potential in combination chemotherapy. IUBMB Life 2024; 76:4-25. [PMID: 37623925 PMCID: PMC10952567 DOI: 10.1002/iub.2773] [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: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Systemic modalities are crucial in the management of disseminated malignancies and liquid tumours. However, patient responses and tolerability to treatment are generally poor and those that enter remission often return with refractory disease. Combination therapies provide a methodology to overcome chemoresistance mechanisms and address dose-limiting toxicities. A deeper understanding of tumorigenic processes at the molecular level has brought a targeted therapy approach to the forefront of cancer research, and novel cancer biomarkers are being identified at a rapid rate, with some showing potential therapeutic benefits. The Karyopherin superfamily of proteins is soluble receptors that mediate nucleocytoplasmic shuttling of proteins and RNAs, and recently, nuclear transport receptors have been recognized as novel anticancer targets. Inhibitors against nuclear export have been approved for clinical use against certain cancer types, whereas inhibitors against nuclear import are in preclinical stages of investigation. Mechanistically, targeting nucleocytoplasmic shuttling has shown to abrogate oncogenic signalling and restore tumour suppressor functions through nuclear sequestration of relevant proteins and mRNAs. Hence, nuclear transport inhibitors display broad spectrum anticancer activity and harbour potential to engage in synergistic interactions with a wide array of cytotoxic agents and other targeted agents. This review is focussed on the most researched nuclear transport receptors in the context of cancer, XPO1 and KPNB1, and highlights how inhibitors targeting these receptors can enhance the therapeutic efficacy of standard of care therapies and novel targeted agents in a combination therapy approach. Furthermore, an updated review on the therapeutic targeting of lesser characterized karyopherin proteins is provided and resistance to clinically approved nuclear export inhibitors is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella Newell
- Division of Medical Biochemistry and Structural Biology, Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health SciencesUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Pauline J. van der Watt
- Division of Medical Biochemistry and Structural Biology, Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health SciencesUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
- Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Virna D. Leaner
- Division of Medical Biochemistry and Structural Biology, Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health SciencesUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
- UCT/SAMRC Gynaecological Cancer Research CentreUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
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Pan P, Geng T, Li Z, Ding X, Shi M, Li Y, Wang Y, Shi Y, Wu J, Zhong L, Ji D, Li Z, Meng X. Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of Proteolysis-Targeting Chimeras as Highly Selective and Efficient Degraders of Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase 5. J Med Chem 2023; 66:13568-13586. [PMID: 37751283 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c00864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular signal-regulated kinase 5 (ERK5) is recognized as a key member of the mitogen-activated protein kinase family and is involved in tumor growth, migration, and angiogenesis. However, the results of ERK5 inhibition in multiple studies are controversial, and a highly specific ERK5-targeting agent is required to confirm physiological functions. Using proteolysis-targeting chimera technology, we designed the selective ERK5 degrader PPM-3 and examined its biological effect on cancer cells. Interestingly, the selective degradation of ERK5 with PPM-3 did not influence tumor cell growth directly. Based on proteomics analysis, the ERK5 deletion may be associated with tumor immunity. PPM-3 influences tumor development by affecting the differentiation of macrophages. Therefore, PPM-3 is an effective small-molecule tool for studying ERK5 and a promising immunotherapy drug candidate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengming Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Tongtong Geng
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Zhongtang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Xuyang Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Mengyuan Shi
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery III, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Yang Li
- China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal Chemistry, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Yashuai Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yuanyuan Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jiaojiao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Liang Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Dengbo Ji
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery III, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Zhongjun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Xiangbao Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
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Gureghian V, Herbst H, Kozar I, Mihajlovic K, Malod-Dognin N, Ceddia G, Angeli C, Margue C, Randic T, Philippidou D, Nomigni MT, Hemedan A, Tranchevent LC, Longworth J, Bauer M, Badkas A, Gaigneaux A, Muller A, Ostaszewski M, Tolle F, Pržulj N, Kreis S. A multi-omics integrative approach unravels novel genes and pathways associated with senescence escape after targeted therapy in NRAS mutant melanoma. Cancer Gene Ther 2023; 30:1330-1345. [PMID: 37420093 PMCID: PMC10581906 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-023-00640-z] [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: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Therapy Induced Senescence (TIS) leads to sustained growth arrest of cancer cells. The associated cytostasis has been shown to be reversible and cells escaping senescence further enhance the aggressiveness of cancers. Chemicals specifically targeting senescent cells, so-called senolytics, constitute a promising avenue for improved cancer treatment in combination with targeted therapies. Understanding how cancer cells evade senescence is needed to optimise the clinical benefits of this therapeutic approach. Here we characterised the response of three different NRAS mutant melanoma cell lines to a combination of CDK4/6 and MEK inhibitors over 33 days. Transcriptomic data show that all cell lines trigger a senescence programme coupled with strong induction of interferons. Kinome profiling revealed the activation of Receptor Tyrosine Kinases (RTKs) and enriched downstream signaling of neurotrophin, ErbB and insulin pathways. Characterisation of the miRNA interactome associates miR-211-5p with resistant phenotypes. Finally, iCell-based integration of bulk and single-cell RNA-seq data identifies biological processes perturbed during senescence and predicts 90 new genes involved in its escape. Overall, our data associate insulin signaling with persistence of a senescent phenotype and suggest a new role for interferon gamma in senescence escape through the induction of EMT and the activation of ERK5 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Gureghian
- Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, 6, Avenue du Swing, L-4367, Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Hailee Herbst
- Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, 6, Avenue du Swing, L-4367, Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Ines Kozar
- Laboratoire National de Santé, Dudelange, Luxembourg
| | | | | | - Gaia Ceddia
- Barcelona Supercomputing Center, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristian Angeli
- Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, 6, Avenue du Swing, L-4367, Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Christiane Margue
- Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, 6, Avenue du Swing, L-4367, Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Tijana Randic
- Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, 6, Avenue du Swing, L-4367, Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Demetra Philippidou
- Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, 6, Avenue du Swing, L-4367, Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Milène Tetsi Nomigni
- Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, 6, Avenue du Swing, L-4367, Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Ahmed Hemedan
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Leon-Charles Tranchevent
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Joseph Longworth
- Experimental and Molecular Immunology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Mark Bauer
- Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, 6, Avenue du Swing, L-4367, Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Apurva Badkas
- Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, 6, Avenue du Swing, L-4367, Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Anthoula Gaigneaux
- Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, 6, Avenue du Swing, L-4367, Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Arnaud Muller
- LuxGen, TMOH and Bioinformatics platform, Data Integration and Analysis unit, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Marek Ostaszewski
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Fabrice Tolle
- Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, 6, Avenue du Swing, L-4367, Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Nataša Pržulj
- Barcelona Supercomputing Center, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Computer Science, University College London, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
- ICREA, Pg. Lluís Companys 23, 08010, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Stephanie Kreis
- Department of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, 6, Avenue du Swing, L-4367, Belvaux, Luxembourg.
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Melanogenesis and the Targeted Therapy of Melanoma. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12121874. [PMID: 36551302 PMCID: PMC9775438 DOI: 10.3390/biom12121874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Pigment production is a unique character of melanocytes. Numerous factors are linked with melanin production, including genetics, ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and inflammation. Understanding the mechanism of melanogenesis is crucial to identify new preventive and therapeutic strategies in the treatment of melanoma. Here, we reviewed the current available literatures on the mechanisms of melanogenesis, including the signaling pathways of UVR-induced pigment production, MC1R's central determinant roles and MITF as a master transcriptional regulator in melanogenesis. Moreover, we further highlighted the role of targeting BRAF, NRAS and MC1R in melanoma prevention and treatment. The combination therapeutics of immunotherapy and targeted kinase inhibitors are becoming the newest therapeutic option in advanced melanoma.
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Liu J, Lin J, Chen L. Heat shock protein 40 of Streptococcus pneumoniae induces immune response of human dendritic cells via TLR4-dependent p38 MAPK and JNK signaling pathways. Immun Inflamm Dis 2022; 10:e735. [PMID: 36444618 PMCID: PMC9695094 DOI: 10.1002/iid3.735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Heat shock protein 40 (HSP40) is a vaccine adjuvant candidate for Streptococcus pneumoniae. The mechanism by which HSP40 activates the human dendritic cells (DCs) is unclear. METHODS DCs were isolated from human peripheral blood and their markers (HLA-DR, CD86, CD83, and CD80) were detected by flow cytometry. The messenger RNA (mRNA) and secretion levels of inflammary cytokines were measured after DCs were stimulated with recombinant HSP40 (rHSP40). Short hairpin RNAs were used to knock down toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and TLR4. The TLR2- or TLR4-deficient DCs were treated with lipopolysaccharides, rHSP40, or peptidoglycan, and then the secretion levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were measured. Moreover, the secretion levels of TNF-α and IL-6 were measured after DCs were treated with mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitors including SB203580, SP600125, and U0126. In addition, the phosphorylation levels of p38 MAPK and Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) in DC cells were determined using western blot analysis after treatment with rHSP40 for different times. RESULTS DCs were successfully isolated and cultured. rHSP40 treatment significantly increased cytokine levels in a concentration-dependent manner. TLR4 deficiency, but not TLR2 deficiency, significantly suppressed the rHSP40-induced secretion of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). SB203580 and SP600125 significantly inhibited the rHSP40-induced secretion of TNF-α and IL-6. rHSP40 significantly enhanced the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK and JNK. CONCLUSION HPS40 stimulates the immune response of DCs via the p38 MAPK and JNK signaling pathways, which depend on TLR4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing‐jing Liu
- Clinical LaboratoryXiamen Children's HospitalXiamenChina
| | - Jian‐cheng Lin
- Clinical LaboratoryXiamen Children's HospitalXiamenChina
| | - Li‐na Chen
- Clinical LaboratoryXiamen Children's HospitalXiamenChina
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circRanGAP1/miR-27b-3p/NRAS Axis may promote the progression of hepatocellular Carcinoma. Exp Hematol Oncol 2022; 11:92. [PMID: 36348379 PMCID: PMC9644583 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-022-00342-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Though circular RNAs (circRNAs) are the key regulators in tumor carcinogenesis, they remain largely unexplored in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods The expression of RanGAP1-derived circRNAs (circ_0063531, circ_0063534, circ_0063513, circ_0063518, circ_0063507, circ_0063723) were evaluated in eight paired HCC and normal tissues, and the correlation between circRanGAP1 (circ_0063531) expression and clinicopathological characteristics in 40 HCC patients was determined. The association between miR-27b-3p and circRanGAP1 or NRAS was predicted using bioinformatics analysis. The expression of circRanGAP1, miR-27b-3p, and NRAS were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The potential oncogenic role of circ-RanGAP1 was assessed using CCK-8, colony formation, transwell assays in vitro, subcutaneous tumor mouse model, vein tail metastatic model, and orthotopically implanted intrahepatic HCC model in vivo. Luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays were used to explore the binding site between miR-27b-3p and circ-RanGAP1 or NRAS. Protein expression was detected using western blotting. The localization of miR-27b-3p and circ-RanGAP1 was investigated using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). The level of immune infiltration was assessed by bioinformatics analysis, flow cytometry, and orthotopically implanted intrahepatic HCC models. Results Here, we found elevated circRanGAP1 in the cells and clinical tissues of patients with HCC. Increased circRanGAP1 levels are associated with enlarged tumors and the advanced stage of TNM. CircRanGAP1 promotes the growth, migration, and HCC cell invasion, concurrently with the growth and metastasis of tumors in-vivo. Moreover, circRanGAP1 is mainly located inside the cytoplasm. Mechanistically, circRanGAP1 as an oncogene promotes HCC progression by miR-27b-3p/NRAS/ERK axis, furthermore, affects the infiltration level of tumor-associated macrophages probably by sponging miR-27b-3p. Immune infiltration analysis shows that NRAS is positively correlated with the levels of CD68+ tumor-associated macrophages in HCC samples and that NRAS and CD68 are related to the poor outcome of HCC. Conclusion These results reveal that circRanGAP1 is a HCC oncogene that function by the miR-27b-3p/NRAS/ERK axis and regulates the infiltration levels of tumor-associated macrophages by sponging miR-27b-3p. Therefore, circRANGAP1/ NRAS axis may be an important potential treatment target against HCC. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40164-022-00342-6.
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Hu X, Zhang K, Pan G, Wang Y, Shen Y, Peng C, Deng L, Cui H. Cortex Mori extracts induce apoptosis and inhibit tumor invasion via blockage of the PI3K/AKT signaling in melanoma cells. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1007279. [PMID: 36339598 PMCID: PMC9627489 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1007279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma, the most aggressive and deadliest form of skin cancer, has attracted increased attention due to its increasing incidence worldwide. The Cortex Mori (CM) has long been used as a classical traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to treat various diseases, including cancer. The bioactive components and underlying mechanisms, however, remain largely unknown. The current study aims to investigate the anti-melanoma effects of CM and potential mechanisms through combined network pharmacology and bioinformatic analyses, and validated by in vitro and in vivo experiments. We report here that CM has anti-melanoma activity both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, 25 bioactive compounds in CM were found to share 142 melanoma targets, and network pharmacology and enrichment analyses suggested that CM inhibits melanoma through multiple biological processes and signaling pathways, particularly the PI3K-AKT signaling inhibition and activation of apoptotic pathways, which were further confirmed by biochemical and histological examinations. Finally, partial CM-derived bioactive compounds were found to show anti-melanoma effects, validating the anti-melanoma potential of bioactive ingredients of CM. Taken together, these results reveal bioactive components and mechanisms of CM in inhibiting melanoma, providing them as potential anti-cancer natural products for the treatment of melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Chongqing, China
- Southwest University Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Chongqing, China
| | - Kui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Chongqing, China
- Southwest University Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Chongqing, China
| | - Guangzhao Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Chongqing, China
- Southwest University Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Chongqing, China
| | - Yinggang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Chongqing, China
- Southwest University Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Chongqing, China
| | - Yue Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Chongqing, China
- Southwest University Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Chongqing, China
| | - Cheng Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Chongqing, China
- Southwest University Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Chongqing, China
| | - Longfei Deng
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hongjuan Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, College of Sericulture, Textile and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Cancer Center, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Chongqing, China
- Southwest University Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Chongqing, China
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Treatment of Metastatic Melanoma with a Combination of Immunotherapies and Molecularly Targeted Therapies. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14153779. [PMID: 35954441 PMCID: PMC9367420 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Immunotherapies and molecularly targeted therapies have drastically changed the therapeutic approach for unresectable advanced or metastatic melanoma. The majority of melanoma patients have benefitted from these therapies; however, some patients acquire resistance to them. Novel combinations of immunotherapies and molecularly targeted therapies may be more efficient in treating these patients. In this review, we discuss various combination therapies under pre-clinical and clinical development which can reduce toxicity, enhance efficacy, and prevent recurrences in patients with metastatic melanoma. Abstract Melanoma possesses invasive metastatic growth patterns and is one of the most aggressive types of skin cancer. In 2021, it is estimated that 7180 deaths were attributed to melanoma in the United States alone. Once melanoma metastasizes, traditional therapies are no longer effective. Instead, immunotherapies, such as ipilimumab, pembrolizumab, and nivolumab, are the treatment options for malignant melanoma. Several biomarkers involved in tumorigenesis have been identified as potential targets for molecularly targeted melanoma therapy, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). Unfortunately, melanoma quickly acquires resistance to these molecularly targeted therapies. To bypass resistance, combination treatment with immunotherapies and single or multiple TKIs have been employed and have been shown to improve the prognosis of melanoma patients compared to monotherapy. This review discusses several combination therapies that target melanoma biomarkers, such as BRAF, MEK, RAS, c-KIT, VEGFR, c-MET and PI3K. Several of these regimens are already FDA-approved for treating metastatic melanoma, while others are still in clinical trials. Continued research into the causes of resistance and factors influencing the efficacy of these combination treatments, such as specific mutations in oncogenic proteins, may further improve the effectiveness of combination therapies, providing a better prognosis for melanoma patients.
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Cook SJ, Lochhead PA. ERK5 Signalling and Resistance to ERK1/2 Pathway Therapeutics: The Path Less Travelled? Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:839997. [PMID: 35903549 PMCID: PMC9315226 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.839997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The RAS-regulated RAF-MEK1/2-ERK1/2 signalling pathway is frequently de-regulated in human cancer. Melanoma in particular exhibits a high incidence of activating BRAFV600E/K and NRASQ61L/K mutations and such cells are addicted to the activity of these mutant oncoproteins. As a result three different BRAF inhibitors (BRAFi) have now been approved for BRAFV600E/K- mutant melanoma and have transformed the treatment of this disease. Despite this, clinical responses are typically transient as tumour cells develop resistance. These resistance mechanisms frequently involve reinstatement of ERK1/2 signalling and BRAFi are now deployed in combination with one of three approved MEK1/2 inhibitors (MEKi) to provide more durable, but still transient, clinical responses. Furthermore, inhibitors to ERK1/2 (ERK1/2i) have also been developed to counteract ERK1/2 signalling. However, recent studies have suggested that BRAFi/MEKi and ERK1/2i resistance can arise through activation of a parallel signalling pathway leading to activation of ERK5, an unusual protein kinase that contains both a kinase domain and a transcriptional transactivation domain. Here we review the evidence supporting ERK5 as a mediator of BRAFi/MEKi and ERK1/2i resistance. We also review the challenges in targeting ERK5 signalling with small molecules, including paradoxical activation of the transcriptional transactivation domain, and discuss new therapeutic modalities that could be employed to target ERK5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon J. Cook
- Signalling Programme, The Babraham Institute, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Pamela A. Lochhead, ; Simon J. Cook,
| | - Pamela A. Lochhead
- Signalling Programme, The Babraham Institute, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Mechanistic and Structural Biology, Discovery Sciences, R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Pamela A. Lochhead, ; Simon J. Cook,
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12
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Jandova J, Park SL, Corenblum MJ, Madhavan L, Snell JA, Rounds L, Wondrak GT. Mefloquine induces ER stress and apoptosis in BRAFi-resistant A375-BRAF V600E /NRAS Q61K malignant melanoma cells targeting intracranial tumors in a bioluminescent murine model. Mol Carcinog 2022; 61:603-614. [PMID: 35417045 PMCID: PMC9133119 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Molecularly targeted therapeutics have revolutionized the treatment of BRAFV600E -driven malignant melanoma, but the rapid development of resistance to BRAF kinase inhibitors (BRAFi) presents a significant obstacle. The use of clinical antimalarials for the investigational treatment of malignant melanoma has shown only moderate promise, attributed mostly to inhibition of lysosomal-autophagic adaptations of cancer cells, but identification of specific antimalarials displaying single-agent antimelanoma activity has remained elusive. Here, we have screened a focused library of clinically used artemisinin-combination therapeutic (ACT) antimalarials for the apoptotic elimination of cultured malignant melanoma cell lines, also examining feasibility of overcoming BRAFi-resistance comparing isogenic melanoma cells that differ only by NRAS mutational status (BRAFi-sensitive A375-BRAFV600E /NRASQ61 vs. BRAFi-resistant A375-BRAFV600E /NRASQ61K ). Among ACT antimalarials tested, mefloquine (MQ) was the only apoptogenic agent causing melanoma cell death at low micromolar concentrations. Comparative gene expression-array analysis (A375-BRAFV600E /NRASQ61 vs. A375-BRAFV600E /NRASQ61K ) revealed that MQ is a dual inducer of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and redox stress responses that precede MQ-induced loss of viability. ER-trackerTM DPX fluorescence imaging and electron microscopy indicated ER swelling, accompanied by rapid induction of ER stress signaling (phospho-eIF2α, XBP-1s, ATF4). Fluo-4 AM-fluorescence indicated the occurrence of cytosolic calcium overload observable within seconds of MQ exposure. In a bioluminescent murine model employing intracranial injection of A375-Luc2 (BRAFV600E /NRASQ61K ) cells, an oral MQ regimen efficiently antagonized brain tumor growth. Taken together, these data suggest that the clinical antimalarial MQ may be a valid candidate for drug repurposing aiming at chemotherapeutic elimination of malignant melanoma cells, even if metastasized to the brain and BRAFi-resistant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Jandova
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, RK Coit College of Pharmacy & UA Cancer Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Sophia L. Park
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, RK Coit College of Pharmacy & UA Cancer Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Mandi J. Corenblum
- Department of Neurology, Evelyn F McKnight Brain Institute and BIO5 Institute, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Lalitha Madhavan
- Department of Neurology, Evelyn F McKnight Brain Institute and BIO5 Institute, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Jeremy A. Snell
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, RK Coit College of Pharmacy & UA Cancer Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Liliana Rounds
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, RK Coit College of Pharmacy & UA Cancer Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Georg T. Wondrak
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, RK Coit College of Pharmacy & UA Cancer Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
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13
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Wang A, Li Z, Zhuo S, Gao F, Zhang H, Zhang Z, Ren G, Ma X. Mechanisms of Cardiorenal Protection With SGLT2 Inhibitors in Patients With T2DM Based on Network Pharmacology. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:857952. [PMID: 35677689 PMCID: PMC9169967 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.857952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have cardiorenal protective effects regardless of whether they are combined with type 2 diabetes mellitus, but their specific pharmacological mechanisms remain undetermined. Materials and Methods We used databases to obtain information on the disease targets of “Chronic Kidney Disease,” “Heart Failure,” and “Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus” as well as the targets of SGLT2 inhibitors. After screening the common targets, we used Cytoscape 3.8.2 software to construct SGLT2 inhibitors' regulatory network and protein-protein interaction network. The clusterProfiler R package was used to perform gene ontology functional analysis and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes pathway enrichment analyses on the target genes. Molecular docking was utilized to verify the relationship between SGLT2 inhibitors and core targets. Results Seven different SGLT2 inhibitors were found to have cardiorenal protective effects on 146 targets. The main mechanisms of action may be associated with lipid and atherosclerosis, MAPK signaling pathway, Rap1 signaling pathway, endocrine resistance, fluid shear stress, atherosclerosis, TNF signaling pathway, relaxin signaling pathway, neurotrophin signaling pathway, and AGEs-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications were related. Docking of SGLT2 inhibitors with key targets such as GAPDH, MAPK3, MMP9, MAPK1, and NRAS revealed that these compounds bind to proteins spontaneously. Conclusion Based on pharmacological networks, this study elucidates the potential mechanisms of action of SGLT2 inhibitors from a systemic and holistic perspective. These key targets and pathways will provide new ideas for future studies on the pharmacological mechanisms of cardiorenal protection by SGLT2 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anzhu Wang
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Graduate School, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhendong Li
- Qingdao West Coast New Area People's Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Sun Zhuo
- Qingdao West Coast New Area People's Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Feng Gao
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Graduate School, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hongwei Zhang
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Graduate School, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhibo Zhang
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Gaocan Ren
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Graduate School, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaochang Ma
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaochang Ma
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14
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Clinical Significance and Regulation of ERK5 Expression and Function in Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14020348. [PMID: 35053510 PMCID: PMC8773716 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14020348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 01/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular signal-regulated kinase 5 (ERK5) is a unique kinase among MAPKs family members, given its large structure characterized by the presence of a unique C-terminal domain. Despite increasing data demonstrating the relevance of the ERK5 pathway in the growth, survival, and differentiation of normal cells, ERK5 has recently attracted the attention of several research groups given its relevance in inflammatory disorders and cancer. Accumulating evidence reported its role in tumor initiation and progression. In this review, we explore the gene expression profile of ERK5 among cancers correlated with its clinical impact, as well as the prognostic value of ERK5 and pERK5 expression levels in tumors. We also summarize the importance of ERK5 in the maintenance of a cancer stem-like phenotype and explore the major known contributions of ERK5 in the tumor-associated microenvironment. Moreover, although several questions are still open concerning ERK5 molecular regulation, different ERK5 isoforms derived from the alternative splicing process are also described, highlighting the potential clinical relevance of targeting ERK5 pathways.
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15
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Tatli O, Dinler Doganay G. Recent Developments in Targeting RAS Downstream Effectors for RAS-Driven Cancer Therapy. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26247561. [PMID: 34946644 PMCID: PMC8703923 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26247561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant activity of oncogenic rat sarcoma virus (RAS) protein promotes tumor growth and progression. RAS-driven cancers comprise more than 30% of all human cancers and are refractory to frontline treatment strategies. Since direct targeting of RAS has proven challenging, efforts have been centered on the exploration of inhibitors for RAS downstream effector kinases. Two major RAS downstream signaling pathways, including the Raf/MEK/Erk cascade and the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) pathway, have become compelling targets for RAS-driven cancer therapy. However, the main drawback in the blockade of a single RAS effector is the multiple levels of crosstalk and compensatory mechanisms between these two pathways that contribute to drug resistance against monotherapies. A growing body of evidence reveals that the sequential or synergistic inhibition of multiple RAS effectors is a more convenient route for the efficacy of cancer therapy. Herein, we revisit the recent developments and discuss the most promising modalities targeting canonical RAS downstream effectors for the treatment of RAS-driven cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozge Tatli
- Department of Molecular Biology, Genetics-Biotechnology, Graduate School, Istanbul Technical University, Istanbul 34469, Turkey;
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Istanbul 34720, Turkey
| | - Gizem Dinler Doganay
- Department of Molecular Biology, Genetics-Biotechnology, Graduate School, Istanbul Technical University, Istanbul 34469, Turkey;
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Istanbul Technical University, Istanbul 34469, Turkey
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +90-2122-857-256
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16
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Chhabra G, Ahmad N. BRAF Inhibitors in Melanoma Management: When Friends Become Foes. J Invest Dermatol 2021; 142:1256-1259. [PMID: 34872726 PMCID: PMC9199497 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2021.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The BRAF inhibitor (BRAFi) vemurafenib improves survival of patients with melanoma with BRAFV600E mutations. However, effects of sustained BRAFis on BRAFi-resistant melanomas with dual mutations in BRAF and NRAS are not well characterized. Jandova and Wondrak (2021) report that vemurafenib selectively enhances expression of genes involved in the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in BRAFV600E/NRASQ61K melanoma cells, paradoxically promoting tumor growth and metastasis in mice. This preclinical study provides compelling reasons to be cautious in the use of BRAFis in patients with NRAS-driven melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gagan Chhabra
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Nihal Ahmad
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA; William S. Middleton VA Medical Center, Madison, Wisconsin, USA.
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Paudel R, Fusi L, Schmidt M. The MEK5/ERK5 Pathway in Health and Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147594. [PMID: 34299213 PMCID: PMC8303459 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The MEK5/ERK5 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) cascade is a unique signaling module activated by both mitogens and stress stimuli, including cytokines, fluid shear stress, high osmolarity, and oxidative stress. Physiologically, it is mainly known as a mechanoreceptive pathway in the endothelium, where it transduces the various vasoprotective effects of laminar blood flow. However, it also maintains integrity in other tissues exposed to mechanical stress, including bone, cartilage, and muscle, where it exerts a key function as a survival and differentiation pathway. Beyond its diverse physiological roles, the MEK5/ERK5 pathway has also been implicated in various diseases, including cancer, where it has recently emerged as a major escape route, sustaining tumor cell survival and proliferation under drug stress. In addition, MEK5/ERK5 dysfunction may foster cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis. Here, we highlight the importance of the MEK5/ERK5 pathway in health and disease, focusing on its role as a protective cascade in mechanical stress-exposed healthy tissues and its function as a therapy resistance pathway in cancers. We discuss the perspective of targeting this cascade for cancer treatment and weigh its chances and potential risks when considering its emerging role as a protective stress response pathway.
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18
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NRAS mutant melanoma: Towards better therapies. Cancer Treat Rev 2021; 99:102238. [PMID: 34098219 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2021.102238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Genetic alterations affecting RAS proteins are commonly found in human cancers. Roughly a fourth of melanoma patients carry activating NRAS mutations, rendering this malignancy particularly challenging to treat. Although the development of targeted as well as immunotherapies led to a substantial improvement in the overall survival of non-NRASmut melanoma patients (e.g. BRAFmut), patients with NRASmut melanomas have an overall poorer prognosis due to the high aggressiveness of RASmut tumors, lack of efficient targeted therapies or rapidly emerging resistance to existing treatments. Understanding how NRAS-driven melanomas develop therapy resistance by maintaining cell cycle progression and survival is crucial to develop more effective and specific treatments for this group of melanoma patients. In this review, we provide an updated summary of currently available therapeutic options for NRASmut melanoma patients with a focus on combined inhibition of MAPK signaling and CDK4/6-driven cell cycle progression and mechanisms of the inevitably developing resistance to these treatments. We conclude with an outlook on the most promising novel therapeutic approaches for melanoma patients with constitutively active NRAS. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: An estimated 75000 patients are affected by NRASmut melanoma each year and these patients still have a shorter progression-free survival than BRAFmut melanomas. Both intrinsic and acquired resistance occur in NRAS-driven melanomas once treated with single or combined targeted therapies involving MAPK and CDK4/6 inhibitors and/or checkpoint inhibiting immunotherapy. Oncolytic viruses, mRNA-based vaccinations, as well as targeted triple-agent therapy are promising alternatives, which could soon contribute to improved progression-free survival of the NRASmut melanoma patient group.
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van Poppelen NM, van Ipenburg JA, van den Bosch Q, Vaarwater J, Brands T, Eussen B, Magielsen F, Dubbink HJ, Paridaens D, Brosens E, Naus N, de Klein A, Kiliç E, Verdijk RM. Molecular Genetics of Conjunctival Melanoma and Prognostic Value of TERT Promoter Mutation Analysis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115784. [PMID: 34071371 PMCID: PMC8198138 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was exploration of the genetic background of conjunctival melanoma (CM) and correlation with recurrent and metastatic disease. Twenty-eight CM from the Rotterdam Ocular Melanoma Study group were collected and DNA was isolated from the formalin-fixed paraffin embedded tissue. Targeted next-generation sequencing was performed using a panel covering GNAQ, GNA11, EIF1AX, BAP1, BRAF, NRAS, c-KIT, PTEN, SF3B1, and TERT genes. Recurrences and metastasis were present in eight (29%) and nine (32%) CM cases, respectively. TERT promoter mutations were most common (54%), but BRAF (46%), NRAS (21%), BAP1 (18%), PTEN (14%), c-KIT (7%), and SF3B1 (4%) mutations were also observed. No mutations in GNAQ, GNA11, and EIF1AX were found. None of the mutations was significantly associated with recurrent disease. Presence of a TERT promoter mutation was associated with metastatic disease (p-value = 0.008). Based on our molecular findings, CM comprises a separate entity within melanoma, although there are overlapping molecular features with uveal melanoma, such as the presence of BAP1 and SF3B1 mutations. This warrants careful interpretation of molecular data, in the light of clinical findings. About three quarter of CM contain drug-targetable mutations, and TERT promoter mutations are correlated to metastatic disease in CM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha M. van Poppelen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (N.M.v.P.); (J.V.); (T.B.); (B.E.); (D.P.); (N.N.); (E.K.)
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (F.M.); (E.B.); (A.d.K.)
| | - Jolique A. van Ipenburg
- Department of Pathology, Section Ophthalmic Pathology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (J.A.v.I.); (Q.v.d.B.); (H.J.D.)
- Department of Pathology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Quincy van den Bosch
- Department of Pathology, Section Ophthalmic Pathology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (J.A.v.I.); (Q.v.d.B.); (H.J.D.)
| | - Jolanda Vaarwater
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (N.M.v.P.); (J.V.); (T.B.); (B.E.); (D.P.); (N.N.); (E.K.)
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (F.M.); (E.B.); (A.d.K.)
| | - Tom Brands
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (N.M.v.P.); (J.V.); (T.B.); (B.E.); (D.P.); (N.N.); (E.K.)
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (F.M.); (E.B.); (A.d.K.)
| | - Bert Eussen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (N.M.v.P.); (J.V.); (T.B.); (B.E.); (D.P.); (N.N.); (E.K.)
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (F.M.); (E.B.); (A.d.K.)
| | - Frank Magielsen
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (F.M.); (E.B.); (A.d.K.)
| | - Hendrikus J. Dubbink
- Department of Pathology, Section Ophthalmic Pathology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (J.A.v.I.); (Q.v.d.B.); (H.J.D.)
| | - Dion Paridaens
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (N.M.v.P.); (J.V.); (T.B.); (B.E.); (D.P.); (N.N.); (E.K.)
- Department of Ocular Oncology, The Rotterdam Eye Hospital, Schiedamse Vest 180, 3011 BH Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Erwin Brosens
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (F.M.); (E.B.); (A.d.K.)
| | - Nicole Naus
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (N.M.v.P.); (J.V.); (T.B.); (B.E.); (D.P.); (N.N.); (E.K.)
| | - Annelies de Klein
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (F.M.); (E.B.); (A.d.K.)
| | - Emine Kiliç
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (N.M.v.P.); (J.V.); (T.B.); (B.E.); (D.P.); (N.N.); (E.K.)
| | - Robert M. Verdijk
- Department of Pathology, Section Ophthalmic Pathology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (J.A.v.I.); (Q.v.d.B.); (H.J.D.)
- Department of Ocular Oncology, The Rotterdam Eye Hospital, Schiedamse Vest 180, 3011 BH Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
- Correspondence:
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20
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Tubita A, Tusa I, Rovida E. Playing the Whack-A-Mole Game: ERK5 Activation Emerges Among the Resistance Mechanisms to RAF-MEK1/2-ERK1/2- Targeted Therapy. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:647311. [PMID: 33777953 PMCID: PMC7991100 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.647311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Molecularly tailored therapies have opened a new era, chronic myeloid leukemia being the ideal example, in the treatment of cancer. However, available therapeutic options are still unsatisfactory in many types of cancer, and often fail due to the occurrence of resistance mechanisms. With regard to small-molecule compounds targeting the components of the Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) cascade RAF-MEK1/2-ERK1/2, these drugs may result ineffective as a consequence of the activation of compensatory pro-survival/proliferative signals, including receptor tyrosine kinases, PI3K, as well as other components of the MAPK family such as TPL2/COT. The MAPK ERK5 has been identified as a key signaling molecule in the biology of several types of cancer. In this review, we report pieces of evidence regarding the activation of the MEK5-ERK5 pathway as a resistance mechanism to RAF-MEK1/2-ERK1/2 inhibitors. We also highlight the known and possible mechanisms underlying the cross-talks between the ERK1/2 and the ERK5 pathways, the characterization of which is of great importance to maximize, in the future, the impact of RAF-MEK1/2-ERK1/2 targeting. Finally, we emphasize the need of developing additional therapeutically relevant MEK5-ERK5 inhibitors to be used for combined treatments, thus preventing the onset of resistance to cancer therapies relying on RAF-MEK1/2-ERK1/2 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Tubita
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Ignazia Tusa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Rovida
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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21
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Bhatt AB, Patel S, Matossian MD, Ucar DA, Miele L, Burow ME, Flaherty PT, Cavanaugh JE. Molecular Mechanisms of Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition Regulated by ERK5 Signaling. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11020183. [PMID: 33572742 PMCID: PMC7911413 DOI: 10.3390/biom11020183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK5) is an essential regulator of cancer progression, tumor relapse, and poor patient survival. Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a complex oncogenic process, which drives cell invasion, stemness, and metastases. Activators of ERK5, including mitogen-activated protein kinase 5 (MEK5), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), are known to induce EMT and metastases in breast, lung, colorectal, and other cancers. Several downstream targets of the ERK5 pathway, such as myocyte-specific enhancer factor 2c (MEF2C), activator protein-1 (AP-1), focal adhesion kinase (FAK), and c-Myc, play a critical role in the regulation of EMT transcription factors SNAIL, SLUG, and β-catenin. Moreover, ERK5 activation increases the release of extracellular matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), facilitating breakdown of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and local tumor invasion. Targeting the ERK5 signaling pathway using small molecule inhibitors, microRNAs, and knockdown approaches decreases EMT, cell invasion, and metastases via several mechanisms. The focus of the current review is to highlight the mechanisms which are known to mediate cancer EMT via ERK5 signaling. Several therapeutic approaches that can be undertaken to target the ERK5 pathway and inhibit or reverse EMT and metastases are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshita B. Bhatt
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA 15282, USA;
| | - Saloni Patel
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA 15282, USA; (S.P.); (P.T.F.)
| | - Margarite D. Matossian
- Department of Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA; (M.D.M.); (M.E.B.)
| | - Deniz A. Ucar
- Department of Genetics and Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA; (D.A.U.); (L.M.)
| | - Lucio Miele
- Department of Genetics and Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA; (D.A.U.); (L.M.)
| | - Matthew E. Burow
- Department of Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA; (M.D.M.); (M.E.B.)
| | - Patrick T. Flaherty
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA 15282, USA; (S.P.); (P.T.F.)
| | - Jane E. Cavanaugh
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA 15282, USA;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-412-760-3503
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22
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Ostrowski SM, Fisher DE. The Melanocyte Lineage Factor miR-211 Promotes BRAF V600E Inhibitor Resistance. J Invest Dermatol 2021; 141:250-252. [PMID: 33504438 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2020.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Resistance to targeted therapy and immunotherapy remains a major obstacle in improving care for patients with advanced melanoma. MicroRNAs play important roles in regulating gene networks involved in disease progression and resistance to therapy in cancers such as melanoma. MicroRNA miR-211 contributes to melanocyte and melanoma biology and has been implicated in targeted therapy resistance. Lee et al. (2020) report a novel mechanism by which miR-211 promotes resistance to BRAFV600E inhibitor therapy via the upregulation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase 5 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen M Ostrowski
- Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - David E Fisher
- Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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23
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Zhao J, Galvez C, Beckermann KE, Johnson DB, Sosman JA. Novel insights into the pathogenesis and treatment of NRAS mutant melanoma. EXPERT REVIEW OF PRECISION MEDICINE AND DRUG DEVELOPMENT 2021; 6:281-294. [PMID: 34485698 PMCID: PMC8415440 DOI: 10.1080/23808993.2021.1938545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION NRAS was the first mutated oncogene identified in melanoma and is currently the second most common driver mutation in this malignancy. For patients with NRASmutant advanced stage melanoma refractory to immunotherapy or with contraindications to immune-based regimens, there are few therapeutic options including low-efficacy chemotherapy regimens and binimetinib monotherapy. Here, we review recent advances in preclinical studies of molecular targets for NRAS mutant melanoma as well as the failures and successes of early-phase clinical trials. While there are no targeted therapies for NRAS-driven melanoma, there is great promise in approaches combining MEK inhibition with inhibitors of the focal adhesion kinase (FAK), inhibitors of autophagy pathways, and pan-RAF inhibitors. AREAS COVERED This review surveys new developments in all aspects of disease pathogenesis and potential treatment - including those that have failed, stalled, or progressed through various phases of preclinical and clinical development. EXPERT OPINION There are no currently approved targeted therapies for BRAF wild-type melanoma patients harboring NRAS driver mutations though an array of agents are in early phase clinical trials. The diverse strategies taken exploit combined MAP kinase signaling blockade with inhibition of cell cycle mediators, inhibition of the autophagy pathway, and alteration of kinases involved in actin cytoskeleton signaling. Future advances of developmental therapeutics into late stage trials may yield new options beyond immunotherapy for patients with advanced stage disease and NRAS mutation status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Zhao
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
| | - Carlos Galvez
- Northwestern Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology.,Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center
| | - Kathryn Eby Beckermann
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, 1301 Medical Center Drive, Nashville, 37232, USA
| | - Douglas B Johnson
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, 1301 Medical Center Drive, Nashville, 37232, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Sosman
- Northwestern Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology.,Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center
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