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Xu G, Zhang Q, Cheng R, Qu J, Li W. Survival strategies of cancer cells: the role of macropinocytosis in nutrient acquisition, metabolic reprogramming, and therapeutic targeting. Autophagy 2025; 21:693-718. [PMID: 39817564 PMCID: PMC11925119 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2025.2452149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2024] [Revised: 12/27/2024] [Accepted: 01/07/2025] [Indexed: 01/18/2025] Open
Abstract
Macropinocytosis is a nonselective form of endocytosis that allows cancer cells to largely take up the extracellular fluid and its contents, including nutrients, growth factors, etc. We first elaborate meticulously on the process of macropinocytosis. Only by thoroughly understanding this entire process can we devise targeted strategies against it. We then focus on the central role of the MTOR (mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase) complex 1 (MTORC1) in regulating macropinocytosis, highlighting its significance as a key signaling hub where various pathways converge to control nutrient uptake and metabolic processes. The article covers a comprehensive analysis of the literature on the molecular mechanisms governing macropinocytosis, including the initiation, maturation, and recycling of macropinosomes, with an emphasis on how these processes are hijacked by cancer cells to sustain their growth. Key discussions include the potential therapeutic strategies targeting macropinocytosis, such as enhancing drug delivery via this pathway, inhibiting macropinocytosis to starve cancer cells, blocking the degradation and recycling of macropinosomes, and inducing methuosis - a form of cell death triggered by excessive macropinocytosis. Targeting macropinocytosis represents a novel and innovative approach that could significantly advance the treatment of cancers that rely on this pathway for survival. Through continuous research and innovation, we look forward to developing more effective and safer anti-cancer therapies that will bring new hope to patients.Abbreviation: AMPK: AMP-activated protein kinase; ASOs: antisense oligonucleotides; CAD: carbamoyl-phosphate synthetase 2, aspartate transcarbamylase, and dihydroorotase; DC: dendritic cell; EGF: epidermal growth factor; EGFR: epidermal growth factor receptor; ERBB2: erb-b2 receptor tyrosine kinase 2; ESCRT: endosomal sorting complex required for transport; GAP: GTPase-activating protein; GEF: guanine nucleotide exchange factor; GRB2: growth factor receptor bound protein 2; LPP: lipopolyplex; MTOR: mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase; MTORC1: mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase complex 1; MTORC2: mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase complex 2; NSCLC: non-small cell lung cancer; PADC: pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma; PDPK1: 3-phosphoinositide dependent protein kinase 1; PI3K: phosphoinositide 3-kinase; PIK3C3: phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase catalytic subunit type 3; PtdIns(3,4,5)P3: phosphatidylinositol-(3,4,5)-trisphosphate; PtdIns(4,5)P2: phosphatidylinositol-(4,5)-bisphosphate; PTT: photothermal therapies; RAC1: Rac family small GTPase 1; RPS6: ribosomal protein S6; RPS6KB1: ribosomal protein S6 kinase B1; RTKs: receptor tyrosine kinases; SREBF: sterol regulatory element binding transcription factor; TFEB: transcription factor EB; TNBC: triple-negative breast cancer; TSC2: TSC complex subunit 2; ULK1: unc-51 like autophagy activating kinase 1; UPS: ubiquitin-proteasome system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoshuai Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Aerospace Center Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Qinghong Zhang
- Emergency Department, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Renjia Cheng
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, The General Hospital of the Northern Theater Command of the People’s Liberation Army of China, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Jun Qu
- Department of General Surgery, Aerospace Center Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wenqiang Li
- Department of General Surgery, Aerospace Center Hospital, Beijing, China
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Ariyoshi W, Takeuchi J, Mitsugi S, Koga A, Nagai-Yoshioka Y, Yamasaki R. Mechanisms Underlying the Stimulation of DUSP10/MKP5 Expression in Chondrocytes by High Molecular Weight Hyaluronic Acid. Biomedicines 2025; 13:376. [PMID: 40002789 PMCID: PMC11852791 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines13020376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2024] [Revised: 01/25/2025] [Accepted: 02/03/2025] [Indexed: 02/27/2025] Open
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Previously, we reported that high molecular weight hyaluronic acid (HMW-HA) exerts chondroprotective effects by enhancing dual specificity protein phosphatase 10/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphatase 5 (DUSP10/MKP5) expression and suppressing inflammatory cytokine-induced matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP13) expression in a human immortalized chondrocyte line (C28/I2 cells) via inhibition of MAPKs. The aim of this study was to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the enhancement of DUSP10/MKP5 expression by HMW-HA in C28/I2 cells. Methods: C28/I2 cells were treated with HMW-HA, and the activation of intracellular signaling molecules was determined using Western blot analysis. The expression levels of mRNAs and microRNAs (miRNAs) were evaluated through real-time quantitative reverse transcription PCR analysis. Results: HMW-HA treatment induced Akt phosphorylation via interaction with CD44, and pretreatment with specific inhibitors of phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) signaling attenuated the HMW-HA-induced expression of DUSP10/MKP5. HMW-HA suppressed the expression of miR-92a, miR-181a, and miR-181d. Loss-of-function and gain-of-function analyses of these miRNAs indicate that miR-92a, miR-181a, and miR-181d negatively regulate DUSP10/MKP5 expression. Moreover, HMW-HA-induced Akt phosphorylation was partially suppressed by miR-181a and miR-181d mimics. Finally, we found that HMW-HA activates RhoA-associated protein kinase (ROK) signaling, which contributes to Akt phosphorylation. Conclusions: These findings suggest that the induction of DUSP10/MKP5 expression by HMW-HA binding to CD44, leading to MMP13 suppression, involves multiple regulatory mechanisms, including PI3K/Akt and RhoA-activated ROK signaling, in addition to miRNA-mediated regulation. Elucidating these detailed molecular mechanisms may reveal novel biological activities that contribute to the therapeutic efficacy of HMW-HA against osteoarthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wataru Ariyoshi
- Division of Infections and Molecular Biology, Department of Health Promotion, Kyushu Dental University, Fukuoka 803-8580, Japan; (A.K.); (Y.N.-Y.); (R.Y.)
| | - Jun Takeuchi
- Medical Affairs, Seikagaku Corporation, Tokyo 100-0005, Japan;
| | - Sho Mitsugi
- Second Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Osaka Dental University, Osaka 540-0008, Japan;
| | - Ayaka Koga
- Division of Infections and Molecular Biology, Department of Health Promotion, Kyushu Dental University, Fukuoka 803-8580, Japan; (A.K.); (Y.N.-Y.); (R.Y.)
- School of Oral Health Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, Kyushu Dental University, Fukuoka 803-8580, Japan
| | - Yoshie Nagai-Yoshioka
- Division of Infections and Molecular Biology, Department of Health Promotion, Kyushu Dental University, Fukuoka 803-8580, Japan; (A.K.); (Y.N.-Y.); (R.Y.)
| | - Ryota Yamasaki
- Division of Infections and Molecular Biology, Department of Health Promotion, Kyushu Dental University, Fukuoka 803-8580, Japan; (A.K.); (Y.N.-Y.); (R.Y.)
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Ito F, Iwata W, Adachi Y, Sesaki H, Iijima M. GRHL2-HER3 and E-cadherin mediate EGFR-bypass drug resistance in lung cancer cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2025; 12:1511190. [PMID: 39897079 PMCID: PMC11782226 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1511190] [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: 10/14/2024] [Accepted: 12/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2025] Open
Abstract
Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a major oncogenic protein, and thus EGFR-targeting therapies are widely used in patients with various types of cancer, including lung cancer. However, resistance to EGFR inhibitors, such as erlotinib, presents a significant challenge in treating lung cancer. In this study, we established an EGFR-independent, erlotinib-resistant (ER) phenotype in lung cancer A549 cells by exposing them to erlotinib for an extended period. The resulting ER cells exhibited a dramatic increase in erlotinib resistance, a decreased EGFR protein level, and enhanced tumor growth, suggesting a robust mechanism bypassing EGFR inhibition. RNA sequencing identified the transcription factor GRHL2 as a critical player in this resistance. GRHL2 was upregulated in ER cells, and its knockdown and knockout significantly reduced erlotinib resistance. Further analysis revealed that GRHL2 upregulates the receptor tyrosine kinase HER3, and that HER3 knockdown similarly decreases the IC50 for erlotinib. Additionally, ER cells showed increased cell-cell adhesion, linked to upregulated E-cadherin. E-cadherin was found to be vital for erlotinib resistance, largely independent of GRHL2, highlighting multiple parallel pathways sustaining resistance. These findings provide a novel mechanism of drug resistance and suggest that combination therapies targeting both GRHL2-HER3 and E-cadherin-mediated pathways may be necessary to overcome erlotinib resistance in lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Miho Iijima
- Department of Cell Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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Shao M, Zhao C, Pan Z, Yang X, Gao C, Kam GHC, Zhou H, Lee SMY. Oxyphylla A exerts antiparkinsonian effects by ameliorating 6-OHDA-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and dyskinesia in vitro and in vivo. Chem Biol Interact 2024; 403:111224. [PMID: 39233265 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2024.111224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 08/15/2024] [Accepted: 09/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) poses a formidable challenge in neurology, marked by progressive neuronal loss in the substantia nigra. Despite extensive investigations, understanding PD's pathophysiology remains elusive, with no effective therapeutic intervention identified to alter its course. Oxyphylla A (OPA), a natural compound extracted from Alpinia oxyphylla, exhibits promise in experimental models of various neurodegenerative disorders (ND), notably through novel mechanisms like α-synuclein degradation. The purpose of this investigation was to explore the neuroprotective potential of OPA on 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-induced neurotoxicity in PD models, with a focus on mitochondrial functions. Additionally, potential OPA targets for neuroprotection were explored. PC12 cells and C57BL/6 mice were lesioned with 6-OHDA as PD models. Impaired mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm) was assessed using JC-1 staining. The oxygen consumption rate (OCR) and extracellular acidification rate (ECAR) were also detected to evaluate mitochondrial function and glucose metabolism in PC12 cells. Behavioral analysis and immunohistochemistry were performed to evaluate pathological lesions in the mouse brain. Moreover, bioinformatics tools predicted OPA targets. OPA restored cellular energy metabolism and mitochondrial biogenesis, preserving Δψm in 6-OHDA-induced neuronal damage. Pre-treatment mitigated loss of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-positive neurons in the substantia nigra and striatal dopaminergic fibers, restoring dopamine levels and ameliorating motor deficits in PD mice. Mechanistically, OPA may activate PKA/Akt/GSK-3β and CREB/PGC-1α/NRF-1/TFAM signaling cascades. Bioinformatics analysis identified potential OPA targets, including CTNNB1, ESR1, MAPK1, MAPK14, and SRC. OPA, derived from Alpinia oxyphylla, exhibited promising neuroprotective activity against PD through addressing mitochondrial dysfunction, suggesting its potential as a multi-targeted therapeutic for PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Shao
- School of Bioengineering, Zhuhai Campus of Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Chen Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Zhijian Pan
- School of Bioengineering, Zhuhai Campus of Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Xuanjun Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China; Department of Food Science and Nutrition, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong, China
| | - Cheng Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Gloria Hio-Cheng Kam
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hefeng Zhou
- School of Bioengineering, Zhuhai Campus of Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai, China.
| | - Simon Ming-Yuen Lee
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China; Department of Food Science and Nutrition, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong, China; Research Centre for Chinese Medicine Innovation, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong, China; State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong, China; Research Institute for Smart Ageing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong, China; Research Institute for Future Food, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong, China; PolyU-BGI Joint Research Centre for Genomics and Synthetic Biology in Global Deep Ocean Resource, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong, China.
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5
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Murata D, Roy S, Lutsenko S, Iijima M, Sesaki H. Slc25a3-dependent copper transport controls flickering-induced Opa1 processing for mitochondrial safeguard. Dev Cell 2024; 59:2578-2592.e7. [PMID: 38986607 PMCID: PMC11461135 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2024.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
Following the Goldilocks principle, mitochondria size must be "just right." Mitochondria balance division and fusion to avoid becoming too big or too small. Defects in this balance produce dysfunctional mitochondria in human diseases. Mitochondrial safeguard (MitoSafe) is a defense mechanism that protects mitochondria against extreme enlarging by suppressing fusion in mammalian cells. In MitoSafe, hyperfused mitochondria elicit flickering-short pulses of mitochondrial depolarization. Flickering activates an inner membrane protease, Oma1, which in turn proteolytically inactivates a mitochondrial fusion protein, Opa1. The mechanisms underlying flickering are unknown. Using a live-imaging screen, we identified Slc25a3 (a mitochondrial carrier transporting phosphate and copper) as necessary for flickering and Opa1 cleavage. Remarkably, copper, but not phosphate, is critical for flickering. Furthermore, we found that two copper-containing mitochondrial enzymes, superoxide dismutase 1 and cytochrome c oxidase, regulate flickering. Our data identify an unforeseen mechanism linking copper, redox homeostasis, and membrane flickering in mitochondrial defense against deleterious fusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisuke Murata
- Department of Cell Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Shubhrajit Roy
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Svetlana Lutsenko
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Miho Iijima
- Department of Cell Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Hiromi Sesaki
- Department of Cell Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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6
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Ragupathi A, Kim C, Jacinto E. The mTORC2 signaling network: targets and cross-talks. Biochem J 2024; 481:45-91. [PMID: 38270460 PMCID: PMC10903481 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20220325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
The mechanistic target of rapamycin, mTOR, controls cell metabolism in response to growth signals and stress stimuli. The cellular functions of mTOR are mediated by two distinct protein complexes, mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) and mTORC2. Rapamycin and its analogs are currently used in the clinic to treat a variety of diseases and have been instrumental in delineating the functions of its direct target, mTORC1. Despite the lack of a specific mTORC2 inhibitor, genetic studies that disrupt mTORC2 expression unravel the functions of this more elusive mTOR complex. Like mTORC1 which responds to growth signals, mTORC2 is also activated by anabolic signals but is additionally triggered by stress. mTORC2 mediates signals from growth factor receptors and G-protein coupled receptors. How stress conditions such as nutrient limitation modulate mTORC2 activation to allow metabolic reprogramming and ensure cell survival remains poorly understood. A variety of downstream effectors of mTORC2 have been identified but the most well-characterized mTORC2 substrates include Akt, PKC, and SGK, which are members of the AGC protein kinase family. Here, we review how mTORC2 is regulated by cellular stimuli including how compartmentalization and modulation of complex components affect mTORC2 signaling. We elaborate on how phosphorylation of its substrates, particularly the AGC kinases, mediates its diverse functions in growth, proliferation, survival, and differentiation. We discuss other signaling and metabolic components that cross-talk with mTORC2 and the cellular output of these signals. Lastly, we consider how to more effectively target the mTORC2 pathway to treat diseases that have deregulated mTOR signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aparna Ragupathi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, U.S.A
| | - Christian Kim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, U.S.A
| | - Estela Jacinto
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, U.S.A
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Zhang X, Yin T, Wang Y, Du J, Dou J, Zhang X. Effects of scutellarin on the mechanism of cardiovascular diseases: a review. Front Pharmacol 2024; 14:1329969. [PMID: 38259289 PMCID: PMC10800556 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1329969] [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: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases represent a significant worldwide problem, jeopardizing individuals' physical and mental wellbeing as well as their quality of life as a result of their widespread incidence and fatality. With the aging society, the occurrence of Cardiovascular diseases is progressively rising each year. However, although drugs developed for treating Cardiovascular diseases have clear targets and proven efficacy, they still carry certain toxic and side effect risks. Therefore, finding safe, effective, and practical treatment options is crucial. Scutellarin is the primary constituent of Erigeron breviscapus (Vant.) Hand-Mazz. This article aims to establish a theoretical foundation for the creation and use of secure, productive, and logical medications for Scutellarin in curing heart-related illnesses. Additionally, the examination and analysis of the signal pathway and its associated mechanisms with regard to the employment of SCU in treating heart diseases will impart innovative resolving concepts for the treatment and prevention of Cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Zhang
- Graduate School, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Tong Yin
- First Clinical Medical School, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Yincang Wang
- Graduate School, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Jiazhe Du
- Graduate School, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Jinjin Dou
- Department of Cardiovascular, The First Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Xiwu Zhang
- Experimental Training Centre, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
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Palma M, Riffo E, Farias A, Coliboro-Dannich V, Espinoza-Francine L, Escalona E, Amigo R, Gutiérrez JL, Pincheira R, Castro AF. NUAK1 coordinates growth factor-dependent activation of mTORC2 and Akt signaling. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:232. [PMID: 38135881 PMCID: PMC10740258 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-01185-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND mTORC2 is a critical regulator of cytoskeleton organization, cell proliferation, and cancer cell survival. Activated mTORC2 induces maximal activation of Akt by phosphorylation of Ser-473, but regulation of Akt activity and signaling crosstalk upon growth factor stimulation are still unclear. RESULTS We identified that NUAK1 regulates growth factor-dependent activation of Akt by two mechanisms. NUAK1 interacts with mTORC2 components and regulates mTORC2-dependent activation of Akt by controlling lysosome positioning and mTOR association with this organelle. A second mechanism involves NUAK1 directly phosphorylating Akt at Ser-473. The effect of NUAK1 correlated with a growth factor-dependent activation of specific Akt substrates. NUAK1 induced the Akt-dependent phosphorylation of FOXO1/3a (Thr-24/Thr-32) but not of TSC2 (Thr-1462). According to a subcellular compartmentalization that could explain NUAK1's differential effect on the Akt substrates, we found that NUAK1 is associated with early endosomes but not with plasma membrane, late endosomes, or lysosomes. NUAK1 was required for the Akt/FOXO1/3a axis, regulating p21CIP1, p27KIP1, and FoxM1 expression and cancer cell survival upon EGFR stimulation. Pharmacological inhibition of NUAK1 potentiated the cell death effect induced by Akt or mTOR pharmacological blockage. Analysis of human tissue data revealed that NUAK1 expression positively correlates with EGFR expression and Akt Ser-473 phosphorylation in several human cancers. CONCLUSIONS Our results showed that NUAK1 kinase controls mTOR subcellular localization and induces Akt phosphorylation, demonstrating that NUAK1 regulates the growth factor-dependent activation of Akt signaling. Therefore, targeting NUAK1, or co-targeting it with Akt or mTOR inhibitors, may be effective in cancers with hyperactivated Akt signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Palma
- Laboratorio de Transducción de Señales y Cáncer, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad Cs. Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile.
| | - Elizabeth Riffo
- Laboratorio de Transducción de Señales y Cáncer, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad Cs. Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Alejandro Farias
- Laboratorio de Transducción de Señales y Cáncer, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad Cs. Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Viviana Coliboro-Dannich
- Laboratorio de Transducción de Señales y Cáncer, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad Cs. Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Luis Espinoza-Francine
- Laboratorio de Transducción de Señales y Cáncer, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad Cs. Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Emilia Escalona
- Laboratorio de Transducción de Señales y Cáncer, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad Cs. Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Roberto Amigo
- Laboratorio de Regulación Transcripcional, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad Cs. Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - José L Gutiérrez
- Laboratorio de Regulación Transcripcional, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad Cs. Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Roxana Pincheira
- Laboratorio de Transducción de Señales y Cáncer, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad Cs. Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Ariel F Castro
- Laboratorio de Transducción de Señales y Cáncer, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad Cs. Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile.
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Tsutsumi K, Nohara A, Tanaka T, Murano M, Miyagaki Y, Ohta Y. FilGAP regulates tumor growth in Glioma through the regulation of mTORC1 and mTORC2. Sci Rep 2023; 13:20956. [PMID: 38065968 PMCID: PMC10709582 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-47892-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a serine/threonine protein kinase that forms the two different protein complexes, known as mTORC1 and mTORC2. mTOR signaling is activated in a variety of tumors, including glioma that is one of the malignant brain tumors. FilGAP (ARHGAP24) is a negative regulator of Rac, a member of Rho family small GTPases. In this study, we found that FilGAP interacts with mTORC1/2 and is involved in tumor formation in glioma. FilGAP interacted with mTORC1 via Raptor and with mTORC2 via Rictor and Sin1. Depletion of FilGAP in KINGS-1 glioma cells decreased phosphorylation of S6K and AKT. Furthermore, overexpression of FilGAP increased phosphorylation of S6K and AKT, suggesting that FilGAP activates mTORC1/2. U-87MG, glioblastoma cells, showed higher mTOR activity than KINGS-1, and phosphorylation of S6K and AKT was not affected by suppression of FilGAP expression. However, in the presence of PI3K inhibitors, phosphorylation of S6K and AKT was also decreased in U-87MG by depletion of FilGAP, suggesting that FilGAP may also regulate mTORC2 in U-87MG. Finally, we showed that depletion of FilGAP in KINGS-1 and U-87MG cells significantly reduced spheroid growth. These results suggest that FilGAP may contribute to tumor growth in glioma by regulating mTORC1/2 activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koji Tsutsumi
- Division of Cell Biology, Department of Biosciences, School of Science, Kitasato University, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Sagamihara, Minami-Ku, Kanagawa, 252-0373, Japan.
| | - Ayumi Nohara
- Division of Cell Biology, Department of Biosciences, School of Science, Kitasato University, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Sagamihara, Minami-Ku, Kanagawa, 252-0373, Japan
| | - Taiki Tanaka
- Division of Cell Biology, Department of Biosciences, School of Science, Kitasato University, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Sagamihara, Minami-Ku, Kanagawa, 252-0373, Japan
| | - Moe Murano
- Division of Cell Biology, Department of Biosciences, School of Science, Kitasato University, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Sagamihara, Minami-Ku, Kanagawa, 252-0373, Japan
| | - Yurina Miyagaki
- Division of Cell Biology, Department of Biosciences, School of Science, Kitasato University, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Sagamihara, Minami-Ku, Kanagawa, 252-0373, Japan
| | - Yasutaka Ohta
- Division of Cell Biology, Department of Biosciences, School of Science, Kitasato University, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Sagamihara, Minami-Ku, Kanagawa, 252-0373, Japan.
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10
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Nikolaou PE, Lambrinidis G, Georgiou M, Karagiannis D, Efentakis P, Bessis-Lazarou P, Founta K, Kampoukos S, Konstantin V, Palmeira CM, Davidson SM, Lougiakis N, Marakos P, Pouli N, Mikros E, Andreadou I. Hydrolytic Activity of Mitochondrial F 1F O-ATP Synthase as a Target for Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury: Discovery and In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation of Novel Inhibitors. J Med Chem 2023; 66:15115-15140. [PMID: 37943012 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01048] [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] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
F1FO-ATP synthase is the mitochondrial complex responsible for ATP production. During myocardial ischemia, it reverses its activity, hydrolyzing ATP and leading to energetic deficit and cardiac injury. We aimed to discover novel inhibitors of ATP hydrolysis, accessing the druggability of the target within ischemia(I)/reperfusion(R) injury. New molecular scaffolds were revealed using ligand-based virtual screening methods. Fifty-five compounds were tested on isolated murine heart mitochondria and H9c2 cells for their inhibitory activity. A pyrazolo[3,4-c]pyridine hit structure was identified and optimized in a hit-to-lead process synthesizing nine novel derivatives. Three derivatives significantly inhibited ATP hydrolysis in vitro, while in vivo, they reduced myocardial infarct size (IS). The novel compound 31 was the most effective in reducing IS, validating that inhibition of F1FO-ATP hydrolytic activity can serve as a target for cardioprotection during ischemia. Further examination of signaling pathways revealed that the cardioprotection mechanism is related to the increased ATP content in the ischemic myocardium and increased phosphorylation of PKA and phospholamban, leading to the reduction of apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiota-Efstathia Nikolaou
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15771 Athens, Greece
| | - George Lambrinidis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15771 Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Georgiou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15771 Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Karagiannis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15771 Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Efentakis
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15771 Athens, Greece
| | - Pavlos Bessis-Lazarou
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15771 Athens, Greece
| | - Konstantina Founta
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15771 Athens, Greece
| | - Stavros Kampoukos
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15771 Athens, Greece
| | - Vasilis Konstantin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15771 Athens, Greece
| | - Carlos M Palmeira
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra and Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sean M Davidson
- The Hatter Cardiovascular Institute, University College London, 67 Chenies Mews, WC1E 6HX London, United Kingdom
| | - Nikolaos Lougiakis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15771 Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Marakos
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15771 Athens, Greece
| | - Nicole Pouli
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15771 Athens, Greece
| | - Emmanuel Mikros
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15771 Athens, Greece
- Athena Research and Innovation Center in Information Communication & Knowledge Technologies, 15125 Marousi, Greece
| | - Ioanna Andreadou
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15771 Athens, Greece
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11
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Zhao Y, Zhao C, Guo H, Zhang Z, Xu H, Shi M, Xu Y, Wei D, Zhao Y. mTORC2 orchestrates monocytic and granulocytic lineage commitment by an ATF5-mediated pathway. iScience 2023; 26:107540. [PMID: 37649699 PMCID: PMC10462862 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Myeloid hematopoiesis is a finely controlled consecutive developmental process, which is essential to maintain peripheral innate immune homeostasis. Herein, we found that Rictor deletion caused the remarkable reduction of granulocyte-monocyte progenitors (GMPs), monocytes, and macrophages, while the levels of neutrophils were unaffected. Adoptive transfer of Rictor-deleted GMPs or common myeloid progenitors (CMPs) in syngeneic mice showed poor re-constitution of monocytes compared to wild-type GMPs or CMPs. In addition to decreasing the proliferation of CMPs/GMPs, Rictor deletion preferentially inhibited Ly6C+ monocyte differentiation, while enhancing neutrophil differentiation, as determined by colony formation assays. mTORC2 promotes monocyte development by downregulation of the AKT-Foxo4-activating transcription factor 5 (ATF5)-mitochondrial unfolded protein response (mtUPR) pathway. Genetic overexpression of ATF5 or exposure to ethidium bromide significantly rescued monocyte/macrophage differentiation defects of Rictor-deficient myeloid progenitors. Therefore, Rictor is required for CMP/GMP proliferation and acts as an important switch to balance monocytic and granulocytic lineage commitment in bone marrow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Chenxu Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- Faculty of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Han Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Zhaoqi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- Faculty of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Huawen Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Mingpu Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yanan Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Dong Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- Faculty of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yong Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing 100101, China
- Faculty of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
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12
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Pal DS, Banerjee T, Lin Y, de Trogoff F, Borleis J, Iglesias PA, Devreotes PN. Actuation of single downstream nodes in growth factor network steers immune cell migration. Dev Cell 2023; 58:1170-1188.e7. [PMID: 37220748 PMCID: PMC10524337 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2023.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Ras signaling is typically associated with cell growth, but not direct regulation of motility or polarity. By optogenetically targeting different nodes in the Ras/PI3K/Akt network in differentiated human HL-60 neutrophils, we abruptly altered protrusive activity, bypassing the chemoattractant receptor/G-protein network. First, global recruitment of active KRas4B/HRas isoforms or a RasGEF, RasGRP4, immediately increased spreading and random motility. Second, activating Ras at the cell rear generated new protrusions, reversed pre-existing polarity, and steered sustained migration in neutrophils or murine RAW 264.7 macrophages. Third, recruiting a RasGAP, RASAL3, to cell fronts extinguished protrusions and changed migration direction. Remarkably, persistent RASAL3 recruitment at stable fronts abrogated directed migration in three different chemoattractant gradients. Fourth, local recruitment of the Ras-mTORC2 effector, Akt, in neutrophils or Dictyostelium amoebae generated new protrusions and rearranged pre-existing polarity. Overall, these optogenetic effects were mTORC2-dependent but relatively independent of PI3K. Thus, receptor-independent, local activations of classical growth-control pathways directly control actin assembly, cell shape, and migration modes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhiman Sankar Pal
- Department of Cell Biology and Center for Cell Dynamics, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Tatsat Banerjee
- Department of Cell Biology and Center for Cell Dynamics, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Whiting School of Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Yiyan Lin
- Department of Cell Biology and Center for Cell Dynamics, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Félix de Trogoff
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, STI School of Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Whiting School of Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jane Borleis
- Department of Cell Biology and Center for Cell Dynamics, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Pablo A Iglesias
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Whiting School of Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Peter N Devreotes
- Department of Cell Biology and Center for Cell Dynamics, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Biological Chemistry, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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13
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Guan T, Guo B, Zhang W, Qi M, Luo X, Li Z, Zhang Y, Bao T, Xu M, Liu M, Liu Y. The activation of gastric inhibitory peptide/gastric inhibitory peptide receptor axis via sonic hedgehog signaling promotes the bridging of gapped nerves in sciatic nerve injury. J Neurochem 2023; 165:842-859. [PMID: 36971732 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15816] [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: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Schwann cells play an essential role in peripheral nerve regeneration by generating a favorable microenvironment. Gastric inhibitory peptide/gastric inhibitory peptide receptor (GIP/GIPR) axis deficiency leads to failure of sciatic nerve repair. However, the underlying mechanism remains elusive. In this study, we surprisingly found that GIP treatment significantly enhances the migration of Schwann cells and the formation of Schwann cell cords during recovery from sciatic nerve injury in rats. We further revealed that GIP and GIPR levels in Schwann cells were low under normal conditions, and significantly increased after injury demonstrated by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blot. Wound healing and Transwell assays showed that GIP stimulation and GIPR silencing could affect Schwann cell migration. In vitro and in vivo mechanistic studies based on interference experiment revealed that GIP/GIPR might promote mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 2 (mTORC2) activity, thus facilitating cell migration; Rap1 activation might be involved in this process. Finally, we retrieved the stimulatory factors responsible for GIPR induction after injury. The results indicate that sonic hedgehog (SHH) is a potential candidate whose expression increased upon injury. Luciferase and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays showed that Gli3, the target transcription factor of the SHH pathway, dramatically augmented GIPR expression. Additionally, in vivo inhibition of SHH could effectively reduce GIPR expression after sciatic nerve injury. Collectively, our study reveals the importance of GIP/GIPR signaling in Schwann cell migration, providing a therapeutic avenue toward peripheral nerve injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuchen Guan
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu Province and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, 226001, China
| | - Beibei Guo
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu Province and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, 226001, China
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, 226001, China
| | - Wenxue Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu Province and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, 226001, China
| | - Mengwei Qi
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu Province and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, 226001, China
| | - Xiaoqian Luo
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu Province and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, 226001, China
| | - Zhen Li
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu Province and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, 226001, China
| | - Yufang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu Province and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, 226001, China
| | - Tiancheng Bao
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, 226001, China
| | - Man Xu
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu Province and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, 226001, China
| | - Mei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu Province and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, 226001, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu Province and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, 226001, China
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14
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Herrerías-González F, Yeramian A, Baena-Fustegueras JA, Bueno M, Fleitas C, de la Fuente M, Serrano JCE, Granado-Serrano A, Santamaría M, Yeramian N, Zorzano-Martínez M, Mora C, Lecube A. PKN1 Kinase: A Key Player in Adipocyte Differentiation and Glucose Metabolism. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15102414. [PMID: 37242297 DOI: 10.3390/nu15102414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Adipocyte dysfunction is the driver of obesity and correlates with insulin resistance and the onset of type 2 diabetes. Protein kinase N1 (PKN1) is a serine/threonine kinase that has been shown to contribute to Glut4 translocation to the membrane and glucose transport. Here, we evaluated the role of PKN1 in glucose metabolism under insulin-resistant conditions in primary visceral adipose tissue (VAT) from 31 patients with obesity and in murine 3T3-L1 adipocytes. In addition, in vitro studies in human VAT samples and mouse adipocytes were conducted to investigate the role of PKN1 in the adipogenic maturation process and glucose homeostasis control. We show that insulin-resistant adipocytes present a decrease in PKN1 activation levels compared to nondiabetic control counterparts. We further show that PKN1 controls the adipogenesis process and glucose metabolism. PKN1-silenced adipocytes present a decrease in both differentiation process and glucose uptake, with a concomitant decrease in the expression levels of adipogenic markers, such as PPARγ, FABP4, adiponectin and CEBPα. Altogether, these results point to PKN1 as a regulator of key signaling pathways involved in adipocyte differentiation and as an emerging player of adipocyte insulin responsiveness. These findings may provide new therapeutic approaches for the management of insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Herrerías-González
- Experimental Surgery Research Group, General and Digestive Surgery Department, Arnau de Vilanova University Hospital, University of Lleida, 25716 Lleida, Spain
- Institut de Recerca Biomèdica Lleida (IRB-LLeida), 25198 Lleida, Spain
| | - Andrée Yeramian
- Institut de Recerca Biomèdica Lleida (IRB-LLeida), 25198 Lleida, Spain
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Lleida, 25198 Lleida, Spain
| | - Juan Antonio Baena-Fustegueras
- Experimental Surgery Research Group, General and Digestive Surgery Department, Arnau de Vilanova University Hospital, University of Lleida, 25716 Lleida, Spain
- Institut de Recerca Biomèdica Lleida (IRB-LLeida), 25198 Lleida, Spain
| | - Marta Bueno
- Institut de Recerca Biomèdica Lleida (IRB-LLeida), 25198 Lleida, Spain
- Obesity, Diabetes and Metabolism (ODIM) Research Group, Endocrinology and Nutrition Department, Arnau de Vilanova University Hospital, University of Lleida, 25716 Lleida, Spain
| | - Catherine Fleitas
- Biobank Unit, Hospital Universitari Arnau de Vilanova, IRB-Lleida, 25198 Lleida, Spain
| | - Maricruz de la Fuente
- Experimental Surgery Research Group, General and Digestive Surgery Department, Arnau de Vilanova University Hospital, University of Lleida, 25716 Lleida, Spain
- Institut de Recerca Biomèdica Lleida (IRB-LLeida), 25198 Lleida, Spain
| | - José C E Serrano
- Institut de Recerca Biomèdica Lleida (IRB-LLeida), 25198 Lleida, Spain
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Lleida, 25198 Lleida, Spain
| | - Ana Granado-Serrano
- Institut de Recerca Biomèdica Lleida (IRB-LLeida), 25198 Lleida, Spain
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Lleida, 25198 Lleida, Spain
| | - Maite Santamaría
- Experimental Surgery Research Group, General and Digestive Surgery Department, Arnau de Vilanova University Hospital, University of Lleida, 25716 Lleida, Spain
- Institut de Recerca Biomèdica Lleida (IRB-LLeida), 25198 Lleida, Spain
| | - Nadine Yeramian
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Faculty of Science, University of Burgos, 09001 Burgos, Spain
| | - Marta Zorzano-Martínez
- Institut de Recerca Biomèdica Lleida (IRB-LLeida), 25198 Lleida, Spain
- Obesity, Diabetes and Metabolism (ODIM) Research Group, Endocrinology and Nutrition Department, Arnau de Vilanova University Hospital, University of Lleida, 25716 Lleida, Spain
| | - Conchi Mora
- Institut de Recerca Biomèdica Lleida (IRB-LLeida), 25198 Lleida, Spain
- Immunology Unit, Department of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lleida, 25716 Lleida, Spain
| | - Albert Lecube
- Institut de Recerca Biomèdica Lleida (IRB-LLeida), 25198 Lleida, Spain
- Obesity, Diabetes and Metabolism (ODIM) Research Group, Endocrinology and Nutrition Department, Arnau de Vilanova University Hospital, University of Lleida, 25716 Lleida, Spain
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15
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García-España A, Philips MR. Origin and Evolution of RAS Membrane Targeting. Oncogene 2023; 42:1741-1750. [PMID: 37031342 PMCID: PMC10413328 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-023-02672-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/10/2023]
Abstract
KRAS, HRAS and NRAS proto-oncogenes belong to a family of 40 highly homologous genes, which in turn are a subset of a superfamily of >160 genes encoding small GTPases. RAS proteins consist of a globular G-domain (aa1-166) and a 22-23 aa unstructured hypervariable region (HVR) that mediates membrane targeting. The evolutionary origins of the RAS isoforms, their HVRs and alternative splicing of the KRAS locus has not been explored. We found that KRAS is basal to the RAS proto-oncogene family and its duplication generated HRAS in the common ancestor of vertebrates. In a second round of duplication HRAS generated NRAS and KRAS generated an additional RAS gene we have designated KRASBL, absent in mammals and birds. KRAS4A arose through a duplication and insertion of the 4th exon of NRAS into the 3rd intron of KRAS. We found evolutionary conservation of a short polybasic region (PBR1) in HRAS, NRAS and KRAS4A, a second polybasic region (PBR2) in KRAS4A, two neutralized basic residues (NB) and a serine in KRAS4B and KRASBL, and a modification of the CaaX motif in vertebrates with farnesyl rather than geranylgeranyl polyisoprene lipids, suggesting that a less hydrophobic membrane anchor is critical to RAS protein function. The persistence of four RAS isoforms through >400 million years of evolution argues strongly for differential function.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mark R Philips
- Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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16
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Bhattacharya S. An empirical review on the resistance mechanisms of epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors and predictive molecular biomarkers in colorectal cancer. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2023; 183:103916. [PMID: 36717006 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2023.103916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite advances in cytotoxic treatments, colorectal cancer remains a leading cause of death. Metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients have a poor prognosis despite improved treatments and more prolonged median survival. Monoclonal antibodies like cetuximab and panitumumab target the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). They play an essential role in the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) due to their efficacy in multiple phase III clinical trials across multiple treatment lines. It was discovered that anti-EGFR moAbs were only effective for a small number of patients. Mutations in KRAS and NRAS have been identified as biomarkers of drug resistance. New molecular predictors and prognostic markers are used clinically. The K-Ras mutation is the first molecular marker of a lack of response to EGFR-targeted therapy in K-Ras-mutant patients. Validating predictive and prognostic markers will improve cancer treatments. This article examines molecular markers that can predict colorectal cancer prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sankha Bhattacharya
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy & Technology Management, SVKM'S NMIMS Deemed-to-be University, Shirpur, Maharashtra 425405, India.
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17
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Huynh C, Ryu J, Lee J, Inoki A, Inoki K. Nutrient-sensing mTORC1 and AMPK pathways in chronic kidney diseases. Nat Rev Nephrol 2023; 19:102-122. [PMID: 36434160 DOI: 10.1038/s41581-022-00648-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Nutrients such as glucose, amino acids and lipids are fundamental sources for the maintenance of essential cellular processes and homeostasis in all organisms. The nutrient-sensing kinases mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) are expressed in many cell types and have key roles in the control of cell growth, proliferation, differentiation, metabolism and survival, ultimately contributing to the physiological development and functions of various organs, including the kidney. Dysregulation of these kinases leads to many human health problems, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, metabolic disorders and kidney diseases. In the kidney, physiological levels of mTOR and AMPK activity are required to support kidney cell growth and differentiation and to maintain kidney cell integrity and normal nephron function, including transport of electrolytes, water and glucose. mTOR forms two functional multi-protein kinase complexes, mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) and mTOR complex 2 (mTORC2). Hyperactivation of mTORC1 leads to podocyte and tubular cell dysfunction and vulnerability to injury, thereby contributing to the development of chronic kidney diseases, including diabetic kidney disease, obesity-related kidney disease and polycystic kidney disease. Emerging evidence suggests that targeting mTOR and/or AMPK could be an effective therapeutic approach to controlling or preventing these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Huynh
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jaewhee Ryu
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jooho Lee
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Ayaka Inoki
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Ken Inoki
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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18
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Abstract
Both the mTORC2 and Ras-ERK pathways respond to growth factor stimulation and play critical roles in cell growth and proliferation, disarray of these pathways leads to many diseases, especially cancer. These two signaling pathways crosstalk at many levels; recently it's become clear that the SIN1 component of mTORC2 could interact with Ras family small GTPases, but how these two proteins interact at the molecular level and the functional outcomes of this interaction remain to be addressed. In this work we determined the high-resolution structure of Ras-SIN1 complexes and revealed the detailed interaction mechanism. We also showed that Ras-SIN1 association inhibits insulin-induced ERK activation. Insights from this work could improve our understanding of the disease-causing mechanism of errant mTORC2 or Ras proteins. Over the years it has been established that SIN1, a key component of mTORC2, could interact with Ras family small GTPases through its Ras-binding domain (RBD). The physical association of Ras and SIN1/mTORC2 could potentially affect both mTORC2 and Ras-ERK pathways. To decipher the precise molecular mechanism of this interaction, we determined the high-resolution structures of HRas/KRas-SIN1 RBD complexes, showing the detailed interaction interface. Mutation of critical interface residues abolished Ras-SIN1 interaction and in SIN1 knockout cells we demonstrated that Ras-SIN1 association promotes SGK1 activity but inhibits insulin-induced ERK activation. With structural comparison and competition fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) assays we showed that HRas-SIN1 RBD association is much weaker than HRas-Raf1 RBD but is slightly stronger than HRas-PI3K RBD interaction, providing a possible explanation for the different outcome of insulin or EGF stimulation. We also found that SIN1 isoform lacking the PH domain binds stronger to Ras than other longer isoforms and the PH domain appears to have an inhibitory effect on Ras-SIN1 binding. In addition, we uncovered a Ras dimerization interface that could be critical for Ras oligomerization. Our results advance our understanding of Ras-SIN1 association and crosstalk between growth factor-stimulated pathways.
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19
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Johnson C, Burkhart DL, Haigis KM. Classification of KRAS-Activating Mutations and the Implications for Therapeutic Intervention. Cancer Discov 2022; 12:913-923. [PMID: 35373279 PMCID: PMC8988514 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-22-0035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Members of the family of RAS proto-oncogenes, discovered just over 40 years ago, were among the first cancer-initiating genes to be discovered. Of the three RAS family members, KRAS is the most frequently mutated in human cancers. Despite intensive biological and biochemical study of RAS proteins over the past four decades, we are only now starting to devise therapeutic strategies to target their oncogenic properties. Here, we highlight the distinct biochemical properties of common and rare KRAS alleles, enabling their classification into functional subtypes. We also discuss the implications of this functional classification for potential therapeutic avenues targeting mutant subtypes. SIGNIFICANCE Efforts in the recent past to inhibit KRAS oncogenicity have focused on kinases that function in downstream signal transduction cascades, although preclinical successes have not translated to patients with KRAS-mutant cancer. Recently, clinically effective covalent inhibitors of KRASG12C have been developed, establishing two principles that form a foundation for future efforts. First, KRAS is druggable. Second, each mutant form of KRAS is likely to have properties that make it uniquely druggable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Johnson
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Medicine, Brigham & Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Deborah L Burkhart
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Medicine, Brigham & Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kevin M Haigis
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Medicine, Brigham & Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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20
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Wang X, Jiang L, Thao K, Sussman C, LaBranche T, Palmer M, Harris P, McKnight GS, Hoeflich K, Schalm S, Torres V. Protein Kinase A Downregulation Delays the Development and Progression of Polycystic Kidney Disease. J Am Soc Nephrol 2022; 33:1087-1104. [PMID: 35236775 PMCID: PMC9161799 DOI: 10.1681/asn.2021081125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Upregulation of cAMP-dependent and -independent PKA signaling is thought to promote cystogenesis in polycystic kidney disease (PKD). PKA-I regulatory subunit RIα is increased in kidneys of orthologous mouse models. Kidney-specific knockout of RIα upregulates PKA activity, induces cystic disease in wild-type mice, and aggravates it in Pkd1 RC/RC mice. Methods: PKA-I activation or inhibition was compared to EPAC activation or PKA-II inhibition using Pkd1 RC/RC metanephric organ cultures. The effect of constitutive PKA (preferentially PKA-I) downregulation in vivo was ascertained by kidney-specific expression of a dominant negative RIαB allele in Pkd1 RC/RC mice obtained by crossing Prkar1α R1αB/WT, Pkd1 RC/RC, and Pkhd1-Cre mice (C57BL/6 background). The effect of pharmacologic PKA inhibition using a novel, selective PRKACA inhibitor (BLU2864) was tested in mIMCD3 3D cultures, metanephric organ cultures, and Pkd1 RC/RC mice on a C57BL/6 x 129S6/Sv F1 background. Mice were sacrificed at 16 weeks of age. Results: PKA-I activation promoted and inhibition prevented ex vivo P-Ser133 CREB expression and cystogenesis. EPAC activation or PKA-II inhibition had no or only minor effects. BLU2864 inhibited in vitro mIMCD3 cystogenesis and ex vivo P-Ser133 CREB expression and cystogenesis. Genetic downregulation of PKA activity and BLU2864 directly and/or indirectly inhibited many pro-proliferative pathways and were both protective in vivo BLU2864 had no detectable on- or off-target adverse effects. Conclusions: PKA-I is the main PKA isozyme promoting cystogenesis. Direct PKA inhibition may be an effective strategy to treat PKD and other conditions where PKA signaling is upregulated. By acting directly on PKA, the inhibition may be more effective than or substantially increase the efficacy of treatments that only affect PKA activity by lowering cAMP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofang Wang
- X Wang, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, United States
| | - Li Jiang
- L Jiang, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, United States
| | - Ka Thao
- K Thao, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, United States
| | - Caroline Sussman
- C Sussman, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, United States
| | | | | | - Peter Harris
- P Harris, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, United States
| | - G Stanley McKnight
- G McKnight, Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, United States
| | - Klaus Hoeflich
- K Hoeflich, Blueprint Medicines, Cambridge, United States
| | | | - Vicente Torres
- V Torres, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, United States
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21
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London E, Stratakis CA. The regulation of PKA signaling in obesity and in the maintenance of metabolic health. Pharmacol Ther 2022; 237:108113. [PMID: 35051439 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2022.108113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) system represents a primary cell-signaling pathway throughout systems and across species. PKA facilitates the actions of hormones, neurotransmitters and other signaling molecules that bind G-protein coupled receptors (GPCR) to modulate cAMP levels. Through its control of synaptic events, exocytosis, transcriptional regulation, and more, PKA signaling regulates cellular metabolism and emotional and stress responses making it integral in the maintenance and dysregulation of energy homeostasis. Neural PKA signaling is regulated by afferent and peripheral efferent signals that link specific neural cell populations to the regulation of metabolic processes in adipose tissue, liver, pancreas, adrenal, skeletal muscle, and gut. Mouse models have provided invaluable information on the roles for PKA subunits in brain and key metabolic organs. While limited, human studies infer differential regulation of the PKA system in obese compared to lean individuals. Variants identified in PKA subunit genes cause Cushing syndrome that is characterized by metabolic dysregulation associated with endogenous glucocorticoid excess. Under healthy physiologic conditions, the PKA system is exquisitely regulated by stimuli that activate GPCRs to alter intracellular cAMP concentrations, and by PKA cellular localization and holoenzyme stability. Adenylate cyclase activity generates cAMP while phosphodiesterase-mediated cAMP degradation to AMP decreases cAMP levels downstream of GPCRs. Chronic perturbations in PKA signaling appear to be capable of resetting PKA regulation at several levels; in addition, sex differences in PKA signaling regulation, while not well understood, impact the physiologic consequences of metabolic dysregulation and obesity. This review explores the roles for PKA signaling in the pathogenesis of metabolic diseases including obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus and associated co-morbidities through neural-peripheral crosstalk and cAMP/PKA signaling pathway targets that hold therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edra London
- Section on Endocrinology and Genetics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, USA.
| | - Constantine A Stratakis
- Section on Endocrinology and Genetics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, USA; Human Genetics & Precision Medicine, IMBB, Foundation for Research & Technology Hellas, Greece; Research Institute, ELPEN, SA, Athens, Greece
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