1
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Li K, Li M, Liu Z, Yang J, Li J, Jiang T. NLK knockdown in hBMSCs enhance repair of critical-size bone defects by modulating neurogenic and osteogenic differentiation. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2025; 1871:167870. [PMID: 40280200 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2025.167870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2024] [Revised: 03/23/2025] [Accepted: 04/22/2025] [Indexed: 04/29/2025]
Abstract
Nemo-like kinase (NLK), an evolutionarily conserved MAP kinase-related kinase, is highly expressed in neural tissues and critically regulates cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis by regulating numerous transcriptional molecules. Despite the widespread application of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in regenerative medicine, the functional role and molecular mechanisms of NLK in MSC-mediated tissue repair remained poorly understood. Here, the dual regulatory effects of NLK on both neurogenic and osteogenic differentiation of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) were investigated. The results showed that NLK acted as a potent inhibitor of hBMSC neurogenesis in vitro and suppressed osteogenesis both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, NLK downregulated the transcriptional coactivators LEF1 and TCF4, thereby impairing their pro-differentiation functions during neural and bone formation. These findings suggested that NLK-mediated suppression of LEF1/TCF4 signaling might hinder endogenous bone repair by dual inhibition of hBMSC neurogenic and osteogenic capacities. Targeting this pathway could offer novel therapeutic strategies for enhancing bone defect regeneration and inform the design of advanced biomaterials for bone tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Li
- Department of Prosthodontics, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing, PR China
| | - Mengdi Li
- Department of Prosthodontics, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing, PR China
| | - Zhongning Liu
- Department of Prosthodontics, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing, PR China
| | - Jingwen Yang
- Department of Prosthodontics, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing, PR China
| | - Jian Li
- Department of Prosthodontics, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing, PR China.
| | - Ting Jiang
- Department of Prosthodontics, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing, PR China.
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2
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Ferrando-Marco M, Barkoulas M. EFL-3/E2F7 modulates Wnt signalling by repressing the Nemo-like kinase LIT-1 during asymmetric epidermal cell division in Caenorhabditis elegans. Development 2025; 152:DEV204546. [PMID: 40026193 PMCID: PMC11925398 DOI: 10.1242/dev.204546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2025] [Indexed: 03/04/2025]
Abstract
The E2F family of transcription factors is conserved in higher eukaryotes and plays pivotal roles in controlling gene expression during the cell cycle. Most canonical E2Fs associate with members of the Dimerisation Partner (DP) family to activate or repress target genes. However, atypical repressors, such as E2F7 and E2F8, lack DP interaction domains and their functions are less understood. We report here that EFL-3, the E2F7 homologue of Caenorhabditis elegans, regulates epidermal stem cell differentiation. We show that phenotypic defects in efl-3 mutants depend on the Nemo-like kinase LIT-1. EFL-3 represses lit-1 expression through direct binding to a lit-1 intronic element. Increased LIT-1 expression in efl-3 mutants reduces POP-1/TCF nuclear distribution, and consequently alters Wnt pathway activation. Our findings provide a mechanistic link between an atypical E2F family member and NLK during C. elegans asymmetric cell division, which may be conserved in other animals.
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3
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Xia Y, Yu X, Yuan Z, Yang Y, Liu Y. Whole-Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Potential CeRNA Regulatory Mechanism in Takifugu rubripes against Cryptocaryon irritans Infection. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:788. [PMID: 39452097 PMCID: PMC11504436 DOI: 10.3390/biology13100788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2024] [Revised: 08/21/2024] [Accepted: 08/29/2024] [Indexed: 10/26/2024]
Abstract
Cryptocaryon irritans (C. irritans) is a proto-ciliate parasite that infects marine fishes, including the cultured species Takifugu rubripes (T. rubripes), causing disease and potential mortality. In host organisms, infection by parasites triggers an immune response that is modulated by regulatory elements including proteins and non-coding RNAs. In this study, the whole transcriptome RNA sequencing of T. rubripes gill tissue before and after infection with C. irritans was performed to reveal the competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) regulatory network. Histomorphology revealed gill segment swelling and parasitic invasion in the infected group. The analysis identified 18 differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs), 214 lncRNAs (DELs), 2501 genes (DEGs), and 7 circRNAs (DECs) in the infected group. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis revealed that these genes were notably enriched in the Wnt signaling pathway and mTOR signaling pathway. The co-expression networks (lncRNA/circRNA-miRNA-mRNA) were constructed based on correlation analysis of the differentially expressed RNAs. Further analysis suggested that the LOC105418663-circ_0000361-fru-miR-204a-fzd3a ceRNA axis was potentially involved in the regulation of immune responses against C. irritans infection. Finally, the expression levels of DEG, DEL, and DEM were validated. This study reveals the regulatory mechanism of a candidate ceRNA network, providing insights into the potential mechanism of T. rubripes' infection with C. irritans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqing Xia
- Key Laboratory of Environment Controlled Aquaculture, Dalian Ocean University, Ministry of Education, 52 Heishijiao Street, Dalian 116023, China; (Y.X.); (Y.Y.)
- College of Fisheries and Life Science, Dalian Ocean University, 52 Heishijiao Street, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Xiaoqing Yu
- Key Laboratory of Environment Controlled Aquaculture, Dalian Ocean University, Ministry of Education, 52 Heishijiao Street, Dalian 116023, China; (Y.X.); (Y.Y.)
| | - Zhen Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Environment Controlled Aquaculture, Dalian Ocean University, Ministry of Education, 52 Heishijiao Street, Dalian 116023, China; (Y.X.); (Y.Y.)
| | - Yi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Environment Controlled Aquaculture, Dalian Ocean University, Ministry of Education, 52 Heishijiao Street, Dalian 116023, China; (Y.X.); (Y.Y.)
| | - Ying Liu
- Key Laboratory of Environment Controlled Aquaculture, Dalian Ocean University, Ministry of Education, 52 Heishijiao Street, Dalian 116023, China; (Y.X.); (Y.Y.)
- College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou 310058, China
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4
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Wilkes MC, Shibuya A, Liu YL, Mark K, Mercado J, Saxena M, Sathianathen RS, Kim HN, Glader B, Kenny P, Sakamoto KM. Activation of nemo-like kinase in diamond blackfan anemia suppresses early erythropoiesis by preventing mitochondrial biogenesis. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107542. [PMID: 38992436 PMCID: PMC11345392 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107542] [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: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Diamond Blackfan Anemia (DBA) is a rare macrocytic red blood cell aplasia that usually presents within the first year of life. The vast majority of patients carry a mutation in one of approximately 20 genes that results in ribosomal insufficiency with the most significant clinical manifestations being anemia and a predisposition to cancers. Nemo-like Kinase (NLK) is hyperactivated in the erythroid progenitors of DBA patients and inhibition of this kinase improves erythropoiesis, but how NLK contributes to the pathogenesis of the disease is unknown. Here we report that activated NLK suppresses the critical upregulation of mitochondrial biogenesis required in early erythropoiesis. During normal erythropoiesis, mTORC1 facilitates the translational upregulation of Transcription factor A, mitochondrial (TFAM), and Prohibin 2 (PHB2) to increase mitochondrial biogenesis. In our models of DBA, active NLK phosphorylates the regulatory component of mTORC1, thereby suppressing mTORC1 activity and preventing mTORC1-mediated TFAM and PHB2 upregulation and subsequent mitochondrial biogenesis. Improvement of erythropoiesis that accompanies NLK inhibition is negated when TFAM and PHB2 upregulation is prevented. These data demonstrate that a significant contribution of NLK on the pathogenesis of DBA is through loss of mitochondrial biogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark C Wilkes
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA; Kabara Cancer Research Institute, Gundersen Medical Foundation, La Crosse, Wisconsin, USA.
| | - Aya Shibuya
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Y Lucy Liu
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Kailen Mark
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Jaqueline Mercado
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Mallika Saxena
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Ryan S Sathianathen
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Hye Na Kim
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Bertil Glader
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Paraic Kenny
- Kabara Cancer Research Institute, Gundersen Medical Foundation, La Crosse, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Kathleen M Sakamoto
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
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5
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Tümen D, Heumann P, Huber J, Hahn N, Macek C, Ernst M, Kandulski A, Kunst C, Gülow K. Unraveling Cancer's Wnt Signaling: Dynamic Control through Protein Kinase Regulation. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2686. [PMID: 39123414 PMCID: PMC11312265 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16152686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Since the initial identification of oncogenic Wnt in mice and Drosophila, the Wnt signaling pathway has been subjected to thorough and extensive investigation. Persistent activation of Wnt signaling exerts diverse cancer characteristics, encompassing tumor initiation, tumor growth, cell senescence, cell death, differentiation, and metastasis. Here we review the principal signaling mechanisms and the regulatory influence of pathway-intrinsic and extrinsic kinases on cancer progression. Additionally, we underscore the divergences and intricate interplays of the canonical and non-canonical Wnt signaling pathways and their critical influence in cancer pathophysiology, exhibiting both growth-promoting and growth-suppressing roles across diverse cancer types.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Karsten Gülow
- Department of Internal Medicine I Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, Immunology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (D.T.); (N.H.)
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6
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Ando T, Takazawa I, Spencer ZT, Ito R, Tomimori Y, Mikulski Z, Matsumoto K, Ishitani T, Denson LA, Kawakami Y, Kawakami Y, Kitaura J, Ahmed Y, Kawakami T. Ileal Crohn's Disease Exhibits Reduced Activity of Phospholipase C-β3-Dependent Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway. Cells 2024; 13:986. [PMID: 38891118 PMCID: PMC11171731 DOI: 10.3390/cells13110986] [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: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Crohn's disease is a chronic, debilitating, inflammatory bowel disease. Here, we report a critical role of phospholipase C-β3 (PLC-β3) in intestinal homeostasis. In PLC-β3-deficient mice, exposure to oral dextran sodium sulfate induced lethality and severe inflammation in the small intestine. The lethality was due to PLC-β3 deficiency in multiple non-hematopoietic cell types. PLC-β3 deficiency resulted in reduced Wnt/β-catenin signaling, which is essential for homeostasis and the regeneration of the intestinal epithelium. PLC-β3 regulated the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in small intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) at transcriptional, epigenetic, and, potentially, protein-protein interaction levels. PLC-β3-deficient IECs were unable to respond to stimulation by R-spondin 1, an enhancer of Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Reduced expression of PLC-β3 and its signature genes was found in biopsies of patients with ileal Crohn's disease. PLC-β regulation of Wnt signaling was evolutionally conserved in Drosophila. Our data indicate that a reduction in PLC-β3-mediated Wnt/β-catenin signaling contributes to the pathogenesis of ileal Crohn's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoaki Ando
- Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; (T.A.)
- Atopy Research Center, Graduate School of Medicine, Juntendo University, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
| | - Ikuo Takazawa
- Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; (T.A.)
| | - Zachary T. Spencer
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology and the Dartmouth Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755, USA; (Z.T.S.)
| | - Ryoji Ito
- Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; (T.A.)
- Central Institute for Experimental Animals, Kawasaki 210-0821, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Tomimori
- Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; (T.A.)
| | - Zbigniew Mikulski
- Imaging Facility, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Kenji Matsumoto
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo 157-8535, Japan
| | - Tohru Ishitani
- Institute for Molecular and Cellular Regulation, Gunma University, Maebashi 371-0044, Gunma, Japan
| | - Lee A. Denson
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Yu Kawakami
- Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; (T.A.)
| | - Yuko Kawakami
- Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; (T.A.)
| | - Jiro Kitaura
- Atopy Research Center, Graduate School of Medicine, Juntendo University, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
| | - Yashi Ahmed
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology and the Dartmouth Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755, USA; (Z.T.S.)
| | - Toshiaki Kawakami
- Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; (T.A.)
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7
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Lee Y, Piao HL, Kim J. OTUD7B Activates Wnt Signaling Pathway through the Interaction with LEF1. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1001. [PMID: 37371581 DOI: 10.3390/biom13061001] [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: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The Wnt signaling pathway plays a critical role in regulating normal cellular processes, including proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Dysregulation of Wnt signaling has been implicated in various human diseases, including cancer. β-catenin and LEF1 are key mediators of Wnt signaling, and their dysregulation is a hallmark of many cancer types. In this study, we aimed to identify the deubiquitinases (DUBs) that regulate the Wnt signaling pathway through the essential component LEF1. Screening candidate DUBs from the human DUB library, we discovered that OTUD7B interacts with LEF1 and activates Wnt signaling. OTUD7B and LEF1 interact with each other through the UBA and HMG domains, respectively. Furthermore, OTUD7B promotes the nuclear localization of LEF1, leading to an increased interaction with β-catenin in the nucleus while not noticeably affecting ubiquitination on LEF1. Using qPCR array analysis, we found that OTUD7B overexpression leads to an upregulation of 75% of the tested Wnt target genes compared to the control. These findings suggest that OTUD7B may serve as a potential therapeutic target in human diseases, including cancers where Wnt signaling is frequently dysregulated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuri Lee
- Department of Life Sciences, Sogang University, Seoul 04107, Republic of Korea
| | - Hai-Long Piao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Jongchan Kim
- Department of Life Sciences, Sogang University, Seoul 04107, Republic of Korea
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8
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Liu F, Cao Y, Zhang C, Su H. Decreased DANCR contributes to high glucose-induced extracellular matrix accumulation in human renal mesangial cell via regulating the TGF-β/Smad signaling. FASEB J 2023; 37:e22926. [PMID: 37052733 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202300146r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
Glomerulosclerosis is one of the major histopathologic changes in diabetic kidney diseases (DKD), which is characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) in the glomerulus mainly produced by mesangial cells in response to transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) stimuli under diabetic conditions. Despite TGF-β has been implicated as a major pathogenic factor in the development of diabetic glomerulosclerosis, clinical trials of monoclonal antibodies against TGF-β failed to demonstrate therapeutic benefits. Thus, developing alternative therapeutic strategies to effectively block the TGF-β/Smad signaling could be of paramount importance for DKD treatment. Emerging evidence indicates that dysregulation of certain lncRNAs can lead to aberrant activation of TGF-β/Smad signaling. Herein, we identified a novel lncRNA, named DANCR, which could efficiently function as a negative regulator of TGF-β/Smad signaling in mesangial cells. Ectopic expression of DANCR could specifically block the activation of TGF-β/Smad signaling induced by high-glucose or TGF-β in human renal mesangial cells (HRMCs). Mechanistically, DANCR functions to stabilize nemo-like kinase (NLK) mRNA through interaction with insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA-binding protein 2 (IGF2BP2), resulting in enhanced phosphorylating on the linker region of activated Smad2/3 in the nucleus. Taken together, our data have uncovered an lncRNA-based regulatory modality of the TGF-β/Smad signaling and identified DANCR as an endogenous blocker of TGF-β/Smad signaling in HRMCs, which may represent a potential therapeutic target against the diabetic glomerulosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Liu
- Department of Nephrology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yiling Cao
- Department of Nephrology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chun Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hua Su
- Department of Nephrology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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9
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Yu T, Zeng Q, Mao H, Liu Y, Zhang H, Wang S, Hu C, Xu X. Grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) NLK2 inhibits IFN I response through blocking MAVS-IRF3 axis. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 131:206-217. [PMID: 36220536 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2022.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
In mammals, nemo-like kinase 2 (NLK2) is a conservative protein kinase involved in Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and immune response. However, the role of NLK2 in immune response in teleost remain unclear. In this study, we identified an ortholog of mammalian NLK from grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus) named CiNLK2. CiNLK2 shares a high level of homology with the counterparts, especially with that of Cyprinus carpio. CiNLK2 was ubiquitously expressed in all tested tissues (liver, brain, spleen, gill, kidney and eye) and its expression was up-regulated under the treatment with poly I:C or GCRV. Overexpression of CiNLK2 suppressed the production of IFN I in CIK cells whether or not treated with poly I:C. However, knockdown of CiNLK2 increased the expression level of IFN I. The analysis of subcellular localization showed that CiNLK2 protein was scattered throughout the cytoplasm and nucleus. In terms of mechanism, CiNLK2 can directly interact with MAVS and inhibit MAVS-induced IFN I response. Moreover, CiNLK2 increased the phosphorylation level of MAVS, which led to the degradation of MAVS protein. On the other hand, CiNLK2 suppressed the phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of IRF3. In general, CiNLK2 served as an inhibitor for IFN I response by targeting MAVS-IRF3 signal axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Yu
- School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330031, Jiangxi, China
| | - Qing Zeng
- School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330031, Jiangxi, China
| | - Huiling Mao
- School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330031, Jiangxi, China.
| | - Yulong Liu
- School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330031, Jiangxi, China
| | - Hongying Zhang
- School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330031, Jiangxi, China
| | - Shanghong Wang
- School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330031, Jiangxi, China
| | - Chengyu Hu
- School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330031, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xiaowen Xu
- School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330031, Jiangxi, China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Interdisciplinary Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330031, Jiangxi, China.
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10
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Yuan S, Wang Q, Li J, Xue JC, Li Y, Meng H, Hou XT, Nan JX, Zhang QG. Inflammatory bowel disease: an overview of Chinese herbal medicine formula-based treatment. Chin Med 2022; 17:74. [PMID: 35717380 PMCID: PMC9206260 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-022-00633-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic recurrent inflammatory disease of the intestine, including Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), whose etiology and pathogenesis have not been fully understood. Due to its prolonged course and chronic recurrence, IBD imposes a heavy economic burden and psychological stress on patients. Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine has unique advantages in IBD treatment because of its symptomatic treatment. However, the advantages of the Chinese Herbal Medicine Formula (CHMF) have rarely been discussed. In recent years, many scholars have conducted fundamental studies on CHMF to delay IBD from different perspectives and found that CHMF may help maintain intestinal integrity, reduce inflammation, and decrease oxidative stress, thus playing a positive role in the treatment of IBD. Therefore, this review focuses on the mechanisms associated with CHMF in IBD treatment. CHMF has apparent advantages. In addition to the exact composition and controlled quality of modern drugs, it also has multi-component and multi-target synergistic effects. CHMF has good prospects in the treatment of IBD, but its multi-agent composition and wide range of targets exacerbate the difficulty of studying its treatment of IBD. Future research on CHMF-related mechanisms is needed to achieve better efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, 133002 Jilin China
- Present Address: Chronic Disease Research Center, Medical College, Dalian University, Dalian, 116622 Liaoning China
| | - Qi Wang
- Present Address: Chronic Disease Research Center, Medical College, Dalian University, Dalian, 116622 Liaoning China
| | - Jiao Li
- Present Address: Chronic Disease Research Center, Medical College, Dalian University, Dalian, 116622 Liaoning China
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, Yanbian University College of Basic Medicine, Yanji, 133002 Jilin China
| | - Jia-Chen Xue
- Present Address: Chronic Disease Research Center, Medical College, Dalian University, Dalian, 116622 Liaoning China
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, Yanbian University College of Basic Medicine, Yanji, 133002 Jilin China
| | - You Li
- Present Address: Chronic Disease Research Center, Medical College, Dalian University, Dalian, 116622 Liaoning China
| | - Huan Meng
- Present Address: Chronic Disease Research Center, Medical College, Dalian University, Dalian, 116622 Liaoning China
| | - Xiao-Ting Hou
- Present Address: Chronic Disease Research Center, Medical College, Dalian University, Dalian, 116622 Liaoning China
| | - Ji-Xing Nan
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, 133002 Jilin China
| | - Qing-Gao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines of the Changbai Mountain, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, 133002 Jilin China
- Present Address: Chronic Disease Research Center, Medical College, Dalian University, Dalian, 116622 Liaoning China
- Department of Immunology and Pathogenic Biology, Yanbian University College of Basic Medicine, Yanji, 133002 Jilin China
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11
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Dong T, Tejwani L, Jung Y, Kokubu H, Luttik K, Driessen TM, Lim J. Microglia regulate brain progranulin levels through the endocytosis/lysosomal pathway. JCI Insight 2021; 6:e136147. [PMID: 34618685 PMCID: PMC8663778 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.136147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic variants in Granulin (GRN), which encodes the secreted glycoprotein progranulin (PGRN), are associated with several neurodegenerative diseases, including frontotemporal lobar degeneration, neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis, and Alzheimer's disease. These genetic alterations manifest in pathological changes due to a reduction of PGRN expression; therefore, identifying factors that can modulate PGRN levels in vivo would enhance our understanding of PGRN in neurodegeneration and could reveal novel potential therapeutic targets. Here, we report that modulation of the endocytosis/lysosomal pathway via reduction of Nemo-like kinase (Nlk) in microglia, but not in neurons, can alter total brain Pgrn levels in mice. We demonstrate that Nlk reduction promotes Pgrn degradation by enhancing its trafficking through the endocytosis/lysosomal pathway, specifically in microglia. Furthermore, genetic interaction studies in mice showed that Nlk heterozygosity in Grn haploinsufficient mice further reduces Pgrn levels and induces neuropathological phenotypes associated with PGRN deficiency. Our results reveal a mechanism for Pgrn level regulation in the brain through the active catabolism by microglia and provide insights into the pathophysiology of PGRN-associated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Dong
- Department of Genetics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Leon Tejwani
- Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Neuroscience
| | - Youngseob Jung
- Department of Genetics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Hiroshi Kokubu
- Department of Genetics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Kimberly Luttik
- Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Neuroscience
| | - Terri M. Driessen
- Department of Genetics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Janghoo Lim
- Department of Genetics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Neuroscience
- Program in Cellular Neuroscience, Neurodegeneration and Repair, and
- Yale Stem Cell Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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12
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The Interaction between microRNAs and the Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway in Osteoarthritis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22189887. [PMID: 34576049 PMCID: PMC8470786 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22189887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic disease affecting the whole joint, which still lacks a disease-modifying treatment. This suggests an incomplete understanding of underlying molecular mechanisms. The Wnt/β-catenin pathway is involved in different pathophysiological processes of OA. Interestingly, both excessive stimulation and suppression of this pathway can contribute to the pathogenesis of OA. microRNAs have been shown to regulate different cellular processes in different diseases, including the metabolic activity of chondrocytes and osteocytes. To bridge these findings, here we attempt to give a conclusive overview of microRNA regulation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in bone and cartilage, which may provide insights to advance the development of miRNA-based therapeutics for OA treatment.
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13
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Chen Z, Cao Y, Huang J, Tan Y, Wei J, Xiao J, Zou J, Feng H. NLK suppresses MAVS-mediated signaling in black carp antiviral innate immunity. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2021; 122:104105. [PMID: 33872658 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2021.104105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian Nemo-like kinase (NLK) plays important roles in multiple biological processes including immune response; however, the roles of teleost NLK remain largely unknown. In the present study, the NLK homolog (bcNLK) of black carp (Mylopharyngodon piceus) has been cloned and characterized. The coding region of bcNLK consists of 1427 nucleotides and encodes 476 amino acid, including two low complexity region (LCR) domains at the N-terminus and a serine/threonine protein kinase catalytic (S-TKc) domain in the middle region. The transcription of bcNLK are promoted after spring viremia of carp virus (SVCV) infection and poly (I:C) stimulation in host cells, but not post LPS treatment. bcNLK exhibits weak impact on the transcription of interferon (IFN) promoter in the reporter assay, however, black carp MAVS (bcMAVS)-mediated IFN promoter transcription is remarkably dampened by bcNLK. The interaction between bcNLK and bcMAVS is detected through the co-immunoprecipitation assay. Accordingly, the plaque assay results show that bcMAVS-mediated antiviral ability is impaired by bcNLK. Moreover, knockdown of bcNLK in host cells leads to the enhanced antiviral ability against SVCV. All these data support the conclusion that black carp NLK associates with MAVS and inhibited MAVS-mediated antiviral signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoyuan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Yingyi Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Jiayi Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Yaqi Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Jing Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China
| | - Jun Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China; College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China.
| | - Jun Zou
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Hao Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Science, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, China.
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14
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Reis AH, Sokol SY. Rspo2 inhibits TCF3 phosphorylation to antagonize Wnt signaling during vertebrate anteroposterior axis specification. Sci Rep 2021; 11:13433. [PMID: 34183732 PMCID: PMC8239024 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-92824-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The Wnt pathway activates target genes by controlling the β-catenin-T-cell factor (TCF) transcriptional complex during embryonic development and cancer. This pathway can be potentiated by R-spondins, a family of proteins that bind RNF43/ZNRF3 E3 ubiquitin ligases and LGR4/5 receptors to prevent Frizzled degradation. Here we demonstrate that, during Xenopus anteroposterior axis specification, Rspo2 functions as a Wnt antagonist, both morphologically and at the level of gene targets and pathway mediators. Unexpectedly, the binding to RNF43/ZNRF3 and LGR4/5 was not required for the Wnt inhibitory activity. Moreover, Rspo2 did not influence Dishevelled phosphorylation in response to Wnt ligands, suggesting that Frizzled activity is not affected. Further analysis indicated that the Wnt antagonism is due to the inhibitory effect of Rspo2 on TCF3/TCF7L1 phosphorylation that normally leads to target gene activation. Consistent with this mechanism, Rspo2 anteriorizing activity has been rescued in TCF3-depleted embryos. These observations suggest that Rspo2 is a context-specific regulator of TCF3 phosphorylation and Wnt signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice H Reis
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA.
| | - Sergei Y Sokol
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA.
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15
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Ji YX, Wang Y, Li PL, Cai L, Wang XM, Bai L, Liu Z, Tian H, Tian S, Zhang P, Zhang XJ, Cheng X, Yuan Y, She ZG, Hu Y, Li H. A kinome screen reveals that Nemo-like kinase is a key suppressor of hepatic gluconeogenesis. Cell Metab 2021; 33:1171-1186.e9. [PMID: 33951476 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2021.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2019] [Revised: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Antihyperglycemic therapy is an important priority for the treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Excessive hepatic glucose production (HGP) is a major cause of fasting hyperglycemia. Therefore, a better understanding of its regulation would be important to develop effective antihyperglycemic therapies. Using a gluconeogenesis-targeted kinome screening approach combined with transcriptome analyses, we uncovered Nemo-like kinase (NLK) as a potent suppressor of HGP. Mechanistically, NLK phosphorylates and promotes nuclear export of CRTC2 and FOXO1, two key regulators of hepatic gluconeogenesis, resulting in the proteasome-dependent degradation of the former and the inhibition of the self-transcriptional activity and expression of the latter. Importantly, the expression of NLK is downregulated in the liver of individuals with diabetes and in diabetic rodent models and restoring NLK expression in the mouse model ameliorates hyperglycemia. Therefore, our findings uncover NLK as a critical player in the gluconeogenic regulatory network and as a potential therapeutic target for T2D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Xiao Ji
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Institute of Model Animal of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Medical Science Research Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
| | - Yutao Wang
- Institute of Model Animal of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Peng-Long Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Institute of Model Animal of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Lin Cai
- Institute of Model Animal of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Medical Science Research Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiao-Ming Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Institute of Model Animal of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Lan Bai
- Institute of Model Animal of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhen Liu
- Institute of Model Animal of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Han Tian
- Institute of Model Animal of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Song Tian
- Institute of Model Animal of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Institute of Model Animal of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiao-Jing Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Institute of Model Animal of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xu Cheng
- Institute of Model Animal of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yufeng Yuan
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Clinical Medicine Research Center for Minimally Invasive Procedure of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases of Hubei Province, Hubei, PR China
| | - Zhi-Gang She
- Institute of Model Animal of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
| | - Yufeng Hu
- Institute of Model Animal of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Medical Science Research Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
| | - Hongliang Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Institute of Model Animal of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Medical Science Research Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
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16
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The phosphorylation of the Smad2/3 linker region by nemo-like kinase regulates TGF-β signaling. J Biol Chem 2021; 296:100512. [PMID: 33676893 PMCID: PMC8047224 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.100512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Smad2 and Smad3 (Smad2/3) are structurally similar proteins that primarily mediate the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling responsible for driving cell proliferation, differentiation, and migration. The dynamics of the Smad2/3 phosphorylation provide the key mechanism for regulating the TGF-β signaling pathway, but the details surrounding this phosphorylation remain unclear. Here, using in vitro kinase assay coupled with mass spectrometry, we identified for the first time that nemo-like kinase (NLK) regulates TGF-β signaling via modulation of Smad2/3 phosphorylation in the linker region. TGF-β-mediated transcriptional and cellular responses are suppressed by NLK overexpression, whereas NLK depletion exerts opposite effects. Specifically, we discovered that NLK associates with Smad3 and phosphorylates the designated serine residues located in the linker region of Smad2 and Smad3, which inhibits phosphorylation at the C terminus, thereby decreasing the duration of TGF-β signaling. Overall, this work demonstrates that phosphorylation on the linker region of Smad2/3 by NLK counteracts the canonical phosphorylation in response to TGF-β signals, thus providing new insight into the mechanisms governing TGF-β signaling transduction.
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17
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Daams R, Massoumi R. Nemo-Like Kinase in Development and Diseases: Insights from Mouse Studies. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21239203. [PMID: 33276680 PMCID: PMC7731171 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21239203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Wnt signalling pathway is a central communication cascade between cells to orchestrate polarity and fate during development and adult tissue homeostasis in various organisms. This pathway can be regulated by different signalling molecules in several steps. One of the coordinators in this pathway is Nemo-like kinase (NLK), which is an atypical proline-directed serine/threonine mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase. Very recently, NLK was established as an essential regulator in different cellular processes and abnormal NLK expression was highlighted to affect the development and progression of various diseases. In this review, we focused on the recent discoveries by using NLK-deficient mice, which show a phenotype in the development and function of organs such as the lung, heart and skeleton. Furthermore, NLK could conduct the function and differentiation of cells from the immune system, in addition to regulating neurodegenerative diseases, such as Huntington's disease and spinocerebellar ataxias. Overall, generations of NLK-deficient mice have taught us valuable lessons about the role of this kinase in certain diseases and development.
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18
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Lei L, Wang Y, Zheng YW, Fei LR, Shen HY, Li ZH, Huang WJ, Yu JH, Xu HT. Overexpression of Nemo-like Kinase Promotes the Proliferation and Invasion of Lung Cancer Cells and Indicates Poor Prognosis. Curr Cancer Drug Targets 2020; 19:674-680. [PMID: 30451112 DOI: 10.2174/1568009618666181119150521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2018] [Revised: 11/03/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nemo-like kinase (NLK) is an evolutionarily conserved MAP kinaserelated kinase involved in the pathogenesis of several human cancers. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate the expression and role of NLK in lung cancers, and its underlying mechanisms. METHODS We examined the expression of NLK in lung cancer tissues through western blot analysis. We enhanced or knocked down NLK expression by gene transfection or RNA interference, respectively, in lung cancer cells, and examined expression alterations of key proteins in the Wnt signaling pathway and in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). We also examined the roles of NLK in the proliferation and invasiveness of lung cancer cells by cell proliferation, colony formation, and Matrigel invasion assays. RESULTS NLK expression was found to be significantly higher in lung cancer tissue samples than in corresponding healthy lung tissue samples. Overexpression of NLK correlated with poor prognosis of patients with lung cancer. Overexpression of NLK upregulated β-catenin, TCF4, and Wnt target genes such as cyclin D1, c-Myc, and MMP7. N-cadherin and TWIST, the key proteins in EMT, were upregulated, while E-cadherin expression was reduced. Additionally, proliferation, colony formation, and invasion turned out to be enhanced in NLK-overexpressing cells. After NLK knockdown in lung cancer cells, we obtained the opposite results. CONCLUSION NLK is overexpressed in lung cancers and indicates poor prognosis. Overexpression of NLK activates the Wnt signaling pathway and EMT and promotes the proliferation and invasiveness of lung cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Lei
- Department of Pathology, The First Hospital and College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Yuan Wang
- Department of Pathology, The First Hospital and College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Yi-Wen Zheng
- Department of Pathology, The First Hospital and College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Liang-Ru Fei
- Department of Pathology, The First Hospital and College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Hao-Yue Shen
- 100K80B, Clinical Medicine of Seven-year Programme, China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Zhi-Han Li
- Department of Pathology, The First Hospital and College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Wen-Jing Huang
- Department of Pathology, The First Hospital and College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Juan-Han Yu
- Department of Pathology, The First Hospital and College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Hong-Tao Xu
- Department of Pathology, The First Hospital and College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
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19
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Sun H, Zhou Z, Dong Y, Yang A, Jiang J. Insights into the DNA methylation of sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus in response to skin ulceration syndrome infection. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 104:155-164. [PMID: 32502611 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2020.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2019] [Revised: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/02/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
DNA methylation is an important epigenetic modification that regulates gene expression in many biological processes, including immune response. In this study, whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) was carried out on healthy body wall (HB) and skin ulceration syndrome (SUS) infected body wall (SFB) to gain insights into the epigenetic regulatory mechanism in sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus. After comparison, a total of 116,522 differentially methylated regions (DMRs) were obtained including 67,269 hyper-methylated and 49,253 hypo-methylated DMRs (p < 0.05, FDR < 0.001). GO enrichment analysis indicated that regulation of DNA-templated transcription (GO: 0006355), where DNA methylation occurred, was the most significant term in the biology process. The integration of methylome and transcriptome analysis revealed that 10,499 DMRs were negatively correlated with 496 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis showed that these DEGs were enriched in the phosphoinositide 3-kinase-protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway. Interestingly, two serine/threonine-protein kinases, nemo-like kinase (NLK) and mTOR, were highlighted after functional analysis. The variations of methylation in these two genes were associated with SUS infection and immune regulation. They regulated gene expression at different levels and showed interaction during response process. The validation of methylation sites showed high consistency between pyrosequencing and WGBS. WGBS analysis not only revealed the changes of DNA methylation, but also presented important information about the regulation of key genes after SUS infection in A. japonicus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongjuan Sun
- Liaoning Key Lab of Marine Fishery Molecular Biology, Liaoning Ocean and Fisheries Science Research Institute, Dalian, Liaoning 116023, PR China
| | - Zunchun Zhou
- Liaoning Key Lab of Marine Fishery Molecular Biology, Liaoning Ocean and Fisheries Science Research Institute, Dalian, Liaoning 116023, PR China.
| | - Ying Dong
- Liaoning Key Lab of Marine Fishery Molecular Biology, Liaoning Ocean and Fisheries Science Research Institute, Dalian, Liaoning 116023, PR China
| | - Aifu Yang
- Liaoning Key Lab of Marine Fishery Molecular Biology, Liaoning Ocean and Fisheries Science Research Institute, Dalian, Liaoning 116023, PR China
| | - Jingwei Jiang
- Liaoning Key Lab of Marine Fishery Molecular Biology, Liaoning Ocean and Fisheries Science Research Institute, Dalian, Liaoning 116023, PR China
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20
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Ma D, Gao X, Liu Z, Lu X, Ju H, Zhang N. Exosome-transferred long non-coding RNA ASMTL-AS1 contributes to malignant phenotypes in residual hepatocellular carcinoma after insufficient radiofrequency ablation. Cell Prolif 2020; 53:e12795. [PMID: 32722884 PMCID: PMC7507479 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.12795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerging RNA regulators in cancer progression, including in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Recently, insufficient radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has been reported to lead to recurrence and metastasis of residual HCC tumours. Herein, we aimed to the role of ASMTL‐AS1 in residual HCC after insufficient RFA. Materials and methods In vitro insufficient RFA model was simulated in Huh7 cells and subsequently named Huh7‐H cells. In vitro and in vivo assays were conducted to investigate ASMTL‐AS1 function in HCC. Results LncRNA ASMTL‐AS1 low expressed in normal human liver was found to be highly expressed in HCC tissues and further increased in tumours after insufficient RFA. ASMTL‐AS1 expression was related to stage, metastasis and prognosis in HCC. Huh7‐H possessed higher ASMTL‐AS1 level and more aggressive than Huh7 cells. ASMTL‐AS1 contributed to the malignancy of HCC cells both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, ASMTL‐AS1 was trans‐activated by MYC and promoted NLK expression to activate YAP signalling via sequestering miR‐342‐3p in HCC. Interestingly, ASMTL‐AS1 could be wrapped by exosomes and then convey malignancy through NLK/YAP axis between cells even in residual HCC after insufficient RFA. Conclusions Exosomal ASMTL‐AS1 aggravates the malignancy in residual HCC after insufficient RFA via miR‐342‐3p/NLK/YAP signalling, opening a new road for the treatment of HCC and the prevention of recurrence or metastasis of residual HCC after insufficient RFA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dening Ma
- Institute of Cancer and Basic Medicine (ICBM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Banshan East Road, Hangzhou, 310022, China.,Department of Colorectal Surgery, Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Science, 1 Banshan East Road, Hangzhou, 310022, China.,Department of Colorectal Surgery, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, 1 Banshan East Road, Hangzhou, 310022, China
| | - Xinyi Gao
- Institute of Cancer and Basic Medicine (ICBM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Banshan East Road, Hangzhou, 310022, China.,Department of Radiology, Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Banshan East Road, Hangzhou, 310022, China.,Department of Radiology, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, 1 Banshan East Road, Hangzhou, 310022, China
| | - Zhuo Liu
- Institute of Cancer and Basic Medicine (ICBM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Banshan East Road, Hangzhou, 310022, China.,Department of Colorectal Surgery, Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Science, 1 Banshan East Road, Hangzhou, 310022, China.,Department of Colorectal Surgery, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, 1 Banshan East Road, Hangzhou, 310022, China
| | - Xingang Lu
- Institute of Cancer and Basic Medicine (ICBM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Banshan East Road, Hangzhou, 310022, China.,Department of Colorectal Surgery, Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Science, 1 Banshan East Road, Hangzhou, 310022, China.,Department of Colorectal Surgery, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, 1 Banshan East Road, Hangzhou, 310022, China
| | - Haixing Ju
- Institute of Cancer and Basic Medicine (ICBM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Banshan East Road, Hangzhou, 310022, China.,Department of Colorectal Surgery, Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Science, 1 Banshan East Road, Hangzhou, 310022, China.,Department of Colorectal Surgery, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, 1 Banshan East Road, Hangzhou, 310022, China
| | - Ning Zhang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Cancer Hospital, 270 Dong-An Road, Shanghai, 200032, China
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21
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Wilkes MC, Siva K, Chen J, Varetti G, Youn MY, Chae H, Ek F, Olsson R, Lundbäck T, Dever DP, Nishimura T, Narla A, Glader B, Nakauchi H, Porteus MH, Repellin CE, Gazda HT, Lin S, Serrano M, Flygare J, Sakamoto KM. Diamond Blackfan anemia is mediated by hyperactive Nemo-like kinase. Nat Commun 2020; 11:3344. [PMID: 32620751 PMCID: PMC7334220 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-17100-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Diamond Blackfan Anemia (DBA) is a congenital bone marrow failure syndrome associated with ribosomal gene mutations that lead to ribosomal insufficiency. DBA is characterized by anemia, congenital anomalies, and cancer predisposition. Treatment for DBA is associated with significant morbidity. Here, we report the identification of Nemo-like kinase (NLK) as a potential target for DBA therapy. To identify new DBA targets, we screen for small molecules that increase erythroid expansion in mouse models of DBA. This screen identified a compound that inhibits NLK. Chemical and genetic inhibition of NLK increases erythroid expansion in mouse and human progenitors, including bone marrow cells from DBA patients. In DBA models and patient samples, aberrant NLK activation is initiated at the Megakaryocyte/Erythroid Progenitor (MEP) stage of differentiation and is not observed in non-erythroid hematopoietic lineages or healthy erythroblasts. We propose that NLK mediates aberrant erythropoiesis in DBA and is a potential target for therapy. Diamond Blackfan Anemia (DBA) is a congenital bone marrow failure syndrome that is associated with anemia. Here, the authors examine the role of Nemo-like kinase (NLK) in erythroid cells in the pathogenesis of DBA and as a potential target for therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- M C Wilkes
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - K Siva
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Gene Therapy, Lund Stem Cell Center, Lund University, Lund, 22184, Sweden
| | - J Chen
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Gene Therapy, Lund Stem Cell Center, Lund University, Lund, 22184, Sweden
| | - G Varetti
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), Barcelona, 08028, Spain.,Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, 08028, Spain.,Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Barcelona, 08028, Spain
| | - M Y Youn
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - H Chae
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - F Ek
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Group, Department of Medical Science, Lund University, Lund, 22184, Sweden
| | - R Olsson
- Chemical Biology and Therapeutics Group, Department of Medical Science, Lund University, Lund, 22184, Sweden
| | - T Lundbäck
- Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden (CBCS), Science for Life Laboratory, Department for Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, 17177, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - D P Dever
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - T Nishimura
- Department of Genetics, Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - A Narla
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - B Glader
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - H Nakauchi
- Department of Genetics, Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.,Division of Stem Cell Therapy, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan
| | - M H Porteus
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - C E Repellin
- Biosciences Division, SRI International, Menlo Park, CA, 94025, USA
| | - H T Gazda
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA.,Division of Genetics and Genomics, Manton Center for Orphan Disease Research, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - S Lin
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Development Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - M Serrano
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), Barcelona, 08028, Spain.,Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, 08028, Spain.,Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Barcelona, 08028, Spain
| | - J Flygare
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Gene Therapy, Lund Stem Cell Center, Lund University, Lund, 22184, Sweden
| | - K M Sakamoto
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.
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22
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Abe K, Shimada A, Tayama S, Nishikawa H, Kaneko T, Tsuda S, Karaiwa A, Matsui T, Ishitani T, Takeda H. Horizontal Boundary Cells, a Special Group of Somitic Cells, Play Crucial Roles in the Formation of Dorsoventral Compartments in Teleost Somite. Cell Rep 2020; 27:928-939.e4. [PMID: 30995487 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.03.068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Revised: 01/27/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Establishment of robust gene expression boundary is crucial for creating elaborate morphology during development. However, mechanisms underlying boundary formation have been extensively studied only in a few model systems. We examined the establishment of zic1/zic4-expression boundary demarcating dorsoventral boundary of the entire trunk of medaka fish (Oryzias latipes) and identified a subgroup of dermomyotomal cells called horizontal boundary cells (HBCs) as crucial players for the boundary formation. Embryological and genetic analyses demonstrated that HBCs play crucial roles in the two major events of the process, i.e., refinement and maintenance. In the refinement, HBCs could serve as a chemical barrier against Wnts from the neural tube by expressing Hhip. At later stages, HBCs participate in the maintenance of the boundary by differentiating into the horizontal myoseptum physically inhibiting cell mixing across the boundary. These findings reveal the mechanisms underlying the dorsoventral boundary in the teleost trunk by specialized boundary cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kota Abe
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan; Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Regulation, Gunma University, 3-39-15 Showa-machi, Maebashi 371-8512, Japan
| | - Atsuko Shimada
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Sayaka Tayama
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Hotaka Nishikawa
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Takuya Kaneko
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Sachiko Tsuda
- Division of Life Science, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Saitama University, 255 Shimo-Okubo, Sakura-ku, Saitama City, Saitama 338-8570, Japan; Saitama University Brain Science Institute, 255 Shimo-Okubo, Sakura-ku, Saitama City, Saitama 338-8570, Japan; Research and Development Bureau, Saitama University, 255 Shimo-Okubo, Sakura-ku, Saitama City, Saitama 338-8570, Japan
| | - Akari Karaiwa
- Gene Regulation Research, Division of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5 Takayama-cho, Ikoma, Nara 630-0192, Japan
| | - Takaaki Matsui
- Gene Regulation Research, Division of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5 Takayama-cho, Ikoma, Nara 630-0192, Japan
| | - Tohru Ishitani
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Regulation, Gunma University, 3-39-15 Showa-machi, Maebashi 371-8512, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Takeda
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan.
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23
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Wang HX, Pan W, Zheng L, Zhong XP, Tan L, Liang Z, He J, Feng P, Zhao Y, Qiu YR. Thymic Epithelial Cells Contribute to Thymopoiesis and T Cell Development. Front Immunol 2020; 10:3099. [PMID: 32082299 PMCID: PMC7005006 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.03099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The thymus is the primary lymphoid organ responsible for the generation and maturation of T cells. Thymic epithelial cells (TECs) account for the majority of thymic stromal components. They are further divided into cortical and medullary TECs based on their localization within the thymus and are involved in positive and negative selection, respectively. Establishment of self-tolerance in the thymus depends on promiscuous gene expression (pGE) of tissue-restricted antigens (TRAs) by TECs. Such pGE is co-controlled by the autoimmune regulator (Aire) and forebrain embryonic zinc fingerlike protein 2 (Fezf2). Over the past two decades, research has found that TECs contribute greatly to thymopoiesis and T cell development. In turn, signals from T cells regulate the differentiation and maturation of TECs. Several signaling pathways essential for the development and maturation of TECs have been discovered. New technology and animal models have provided important observations on TEC differentiation, development, and thymopoiesis. In this review, we will discuss recent advances in classification, development, and maintenance of TECs and mechanisms that control TEC functions during thymic involution and central tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Xia Wang
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wenrong Pan
- Department of General Surgery, Taihe Branch of Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lei Zheng
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Ping Zhong
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Liang Tan
- Department of Urological Organ Transplantation, Center of Organ Transplantation, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhanfeng Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jing He
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Pingfeng Feng
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yong Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Rong Qiu
- Laboratory Medicine Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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24
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Young RM, Ewan KB, Ferrer VP, Allende ML, Godovac-Zimmermann J, Dale TC, Wilson SW. Developmentally regulated Tcf7l2 splice variants mediate transcriptional repressor functions during eye formation. eLife 2019; 8:e51447. [PMID: 31829936 PMCID: PMC6908431 DOI: 10.7554/elife.51447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Tcf7l2 mediates Wnt/β-Catenin signalling during development and is implicated in cancer and type-2 diabetes. The mechanisms by which Tcf7l2 and Wnt/β-Catenin signalling elicit such a diversity of biological outcomes are poorly understood. Here, we study the function of zebrafish tcf7l2alternative splice variants and show that only variants that include exon five or an analogous human tcf7l2 variant can effectively provide compensatory repressor function to restore eye formation in embryos lacking tcf7l1a/tcf7l1b function. Knockdown of exon five specific tcf7l2 variants in tcf7l1a mutants also compromises eye formation, and these variants can effectively repress Wnt pathway activity in reporter assays using Wnt target gene promoters. We show that the repressive activities of exon5-coded variants are likely explained by their interaction with Tle co-repressors. Furthermore, phosphorylated residues in Tcf7l2 coded exon5 facilitate repressor activity. Our studies suggest that developmentally regulated splicing of tcf7l2 can influence the transcriptional output of the Wnt pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo M Young
- Department of Cell and Developmental BiologyUCLLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Kenneth B Ewan
- School of Bioscience, Cardiff UniversityCardiffUnited Kingdom
| | | | - Miguel L Allende
- FONDAP Center for Genome Regulation, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de ChileSantiagoChile
| | | | - Trevor C Dale
- School of Bioscience, Cardiff UniversityCardiffUnited Kingdom
| | - Stephen W Wilson
- Department of Cell and Developmental BiologyUCLLondonUnited Kingdom
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25
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Decreased expression of nemo-like kinase in melanoma is correlated with increased vascularity and metastasis. Melanoma Res 2019; 29:376-381. [DOI: 10.1097/cmr.0000000000000576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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26
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Liu Z, Zhong Y, Chen YJ, Chen H. SOX11 regulates apoptosis and cell cycle in hepatocellular carcinoma via Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Biotechnol Appl Biochem 2018; 66:240-246. [PMID: 30517979 DOI: 10.1002/bab.1718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 12/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of liver cancer with high mortality. Identifying key molecules involved in the regulation of HCC development is of great clinical significance. SOX11 is a transcription factor belonging to group C of Sry-related high mobility group box family whose abnormal expression is frequently seen in many kinds of human cancers. Here, we noted that the expression of SOX11 was decreased in human HCC tumors compared with that in matched normal tissues. Overexpression of SOX11 promoted growth inhibition and apoptosis in HCC cell line HuH-7. Mechanistically, SOX11 enhanced the expression of nemo-like kinase and the phosphorylation of TCF4, thereby blunting the activation of oncogenic Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in HuH-7 cells. Finally, SOX11 was also found to sensitize HuH-7 cells to chemotherapy drugs cisplatin and 5-fluorouraci. Therefore, our study identifies SOX11 as a potential tumor suppressor in HCC and may hopefully be beneficial for the clinical diagnosis or treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Hepatobiliary, Pancreatic and Intestinal Disease, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Zhong
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Hepatobiliary, Pancreatic and Intestinal Disease, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Jian Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Hepatobiliary, Pancreatic and Intestinal Disease, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Hepatobiliary, Pancreatic and Intestinal Disease, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, People's Republic of China
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27
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Peng Y, Zhang X, Lin H, Deng S, Huang Y, Qin Y, Feng X, Yan R, Zhao Y, Cheng Y, Wei Y, Wang J, Chen W, Fan X, Ashktorab H, Smoot D, Meltzer SJ, Li S, Zhang Z, Jin Z. Inhibition of miR‑194 suppresses the Wnt/β‑catenin signalling pathway in gastric cancer. Oncol Rep 2018; 40:3323-3334. [PMID: 30542715 PMCID: PMC6196585 DOI: 10.3892/or.2018.6773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
A mounting body of evidence has revealed that microRNAs (miRs) serve pivotal roles in various developmental processes, and in tumourigenesis, by binding to target genes and subsequently regulating gene expression. Continued activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signalling is positively associated with human malignancy. In addition, miR-194 dysregulation has been implicated in gastric cancer (GC); however, the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of miR-194 on GC carcinogenesis remain to be elucidated. The present study demonstrated that miR-194 was upregulated in GC tissues and SUFU negative regulator of Ηedgehog signaling (SUFU) was downregulated in GC cell lines. Subsequently, inhibition of miR-194 attenuated nuclear accumulation of β-catenin, which consequently blocked Wnt/β-catenin signalling. In addition, the cytoplasmic translocation of β-catenin induced by miR-194 inhibition was mediated by SUFU. Furthermore, genes associated with the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway were revealed to be downregulated following inhibition of the Wnt signalling pathway by miR-194 suppression. Finally, the results indicated that cell apoptosis was markedly increased in response to miR-194 inhibition, strongly suggesting the carcinogenic effects of miR-194 in GC. Taken together, these findings demonstrated that miR-194 may promote gastric carcinogenesis through activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway, making it a potential therapeutic target for GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin Peng
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Genome Stability & Disease Prevention, Department of Pathology, The Shenzhen University School of Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518060, P.R. China
| | - Xiaojing Zhang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Genome Stability & Disease Prevention, Department of Pathology, The Shenzhen University School of Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518060, P.R. China
| | - Huijuan Lin
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, The Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510000, P.R. China
| | - Shiqi Deng
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Genome Stability & Disease Prevention, Department of Pathology, The Shenzhen University School of Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518060, P.R. China
| | - Yong Huang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Genome Stability & Disease Prevention, Department of Pathology, The Shenzhen University School of Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518060, P.R. China
| | - Ying Qin
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518000, P.R. China
| | - Xianling Feng
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Genome Stability & Disease Prevention, Department of Pathology, The Shenzhen University School of Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518060, P.R. China
| | - Ruibin Yan
- Laboratory of Chemical Genomics, The Shenzhen Graduate School of Peking University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, P.R. China
| | - Yanqiu Zhao
- Laboratory of Chemical Genomics, The Shenzhen Graduate School of Peking University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, P.R. China
| | - Yulan Cheng
- Department of Medicine/GI Division, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Yanjie Wei
- Center for High Performance Computing, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518000, P.R. China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, The Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510000, P.R. China
| | - Wangchun Chen
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Genome Stability & Disease Prevention, Department of Pathology, The Shenzhen University School of Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518060, P.R. China
| | - Xinmin Fan
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Genome Stability & Disease Prevention, Department of Pathology, The Shenzhen University School of Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518060, P.R. China
| | - Hassan Ashktorab
- Department of Medicine and Cancer Center, Howard University, College of Medicine, Washington, DC 20060, USA
| | - Duane Smoot
- Department of Medicine, Meharry Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37208, USA
| | - Stephen J Meltzer
- Department of Medicine/GI Division, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Song Li
- Laboratory of Chemical Genomics, The Shenzhen Graduate School of Peking University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, P.R. China
| | - Zhong Zhang
- Department of Pathology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, Liaoning 110034, P.R. China
| | - Zhe Jin
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Genome Stability & Disease Prevention, Department of Pathology, The Shenzhen University School of Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518060, P.R. China
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28
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Nie X, Liu Y, Chen WD, Wang YD. Interplay of miRNAs and Canonical Wnt Signaling Pathway in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:657. [PMID: 29977206 PMCID: PMC6021530 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 06/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the leading causes of cancer death worldwide and the activation of canonical Wnt signaling pathway is universal in hepatocellular carcinoma patients. MicroRNAs are found to participate in the pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma by activating or inhibiting components in the canonical Wnt signaling pathway. Meanwhile, transcriptional activation of microRNAs by canonical Wnt signaling pathway also contributes to the occurrence and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma. Pharmacological inhibition of hepatocellular carcinoma pathogenesis and other cancers by microRNAs are now in clinical trials despite the challenges of identifying efficient microRNAs candidates and safe delivery vehicles. The focus of this review is on the interplay mechanisms between microRNAs and canonical Wnt signaling pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma, and a deep understanding of the crosstalk will promote to develop a better management of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaobo Nie
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Yiran Liu
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, China.,Department of Pathology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wei-Dong Chen
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, China.,Key Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, School of Basic Medical Science, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Yan-Dong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
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29
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Li SZ, Zeng F, Li J, Shu QP, Zhang HH, Xu J, Ren JW, Zhang XD, Song XM, Du RL. Nemo-like kinase (NLK) primes colorectal cancer progression by releasing the E2F1 complex from HDAC1. Cancer Lett 2018; 431:43-53. [PMID: 29803790 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2018.05.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Revised: 05/19/2018] [Accepted: 05/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Control of E2F1 activity is restricted via its interactions with RB1 and HDAC1. However, the detailed regulatory mechanisms underlying the E2F1/HDAC1 complex remain elusive. Here, we report that Nemo-like kinase (NLK) boosts cell cycle progression, which facilitates tumor development by releasing the E2F1 protein from HDAC1. Deletion of NLK largely blocks colorectal tumor proliferation and development. Moreover, RNA-seq shows that cell cycle is arrested at the G1/S phase in NLK-deficient cells and that the expression of E2F complex-targeted genes are affected, whereas overexpression of NLK but not an NLK mutant restores the wild-type phenotype. Mechanistically, we show that NLK interacts with the E2F1 complex, leading to disassembly of the E2F1/HDAC1 complex and thus diminishing the ability of E2F1 to bind to target gene promoters. Our results indicate that NLK boosts cell proliferation and E2F1 activity and controls the cell cycle switch by releasing HDAC1 from the E2F1 complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shang-Ze Li
- Medical Science Research Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China.
| | - Feng Zeng
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430072, China
| | - Jun Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430072, China
| | - Qi-Peng Shu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430072, China
| | - Hui-Hui Zhang
- College of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China
| | - Jun Xu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430072, China
| | - Jian-Wei Ren
- Tibet University Medical College, Lasha, Tibet 850000, China
| | - Xiao-Dong Zhang
- Medical Science Research Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430072, China
| | - Xue-Min Song
- Research Centre of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China.
| | - Run-Lei Du
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430072, China.
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30
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Yang W, Gu L, Yang C, Liu T. Expression of Nemo-like kinase in cervical squamous cell carcinoma: a clinicopathological study. Onco Targets Ther 2018; 11:743-749. [PMID: 29445289 PMCID: PMC5810516 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s154188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Nemo-like kinase (NLK) has been reported to play different roles in tumors. However, the role of NLK in cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) remains unknown. In this study, we explored the clinical significance including survival of NLK protein expression in CSCCs. Patients and methods Immunohistochemical method was performed using tissues from 130 patients with CSCC. The associations between NLK expression and the clinicopathological factors and prognosis of CSCCs were evaluated. Statistical analyses were performed using the chi-square test, the multivariate Cox proportional hazard model, and the Kaplan–Meier method. Results Immunohistochemical staining analysis showed that NLK was localized predominately in the nucleus of the tumor cells, and increased NLK expression was detected in 71 (54.6%) of 130 patients. NLK overexpression significantly correlated with higher histological grade (P=0.001), vascular/lymphatic invasion (P=0.010), lymph node metastasis (P=0.012), and recurrence (P=0.022). Patients with elevated NLK expression had poorer overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) (P=0.006 and P=0.004, respectively) compared with patients with decreased NLK expression. Multivariate Cox analysis demonstrated that NLK overexpression was an independent factor for OS and DFS (P=0.034 and P=0.025, respectively). Conclusion NLK may be a valuable biomarker for predicting the prognosis of CSCC patients and may serve as a potential target for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weina Yang
- Department of Gynecology, the Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Lina Gu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Chang Yang
- Department of Gynecology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Tianbo Liu
- Department of Gynecology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
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31
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Liu Y, Xue W, Zhu L, Ye D, Zhu X, Wang H, Sun Y, Deng F. Nanog suppresses the expression of vasa by directly regulating nlk1 in the early zebrafish embryo. Biochimie 2017; 142:93-101. [PMID: 28760717 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2017.07.014] [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: 03/21/2017] [Accepted: 07/26/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Nanog is a homeodomain transcription factor that is essential for maintenance of pluripotency and self-renewal of embryonic stem cells (ESCs). In the present study, we demonstrate that zebrafish Nanog (zNanog) directly binds to the promoter region of zebrafish nlk1 (znlk1) by ChIP-Seq analysis and that it up-regulates the expression of znlk1 in fibroblast-like embryonic cells of Danio rerio (ZEM-2S cells) and in zebrafish embryos at 30% epiboly both at the mRNA and protein levels. In addition, compared with control (MO-C) embryos at 30% epiboly, the mRNA and protein expression of vasa and the numbers of vasa-positive cells were increased in embryos injected with zNanog morpholino (MO-zNanog). Further, injection of znlk1 mRNA into zNanog-depleted embryos restored the expression of vasa and the number of vasa-positive cells. These data indicated that zNanog up-regulates the expression of znlk1 through directly binding to the znlk1 promoter, thereby suppressing the expression of vasa. Vasa is a marker gene for PGCs. Our results suggest that zNanog plays a role in restraint of PGC cell number through regulating the expression of znlk1 in the early embryonic development. The current results provide fundamental information to support further investigation regarding the regulatory mechanism of zNanog during the development of PGCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanhua Liu
- The Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Developmental Biology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, Hubei, China
| | - Weiwei Xue
- The Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Developmental Biology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, Hubei, China
| | - Lin Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, Hubei, China
| | - Ding Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, Hubei, China
| | - Xiaoqin Zhu
- The Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Developmental Biology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, Hubei, China
| | - Huannan Wang
- The Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Developmental Biology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, Hubei, China
| | - Yonghua Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, Hubei, China
| | - Fengjiao Deng
- The Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Developmental Biology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, Hubei, China.
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Elevated levels of Wnt signaling disrupt thymus morphogenesis and function. Sci Rep 2017; 7:785. [PMID: 28400578 PMCID: PMC5429746 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-00842-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2017] [Accepted: 03/15/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
All vertebrates possess a thymus, whose epithelial microenvironment is essential for T cell development and maturation. Despite the importance of the thymus for cellular immune defense, many questions surrounding its morphogenesis remain unanswered. Here, we demonstrate that, in contrast to the situation in many other epithelial cell types, differentiation of thymic epithelial cells (TECs) proceeds normally in the absence of canonical Wnt signaling and the classical adhesion molecule E-cadherin. By contrast, TEC-intrinsic activation of β-catenin-dependent Wnt signaling blocks the morphogenesis of the thymus, and overexpression of a secreted Wnt ligand by TECs dominantly modifies the morphogenesis not only of the thymus, but also of the parathyroid and thyroid. These observations indicate that Wnt signaling activity in the thymus needs to be precisely controlled to support normal TEC differentiation, and suggest possible mechanisms underlying anatomical variations of the thymus, parathyroid and thyroid in humans.
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Wip1 directly dephosphorylates NLK and increases Wnt activity during germ cell development. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2017; 1863:1013-1022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2017.01.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2016] [Revised: 12/28/2016] [Accepted: 01/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Zolezzi JM, Inestrosa NC. Wnt/TLR Dialog in Neuroinflammation, Relevance in Alzheimer's Disease. Front Immunol 2017; 8:187. [PMID: 28286503 PMCID: PMC5323396 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.00187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2016] [Accepted: 02/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The innate immune system (IIS) represents the first line of defense against exogenous and endogenous harmful stimuli. Different types of pathogens and diverse molecules can activate the IIS via a ligand-receptor mechanism. Cytokine release, recruitment of immunocompetent cells, and inflammation constitute the initial steps in an IIS-mediated response. While balanced IIS activity can resolve a harmful event, an altered response, such as deficient or persistent IIS activity, will have a critical effect on organism homeostasis. In this regard, chronic IIS activation has been associated with a wide range of diseases, including chronic inflammatory disorders (inflammatory bowel disease, arthritis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, among others), cancer and, more recently, neurodegenerative disorders. The relevance of the immune response, particularly inflammation, in the context of neurodegeneration has motivated rigorous research focused on unveiling the mechanisms underlying this response. Knowledge regarding the molecular hallmarks of the innate immune response and understanding signaling pathway cross talk are critical for developing new therapeutic strategies aimed at modulating the neuroinflammatory response within the brain. In the present review, we discuss the IIS in the central nervous system, particularly the cross talk between the toll-like receptor-signaling cascade and the wingless-related MMTV integration site (Wnt) signaling pathway and its relevance in neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan M Zolezzi
- Centro de Envejecimiento y Regeneración (CARE-UC), Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Departamento de Biología Celular y Molecular, P. Universidad Católica de Chile , Santiago , Chile
| | - Nibaldo C Inestrosa
- Centro de Envejecimiento y Regeneración (CARE-UC), Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Departamento de Biología Celular y Molecular, P. Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile; Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing, Faculty of Medicine, School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Centro de Excelencia en Biomedicina de Magallanes (CEBIMA), Universidad de Magallanes, Punta Arenas, Chile
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Masuda T, Ishitani T. Context-dependent regulation of the β-catenin transcriptional complex supports diverse functions of Wnt/β-catenin signaling. J Biochem 2016; 161:9-17. [PMID: 28013224 DOI: 10.1093/jb/mvw072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2016] [Accepted: 09/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Wnt/β-catenin signaling is activated repeatedly during an animal's lifespan, and it controls gene expression through its essential nuclear effector, β-catenin, to regulate embryogenesis, organogenesis, and adult homeostasis. Although the β-catenin transcriptional complex has the ability to induce the expression of many genes to exert its diverse roles, it chooses and transactivates a specific gene set from among its numerous target genes depending on the context. For example, the β-catenin transcriptional complex stimulates the expression of cell cycle-related genes and consequent cell proliferation in neural progenitor cells, while it promotes the expression of neural differentiation-related genes in differentiating neurons. Recent studies using animal and cell culture models have gradually improved our understanding of the molecular basis underlying such context-dependent actions of the β-catenin transcriptional complex. Here, we describe eight mechanisms that support β-catenin-mediated context-dependent gene regulation, and their spatio-temporal regulation during vertebrate development. In addition, we discuss their contribution to the diverse functions of Wnt/β-catenin signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takamasa Masuda
- Division of Cell Regulation Systems, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-Ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Tohru Ishitani
- Division of Cell Regulation Systems, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-Ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
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He XY, Tan ZL, Mou Q, Liu FJ, Liu S, Yu CW, Zhu J, Lv LY, Zhang J, Wang S, Bao LM, Peng B, Zhao H, Zou L. microRNA-221 Enhances MYCN via Targeting Nemo-like Kinase and Functions as an Oncogene Related to Poor Prognosis in Neuroblastoma. Clin Cancer Res 2016; 23:2905-2918. [PMID: 28003306 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-16-1591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2016] [Revised: 11/04/2016] [Accepted: 12/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Purpose:MYCN is one of the most well-characterized genetic markers of neuroblastoma. However, the mechanisms as to how MYCN mediate neuroblastoma tumorigenesis are not fully clear. Increasing evidence has confirmed that the dysregulation of miRNAs is involved in MYCN-mediated neuroblastoma tumorigenesis, supporting their potential as therapeutic targets for neuroblastoma. Although miR-221 has been reported as one of the upregulated miRNAs, the interplay between miR-221 and MYCN-mediated neuroblastoma progression remains largely elusive.Experimental Design: The expression of miR-221 in the formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues from 31 confirmed patients with neuroblastoma was detected by locked nucleic acid-in situ hybridization and qRT-PCR. The correlation between miR-221 expression and clinical features in patients with neuroblastoma was assessed. The mechanisms as to how miR-221 regulate MYCN in neuroblastoma were addressed. The effect of miR-221 on cellular proliferation in neuroblastoma was determined both in vitro and in vivoResults: miR-221 was significantly upregulated in neuroblastoma tumor cells and tissues that overexpress MYCN, and high expression of miR-221 was positively associated with poor survival in patients with neuroblastoma. Nemo-like kinase (NLK) as a direct target of miR-221 in neuroblastoma was verified. In addition, overexpression of miR-221 decreased LEF1 phosphorylation but increased the expression of MYCN via targeting of NLK and further regulated cell cycle, particularly in S-phase, promoting the growth of neuroblastoma cells.Conclusions: This study provides a novel insight for miR-221 in the control of neuroblastoma cell proliferation and tumorigenesis, suggesting potentials of miR-221 as a prognosis marker and therapeutic target for patients with MYCN overexpressing neuroblastoma. Clin Cancer Res; 23(11); 2905-18. ©2016 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Yan He
- Center for Clinical Molecular Medicine, Children's Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Key Laboratory of Pediatrics in Chongqing, Chongqing International Science and Technology Cooperation Center for Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, China
| | - Zheng-Lan Tan
- Center for Clinical Molecular Medicine, Children's Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Key Laboratory of Pediatrics in Chongqing, Chongqing International Science and Technology Cooperation Center for Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, China
| | - Qin Mou
- Center for Clinical Molecular Medicine, Children's Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Key Laboratory of Pediatrics in Chongqing, Chongqing International Science and Technology Cooperation Center for Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, China
| | - Fang-Jie Liu
- Center for Clinical Molecular Medicine, Children's Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Key Laboratory of Pediatrics in Chongqing, Chongqing International Science and Technology Cooperation Center for Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, China
| | - Shan Liu
- Center for Clinical Molecular Medicine, Children's Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Key Laboratory of Pediatrics in Chongqing, Chongqing International Science and Technology Cooperation Center for Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, China
| | - Chao-Wen Yu
- Center for Clinical Molecular Medicine, Children's Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Key Laboratory of Pediatrics in Chongqing, Chongqing International Science and Technology Cooperation Center for Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, China
| | - Jin Zhu
- Department of Pathology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lin-Ya Lv
- Department of Oncological Surgery, Children's Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Oncological Surgery, Children's Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shan Wang
- Department of Oncological Surgery, Children's Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li-Ming Bao
- Center for Clinical Molecular Medicine, Children's Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Key Laboratory of Pediatrics in Chongqing, Chongqing International Science and Technology Cooperation Center for Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, China.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Geisel School of Medicine Dartmouth College, Lebanon, New Hampshire
| | - Bin Peng
- Department of Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hui Zhao
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Lin Zou
- Center for Clinical Molecular Medicine, Children's Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Key Laboratory of Pediatrics in Chongqing, Chongqing International Science and Technology Cooperation Center for Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing, China.
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Kumar R, Ciprianidis A, Theiß S, Steinbeißer H, Kaufmann LT. Nemo-like kinase 1 (Nlk1) and paraxial protocadherin (PAPC) cooperatively control Xenopus gastrulation through regulation of Wnt/planar cell polarity (PCP) signaling. Differentiation 2016; 93:27-38. [PMID: 27875771 DOI: 10.1016/j.diff.2016.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2016] [Revised: 09/23/2016] [Accepted: 10/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The Wnt/planar cell polarity (PCP) pathway directs cell migration during vertebrate gastrulation and is essential for proper embryonic development. Paraxial protocadherin (PAPC, Gene Symbol pcdh8.2) is an important activator of Wnt/PCP signaling during Xenopus gastrulation, but how PAPC activity is controlled is incompletely understood. Here we show that Nemo-like kinase 1 (Nlk1), an atypical mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase, physically associates with the C-terminus of PAPC. This interaction mutually stabilizes both proteins by inhibiting polyubiquitination. The Nlk1 mediated stabilization of PAPC is essential for Wnt/PCP signaling, tissue separation and gastrulation movements. We identified two conserved putative phosphorylation sites in the PAPC C-terminus that are critical for Nlk1 mediated PAPC stabilization and Wnt/PCP regulation. Intriguingly, the kinase activity of Nlk1 itself was not essential for its cooperation with PAPC, suggesting an indirect regulation for example by impeding a different kinase that promotes protein degradation. Overall these results outline a novel, kinase independent role of Nlk1, wherein Nlk1 regulates PAPC stabilization and thereby controls gastrulation movements and Wnt/PCP signaling during development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Kumar
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 366, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Anja Ciprianidis
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 366, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Susanne Theiß
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 366, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Herbert Steinbeißer
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 366, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Lilian T Kaufmann
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 366, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
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Nemo-Like Kinase (NLK) Is a Pathological Signaling Effector in the Mouse Heart. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0164897. [PMID: 27764156 PMCID: PMC5072578 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0164897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2016] [Accepted: 10/03/2016] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Nemo-like kinase (NLK) is an evolutionary conserved serine/threonine protein kinase implicated in development, proliferation and apoptosis regulation. Here we identified NLK as a gene product induced in the hearts of mice subjected to pressure overload or myocardial infarction injury, suggesting a potential regulatory role with pathological stimulation to this organ. To examine the potential functional consequences of increased NLK levels, cardiac-specific transgenic mice with inducible expression of this gene product were generated, as well as cardiac-specific Nlk gene-deleted mice. NLK transgenic mice demonstrated baseline cardiac hypertrophy, dilation, interstitial fibrosis, apoptosis and progression towards heart failure in response to two surgery-induced cardiac disease models. In contrast, cardiac-specific deletion of Nlk from the heart, achieved by crossing a Nlk-loxP allele containing mouse with either a mouse containing a β-myosin heavy chain promoter driven Cre transgene or a tamoxifen inducible α-myosin heavy chain promoter containing transgene driving a MerCreMer cDNA, protected the mice from cardiac dysfunction following pathological stimuli. Mechanistically, NLK interacted with multiple proteins including the transcription factor Stat1, which was significantly increased in the hearts of NLK transgenic mice. These results indicate that NLK is a pathological effector in the heart.
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Aminuddin A, Ng PY. Promising Druggable Target in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Wnt Signaling. Front Pharmacol 2016; 7:244. [PMID: 27570510 PMCID: PMC4982242 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2016.00244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2016] [Accepted: 07/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Canonical Wnt signaling pathway, also known as Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, is a crucial mechanism for cellular maintenance and development. It regulates cell cycle progression, apoptosis, proliferation, migration, and differentiation. Dysregulation of this pathway correlates with oncogenesis in various tissues including breast, colon, pancreatic as well as head and neck cancers. Furthermore, the canonical Wnt signaling pathway has also been described as one of the critical signaling pathways for regulation of normal stem cells as well as cancer cells with stem cell-like features, termed cancer stem cells (CSC). In this review, we will briefly describe the basic mechanisms of Wnt signaling pathway and its crucial roles in the normal regulation of cellular processes as well as in the development of cancer. Next, we will highlight the roles of canonical Wnt signaling pathway in the regulation of CSC properties namely self-renewal, differentiation, metastasis, and drug resistance abilities, particularly in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Finally, we will examine the findings of several recent studies which explore druggable targets in the canonical Wnt signaling pathway which could be valuable to improve the treatment outcome for head and neck cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amnani Aminuddin
- Drug Discovery and Development Research Group, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Pei Yuen Ng
- Drug Discovery and Development Research Group, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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40
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Yuan HX, Wang Z, Yu FX, Li F, Russell RC, Jewell JL, Guan KL. NLK phosphorylates Raptor to mediate stress-induced mTORC1 inhibition. Genes Dev 2016; 29:2362-76. [PMID: 26588989 PMCID: PMC4691891 DOI: 10.1101/gad.265116.115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Yuan et al. show that the Nemo-like kinase (NLK) phosphorylates Raptor on S863 to disrupt its interaction with the Rag GTPase, which is important for mTORC1 lysosomal recruitment. Cells with Nlk deletion or knock-in of the Raptor S863 phosphorylation mutants are defective in the rapid mTORC1 inhibition upon osmotic stress. The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a central cell growth controller and forms two distinct complexes: mTORC1 and mTORC2. mTORC1 integrates a wide range of upstream signals, both positive and negative, to regulate cell growth. Although mTORC1 activation by positive signals, such as growth factors and nutrients, has been extensively investigated, the mechanism of mTORC1 regulation by stress signals is less understood. In this study, we identified the Nemo-like kinase (NLK) as an mTORC1 regulator in mediating the osmotic and oxidative stress signals. NLK inhibits mTORC1 lysosomal localization and thereby suppresses mTORC1 activation. Mechanistically, NLK phosphorylates Raptor on S863 to disrupt its interaction with the Rag GTPase, which is important for mTORC1 lysosomal recruitment. Cells with Nlk deletion or knock-in of the Raptor S863 phosphorylation mutants are defective in the rapid mTORC1 inhibition upon osmotic stress. Our study reveals a function of NLK in stress-induced mTORC1 modulation and the underlying biochemical mechanism of NLK in mTORC1 inhibition in stress response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Xin Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine of Ministry of Education, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 20032, China; Department of Pharmacology and Moores Cancer Center, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, California 92130, USA
| | - Zhen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine of Ministry of Education, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 20032, China
| | - Fa-Xing Yu
- Children's Hospital, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 20032, China; Department of Pharmacology and Moores Cancer Center, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, California 92130, USA
| | - Fulong Li
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine of Ministry of Education, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 20032, China
| | - Ryan C Russell
- Department of Pharmacology and Moores Cancer Center, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, California 92130, USA
| | - Jenna L Jewell
- Department of Pharmacology and Moores Cancer Center, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, California 92130, USA
| | - Kun-Liang Guan
- Department of Pharmacology and Moores Cancer Center, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, California 92130, USA
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Zhang XW, Chen SY, Xue DW, Xu HH, Yang LH, Xu HT, Wang EH. Expression of Nemo-like kinase was increased and negatively correlated with the expression of TCF4 in lung cancers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CLINICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL PATHOLOGY 2015; 8:15086-15092. [PMID: 26823848 PMCID: PMC4713634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2015] [Accepted: 10/24/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Nemo-like kinase (NLK), as a mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK)-like kinase, is involved in the development of several human cancers. In this study, we explored the expression of NLK in lung squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and adenocarcinoma tissues, and investigated the associations among NLK, β-catenin, T-cell factor 4 (TCF4), and the clinicopathological factors of lung cancers. The expressions of NLK, β-catenin, TCF4 were examined in 109 cases of lung cancers using immunohistochemistry method. The expression of NLK was observed in the nuclei of lung cancer tissues, and was significantly higher in lung cancer tissues than that in corresponding normal lung tissues (t = 21.636, n = 109, P < 0.001). The high expression of NLK was found in 45 cases of lung SCCs (45/49, 91.84%), which was much more than that in adenocarcinomas (38/60, 63.33%) (P = 0.001). Furthermore, the high expression of NLK was negatively correlated with TCF4 expression and positively correlated with the membranous expression of β-catenin. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that the expression of NLK was localized in nucleus and significantly increased in lung cancers. The expression of NLK was negatively correlated with TCF4 expression and positively correlated with β-catenin membranous expression in lung cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiu-Wei Zhang
- Department of Pathology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyang, China
| | - Song-Yan Chen
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital and College of Basic Medical Sciences of China Medical UniversityShenyang 110001, China
| | - Dong-Wei Xue
- Department of Urinary Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyang, China
| | - Hui-Hui Xu
- Department of Pathology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyang, China
| | - Lian-He Yang
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital and College of Basic Medical Sciences of China Medical UniversityShenyang 110001, China
| | - Hong-Tao Xu
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital and College of Basic Medical Sciences of China Medical UniversityShenyang 110001, China
| | - En-Hua Wang
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital and College of Basic Medical Sciences of China Medical UniversityShenyang 110001, China
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Huang Y, Yang Y, He Y, Li J. The emerging role of Nemo-like kinase (NLK) in the regulation of cancers. Tumour Biol 2015; 36:9147-52. [DOI: 10.1007/s13277-015-4159-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2015] [Accepted: 09/24/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
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Zhang W, He J, Du Y, Gao XH, Liu Y, Liu QZ, Chang WJ, Cao GW, Fu CG. Upregulation of nemo-like kinase is an independent prognostic factor in colorectal cancer. World J Gastroenterol 2015; 21:8836-8847. [PMID: 26269673 PMCID: PMC4528026 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v21.i29.8836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2015] [Revised: 02/14/2015] [Accepted: 03/27/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To investigate the expression and oncogenic role of nemo-like kinase (NLK) in colorectal cancer.
METHODS: Expression of NLK protein was assessed by immunohistochemistry in tissue specimens from 56 cases of normal colorectal mucosa, 51 cases of colorectal adenoma, and 712 cases of colorectal cancer. In addition, NLK expression was knocked down using a lentivirus carrying NLK small hairpin RNA in colorectal cancer cells. Cell viability methylthiazoletetrazolium assays, colony formation assays, flow cytometry cell cycle assays, Transwell migration assays, and gene expression assays were performed to explore its role on proliferation and migration of colorectal cancer.
RESULTS: Expression of NLK protein progressively increased in tissues from the normal mucosa through adenoma to various stages of colorectal cancer. Overexpression of NLK protein was associated with advanced tumor-lymph node-metastasis stages, poor differentiation, lymph node and distant metastases, and a higher recurrence rate of colorectal cancer (P < 0.05). Multivariate analyses showed that NLK expression was an independent prognostic factor to predict overall survival (hazard ratio 2.57, 95% confidence interval: 1.66-3.98; P < 0.001) and disease-free survival (hazard ratio 1.96, 95% confidence interval: 1.40-2.74: P < 0.001) of colorectal cancer patients. Furthermore, knockdown of NLK expression in colorectal cancer cell lines reduced cell viability, colony formation, and migration, and arrested tumor cells at the G0/G1 phase of the cell cycle. At the gene level, knockdown of NLK expression inhibited matrix metalloproteinase-2 expression in colorectal cancer cells.
CONCLUSION: NLK overexpression is an independent prognostic factor in colorectal cancer and knockdown of NLK expression inhibits colorectal cancer progression and metastasis.
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Chen HW, Qiao HY, Li HC, Li ZF, Zhang HJ, Pei L, Liu HW, Jin L, Wang D, Li JL. Prognostic significance of Nemo-like kinase expression in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Tumour Biol 2015; 36:8447-53. [PMID: 26022162 DOI: 10.1007/s13277-015-3609-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2015] [Accepted: 05/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Nemo-like kinase (NLK) is an evolutionarily conserved serine/threonine protein kinase and belongs to the extracellular signal-regulated kinases/microtubule-associated protein kinase families (Erks/MAPKs). Previous studies have indicated that abnormal expressions of NLK played critical roles in various types of human cancers. Recent studies suggested that NLK expression was significantly upregulated in the hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) specimens. However, the clinical significance of NLK expression in HCC remains largely unknown. In this study, we focused on the clinical significance of NLK in HCC and found that high expression of NLK was significantly associated with Edmondson-Steiner grade (P = 0.002), tumor size (P = 0.022), and no. of tumor nodules (P < 0.001), and NLK was positively correlated with proliferation marker Ki-67 (P < 0.01). Univariate analysis suggested that NLK expression was associated with poor prognosis (P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis indicated that NLK expression was an independent prognostic indicator for HCC (P = 0.0370). In conclusion, NLK overexpression is associated with poor overall survival in patients with HCC, it might be an independent poor prognostic marker for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Wei Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Hospital of Qinhuangdao, No. 258 Wenhua Road, Qinhuangdao, 066000, China.
| | - Hong-Ying Qiao
- Department of Allergy, The First Hospital of Qinhuangdao, Qinhuangdao, China
| | - Hong-Chen Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Hospital of Qinhuangdao, No. 258 Wenhua Road, Qinhuangdao, 066000, China
| | - Zong-Feng Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Hospital of Qinhuangdao, No. 258 Wenhua Road, Qinhuangdao, 066000, China
| | - Hong-Juan Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Hospital of Qinhuangdao, No. 258 Wenhua Road, Qinhuangdao, 066000, China
| | - Liu Pei
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Hospital of Qinhuangdao, No. 258 Wenhua Road, Qinhuangdao, 066000, China
| | - Hong-Wei Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Hospital of Qinhuangdao, No. 258 Wenhua Road, Qinhuangdao, 066000, China
| | - Liang Jin
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Hospital of Qinhuangdao, No. 258 Wenhua Road, Qinhuangdao, 066000, China
| | - Dong Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Hospital of Qinhuangdao, No. 258 Wenhua Road, Qinhuangdao, 066000, China
| | - Jun-Liang Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Hospital of Qinhuangdao, No. 258 Wenhua Road, Qinhuangdao, 066000, China
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45
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Ohishi K, Toume K, Arai MA, Koyano T, Kowithayakorn T, Mizoguchi T, Itoh M, Ishibashi M. 9-Hydroxycanthin-6-one, a β-Carboline Alkaloid from Eurycoma longifolia, Is the First Wnt Signal Inhibitor through Activation of Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3β without Depending on Casein Kinase 1α. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2015; 78:1139-1146. [PMID: 25905468 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.5b00153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Wnt signaling regulates various processes such as cell proliferation, differentiation, and embryo development. However, numerous diseases have been attributed to the aberrant transduction of Wnt signaling. We screened a plant extract library targeting TCF/β-catenin transcriptional modulating activity with a cell-based luciferase assay. Activity-guided fractionation of the MeOH extract of the E. longifolia root led to the isolation of 9-hydroxycanthin-6-one (1). Compound 1 exhibited TCF/β-catenin inhibitory activity. Compound 1 decreased the expression of Wnt signal target genes, mitf and zic2a, in zebrafish embryos. Treatment of SW480 cells with 1 decreased β-catenin and increased phosphorylated β-catenin (Ser 33, 37, Tyr 41) protein levels. The degradation of β-catenin by 1 was suppressed by GSK3β-siRNA, while compound 1 decreased β-catenin even in the presence of CK1α-siRNA. These results suggest that 1 inhibits Wnt signaling through the activation of GSK3β independent of CK1α.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kensuke Ohishi
- †Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba 260-8675, Japan
| | - Kazufumi Toume
- †Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba 260-8675, Japan
| | - Midori A Arai
- †Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba 260-8675, Japan
| | - Takashi Koyano
- ‡Temko Corporation, 4-27-4 Honcho, Nakano, Tokyo 164-0012, Japan
| | | | - Takamasa Mizoguchi
- †Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba 260-8675, Japan
| | - Motoyuki Itoh
- †Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba 260-8675, Japan
| | - Masami Ishibashi
- †Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba 260-8675, Japan
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46
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Gabr H, Todor A, Dobra A, Kahveci T. Reachability Analysis in Probabilistic Biological Networks. IEEE/ACM TRANSACTIONS ON COMPUTATIONAL BIOLOGY AND BIOINFORMATICS 2015; 12:53-66. [PMID: 26357078 DOI: 10.1109/tcbb.2014.2343967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Extra-cellular molecules trigger a response inside the cell by initiating a signal at special membrane receptors (i.e., sources), which is then transmitted to reporters (i.e., targets) through various chains of interactions among proteins. Understanding whether such a signal can reach from membrane receptors to reporters is essential in studying the cell response to extra-cellular events. This problem is drastically complicated due to the unreliability of the interaction data. In this paper, we develop a novel method, called PReach (Probabilistic Reachability), that precisely computes the probability that a signal can reach from a given collection of receptors to a given collection of reporters when the underlying signaling network is uncertain. This is a very difficult computational problem with no known polynomial-time solution. PReach represents each uncertain interaction as a bi-variate polynomial. It transforms the reachability problem to a polynomial multiplication problem. We introduce novel polynomial collapsing operators that associate polynomial terms with possible paths between sources and targets as well as the cuts that separate sources from targets. These operators significantly shrink the number of polynomial terms and thus the running time. PReach has much better time complexity than the recent solutions for this problem. Our experimental results on real data sets demonstrate that this improvement leads to orders of magnitude of reduction in the running time over the most recent methods. Availability: All the data sets used, the software implemented and the alignments found in this paper are available at http://bioinformatics.cise.ufl.edu/PReach/.
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47
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Chen J, Han Y, Zhao X, Yang M, Liu B, Xi X, Xu X, Liang T, Xia L. Nemo‑like kinase expression predicts poor survival in colorectal cancer. Mol Med Rep 2014; 11:1181-7. [PMID: 25371216 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2014.2851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2013] [Accepted: 09/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Nemo‑like kinase (NLK), a serine/threonine protein kinase, was previously reported to be associated with tumor proliferation and invasion. The present study aimed to evaluate whether NLK participates in the tumorigenesis and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). NLK expression was examined using reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‑qPCR) and western blot analysis in 50 paired CRC tissues as well as immunohistochemical analysis of 406 cases of primary CRC tissues and paired non‑cancerous tissues. Correlations between NLK expression, the clinicopathological features of CRC patients and clinical outcome were then analyzed. NLK expression was found to be significantly higher in CRC tissues as well as associated with the depth of tumor invasion, lymph node metastasis, distant metastasis, histological differentiation, vascular invasion and advanced tumor stage. Patients with NLK‑positive tumors demonstrated higher rates of recurrence and mortality than patients with NLK‑negative tumors. Multivariate analyses revealed that NLK expression was an independent factor for overall survival [hazard ratio (HR)=0.035; 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.02‑0.19; P<0.001] and disease‑free survival (HR=0.033; 95% CI=0.007‑0.09; P<0.001) in CRC patients. In conclusion, the results of the present study indicated that NLK may serve as a novel biomarker for tumor recurrence and survival for CRC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingbo Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Qianfoshan Hospital of Shandong Province, Jinan, Shandong 250100, P.R. China
| | - Yunwei Han
- School of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250100, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoqian Zhao
- Department of Digestive Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250014, P.R. China
| | - Mingyu Yang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Qianfoshan Hospital of Shandong Province, Jinan, Shandong 250100, P.R. China
| | - Bo Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Qianfoshan Hospital of Shandong Province, Jinan, Shandong 250100, P.R. China
| | - Xiangpeng Xi
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Qianfoshan Hospital of Shandong Province, Jinan, Shandong 250100, P.R. China
| | - Xiaolin Xu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Qianfoshan Hospital of Shandong Province, Jinan, Shandong 250100, P.R. China
| | - Tiejun Liang
- Department of Digestive Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250014, P.R. China
| | - Lijian Xia
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Qianfoshan Hospital of Shandong Province, Jinan, Shandong 250100, P.R. China
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48
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Han W, Wang H. Regulation of canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway in the nucleus. CHINESE SCIENCE BULLETIN-CHINESE 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s11434-014-0489-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Saita S, Shirane M, Ishitani T, Shimizu N, Nakayama KI. Role of the ANKMY2-FKBP38 axis in regulation of the Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling pathway. J Biol Chem 2014; 289:25639-54. [PMID: 25077969 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m114.558635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Sonic hedgehog (Shh) is a secreted morphogen that controls the patterning and growth of various tissues in the developing vertebrate embryo, including the central nervous system. Ablation of the FK506-binding protein 38 (FKBP38) gene results in activation of the Shh signaling pathway in mouse embryos, but the molecular mechanism by which FKBP38 suppresses Shh signaling has remained unclear. With the use of a proteomics approach, we have now identified ANKMY2, a protein with three ankyrin repeats and a MYND (myeloid, Nervy, and DEAF-1)-type Zn(2+) finger domain, as a molecule that interacts with FKBP38. Co-immunoprecipitation analysis confirmed that endogenous FKBP38 and ANKMY2 interact in the mouse brain. Depletion or overexpression of ANKMY2 resulted in down- and up-regulation of Shh signaling, respectively, in mouse embryonic fibroblasts. Furthermore, combined depletion of both FKBP38 and ANKMY2 attenuated Shh signaling in these cells, suggesting that ANKMY2 acts downstream of FKBP38 to activate the Shh signaling pathway. Targeting of the zebrafish ortholog of mouse Ankmy2 (ankmy2a) in fish embryos with an antisense morpholino oligonucleotide conferred a phenotype reflecting loss of function of the Shh pathway, suggesting that the regulation of Shh signaling by ANKMY2 is conserved between mammals and fish. Our findings thus indicate that the FKBP38-ANKMY2 axis plays a key role in regulation of Shh signaling in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tohru Ishitani
- Division of Cell Regulation Systems, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Nobuyuki Shimizu
- Division of Cell Regulation Systems, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
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50
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Shen Q, Bae HJ, Eun JW, Kim HS, Park SJ, Shin WC, Lee EK, Park S, Park WS, Lee JY, Nam SW. MiR-101 functions as a tumor suppressor by directly targeting nemo-like kinase in liver cancer. Cancer Lett 2014; 344:204-211. [PMID: 24189458 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2013.10.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2013] [Revised: 10/25/2013] [Accepted: 10/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Nemo-like kinase (NLK), an evolutionarily conserved MAP kinase-related kinase, has been reported to be involved in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but the underlying mechanisms leading to oncogenic NLK are poorly understood. A comprehensive microRNA (miRNA) profiling analysis on human HCC tissues identified four downregulated miRNAs that may target NLK. Ectopic expression of miRNA mimics suggested that miR-101 could suppress NLK in HCC cells. Notably, ectopic miR-101 expression repressed cancer cell growth and proliferation and imitated NLK knockdown effect on HCC cells. In conclusion, we suggest that miR-101 functions as a tumor suppressor by regulating abnormal NLK activity in liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingyu Shen
- Lab of Oncogenomics, Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Functional RNomics Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Jin Bae
- Lab of Oncogenomics, Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Functional RNomics Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Woo Eun
- Lab of Oncogenomics, Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Functional RNomics Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung Seok Kim
- Lab of Oncogenomics, Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Functional RNomics Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Se Jin Park
- Lab of Oncogenomics, Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Functional RNomics Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Woo Chan Shin
- Lab of Oncogenomics, Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Functional RNomics Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Kyung Lee
- Cancer Evolution Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 137-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Soha Park
- Techno-Art Division, Underwood International College, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Sang Park
- Lab of Oncogenomics, Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Functional RNomics Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Young Lee
- Lab of Oncogenomics, Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Functional RNomics Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Suk Woo Nam
- Lab of Oncogenomics, Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Functional RNomics Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Cancer Evolution Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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