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Yuan R, Wang B, Wang Y, Liu P. Gene Therapy for Neurofibromatosis Type 2-Related Schwannomatosis: Recent Progress, Challenges, and Future Directions. Oncol Ther 2024:10.1007/s40487-024-00279-2. [PMID: 38760612 DOI: 10.1007/s40487-024-00279-2] [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: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2)-related schwannomatosis is a rare autosomal dominant monogenic disorder caused by mutations in the NF2 gene. The hallmarks of NF2-related schwannomatosis are bilateral vestibular schwannomas (VS). The current treatment options for NF2-related schwannomatosis, such as observation with serial imaging, surgery, radiotherapy, and pharmacotherapies, have shown limited effectiveness and serious complications. Therefore, there is a critical demand for novel effective treatments. Gene therapy, which has made significant advancements in treating genetic diseases, holds promise for the treatment of this disease. This review covers the genetic pathogenesis of NF2-related schwannomatosis, the latest progress in gene therapy strategies, current challenges, and future directions of gene therapy for NF2-related schwannomatosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruofei Yuan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 119 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China
| | - Bo Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 119 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Neural Reconstruction, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Pinan Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 119 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China.
- Department of Neural Reconstruction, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
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Pipchuk A, Kelly T, Carew M, Nicol C, Yang X. Development of Novel Bioluminescent Biosensors Monitoring the Conformation and Activity of the Merlin Tumour Suppressor. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1527. [PMID: 38338806 PMCID: PMC10855677 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Solid tumours can universally evade contact inhibition of proliferation (CIP), a mechanism halting cell proliferation when cell-cell contact occurs. Merlin, an ERM-like protein, crucially regulates CIP and is frequently deactivated in various cancers, indicating its significance as a tumour suppressor in cancer biology. Despite extensive investigations into Merlin's role in cancer, its lack of intrinsic catalytic activity and frequent conformation changes have made it notoriously challenging to study. To address this challenge, we harnessed innovative luciferase technologies to create and validate a NanoBiT split-luciferase biosensor system in which Merlin is cloned between two split components (LgBiT and SmBiT) of NanoLuc luciferase. This system enables precise quantification of Merlin's conformation and activity both in vitro and within living cells. This biosensor significantly enhances the study of Merlin's molecular functions, serving as a potent tool for exploring its contributions to CIP and tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Xiaolong Yang
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada; (A.P.); (T.K.); (M.C.); (C.N.)
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Alnefaie N, Almutairi OT, Alturki AY, Bafaquh M. Bibliometric analysis of the top 100 most-cited articles in neurofibromatosis. Surg Neurol Int 2022; 13:282. [PMID: 35855179 PMCID: PMC9282785 DOI: 10.25259/sni_114_2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background:
Neurofibromatosis (NF) is an umbrella term that refers to three distinct disease entities: NF Type 1, Type 2, and schwannomatosis. Here, we reviewed the scientific performance and the most influential publications on NF.
Methods:
A keyword-based search was performed using the Scopus database. The top 100 articles were grouped based on NF types and the studied entities. The differences between the articles, authors, and journals were quantified based on certain parameters. Other parameters were collected for the complete citational analysis.
Results:
The top 100 articles were published between 1961 and 2020. The most trending period of research was in the 1990s and articles studying the clinical aspect and the underlying genetic correlation made up 84% of all articles from the list. The United States of America (USA) had the highest number of contributions (69 articles, 69%). The top institute of contribution to the list was the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, USA (14 articles, 14%). Author-based analysis reveals that the neurologist D. H. Gutmann from St. Louis Children’s Hospital, USA, was the most active and authored 11 articles (11%) on the list.
Conclusion:
The publication trends show that articles studying medical and surgical management were of little interest. The top 100 articles did not include any randomized control trials, and the highest level of evidence was obtained from reviews of pooled knowledge as well as population-based and longitudinal studies.
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Perez-Becerril C, Evans DG, Smith MJ. Pathogenic noncoding variants in the neurofibromatosis and schwannomatosis predisposition genes. Hum Mutat 2021; 42:1187-1207. [PMID: 34273915 DOI: 10.1002/humu.24261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), type 2 (NF2), and schwannomatosis are a group of autosomal dominant disorders that predispose to the development of nerve sheath tumors. Pathogenic variants (PVs) that cause NF1 and NF2 are located in the NF1 and NF2 loci, respectively. To date, most variants associated with schwannomatosis have been identified in the SMARCB1 and LZTR1 genes, and a missense variant in the DGCR8 gene was recently reported to predispose to schwannomas. In spite of the high detection rate for PVs in NF1 and NF2 (over 90% of non-mosaic germline variants can be identified by routine genetic screening) underlying PVs for a proportion of clinical cases remain undetected. A higher proportion of non-NF2 schwannomatosis cases have no detected PV, with PVs currently only identified in around 70%-86% of familial cases and 30%-40% of non-NF2 sporadic schwannomatosis cases. A number of variants of uncertain significance have been observed for each disorder, many of them located in noncoding, regulatory, or intergenic regions. Here we summarize noncoding variants in this group of genes and discuss their established or potential role in the pathogenesis of NF1, NF2, and schwannomatosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Perez-Becerril
- Division of Evolution and Genomic Science, Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - D Gareth Evans
- Division of Evolution and Genomic Science, Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Miriam J Smith
- Division of Evolution and Genomic Science, Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Zhang F, Liu B, Gao Y, Long J, Zhou H. The crystal structure of the FERM and C-terminal domain complex of Drosophila Merlin. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2021; 553:92-98. [PMID: 33765559 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2021.03.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
NF2/Merlin is an upstream regulator of hippo pathway, and it has two states: an auto-inhibited "closed" state and an active "open" form. Previous studies showed that Drosophila Merlin adopts a more closed conformation. However, the molecular mechanism of conformational regulation remains poorly understood. Here, we first confirmed the strong interaction between FERM and the C-terminal domain (CTD) of Merlin, and then determined the crystal structure of the FERM/CTD complex, which reveals the structural basis of Merlin adopting a more closed conformation compared to its human cognate NF2. Interestingly, we found that the conserved lipid-binding site of Merlin might be masked by a linker. Confocal analyses confirmed that all putative lipid-binding site are very important for the membranal location of Merlin. More, we found that the phosphomimic Thr616Asp mutation weakens the interaction between FERM and CTD of Merlin. Collectively, the crystal structure of the FERM/CTD complex not only provides a mechanistic explanation of functionally dormant conformation of Merlin may also serve as a foundation for revealing the mechanism of conformational regulation of Merlin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fayou Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Protein Science, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Beibei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Protein Science, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Yaqi Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Protein Science, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Jiafu Long
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Protein Science, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin, 300071, China.
| | - Hao Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Protein Science, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin, 300071, China.
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Havranek B, Islam SM. Prediction and evaluation of deleterious and disease causing non-synonymous SNPs (nsSNPs) in human NF2 gene responsible for neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2). J Biomol Struct Dyn 2020; 39:7044-7055. [PMID: 32787631 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2020.1805018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The majority of genetic variations in the human genome that lead to variety of different diseases are caused by non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (nsSNPs). Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) is a deadly disease caused by nsSNPs in the NF2 gene that encodes for a protein called merlin. This study used various in silico methods, SIFT, Polyphen-2, PhD-SNP and MutPred, to investigate the pathogenic effect of 14 nsSNPs in the merlin FERM domain. The G197C and L234R mutations were found to be two deleterious and disease mutations associated with the mild and severe forms of NF2, respectively. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were conducted to understand the stability, structure and dynamics of these mutations. Both mutant structures experienced larger flexibility compared to the wildtype. The L234R mutant suffered from more prominent structural instability, which may help to explain why it is associated with the more severe form of NF2. The intramolecular hydrogen bonding in L234R mutation decreased from the wildtype, while intermolecular hydrogen bonding of L234R mutation with solvent greatly increased. The native contacts were also found to be important. Protein-protein docking revealed that L234R mutation decreased the binding complementarity and binding affinity of LATS2 to merlin, which may have an impact on merlin's ability to regulate the Hippo signaling pathway. The calculated binding affinity of the LATS2 to L234R mutant and wildtype merlin protein is found to be 21.73 and -11 kcal/mol, respectively. The binding affinity of the wildtype merlin agreed very well with the experimental value, -8 kcal/mol.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon Havranek
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Shahidul M Islam
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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Lyons Rimmer J, Ercolano E, Baiz D, Makhija M, Berger A, Sells T, Stroud S, Hilton D, Adams CL, Hanemann CO. The Potential of MLN3651 in Combination with Selumetinib as a Treatment for Merlin-Deficient Meningioma. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12071744. [PMID: 32629964 PMCID: PMC7407567 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12071744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Meningioma is the most common primary intracranial tumour, and surgical resection is the main therapeutic option. Merlin is a tumour suppressor protein that is frequently mutated in meningioma. The activity of the E3 ubiquitin ligase complex, CRL4-DCAF1, and the Raf/MEK/ERK scaffold protein Kinase suppressor of Ras 1 (KSR1) are upregulated in Merlin-deficient tumours, which drives tumour growth. Identifying small molecules that inhibit these key pathways may provide an effective treatment option for patients with meningioma. We used meningioma tissue and primary cells derived from meningioma tumours to investigate the expression of DDB1 and Cullin 4-associated factor 1 (DCAF1) and KSR1, and confirmed these proteins were overexpressed. We then used primary cells to assess the therapeutic potential of MLN3651, a neddylation inhibitor which impacts the activity of the CRL family of E3 ubiquitin ligases and the MAPK/ERK kinase (MEK1/2) inhibitor selumetinib. MLN3651 treatment reduced proliferation and activated apoptosis, whilst increasing Raf/MEK/ERK pathway activation. The combination of MLN3651 and the MEK1/2 inhibitor selumetinib prevented the increase in Raf/MEK/ERK activity, and had an additive effect compared with either treatment alone. Therefore, the combined targeting of CRL4-DCAF1 and Raf/MEK/ERK activity represents an attractive novel strategy in the treatment of Merlin-deficient meningioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jade Lyons Rimmer
- Peninsula Schools of Medicine and Dentistry, Institute of Translational and Stratified Medicine, Plymouth University, Plymouth PL68BU, UK; (J.L.R.); (E.E.); (D.B.); (C.L.A.)
| | - Emanuela Ercolano
- Peninsula Schools of Medicine and Dentistry, Institute of Translational and Stratified Medicine, Plymouth University, Plymouth PL68BU, UK; (J.L.R.); (E.E.); (D.B.); (C.L.A.)
| | - Daniele Baiz
- Peninsula Schools of Medicine and Dentistry, Institute of Translational and Stratified Medicine, Plymouth University, Plymouth PL68BU, UK; (J.L.R.); (E.E.); (D.B.); (C.L.A.)
| | | | - Allison Berger
- Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Inc. a Wholly Owned Subsidiary of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; (A.B.); (T.S.); (S.S.)
| | - Todd Sells
- Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Inc. a Wholly Owned Subsidiary of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; (A.B.); (T.S.); (S.S.)
| | - Steve Stroud
- Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Inc. a Wholly Owned Subsidiary of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; (A.B.); (T.S.); (S.S.)
| | - David Hilton
- Department of Histopathology, University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, Plymouth, Devon PL6 8DH, UK;
| | - Claire L. Adams
- Peninsula Schools of Medicine and Dentistry, Institute of Translational and Stratified Medicine, Plymouth University, Plymouth PL68BU, UK; (J.L.R.); (E.E.); (D.B.); (C.L.A.)
| | - C Oliver Hanemann
- Peninsula Schools of Medicine and Dentistry, Institute of Translational and Stratified Medicine, Plymouth University, Plymouth PL68BU, UK; (J.L.R.); (E.E.); (D.B.); (C.L.A.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-1752-437-418
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Michie KA, Bermeister A, Robertson NO, Goodchild SC, Curmi PMG. Two Sides of the Coin: Ezrin/Radixin/Moesin and Merlin Control Membrane Structure and Contact Inhibition. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20081996. [PMID: 31018575 PMCID: PMC6515277 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20081996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Revised: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 04/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The merlin-ERM (ezrin, radixin, moesin) family of proteins plays a central role in linking the cellular membranes to the cortical actin cytoskeleton. Merlin regulates contact inhibition and is an integral part of cell–cell junctions, while ERM proteins, ezrin, radixin and moesin, assist in the formation and maintenance of specialized plasma membrane structures and membrane vesicle structures. These two protein families share a common evolutionary history, having arisen and separated via gene duplication near the origin of metazoa. During approximately 0.5 billion years of evolution, the merlin and ERM family proteins have maintained both sequence and structural conservation to an extraordinary level. Comparing crystal structures of merlin-ERM proteins and their complexes, a picture emerges of the merlin-ERM proteins acting as switchable interaction hubs, assembling protein complexes on cellular membranes and linking them to the actin cytoskeleton. Given the high level of structural conservation between the merlin and ERM family proteins we speculate that they may function together.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine A Michie
- School of Physics, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia.
| | - Adam Bermeister
- School of Physics, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia.
| | - Neil O Robertson
- School of Physics, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia.
| | - Sophia C Goodchild
- Department of Molecular Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney 2109, Australia.
| | - Paul M G Curmi
- School of Physics, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia.
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Yu C, Zhang L, Luo D, Yan F, Liu J, Shao S, Zhao L, Jin T, Zhao J, Gao L. MicroRNA-146b-3p Promotes Cell Metastasis by Directly Targeting NF2 in Human Papillary Thyroid Cancer. Thyroid 2018; 28:1627-1641. [PMID: 30244634 PMCID: PMC6308293 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2017.0626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [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] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Background: MiR-146b has been reported to be overexpressed in papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) tissues and associated with aggressive PTC. MiR-146b is regarded as a relevant diagnostic marker for this type of cancer. MiR-146b-5p has been confirmed to increase cell proliferation by repressing SMAD4. However, detailed functional analysis of another mature form of miR-146b, miR-146b-3p, has not been carried out. This study aimed to identify the differential expression of miR-146b-5p and miR-146b-3p in more aggressive PTC associated with lymph node metastasis, and further elucidate the contribution and mechanism of miR-146b-3p in the process of PTC metastasis. Methods: Expression of miR-146b-5p and miR-146b-3p was assessed in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue samples from PTC patients, and the relationship with lymph node metastasis was analyzed. A variety of PTC cells, including BHP10-3, BHP10-3SCmice, and K1 cells, were cultured and treated with miR-146b-5p or miR-146b-3p mimics/inhibitors. The cell migration and invasion abilities were characterized by the real-time cell analyzer assay and Transwell™ assay. PTC xenograft models were used to examine the effect of miR-146b-3p on PTC metastatic ability in vivo. Direct downstream targets of miR-146b-3p were analyzed by luciferase reporter assay and Western blotting. The mechanism by which miR-146b-3p affects cell metastasis was further characterized by co-transfection with merlin, the protein product of the NF2 gene. Results: MiR-146b-5p and miR-146b-3p expression was significantly higher in thyroid cancer tissues and cell lines than in normal thyroid tissue and cells. Moreover, expression of miR-146b-5p and miR-146b-3p was further increased in thyroid metastatic nodes than in thyroid cancer. After overexpression of miR-146b-5p or miR-146b-3p in BHP10-3 or K1 cells, PTC migration and invasion were increased. Notably, miR-146b-3p increased cell migration and invasion more obviously than did miR-146b-5p. Overexpression of miR-146b-3p also significantly promoted PTC tumor metastasis in vivo. Luciferase reporter assay results revealed that NF2 is a downstream target of miR-146b-3p in PTC cells, as miR-146b-3p bound directly to the 3' untranslated region of NF2, thus reducing protein levels of NF2. Overexpression of merlin reversed the enhanced aggressive effects of miR-146b-3p. Conclusions: Overexpression of miR-146b-5p and miR-146b-3p is associated with PTC metastasis. MiR-146b-3p enhances cell invasion and metastasis more obviously than miR-146b-5p through the suppression of the NF2 gene. These findings suggest a potential diagnostic and therapeutic value of these miRNAs in PTC metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunxiao Yu
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated to Shandong University, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shandong Academy of Clinical Medicine, Shandong, P.R. China
- Address correspondence to: Chunxiao Yu, PhD, Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated to Shandong University, 324 Jing 5 Road, Jinan, Shandong 2500021, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated to Shandong University, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shandong Academy of Clinical Medicine, Shandong, P.R. China
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Third Hospital, Shandong, P.R. China
| | - Dandan Luo
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated to Shandong University, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shandong Academy of Clinical Medicine, Shandong, P.R. China
- School of Medicine, Shandong University, Shandong, P.R. China
| | - Fang Yan
- Department of Pain Management, Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated to Shandong University, Shandong, P.R. China
| | - Jia Liu
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated to Shandong University, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shandong Academy of Clinical Medicine, Shandong, P.R. China
| | - Shanshan Shao
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated to Shandong University, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shandong Academy of Clinical Medicine, Shandong, P.R. China
| | - Lifang Zhao
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated to Shandong University, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shandong Academy of Clinical Medicine, Shandong, P.R. China
| | - Tong Jin
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Shandong, P.R. China
| | - Jiajun Zhao
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated to Shandong University, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shandong Academy of Clinical Medicine, Shandong, P.R. China
| | - Ling Gao
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated to Shandong University, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shandong Academy of Clinical Medicine, Shandong, P.R. China
- Scientific Center, Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated to Shandong University, Shandong, P.R. China
- Ling Gao, PhD, MD, Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated to Shandong University, 324 Jing 5 Road, Jinan, Shandong 2500021, China
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Felley-Bosco E. Special Issue on Mechanisms of Mesothelioma Heterogeneity: Highlights and Open Questions. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19113560. [PMID: 30424481 PMCID: PMC6274972 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19113560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2018] [Revised: 11/04/2018] [Accepted: 11/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This editorial aims to synthesize the eleven papers that have contributed to this special issue, where the mechanisms of mesothelioma heterogeneity have been tackled from different angles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuela Felley-Bosco
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, University Hospital Zurich, Sternwartstrasse 14, 8091 Zürich, Switzerland.
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11
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Cerebrospinal Fluid Hyaluronan and Neurofibromatosis Type 2. CANCER MICROENVIRONMENT 2018; 11:125-133. [PMID: 30145722 DOI: 10.1007/s12307-018-0216-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2018] [Accepted: 08/15/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF-2) is associated with mainly three types of recurrent benign tumors restricted to the central nervous system: schwannoma, meningioma and ependymoma. The absence of the protein NF2/Merlin causes an uninterrupted cell proliferation cascade originating from an abnormal interaction between an extracellular mucopolysaccharide, hyaluronan (HA), and schwann cell surface CD44 receptor, which has been identified as one of the central causative factors for schwannoma. Most tumors in NF-2 have a predilection to originate from either arachnoid cap cells or schwann cells of the cisternal portion of nerve rootlets that share a continuous exposure to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). We hypothesize that the CSF HA may play a role in tumorigenesis in NF-2. In a prospective analysis over a period of one year, the levels of medium to low molecular weight HA (LMW HA) was estimated in the CSF of three subjects with central schwannomas and compared against that of age-sex matched controls, using Cetyltrimethylammonium bromide coupled turbidimetric assay and found to be seventeen-fold higher in the schwannoma subjects compared to the controls. HA was observed to be actively secreted by cultured schwannoma cells isolated from tumor tissues commensurate with their proliferation rate. On cell viability index analysis to compare the cell proliferation of astrocytoma cells with LMW HA vs. oligomeric HA (OHA), we found a decrease in cell proliferation of up to 30% with OHA. The study provides initial evidence that CSF HA may have a central role in the tumorigenesis of schwannoma in NF-2.
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Toledo A, Grieger E, Karram K, Morrison H, Baader SL. Neurofibromatosis type 2 tumor suppressor protein is expressed in oligodendrocytes and regulates cell proliferation and process formation. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0196726. [PMID: 29715273 PMCID: PMC5929554 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0196726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) tumor suppressor protein Merlin functions as a negative regulator of cell growth and actin dynamics in different cell types amongst which Schwann cells have been extensively studied. In contrast, the presence and the role of Merlin in oligodendrocytes, the myelin forming cells within the CNS, have not been elucidated. In this work, we demonstrate that Merlin immunoreactivity was broadly distributed in the white matter throughout the central nervous system. Following Merlin expression during development in the cerebellum, Merlin could be detected in the cerebellar white matter tract at early postnatal stages as shown by its co-localization with Olig2-positive cells as well as in adult brain sections where it was aligned with myelin basic protein containing fibers. This suggests that Merlin is expressed in immature and mature oligodendrocytes. Expression levels of Merlin were low in oligodendrocytes as compared to astrocytes and neurons throughout development. Expression of Merlin in oligodendroglia was further supported by its identification in either immortalized cell lines of oligodendroglial origin or in primary oligodendrocyte cultures. In these cultures, the two main splice variants of Nf2 could be detected. Merlin was localized in clusters within the nuclei and in the cytoplasm. Overexpressing Merlin in oligodendrocyte cell lines strengthened reduced impedance in XCELLigence measurements and Ki67 stainings in cultures over time. In addition, the initiation and elongation of cellular projections were reduced by Merlin overexpression. Consistently, cell migration was retarded in scratch assays done on Nf2-transfected oligodendrocyte cell lines. These data suggest that Merlin actively modulates process outgrowth and migration in oligodendrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Toledo
- Institute of Anatomy, Anatomy and Cell Biology, Bonn, Germany
- Laboratorio de Cultivo de Tejidos, Sección Biología Celular, Facultad de Ciencias, UdelaR, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Elena Grieger
- Institute of Anatomy, Anatomy and Cell Biology, Bonn, Germany
| | - Khalad Karram
- Institute for Molecular Medicine, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Helen Morrison
- Leibniz Institute for Age Research, Fritz Lipmann Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Stephan L. Baader
- Institute of Anatomy, Anatomy and Cell Biology, Bonn, Germany
- * E-mail:
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13
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Burns SS, Chang LS. Generation of Noninvasive, Quantifiable, Orthotopic Animal Models for NF2-Associated Schwannoma and Meningioma. Methods Mol Biol 2017; 1427:59-72. [PMID: 27259921 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-3615-1_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Schwannomas and meningiomas are nervous system tumors that can occur sporadically or in patients with neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2). Mutations of the Neurofibromatosis 2 (NF2) gene are frequently observed in these tumors. Schwannomas and meningiomas cause significant morbidities, and an FDA-approved medical therapy is currently not available. The development of preclinical animal models that accurately capture the clinical characteristics of these tumors will facilitate the evaluation of novel therapeutic agents for the treatment of these tumors, ultimately leading to more productive clinical trials. Here, we describe the generation of luciferase-expressing NF2-deficient schwannoma and meningioma cells and the use of these cells to establish orthotopic tumor models in immunodeficient mice. The growth of these tumors and their response to treatment can be measured effectively by bioluminescence imaging (BLI) and confirmed by small-animal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These and other animal models, such as genetically-engineered models, should substantially advance the investigation of promising therapies for schwannomas and meningiomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah S Burns
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, WA-5104, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH, 43205, USA
| | - Long-Sheng Chang
- Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, WA-5104, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH, 43205, USA. .,Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, 43205, USA. .,Department of Otolaryngology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA. .,Department of Biological Chemistry and Pharmacology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA. .,Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
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14
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Ruggieri M, Praticò AD, Serra A, Maiolino L, Cocuzza S, Di Mauro P, Licciardello L, Milone P, Privitera G, Belfiore G, Di Pietro M, Di Raimondo F, Romano A, Chiarenza A, Muglia M, Polizzi A, Evans DG. Childhood neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) and related disorders: from bench to bedside and biologically targeted therapies. ACTA OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGICA ITALICA 2017; 36:345-367. [PMID: 27958595 PMCID: PMC5225790 DOI: 10.14639/0392-100x-1093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2016] [Accepted: 04/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 2 [NF2; MIM # 101000] is an autosomal dominant disorder characterised by the occurrence of vestibular schwannomas (VSs), schwannomas of other cranial, spinal and cutaneous nerves, cranial and spinal meningiomas and/or other central nervous system (CNS) tumours (e.g., ependymomas, astrocytomas). Additional features include early onset cataracts, optic nerve sheath meningiomas, retinal hamartomas, dermal schwannomas (i.e., NF2-plaques), and (few) café-au-lait spots. Clinically, NF2 children fall into two main groups: (1) congenital NF2 - with bilateral VSs detected as early as the first days to months of life, which can be stable/asymptomatic for one-two decades and suddenly progress; and (2) severe pre-pubertal (Wishart type) NF2- with multiple (and rapidly progressive) CNS tumours other-than-VS, which usually present first, years before VSs [vs. the classical adult (Gardner type) NF2, with bilateral VSs presenting in young adulthood, sometimes as the only disease feature]. Some individuals can develop unilateral VS associated with ipsilateral meningiomas or multiple schwannomas localised to one part of the peripheral nervous system [i.e., mosaic NF2] or multiple non-VS, non-intradermal cranial, spinal and peripheral schwannomas (histologically proven) [schwannomatosis]. NF2 is caused by mutations in the NF2 gene at chromosome 22q12.1, which encodes for a protein called merlin or schwannomin, most similar to the exrin-readixin-moesin (ERM) proteins; mosaicNF2 is due to mosaic phenomena for the NF2 gene, whilst schwannomatosis is caused by coupled germ-line and mosaic mutations either in the SMARCB1 gene [SWNTS1; MIM # 162091] or the LZTR1 gene [SWNTS2; MIM # 615670] both falling within the 22q region and the NF2 gene. Data driven from in vitro and animal studies on the merlin pathway [e.g., post-translational and upstream/downstream regulation] allowed biologically targeted treatment strategies [e.g., Lapatinib, Erlotinib, Bevacizumab] aimed to multiple tumour shrinkage and/or regression and tumour arrest of progression with functional improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ruggieri
- Unit of Rare Diseases of the Nervous System in Childhood, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pediatrics and Child Neuropsychiatry, University of Catania, Italy
| | - A D Praticò
- Unit of Rare Diseases of the Nervous System in Childhood, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pediatrics and Child Neuropsychiatry, University of Catania, Italy.,Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Italy
| | - A Serra
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G. Ingrassia", Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Catania, Italy
| | - L Maiolino
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G. Ingrassia", Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Catania, Italy
| | - S Cocuzza
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G. Ingrassia", Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Catania, Italy
| | - P Di Mauro
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G. Ingrassia", Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Catania, Italy
| | - L Licciardello
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G. Ingrassia", Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Catania, Italy
| | - P Milone
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G. Ingrassia", Institute of Radiology, University of Catania, Italy
| | - G Privitera
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G. Ingrassia", Institute of Radiology, University of Catania, Italy
| | - G Belfiore
- Unit of Paediatric Radiology, AOU "Policlinico-Vittorio Emanuele", Catania, Italy
| | - M Di Pietro
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G. Ingrassia", Institute of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, Italy
| | - F Di Raimondo
- Division of Hematology, AOU "Policlinico-Vittorio Emanuele", University of Catania, Italy
| | - A Romano
- Division of Hematology, AOU "Policlinico-Vittorio Emanuele", University of Catania, Italy
| | - A Chiarenza
- Division of Hematology, AOU "Policlinico-Vittorio Emanuele", University of Catania, Italy
| | - M Muglia
- Unit of Genetics, Institute of Neurological Sciences, National Research Council, Piano Lago di Mangone, Italy
| | - A Polizzi
- National Centre for Rare Disease, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.,Institute of Neurological Sciences, National Research Council, Catania, Italy
| | - D G Evans
- Genomic Medicine, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Institute of Human Development, Central Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Royal Infirmary, Manchester, UK
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15
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Huang X, Schurman N, Handa K, Hakomori S. Functional role of glycosphingolipids in contact inhibition of growth in a human mammary epithelial cell line. FEBS Lett 2017; 591:1918-1928. [DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.12709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2017] [Revised: 05/22/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohua Huang
- Division of Biomembrane Research; Pacific Northwest Research Institute; Seattle WA USA
| | - Nathan Schurman
- Division of Biomembrane Research; Pacific Northwest Research Institute; Seattle WA USA
| | - Kazuko Handa
- Division of Biomembrane Research; Pacific Northwest Research Institute; Seattle WA USA
| | - Senitiroh Hakomori
- Division of Biomembrane Research; Pacific Northwest Research Institute; Seattle WA USA
- Department of Pathobiology and Global Health; University of Washington; Seattle WA USA
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16
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Abstract
Neurofibromatosis (NF) encompasses a group of distinct genetic disorders in which affected children and adults are prone to the development of benign and malignant tumors of the nervous system. The purpose of this review is to discuss the spectrum of CNS tumors arising in individuals with NF type 1 (NF1) and NF type 2 (NF2), their pathogenic etiologies, and the rational treatment options for people with these neoplasms. This article is a review of preclinical and clinical data focused on the treatment of the most common CNS tumors encountered in children and adults with NF1 and NF2. Although children with NF1 are at risk for developing low-grade gliomas of the optic pathway and brainstem, individuals with NF2 typically manifest low-grade tumors affecting the cranial nerves (vestibular schwannomas), meninges (meningiomas), and spinal cord (ependymomas). With the identification of the NF1 and NF2 genes, molecularly targeted therapies are beginning to emerge, as a result of a deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying NF1 and NF2 protein function. As we enter into an era of precision oncology, a more comprehensive awareness of the factors that increase the risk of developing CNS cancers in affected individuals, coupled with a greater appreciation of the cellular and molecular determinants that maintain tumor growth, will undoubtedly yield more effective therapies for these cancer predisposition syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Campian
- All authors: Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - David H Gutmann
- All authors: Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
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17
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Herraiz C, Garcia-Borron JC, Jiménez-Cervantes C, Olivares C. MC1R signaling. Intracellular partners and pathophysiological implications. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2017; 1863:2448-2461. [PMID: 28259754 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2017.02.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2016] [Revised: 01/11/2017] [Accepted: 02/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) preferentially expressed in melanocytes is best known as a key regulator of the synthesis of epidermal melanin pigments. Its paracrine stimulation by keratinocyte-derived melanocortins also activates DNA repair pathways and antioxidant defenses to build a complex, multifaceted photoprotective response. Many MC1R actions rely on cAMP-dependent activation of two transcription factors, MITF and PGC1α, but pleiotropic MC1R signaling also involves activation of mitogen-activated kinases and AKT. MC1R partners such as β-arrestins, PTEN and the E3 ubiquitin ligase MGRN1 differentially regulate these pathways. The MC1R gene is complex and polymorphic, with frequent variants associated with skin phenotypes and increased cancer risk. We review current knowledge of signaling from canonical MC1R, its splice isoforms and natural polymorphic variants. Recently discovered intracellular targets and partners are also discussed, to highlight the diversity of mechanisms that may contribute to normal and pathological variation of pigmentation and sensitivity to solar radiation-induced damage. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Melanocortin Receptors - edited by Ya-Xiong Tao.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Herraiz
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of Murcia and Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB), 30120 El Palmar, Murcia, Spain
| | - Jose C Garcia-Borron
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of Murcia and Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB), 30120 El Palmar, Murcia, Spain.
| | - Celia Jiménez-Cervantes
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of Murcia and Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB), 30120 El Palmar, Murcia, Spain
| | - Conchi Olivares
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of Murcia and Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB), 30120 El Palmar, Murcia, Spain
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18
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Morrow KA, Das S, Meng E, Menezes ME, Bailey SK, Metge BJ, Buchsbaum DJ, Samant RS, Shevde LA. Loss of tumor suppressor Merlin results in aberrant activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in cancer. Oncotarget 2017; 7:17991-8005. [PMID: 26908451 PMCID: PMC4951266 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.7494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2015] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The expression of the tumor suppressor Merlin is compromised in nervous system malignancies due to genomic aberrations. We demonstrated for the first time, that in breast cancer, Merlin protein expression is lost due to proteasome-mediated elimination. Immunohistochemical analysis of tumor tissues from patients with metastatic breast cancer revealed characteristically reduced Merlin expression. Importantly, we identified a functional role for Merlin in impeding breast tumor xenograft growth and reducing invasive characteristics. We sought to determine a possible mechanism by which Merlin accomplishes this reduction in malignant activity. We observed that breast and pancreatic cancer cells with loss of Merlin show an aberrant increase in the activity of β-catenin concomitant with nuclear localization of β-catenin. We discovered that Merlin physically interacts with β-catenin, alters the sub-cellular localization of β-catenin, and significantly reduces the protein levels of β-catenin by targeting it for degradation through the upregulation of Axin1. Consequently, restoration of Merlin inhibited β-catenin-mediated transcriptional activity in breast and pancreatic cancer cells. We also present evidence that loss of Merlin sensitizes tumor cells to inhibition by compounds that target β-catenin-mediated activity. Thus, this study provides compelling evidence that Merlin reduces the malignant activity of pancreatic and breast cancer, in part by suppressing the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Given the potent role of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in breast and pancreatic cancer and the flurry of activity to test β-catenin inhibitors in the clinic, our findings are opportune and provide evidence for Merlin in restraining aberrant activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Adam Morrow
- Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Shamik Das
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Erhong Meng
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | | | - Sarah K Bailey
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Brandon J Metge
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Donald J Buchsbaum
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.,Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Rajeev S Samant
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.,Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Lalita A Shevde
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.,Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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19
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Abstract
Over the past 150 years since Virchow's initial characterization of ependymoma, incredible efforts have been made in the classification of these tumors and in the care of pediatric patients with this disease. While the advent of modern neurosurgery and the optimization of radiation have provided significant gains, a more complex but incomplete picture of pediatric ependymomas has begun to form through a combination of international collaborations and detailed genetic and histologic characterizations. This review includes and synthesizes the clinical understanding of pediatric ependymoma and their developing molecular insight into what is truly a family of malignancies in which distinct members require different surgical approaches, radiation plans, and targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A Vitanza
- Division of Child Neurology, Department of Neurology, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Sonia Partap
- Division of Child Neurology, Department of Neurology, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
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20
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Matsuda T, Zhai P, Sciarretta S, Zhang Y, Jeong JI, Ikeda S, Park J, Hsu CP, Tian B, Pan D, Sadoshima J, Del Re DP. NF2 Activates Hippo Signaling and Promotes Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury in the Heart. Circ Res 2016; 119:596-606. [PMID: 27402866 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.116.308586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2016] [Accepted: 07/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE NF2 (neurofibromin 2) is an established tumor suppressor that promotes apoptosis and inhibits growth in a variety of cell types, yet its function in cardiomyocytes remains largely unknown. OBJECTIVE We sought to determine the role of NF2 in cardiomyocyte apoptosis and ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in the heart. METHODS AND RESULTS We investigated the function of NF2 in isolated cardiomyocytes and mouse myocardium at baseline and in response to oxidative stress. NF2 was activated in cardiomyocytes subjected to H2O2 and in murine hearts subjected to I/R. Increased NF2 expression promoted the activation of Mst1 (mammalian sterile 20-like kinase 1) and the inhibition of Yap (Yes-associated protein), whereas knockdown of NF2 attenuated these responses after oxidative stress. NF2 increased the apoptosis of cardiomyocytes that appeared dependent on Mst1 activity. Mice deficient for NF2 in cardiomyocytes, NF2 cardiomyocyte-specific knockout (CKO), were protected against global I/R ex vivo and showed improved cardiac functional recovery. Moreover, NF2 cardiomyocyte-specific knockout mice were protected against I/R injury in vivo and showed the upregulation of Yap target gene expression. Mechanistically, we observed nuclear association between NF2 and its activator MYPT-1 (myosin phosphatase target subunit 1) in cardiomyocytes, and a subpopulation of stress-induced nuclear Mst1 was diminished in NF2 CKO hearts. Finally, mice deficient for both NF2 and Yap failed to show protection against I/R indicating that Yap is an important target of NF2 in the adult heart. CONCLUSIONS NF2 is activated by oxidative stress in cardiomyocytes and mouse myocardium and facilitates apoptosis. NF2 promotes I/R injury through the activation of Mst1 and inhibition of Yap, thereby regulating Hippo signaling in the adult heart.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahisa Matsuda
- From the Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark (T.M., P.Z., Y.Z., J.I.J., S.I., J.S., D.P.D.R.); Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark (J.P., B.T.); Department of AngioCardioNeurology, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli (IS) (S.S.) and the Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Rome "Sapienza", Latina, Italy (S.S.); Department of Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taiwan (C.-P.H.); and Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Department of Physiology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX (D.P.)
| | - Peiyong Zhai
- From the Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark (T.M., P.Z., Y.Z., J.I.J., S.I., J.S., D.P.D.R.); Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark (J.P., B.T.); Department of AngioCardioNeurology, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli (IS) (S.S.) and the Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Rome "Sapienza", Latina, Italy (S.S.); Department of Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taiwan (C.-P.H.); and Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Department of Physiology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX (D.P.)
| | - Sebastiano Sciarretta
- From the Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark (T.M., P.Z., Y.Z., J.I.J., S.I., J.S., D.P.D.R.); Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark (J.P., B.T.); Department of AngioCardioNeurology, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli (IS) (S.S.) and the Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Rome "Sapienza", Latina, Italy (S.S.); Department of Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taiwan (C.-P.H.); and Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Department of Physiology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX (D.P.)
| | - Yu Zhang
- From the Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark (T.M., P.Z., Y.Z., J.I.J., S.I., J.S., D.P.D.R.); Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark (J.P., B.T.); Department of AngioCardioNeurology, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli (IS) (S.S.) and the Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Rome "Sapienza", Latina, Italy (S.S.); Department of Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taiwan (C.-P.H.); and Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Department of Physiology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX (D.P.)
| | - Jae Im Jeong
- From the Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark (T.M., P.Z., Y.Z., J.I.J., S.I., J.S., D.P.D.R.); Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark (J.P., B.T.); Department of AngioCardioNeurology, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli (IS) (S.S.) and the Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Rome "Sapienza", Latina, Italy (S.S.); Department of Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taiwan (C.-P.H.); and Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Department of Physiology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX (D.P.)
| | - Shohei Ikeda
- From the Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark (T.M., P.Z., Y.Z., J.I.J., S.I., J.S., D.P.D.R.); Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark (J.P., B.T.); Department of AngioCardioNeurology, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli (IS) (S.S.) and the Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Rome "Sapienza", Latina, Italy (S.S.); Department of Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taiwan (C.-P.H.); and Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Department of Physiology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX (D.P.)
| | - Jiyeon Park
- From the Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark (T.M., P.Z., Y.Z., J.I.J., S.I., J.S., D.P.D.R.); Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark (J.P., B.T.); Department of AngioCardioNeurology, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli (IS) (S.S.) and the Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Rome "Sapienza", Latina, Italy (S.S.); Department of Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taiwan (C.-P.H.); and Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Department of Physiology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX (D.P.)
| | - Chiao-Po Hsu
- From the Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark (T.M., P.Z., Y.Z., J.I.J., S.I., J.S., D.P.D.R.); Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark (J.P., B.T.); Department of AngioCardioNeurology, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli (IS) (S.S.) and the Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Rome "Sapienza", Latina, Italy (S.S.); Department of Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taiwan (C.-P.H.); and Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Department of Physiology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX (D.P.)
| | - Bin Tian
- From the Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark (T.M., P.Z., Y.Z., J.I.J., S.I., J.S., D.P.D.R.); Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark (J.P., B.T.); Department of AngioCardioNeurology, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli (IS) (S.S.) and the Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Rome "Sapienza", Latina, Italy (S.S.); Department of Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taiwan (C.-P.H.); and Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Department of Physiology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX (D.P.)
| | - Duojia Pan
- From the Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark (T.M., P.Z., Y.Z., J.I.J., S.I., J.S., D.P.D.R.); Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark (J.P., B.T.); Department of AngioCardioNeurology, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli (IS) (S.S.) and the Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Rome "Sapienza", Latina, Italy (S.S.); Department of Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taiwan (C.-P.H.); and Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Department of Physiology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX (D.P.)
| | - Junichi Sadoshima
- From the Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark (T.M., P.Z., Y.Z., J.I.J., S.I., J.S., D.P.D.R.); Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark (J.P., B.T.); Department of AngioCardioNeurology, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli (IS) (S.S.) and the Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Rome "Sapienza", Latina, Italy (S.S.); Department of Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taiwan (C.-P.H.); and Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Department of Physiology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX (D.P.)
| | - Dominic P Del Re
- From the Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark (T.M., P.Z., Y.Z., J.I.J., S.I., J.S., D.P.D.R.); Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark (J.P., B.T.); Department of AngioCardioNeurology, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli (IS) (S.S.) and the Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Rome "Sapienza", Latina, Italy (S.S.); Department of Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taiwan (C.-P.H.); and Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Department of Physiology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX (D.P.).
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21
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Sneddon S, Creaney J. BAP1 mutations in mesothelioma: advances and controversies. CURRENT PULMONOLOGY REPORTS 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s13665-016-0132-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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22
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Petrilli AM, Fernández-Valle C. Role of Merlin/NF2 inactivation in tumor biology. Oncogene 2016; 35:537-48. [PMID: 25893302 PMCID: PMC4615258 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2015.125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 253] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2014] [Revised: 02/20/2015] [Accepted: 03/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Merlin (Moesin-ezrin-radixin-like protein, also known as schwannomin) is a tumor suppressor protein encoded by the neurofibromatosis type 2 gene NF2. Loss of function mutations or deletions in NF2 cause neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2), a multiple tumor forming disease of the nervous system. NF2 is characterized by the development of bilateral vestibular schwannomas. Patients with NF2 can also develop schwannomas on other cranial and peripheral nerves, as well as meningiomas and ependymomas. The only potential treatment is surgery/radiosurgery, which often results in loss of function of the involved nerve. There is an urgent need for chemotherapies that slow or eliminate tumors and prevent their formation in NF2 patients. Interestingly NF2 mutations and merlin inactivation also occur in spontaneous schwannomas and meningiomas, as well as other types of cancer including mesothelioma, glioma multiforme, breast, colorectal, skin, clear cell renal cell carcinoma, hepatic and prostate cancer. Except for malignant mesotheliomas, the role of NF2 mutation or inactivation has not received much attention in cancer, and NF2 might be relevant for prognosis and future chemotherapeutic approaches. This review discusses the influence of merlin loss of function in NF2-related tumors and common human cancers. We also discuss the NF2 gene status and merlin signaling pathways affected in the different tumor types and the molecular mechanisms that lead to tumorigenesis, progression and pharmacological resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra M. Petrilli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL 32827, USA
| | - Cristina Fernández-Valle
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL 32827, USA
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23
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Garcia-Rendueles MER, Ricarte-Filho JC, Untch BR, Landa I, Knauf JA, Voza F, Smith VE, Ganly I, Taylor BS, Persaud Y, Oler G, Fang Y, Jhanwar SC, Viale A, Heguy A, Huberman KH, Giancotti F, Ghossein R, Fagin JA. NF2 Loss Promotes Oncogenic RAS-Induced Thyroid Cancers via YAP-Dependent Transactivation of RAS Proteins and Sensitizes Them to MEK Inhibition. Cancer Discov 2015; 5:1178-93. [PMID: 26359368 PMCID: PMC4642441 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-15-0330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2015] [Accepted: 09/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Ch22q LOH is preferentially associated with RAS mutations in papillary and in poorly differentiated thyroid cancer (PDTC). The 22q tumor suppressor NF2, encoding merlin, is implicated in this interaction because of its frequent loss of function in human thyroid cancer cell lines. Nf2 deletion or Hras mutation is insufficient for transformation, whereas their combined disruption leads to murine PDTC with increased MAPK signaling. Merlin loss induces RAS signaling in part through inactivation of Hippo, which activates a YAP-TEAD transcriptional program. We find that the three RAS genes are themselves YAP-TEAD1 transcriptional targets, providing a novel mechanism of promotion of RAS-induced tumorigenesis. Moreover, pharmacologic disruption of YAP-TEAD with verteporfin blocks RAS transcription and signaling and inhibits cell growth. The increased MAPK output generated by NF2 loss in RAS-mutant cancers may inform therapeutic strategies, as it generates greater dependency on the MAPK pathway for viability. SIGNIFICANCE Intensification of mutant RAS signaling through copy-number imbalances is commonly associated with transformation. We show that NF2/merlin inactivation augments mutant RAS signaling by promoting YAP/TEAD-driven transcription of oncogenic and wild-type RAS, resulting in greater MAPK output and increased sensitivity to MEK inhibitors.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Binding Sites
- Cell Cycle Proteins
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/genetics
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/metabolism
- Chromosome Deletion
- Chromosomes, Human, Pair 22
- DNA Copy Number Variations
- Disease Models, Animal
- Drug Resistance, Neoplasm/genetics
- Gene Deletion
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/drug effects
- Gene Order
- Gene Targeting
- Genes, ras
- Humans
- Mice
- Mice, Transgenic
- Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases/antagonists & inhibitors
- Models, Biological
- Neoplasm Staging
- Neurofibromin 2/genetics
- Nuclear Proteins/metabolism
- Nucleotide Motifs
- Position-Specific Scoring Matrices
- Promoter Regions, Genetic
- Protein Binding
- Protein Kinase Inhibitors/pharmacology
- Signal Transduction/drug effects
- Thyroid Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Thyroid Neoplasms/genetics
- Thyroid Neoplasms/metabolism
- Thyroid Neoplasms/pathology
- Transcription Factors/metabolism
- Transcriptional Activation
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Julio C Ricarte-Filho
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Brian R Untch
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York. Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Iňigo Landa
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Jeffrey A Knauf
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York. Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Francesca Voza
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Vicki E Smith
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Ian Ganly
- Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Barry S Taylor
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York. Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Yogindra Persaud
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Gisele Oler
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Yuqiang Fang
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Suresh C Jhanwar
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Agnes Viale
- Marie-Josée and Henry R. Kravis Center for Molecular Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Adriana Heguy
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Kety H Huberman
- Marie-Josée and Henry R. Kravis Center for Molecular Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Filippo Giancotti
- Cell Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York. Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Ronald Ghossein
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - James A Fagin
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York. Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York. Cell Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York. Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York.
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24
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A splicing variant of Merlin promotes metastasis in hepatocellular carcinoma. Nat Commun 2015; 6:8457. [PMID: 26443326 PMCID: PMC4633634 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms9457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2015] [Accepted: 08/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Merlin, which is encoded by the tumour suppressor gene Nf2, plays a crucial role in tumorigenesis and metastasis. However, little is known about the functional importance of Merlin splicing forms. In this study, we show that Merlin is present at low levels in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), particularly in metastatic tumours, where it is associated with a poor prognosis. Surprisingly, a splicing variant of Merlin that lacks exons 2, 3 and 4 (Δ2–4Merlin) is amplified in HCC and portal vein tumour thrombus (PVTT) specimens and in the CSQT2 cell line derived from PVTT. Our studies show that Δ2–4Merlin interferes with the capacity of wild-type Merlin to bind β-catenin and ERM, and it is expressed in the cytoplasm rather than at the cell surface. Furthermore, Δ2–4Merlin overexpression increases the expression levels of β-catenin and stemness-related genes, induces the epithelium–mesenchymal-transition phenotype promoting cell migration in vitro and the formation of lung metastasis in vivo. Our results indicate that the Δ2–4Merlin variant disrupts the normal function of Merlin and promotes tumour metastasis. Merlin plays a crucial role as a tumour suppressor in liver tumorigenesis. Here, the authors show that a splicing variant of Merlin that lacks exons 2,3 and 4 (Δ2–4Merlin) is highly expressed in hepatocarcinoma and promotes tumour metastasis by interfering with the binding of wild-type Merlin to ß-catenin.
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25
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NF2/Merlin is required for the axial pattern formation in the Xenopus laevis embryo. Mech Dev 2015; 138 Pt 3:305-12. [PMID: 26344136 DOI: 10.1016/j.mod.2015.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2015] [Revised: 08/29/2015] [Accepted: 08/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The NF2 gene product Merlin is a FERM-domain protein possessing a broad tumor-suppressing function. NF2/Merlin has been implicated in regulating multiple signaling pathways critical for cell growth and survival. However, it remains unknown whether NF2/Merlin regulates Wnt/β-catenin signaling during vertebrate embryogenesis. Here we demonstrate that NF2/Merlin is required for body pattern formation in the Xenopus laevis embryo. Depletion of the maternal NF2/Merlin enhances organizer gene expression dependent on the presence of β-catenin, and causes dorsanteriorized development; Morpholino antisense oligo-mediated knockdown of the zygotic NF2/Merlin shifts posterior genes anteriorwards and reduces the anterior development. We further demonstrate that targeted depletion of NF2 in the presumptive dorsal tissues increases the levels of nuclear β-catenin in the neural epithelial cells. Biochemical analyses reveal that NF2 depletion promotes the production of active β-catenin and concurrently decreases the level of N-terminally phosphorylated β-catenin under the stimulation of the endogenous Wnt signaling. Our findings suggest that NF2/Merlin negatively regulates the Wnt/β-catenin signaling activity during the pattern formation in early X. laevis embryos.
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26
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Merlin Isoforms 1 and 2 Both Act as Tumour Suppressors and Are Required for Optimal Sperm Maturation. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0129151. [PMID: 26258444 PMCID: PMC4530865 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0129151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2014] [Accepted: 05/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumour suppressor Merlin, encoded by the gene NF2, is frequently mutated in the autosomal dominant disorder neurofibromatosis type II, characterised primarily by the development of schwannoma and other glial cell tumours. However, NF2 is expressed in virtually all analysed human and rodent organs, and its deletion in mice causes early embryonic lethality. Additionally, NF2 encodes for two major isoforms of Merlin of unknown functionality. Specifically, the tumour suppressor potential of isoform 2 remains controversial. In this study, we used Nf2 isoform-specific knockout mouse models to analyse the function of each isoform during development and organ homeostasis. We found that both isoforms carry full tumour suppressor functionality and can completely compensate the loss of the other isoform during development and in most adult organs. Surprisingly, we discovered that spermatogenesis is strictly dependent on the presence of both isoforms. While the testis primarily expresses isoform 1, we noticed an enrichment of isoform 2 in spermatogonial stem cells. Deletion of either isoform was found to cause decreased sperm quality as observed by maturation defects and head/midpiece abnormalities. These defects led to impaired sperm functionality as assessed by decreased sperm capacitation. Thus, we describe spermatogenesis as a new Nf2-dependent process. Additionally, we provide for the first time in vivo evidence for equal tumour suppressor potentials of Merlin isoform 1 and isoform 2.
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27
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Li Y, Zhou H, Li F, Chan SW, Lin Z, Wei Z, Yang Z, Guo F, Lim CJ, Xing W, Shen Y, Hong W, Long J, Zhang M. Angiomotin binding-induced activation of Merlin/NF2 in the Hippo pathway. Cell Res 2015; 25:801-17. [PMID: 26045165 PMCID: PMC4493278 DOI: 10.1038/cr.2015.69] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2015] [Revised: 05/08/2015] [Accepted: 05/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor suppressor Merlin/NF2 functions upstream of the core Hippo pathway kinases Lats1/2 and Mst1/2, as well as the nuclear E3 ubiquitin ligase CRL4(DCAF1). Numerous mutations of Merlin have been identified in Neurofibromatosis type 2 and other cancer patients. Despite more than two decades of research, the upstream regulator of Merlin in the Hippo pathway remains unknown. Here we show by high-resolution crystal structures that the Lats1/2-binding site on the Merlin FERM domain is physically blocked by Merlin's auto-inhibitory tail. Angiomotin binding releases the auto-inhibition and promotes Merlin's binding to Lats1/2. Phosphorylation of Ser518 outside the Merlin's auto-inhibitory tail does not obviously alter Merlin's conformation, but instead prevents angiomotin from binding and thus inhibits Hippo pathway kinase activation. Cancer-causing mutations clustered in the angiomotin-binding domain impair angiomotin-mediated Merlin activation. Our findings reveal that angiomotin and Merlin respectively interface cortical actin filaments and core kinases in Hippo signaling, and allow construction of a complete Hippo signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youjun Li
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hao Zhou
- 1] State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300071, China [2] College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Fengzhi Li
- 1] State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300071, China [2] College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Siew Wee Chan
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 61, Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - Zhijie Lin
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zhiyi Wei
- 1] Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Hong Kong, China [2] Department of Biology, South University of Science and Technology of China, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, China
| | - Zhou Yang
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Hong Kong, China
| | - Fusheng Guo
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 61, Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - Chun Jye Lim
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 61, Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - Wancai Xing
- 1] State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300071, China [2] College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Yuequan Shen
- 1] State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300071, China [2] College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Wanjin Hong
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 61, Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - Jiafu Long
- 1] State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300071, China [2] College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, 94 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Mingjie Zhang
- 1] Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Hong Kong, China [2] Center of Systems Biology and Human Health, School of Science and Institute for Advanced Study, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
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28
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Guerrero PA, Yin W, Camacho L, Marchetti D. Oncogenic role of Merlin/NF2 in glioblastoma. Oncogene 2015; 34:2621-30. [PMID: 25043298 PMCID: PMC4302072 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2014.185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2014] [Revised: 04/23/2014] [Accepted: 05/16/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma is the most common and aggressive primary brain tumor in adults, with a poor prognosis because of its resistance to radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Merlin/NF2 (moesin-ezrin-radixin-like protein/neurofibromatosis type 2) is a tumor suppressor found to be mutated in most nervous system tumors; however, it is not mutated in glioblastomas. Merlin associates with several transmembrane receptors and intracellular proteins serving as an anchoring molecule. Additionally, it acts as a key component of cell motility. By selecting sub-populations of U251 glioblastoma cells, we observed that high expression of phosphorylated Merlin at serine 518 (S518-Merlin), NOTCH1 and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) correlated with increased cell proliferation and tumorigenesis. These cells were defective in cell-contact inhibition with changes in Merlin phosphorylation directly affecting NOTCH1 and EGFR expression, as well as downstream targets HES1 (hairy and enhancer of split-1) and CCND1 (cyclin D1). Of note, we identified a function for S518-Merlin, which is distinct from what has been reported when the expression of Merlin is diminished in relation to EGFR and NOTCH1 expression, providing first-time evidence that demonstrates that the phosphorylation of S518-Merlin in glioblastoma promotes oncogenic properties that are not only the result of inactivation of the tumor suppressor role of Merlin but also an independent process implicating a Merlin-driven regulation of NOTCH1 and EGFR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola A. Guerrero
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030
| | - Wei Yin
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030
| | - Laura Camacho
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030
| | - Dario Marchetti
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030
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29
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Stepanova DS, Chernoff J, Shimanovskiy NL. Search for Chemical Compounds for Pharmacotherapy of Neurofibromatosis Type 2. Pharm Chem J 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s11094-015-1194-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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30
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Schroeder RD, Angelo LS, Kurzrock R. NF2/merlin in hereditary neurofibromatosis 2 versus cancer: biologic mechanisms and clinical associations. Oncotarget 2014; 5:67-77. [PMID: 24393766 PMCID: PMC3960189 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.1557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Inactivating germline mutations in the tumor suppressor gene NF2 cause the hereditary syndrome neurofibromatosis 2, which is characterized by the development of neoplasms of the nervous system, most notably bilateral vestibular schwannoma. Somatic NF2 mutations have also been reported in a variety of cancers, but interestingly these mutations do not cause the same tumors that are common in hereditary neurofibromatosis 2, even though the same gene is involved and there is overlap in the site of mutations. This review highlights cancers in which somatic NF2 mutations have been found, the cell signaling pathways involving NF2/merlin, current clinical trials treating neurofibromatosis 2 patients, and preclinical findings that promise to lead to new targeted therapies for both cancers harboring NF2 mutations and neurofibromatosis 2 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Dunbar Schroeder
- Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics (Phase I Program), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
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31
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Gaspar P, Tapon N. Sensing the local environment: actin architecture and Hippo signalling. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2014; 31:74-83. [PMID: 25259681 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2014.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2014] [Revised: 09/08/2014] [Accepted: 09/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The Hippo network is a major conserved growth suppressor pathway that participates in organ size control during development and prevents tumour formation during adult homeostasis. Recent evidence has implicated the actin cytoskeleton as a link between tissue architecture and Hippo signalling. In this review, we will consider the evidence and models proposed for the regulation of Hippo signalling by actin dynamics and structure. We cover aspects of signalling regulation by mechanotransduction, cytoskeletal tethering and the spatial reorganization of signalling components. We also examine the physiological and pathological contexts in which these mechanisms are relevant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Gaspar
- Apoptosis and Proliferation Control Laboratory, Cancer Research UK, London Research Institute, 44 Lincoln's Inn Fields, London WC2A 3LY, UK; Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Rua da Quinta Grande 6, Apartado 14, 2780-156 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Nicolas Tapon
- Apoptosis and Proliferation Control Laboratory, Cancer Research UK, London Research Institute, 44 Lincoln's Inn Fields, London WC2A 3LY, UK.
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32
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Frontzek F, Nitzlaff S, Horstmann M, Schwab A, Stock C. Functional interdependence of NHE1 and merlin in human melanoma cells. Biochem Cell Biol 2014; 92:530-40. [PMID: 25275700 DOI: 10.1139/bcb-2014-0041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Upregulation of the Na(+)/H(+) exchanger isoform 1 (NHE1) has been correlated with tumor malignancy. In contrast, moesin-radixin-ezrin-like protein (merlin) is a tumor suppressor that protects from cancerogenesis. Merlin is highly related to the members of the ezrin, radixin, and moesin (ERM) protein family that are directly attached to and functionally linked with NHE1. In addition, merlin inhibits the MAPK cascade and the Rho-GTPases known to activate NHE1 activity. The present study investigates whether NHE1 expression and activity affect merlin or, conversely, whether merlin has an impact on NHE1 in human melanoma (MV3) cells. Indeed, features of merlin-deficient MV3 cells point to a functional link: merlin-deficient cells showed a decreased NHE1 expression and, paradoxically, an increase in NHE1 activity as measured upon cytosolic acidification (NH4Cl prepulse method). Loss of merlin also led to an elevated cell motility that could be further increased by NHE1 overexpression, whereas NHE1 overexpression alone had no effect on migration. In contrast, neither NHE1 expression nor its activity had an impact on merlin expression. These results suggest a novel tumor suppressor function of merlin in melanoma cells: the inhibition of the proto-oncogenic NHE1 activity, possibly including its downstream signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Frontzek
- Institute of Physiology II, University of Münster, Robert-Koch-Str. 27b, D-48149 Münster, Germany
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33
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Schulz A, Zoch A, Morrison H. A neuronal function of the tumor suppressor protein merlin. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2014; 2:82. [PMID: 25012216 PMCID: PMC4149232 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-014-0082-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2014] [Accepted: 06/30/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutagenic loss of the NF2 tumor suppressor gene encoded protein merlin is known to provoke the hereditary neoplasia syndrome, Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2). In addition to glial cell-derived tumors in the PNS and CNS, disease-related lesions also affect the skin and the eyes. Furthermore, 60% of NF2 patients suffer from peripheral nerve damage, clinically referred to as peripheral neuropathy. Strikingly, NF2-associated neuropathy often occurs in the absence of nerve damaging tumors, suggesting tumor-independent events. Recent findings indicate an important role of merlin in neuronal cell types concerning neuromorphogenesis, axon structure maintenance and communication between axons and Schwann cells. In this review, we compile clinical and experimental evidences for the underestimated role of the tumor suppressor merlin in the neuronal compartment.
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34
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Molecular insights into NF2/Merlin tumor suppressor function. FEBS Lett 2014; 588:2743-52. [PMID: 24726726 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2014.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2014] [Revised: 04/01/2014] [Accepted: 04/02/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The FERM domain protein Merlin, encoded by the NF2 tumor suppressor gene, regulates cell proliferation in response to adhesive signaling. The growth inhibitory function of Merlin is induced by intercellular adhesion and inactivated by joint integrin/receptor tyrosine kinase signaling. Merlin contributes to the formation of cell junctions in polarized tissues, activates anti-mitogenic signaling at tight-junctions, and inhibits oncogenic gene expression. Thus, inactivation of Merlin causes uncontrolled mitogenic signaling and tumorigenesis. Merlin's predominant tumor suppressive functions are attributable to its control of oncogenic gene expression through regulation of Hippo signaling. Notably, Merlin translocates to the nucleus where it directly inhibits the CRL4(DCAF1) E3 ubiquitin ligase, thereby suppressing inhibition of the Lats kinases. A dichotomy in NF2 function has emerged whereby Merlin acts at the cell cortex to organize cell junctions and propagate anti-mitogenic signaling, whereas it inhibits oncogenic gene expression through the inhibition of CRL4(DCAF1) and activation of Hippo signaling. The biochemical events underlying Merlin's normal function and tumor suppressive activity will be discussed in this Review, with emphasis on recent discoveries that have greatly influenced our understanding of Merlin biology.
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Cačev T, Aralica G, Lončar B, Kapitanović S. Loss of NF2/Merlin expression in advanced sporadic colorectal cancer. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2013; 37:69-77. [PMID: 24323642 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-013-0164-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE NF2/Merlin was first identified through its association with neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2). However, accumulating evidence suggests a more general involvement in tumorigenesis and, in particular, a broader role in tumor suppression. The aim of this study was to examine NF2/Merlin involvement in sporadic colorectal cancer. METHODS This study is the first to examine the role of NF2/Merlin in sporadic colorectal cancer through LOH analysis at the NF2 locus and mRNA expression analysis via quantitative RT-PCR of total NF2, NF2 isoform I and II. In addition, Merlin protein expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. RESULTS NF2 LOH was detected in 20.0 % of heterozygous cases and was found to be more frequent in tumors larger than 5 cm in diameter (p = 0.041) and in tumors with a less differentiated phenotype (p = 0.027). No differences were observed in total NF2 and NF2 isoform I/isoform II mRNA expression between the tumors and their corresponding normal mucous tissues. NF2 isoform II was the most predominant isoform in all samples analyzed. mRNA expression levels of total NF2 and isoforms I and II were significantly lower in poorly differentiated tumors (p = 0.033, p = 0.036 and p = 0.044, respectively). Weak Merlin immunostaining was more frequent in poorly differentiated tumors (p = 0.034) and tumors classified as Dukes' C (p = 0.023). A distinct pattern of Merin phosphorylation was observed in tumors compared to normal mucous tissues. CONCLUSION Our data indicate that NF2/Merlin may serve as a potential target in the management of colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Cačev
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička cesta 54, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia,
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Qi Q, Ye K. The roles of PIKE in tumorigenesis. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2013; 34:991-7. [PMID: 23770988 PMCID: PMC3733165 DOI: 10.1038/aps.2013.71] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2013] [Accepted: 04/28/2013] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumorigenesis is the process by which normal cells evolve the capacity to evade and overcome the constraints usually placed upon their growth and survival. To ensure the integrity of organs and tissues, the balance of cell proliferation and cell death is tightly maintained. The proteins controlling this balance are either considered oncogenes, which promote tumorigenesis, or tumor suppressors, which prevent tumorigenesis. Phosphoinositide 3-kinase enhancer (PIKE) is a family of GTP-binding proteins that possess anti-apoptotic functions and play an important role in the central nervous system. Notably, accumulating evidence suggests that PIKE is a proto-oncogene involved in tumor progression. The PIKE gene (CENTG1) is amplified in a variety of human cancers, leading to the resistance against apoptosis and the enhancement of invasion. In this review, we will summarize the functions of PIKE proteins in tumorigenesis and discuss their potential implications in cancer therapy.
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Laulajainen M, Melikova M, Muranen T, Carpén O, Grönholm M. Distinct overlapping sequences at the carboxy-terminus of merlin regulate its tumour suppressor and morphogenic activity. J Cell Mol Med 2013; 16:2161-75. [PMID: 22325036 PMCID: PMC3822986 DOI: 10.1111/j.1582-4934.2012.01525.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The Neurofibromatosis 2 (NF2) gene product merlin is a tumour suppressor, which in addition to inhibiting cell proliferation regulates cell morphology. The morphogenic properties of merlin may play a role in tumour suppression, as patient-derived tumour cells demonstrate cytoskeletal abnormalities. However, it is still unclear how these functions are linked. The N-terminal FERM-domain of merlin is highly homologous to the oncogenic protein ezrin, while the C-termini are less conserved, suggesting that the opposite effect of the proteins on proliferation could be mediated by their distinct C-terminal regions. In this study we characterize the role of the most C-terminal residues of merlin in the regulation of proliferation, cytoskeletal organization, phosphorylation and intramolecular associations. In addition to the two full-length merlin isoforms and truncating mutations found in patients, we focused on the evolutionally conserved C-terminal residues 545-547, also harbouring disease-causing mutations. We demonstrate that merlin induces cell extensions, which result from impaired retraction of protrusions rather than from increased formation of filopodia. The residues 538-568 were found particularly important for this morphogenic activity. The results further show that both merlin isoforms are able to equally inhibit proliferation, whereas C-terminal mutants affecting residues 545-547 are less effective in growth suppression. This study demonstrates that the C-terminus contains distinct but overlapping functional domains important for regulation of the morphogenic activity, intramolecular associations and cell proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minja Laulajainen
- Biomedicum Helsinki, Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
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Lloyd SKW, Evans DGR. Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2): diagnosis and management. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2013; 115:957-67. [PMID: 23931824 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-52902-2.00054-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) is an autosomal dominant inherited tumor predisposition syndrome caused by mutations in the NF2 gene on chromosome 22. Affected individuals develop schwannomas typically involving both vestibular nerves leading to hearing loss and eventual deafness. Rehabilitation with brainstem implants and in some cases cochlear implants is improving this outcome. Schwannomas also occur on other cranial nerves, on spinal nerve roots and peripheral nerves, and intracutaneously as plaques. Cranial and spinal meningiomas and spinal ependymomas are other common tumors. Fifty to sixty percent of patients represent de novo mutations and as many as 33% of these are mosaic for the underlying disease causing mutation. Truncating mutations (nonsense, frameshift insertions/deletions) are the most frequent germline events and cause the most severe disease, whilst single and multiple exon deletions are common and are usually associated with milder NF2. Neurological deficits are a major feature of the condition and neurologists have a pivotal role in assigning symptoms to lesions and in managing neuropathies. NF2 represents a difficult management problem with most patients facing substantial morbidity and reduced life expectancy. Surgery remains the focus of current management although watchful waiting and occasionally radiation treatment have a role. We are seeing the advent of tailored drug therapies aimed at the genetic level and these are likely to provide huge improvements for this devastating, life-limiting condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon K W Lloyd
- Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Salford, and Department of Otolaryngology, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Central Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Royal Infirmary, Manchester, UK
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Orgaz JL, Sanz-Moreno V. Emerging molecular targets in melanoma invasion and metastasis. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res 2012; 26:39-57. [PMID: 23095214 DOI: 10.1111/pcmr.12041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2012] [Accepted: 10/22/2012] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Metastatic cutaneous melanoma accounts for the majority of skin cancer deaths due to its aggressiveness and high resistance to current therapies. To efficiently metastasize, invasive melanoma cells need to change their cytoskeletal organization and alter contacts with the extracellular matrix and the surrounding stromal cells. Melanoma cells can use different migratory strategies depending on varying environments to exit the primary tumour mass and invade surrounding and later distant tissues. In this review, we have focused on tumour cell plasticity or the interconvertibility that melanoma cells have as one of the factors that contribute to melanoma metastasis. This has been an area of very intense research in the last 5 yr yielding a vast number of findings. We have therefore reviewed all the possible clinical opportunities that this new knowledge offers to both stratify and treat cutaneous malignant melanoma patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose L Orgaz
- Randall Division of Cell and Molecular Biophysics, King's College London, London, UK
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Murray LB, Lau YKI, Yu Q. Merlin is a negative regulator of human melanoma growth. PLoS One 2012; 7:e43295. [PMID: 22912849 PMCID: PMC3422319 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0043295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2012] [Accepted: 07/18/2012] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Merlin is encoded by the neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) gene and is a member of the Band 4.1 protein family. This protein acts as a linker that connects cell surface proteins to the actin cytoskeleton. Defects caused by mutations of the NF2 gene give rise to NF2 disease, which is generally characterized by the formation of bilateral vestibular schwannomas and, to a lesser extent, meningiomas and ependymomas. In addition to these tumor types, NF2 is mutated and/or merlin expression is reduced or lost in numerous non-NF2 associated tumors, including melanoma. However, the role of merlin in human melanoma growth and the mechanism underlying its effect are currently unknown. In the present study, we show that merlin knockdown enhances melanoma cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro and that decreased merlin expression promotes subcutaneous melanoma growth in immunocompromised mice. Concordantly, we find that increased expression of merlin in a metastatic melanoma cell line reduced their in vitro migration and proliferation, and diminished their ability to grow in an anchorage independent manner. Increased merlin expression also inhibits in vivo growth of these melanoma cells. Lastly, we demonstrate that higher merlin levels in human melanoma cells promote the H2O2-induced activation of MST1/2 Ser/Thr kinases, which are known tumor suppressors in the Hippo signaling pathway. Taken together, these results provide for the first time evidence that merlin negatively regulates human melanoma growth, and that loss of merlin, or impaired merlin function, results in an opposite effect. In addition, we show that increased merlin expression leads to enhanced activation of the MTS1/2 kinases, implying the potential roles of MST1/2 in mediating the anti-melanoma effects of merlin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas B. Murray
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Ying-Ka Ingar Lau
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Qin Yu
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Li W, Cooper J, Karajannis MA, Giancotti FG. Merlin: a tumour suppressor with functions at the cell cortex and in the nucleus. EMBO Rep 2012; 13:204-15. [PMID: 22482125 DOI: 10.1038/embor.2012.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Inhibition of proliferation by cell-to-cell contact is essential for tissue organization, and its disruption contributes to tumorigenesis. The FERM domain protein Merlin, encoded by the NF2 tumour suppressor gene, is an important mediator of contact inhibition. Merlin was thought to inhibit mitogenic signalling and activate the Hippo pathway by interacting with diverse target-effectors at or near the plasma membrane. However, recent studies highlight that Merlin pleiotropically affects signalling by migrating into the nucleus and inducing a growth-suppressive programme of gene expression through its direct inhibition of the CRL4DCAF1 E3 ubiquitin ligase. In addition, Merlin promotes the establishment of epithelial adhesion and polarity by recruiting Par3 and aPKC to E-cadherin-dependent junctions, and by ensuring the assembly of tight junctions. These recent advances suggest that Merlin acts at the cell cortex and in the nucleus in a similar, albeit antithetic, manner to the oncogene β-catenin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Li
- Cell Biology Program, Sloan–Kettering Institute for Cancer Research, Memorial Sloan–Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, Box 216, New York, New York 10065, USA
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Morrow KA, Shevde LA. Merlin: the wizard requires protein stability to function as a tumor suppressor. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2012; 1826:400-6. [PMID: 22750751 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2012.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2012] [Revised: 06/18/2012] [Accepted: 06/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2), characterized by tumors of the nervous system, is a result of functional loss of the NF2 gene. The NF2 gene encodes Merlin (moesin-ezrin-radixin-like protein), an ERM (Ezrin, Radixin, Moesin) protein family member. Merlin functions as a tumor suppressor through impacting mechanisms related to proliferation, apoptosis, survival, motility, adhesion, and invasion. Several studies have summarized the tumor intrinsic mutations in Merlin. Given the fact that tumor cells are not in isolation, but rather in an intricate, mutually sustaining synergy with their surrounding stroma, the dialog between the tumor cells and the stroma can potentially impact the molecular homeostasis and promote evolution of the malignant phenotype. This review summarizes the epigenetic modifications, transcript stability, and post-translational modifications that impact Merlin. We have reviewed the role of extrinsic factors originating from the tumor milieu that influence the availability of Merlin inside the cell. Information regarding Merlin regulation could lead to novel therapeutics by stabilizing Merlin protein in tumors that have reduced Merlin protein expression without displaying any NF2 genetic alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Adam Morrow
- Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
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Mutational analysis of tumour suppressor gene NF2 in common solid cancers and acute leukaemias. Pathology 2012; 44:29-32. [PMID: 22081132 DOI: 10.1097/pat.0b013e32834c3599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Germline mutation of NF2 gene is a feature of neurofibromatosis type 2 familial cancer syndrome. Also, somatic point mutations of NF2 mutation have been reported in tumours originated from nerve structures. A recent study revealed that NF2 gene was mutated in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) as well, suggesting a possibility that NF2 gene might be somatically mutated in other human cancers. The aim of this study was to explore whether NF2 genes are somatically mutated, and contribute to tumorigenesis in common human cancers. METHODS For this, we analysed the entire coding region of NF2 gene in 45 colorectal carcinomas, 45 gastric, 45 breast, 45 lung, 45 hepatocellular (HCC), 45 prostate carcinomas, and 45 acute leukaemias by a single-strand conformation polymorphism assay. RESULTS Overall, we found NF2 mutations in one HCC (1/45; 2.2%) (hepatitis B virus-related HCC), one lung carcinoma (1/45; 2.2%) (squamous cell carcinoma), and one acute leukaemia (1/45; 2.2%) (acute myelogenous leukaemia minimally differentiated). All of the mutations were missense mutations that would substitute amino acids in the NF2 protein (p.A238 V, p.A451T and p.R467K). CONCLUSION Our data indicate that somatic mutation of NF2 gene is not prevalent in common human cancers, and its mutation somatically occurs in a minor fraction of HCC, lung cancer and acute leukaemia. These data suggest that somatic mutation of NF2 tumour suppressor gene may not play a central role in development of common cancers.
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Multistep phosphorylation by oncogenic kinases enhances the degradation of the NF2 tumor suppressor merlin. Neoplasia 2011; 13:643-52. [PMID: 21750658 DOI: 10.1593/neo.11356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2011] [Revised: 05/13/2011] [Accepted: 05/16/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the Neurofibromatosis 2 gene (NF2) predispose to tumors of the nervous system, mainly schwannomas and meningiomas. The NF2 gene encodes for the tumor suppressor protein merlin (moesin-ezrin-radixin-like protein), which functions as a linker between the plasma membrane and the cytoskeleton. Carboxyterminal phosphorylation affects merlin activity, but many open questions on the regulation of merlin function still remain. The phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Akt pathway is activated in human vestibular schwannoma, suggesting a role for Akt-dependent merlin regulation in the formation of these tumors. In this study, we identify merlin serine 10 as a novel substrate for Akt phosphorylation. We demonstrate that this N-terminal phosphorylation directs merlin for proteasome-mediated degradation and affects merlin binding to the E3 ligase component DCAF1. Our data indicate that sequential phosphorylation of merlin C- and N-terminus by different oncogenic kinases targets merlin for degradation and thus downregulates its activity. On the basis of these findings, we propose a model for a posttranslational mechanism of merlin inactivation.
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Fong B, Barkhoudarian G, Pezeshkian P, Parsa AT, Gopen Q, Yang I. The molecular biology and novel treatments of vestibular schwannomas. J Neurosurg 2011; 115:906-14. [PMID: 21800959 DOI: 10.3171/2011.6.jns11131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Vestibular schwannomas are histopathologically benign tumors arising from the Schwann cell sheath surrounding the vestibular branch of cranial nerve VIII and are related to the NF2 gene and its product merlin. Merlin acts as a tumor suppressor and as a mediator of contact inhibition. Thus, deficiencies in both NF2 genes lead to vestibular schwannoma development. Recently, there have been major advances in our knowledge of the molecular biology of vestibular schwannomas as well as the development of novel therapies for its treatment. In this article the authors comprehensively review the recent advances in the molecular biology and characterization of vestibular schwannomas as well as the development of modern treatments for vestibular schwannoma. For instance, merlin is involved with a number of receptors including the CD44 receptor, EGFR, and signaling pathways, such as the Ras/raf pathway and the canonical Wnt pathway. Recently, merlin was also shown to interact in the nucleus with E3 ubiquitin ligase CRL4(DCAF1). A greater understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind vestibular schwannoma tumorigenesis has begun to yield novel therapies. Some authors have shown that Avastin induces regression of progressive schwannomas by over 40% and improves hearing. An inhibitor of VEGF synthesis, PTC299, is currently in Phase II trials as a potential agent to treat vestibular schwannoma. Furthermore, in vitro studies have shown that trastuzumab (an ERBB2 inhibitor) reduces vestibular schwannoma cell proliferation. With further research it may be possible to significantly reduce morbidity and mortality rates by decreasing tumor burden, tumor volume, hearing loss, and cranial nerve deficits seen in vestibular schwannomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan Fong
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1761, USA
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Ellis JR, Heinrich B, Mautner VF, Kluwe L. Effects of splicing mutations on NF2-transcripts: transcript analysis and information theoretic predictions. Genes Chromosomes Cancer 2011; 50:571-84. [PMID: 21563229 DOI: 10.1002/gcc.20876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2010] [Revised: 03/03/2011] [Accepted: 03/07/2011] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
This study examined the effects of 22 putative splicing mutations in the NF2 gene by means of transcript analysis and information theory based prediction. Fourteen mutations were within the dinucleotide acceptor and donor regions, often referred to as (AG/GT) sequences. Six were outside these dinucleotide regions but within the more broadly defined splicing regions used in the information theory based model. Two others were in introns and outside the broadly defined regions. Transcript analysis revealed exon skipping or activation of one or more cryptic splicing sites for 17 mutations. No alterations were found for the two intronic mutations and for three mutations in the broadly defined splicing regions. Concordance and partial concordance between the calculated predictions and the results of transcript analysis were found for 14 and 6 mutations, respectively. For two mutations, the predicted alteration was not found in the transcripts. Our results demonstrate that the effects of splicing mutations in NF2 are often complex and that information theory based analysis is helpful in elucidating the consequences of these mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- James R Ellis
- Laboratory of Bioengineering and Physical Science, National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-5766, USA.
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Chen L, Loh PG, Song H. Structural and functional insights into the TEAD-YAP complex in the Hippo signaling pathway. Protein Cell 2011; 1:1073-83. [PMID: 21213102 DOI: 10.1007/s13238-010-0138-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2010] [Accepted: 11/14/2010] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The control of organ size growth is one of the most fundamental aspects of life. In the past two decades, a highly conserved Hippo signaling pathway has been identified as a key molecular mechanism for governing organ size regulation. In the middle of this pathway is a kinase cascade that negatively regulates the downstream component Yes-associated protein (YAP)/transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ)/Yorkie through phosphorylation. Phosphorylation of YAP/TAZ/Yorkie promotes its cytoplasmic localization, leads to cell apoptosis and restricts organ size overgrowth. When the Hippo pathway is inactivated, YAP/TAZ/Yorkie translocates into the nucleus to bind to the transcription enhancer factor (TEAD/TEF) family of transcriptional factors to promote cell growth and proliferation. In this review, we will focus on the structural and functional studies on the downstream transcription factor TEAD and its coactivator YAP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liming Chen
- Cancer and Developmental Cell Biology Division, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), 61 Biopolis Drive, Singapore 138673, Republic of Singapore
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Abstract
The neurofibromatosis type 2 gene product merlin is known to provoke gliogenic tumors as a result of its mutagenic loss. Merlin's physiological anti-mitogenic function makes it unique among its ezrin-radixin-moesin (ERM) family members. Although ERM proteins and merlin are known to be expressed in glial cells of the peripheral nervous system and CNS, the neuronal expression pattern and function of merlin have been less well investigated. We report here expression of merlin in developing and mature neurons of the murine CNS. Within cerebellar Purkinje cells (PCs), merlin was localized in the soma, sprouting dendrites and axons. Merlin expression in PCs was high during the period of initial dendrite regression and declined during later phases of dendrite elongation. Consistently, merlin expression in vivo was increased in Engrailed-2-overexpressing PCs, which are characterized by a reduced dendritic extension. Furthermore, overexpression of merlin in dissociated cerebellar cultures and in neurogenic P19 cells caused a significant decline in neurite outgrowth, while, conversely, inhibition of merlin expression increased process formation. This effect was dependent on phosphorylation of serine 518 and involved the inactivation of the growth-promoting GTPase Rac. We thus provide evidence that merlin plays a pivotal role in controlling the neuronal wiring in the developing CNS.
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Ferrer M, Schulze A, Gonzalez S, Ferreiro V, Ciavarelli P, Otero J, Giliberto F, Basso A, Szijan I. Neurofibromatosis type 2: molecular and clinical analyses in Argentine sporadic and familial cases. Neurosci Lett 2010; 480:49-54. [PMID: 20553997 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2010.05.094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2010] [Accepted: 05/28/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis 2 is a familial syndrome characterized by the development of schwannomas, meningiomas and ependymomas. Most of them are benign however, their location in the nervous system has harmful effects on important cranial and spinal structures. These tumors are developed as the outcome of NF2 gene (22q12) inactivation. The NF2 protein, merlin or schwannomin belongs to the Ezrin, Radixin, Moesin (ERM) family involved in the cytoskeletal network and has a tumor suppressor function. Inactivating mutations occur as "de novo" (more frequently) or as inherited, and most of them are frameshift or nonsense. Our aim is to study NF2 gene alterations in Argentine patients and relate them to clinical features. 10 families and 29 single patients were analyzed for: 1) at-risk haplotype by STR-segregation analysis and 2) NF2 gene mutations by SSCP/heteroduplex/sequencing. The at-risk haplotype was uncovered in 8 families and mutations were identified in 5 patients. The molecular data are in full agreement with the clinical features supporting previous reports. The obtained results were important for the detection of mutation-carrying relatives and exclusion of other individuals from risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Ferrer
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología Molecular, División Neurocirugía, Hospital de Clínicas "José de San Martín", Buenos Aires, Argentina
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