1
|
Yao CY, Lin CC, Wang YH, Kao CJ, Tsai CH, Hou HA, Tien HF, Hsu CL, Chou WC. Kinome expression profiling improves risk stratification and therapeutic targeting in myelodysplastic syndromes. Blood Adv 2024; 8:2442-2454. [PMID: 38527292 PMCID: PMC11112608 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2023011512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT The human kinome, which comprises >500 kinases, plays a critical role in regulating numerous essential cellular functions. Although the dysregulation of kinases has been observed in various human cancers, the characterization and clinical implications of kinase expressions in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) have not been systematically investigated. In this study, we evaluated the kinome expression profiles of 341 adult patients with primary MDS and identified 7 kinases (PTK7, KIT, MAST4, NTRK1, PAK6, CAMK1D, and PRKCZ) whose expression levels were highly predictive of compromised patient survival. We then constructed the kinase stratification score (KISS) by combining the weighted expressions of the 7 kinases and validated its prognostic significance in 2 external MDS cohorts. A higher KISS was associated with older age, higher peripheral blood and marrow blast percentages, higher Revised International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS-R) risks, complex karyotype, and mutations in several adverse-risk genes in MDS, such as ASXL1, EZH2, NPM1, RUNX1, STAG2, and TP53. Multivariate analysis confirmed that a higher KISS was an independent unfavorable risk factor in MDS. Mechanistically, the KISS-high patients were enriched for gene sets associated with hematopoietic and leukemic stem cell signatures. By investigating the Genomics of Drug Sensitivity in Cancer database, we identified axitinib and taselisib as candidate compounds that could potentially target the KISS-high myeloblasts. Altogether, our findings suggest that KISS holds the potential to improve the current prognostic scheme of MDS and inform novel therapeutic opportunities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chi-Yuan Yao
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Chin Lin
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Hung Wang
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Division of Cancer Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Chein-Jun Kao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Hong Tsai
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-An Hou
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hwei-Fang Tien
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Lang Hsu
- Department of Medical Research, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Oncology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medical Genomics and Proteomics, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Chien Chou
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
林 琳, 常 静, 田 耀, 陈 姣. [Computer-aided prediction and molecular mechanism investigation of active components in compound Kushen injection inhibiting p21-activated kinase 1]. SHENG WU YI XUE GONG CHENG XUE ZA ZHI = JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING = SHENGWU YIXUE GONGCHENGXUE ZAZHI 2024; 41:313-320. [PMID: 38686412 PMCID: PMC11058487 DOI: 10.7507/1001-5515.202306011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Targeting p21-activated kinase 1 (PAK1) is a novel strategy for pancreatic cancer treatment. Compound Kushen injection contains many anti-pancreatic cancer components, but the specific targets are unknown. In this study, 14α-hydroxymatrine, an active component of Kushen injection, was found to possess high binding free energy with the allosteric site of PAK1 by molecular docking based virtual screening. Molecular dynamics simulations suggested that 14α-hydroxymatrine caused the α1 and α2 helices of the allosteric site of PAK1 to extend outward to form a deep allosteric regulatory pocket. Meanwhile, 14α-hydroxymatrine induced the β-folding region at the adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-binding pocket of PAK1 to close inward, resulting in the ATP-binding pocket in a "semi-closed" state which caused the inactivation of PAK1. After removal of 14α-hydroxymatrine, PAK1 showed a tendency to change from the inactive conformation to the active conformation. We supposed that 14α-hydroxymatrine of compound Kushen injection might be a reversible allosteric inhibitor of PAK1. This study used modern technologies and methods to study the active components of traditional Chinese medicine, which laid a foundation for the development and utilization of natural products and the search for new treatments for pancreatic cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- 琳 林
- 南京中医药大学 附属中西医结合医院(南京 210028)Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210028, P. R. China
- 江苏省中医药研究院(南京 210028)Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210028, P. R. China
- 广州中医药大学 深圳医院(福田)(广东深圳 518000)Shenzhen Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518000, P. R. China
| | - 静杰 常
- 南京中医药大学 附属中西医结合医院(南京 210028)Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210028, P. R. China
| | - 耀洲 田
- 南京中医药大学 附属中西医结合医院(南京 210028)Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210028, P. R. China
- 江苏省中医药研究院(南京 210028)Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210028, P. R. China
| | - 姣 陈
- 南京中医药大学 附属中西医结合医院(南京 210028)Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210028, P. R. China
- 江苏省中医药研究院(南京 210028)Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210028, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Rodríguez-Martín M, Báez-Flores J, Ribes V, Isidoro-García M, Lacal J, Prieto-Matos P. Non-Mammalian Models for Understanding Neurological Defects in RASopathies. Biomedicines 2024; 12:841. [PMID: 38672195 PMCID: PMC11048513 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12040841] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
RASopathies, a group of neurodevelopmental congenital disorders stemming from mutations in the RAS/MAPK pathway, present a unique opportunity to delve into the intricacies of complex neurological disorders. Afflicting approximately one in a thousand newborns, RASopathies manifest as abnormalities across multiple organ systems, with a pronounced impact on the central and peripheral nervous system. In the pursuit of understanding RASopathies' neurobiology and establishing phenotype-genotype relationships, in vivo non-mammalian models have emerged as indispensable tools. Species such as Danio rerio, Drosophila melanogaster, Caenorhabditis elegans, Xenopus species and Gallus gallus embryos have proven to be invaluable in shedding light on the intricate pathways implicated in RASopathies. Despite some inherent weaknesses, these genetic models offer distinct advantages over traditional rodent models, providing a holistic perspective on complex genetics, multi-organ involvement, and the interplay among various pathway components, offering insights into the pathophysiological aspects of mutations-driven symptoms. This review underscores the value of investigating the genetic basis of RASopathies for unraveling the underlying mechanisms contributing to broader neurological complexities. It also emphasizes the pivotal role of non-mammalian models in serving as a crucial preliminary step for the development of innovative therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mario Rodríguez-Martín
- Laboratory of Functional Genetics of Rare Diseases, Department of Microbiology and Genetics, University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (M.R.-M.); (J.B.-F.)
- Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (M.I.-G.); (P.P.-M.)
| | - Juan Báez-Flores
- Laboratory of Functional Genetics of Rare Diseases, Department of Microbiology and Genetics, University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (M.R.-M.); (J.B.-F.)
- Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (M.I.-G.); (P.P.-M.)
| | - Vanessa Ribes
- Institut Jacques Monod, Université Paris Cité, CNRS, F-75013 Paris, France;
| | - María Isidoro-García
- Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (M.I.-G.); (P.P.-M.)
- Clinical Biochemistry Department, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
- Clinical Rare Diseases Reference Unit DiERCyL, 37007 Castilla y León, Spain
- Department of Medicine, University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Jesus Lacal
- Laboratory of Functional Genetics of Rare Diseases, Department of Microbiology and Genetics, University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (M.R.-M.); (J.B.-F.)
- Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (M.I.-G.); (P.P.-M.)
| | - Pablo Prieto-Matos
- Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (M.I.-G.); (P.P.-M.)
- Clinical Rare Diseases Reference Unit DiERCyL, 37007 Castilla y León, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
- Department of Biomedical and Diagnostics Science, University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Fustaino V, Papoff G, Ruberti F, Ruberti G. Co-Expression Network Analysis Unveiled lncRNA-mRNA Links Correlated to Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor-Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor Resistance and/or Intermediate Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition Phenotypes in a Human Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cellular Model System. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3863. [PMID: 38612674 PMCID: PMC11011530 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073863] [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: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
We investigated mRNA-lncRNA co-expression patterns in a cellular model system of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) sensitive and resistant to the epithelial growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) erlotinib/gefitinib. The aim of this study was to unveil insights into the complex mechanisms of NSCLC targeted therapy resistance and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Genome-wide RNA expression was quantified for weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) to correlate the expression levels of mRNAs and lncRNAs. Functional enrichment analysis and identification of lncRNAs were conducted on modules associated with the EGFR-TKI response and/or intermediate EMT phenotypes. We constructed lncRNA-mRNA co-expression networks and identified key modules and their enriched biological functions. Processes enriched in the selected modules included RHO (A, B, C) GTPase and regulatory signaling pathways, apoptosis, inflammatory and interleukin signaling pathways, cell adhesion, cell migration, cell and extracellular matrix organization, metabolism, and lipid metabolism. Interestingly, several lncRNAs, already shown to be dysregulated in cancer, are connected to a small number of mRNAs, and several lncRNAs are interlinked with each other in the co-expression network.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Fustaino
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, National Research Council (IBBC-CNR), Campus Adriano Buzzati Traverso, Via E. Ramarini 32, 00015 Monterotondo (Roma), Italy; (G.P.); (F.R.)
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Okumura K, Morinaga T, Saito M, Tokunaga Y, Otoyama K, Tanaka S, Isogai E, Kawazu M, Togashi Y, Araki K, Wakabayashi Y. Deletion of Pak1 in CD11c-Positive Cells Confers Resistance to Mouse Skin Carcinogenesis. J Invest Dermatol 2024:S0022-202X(24)00098-8. [PMID: 38325578 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2024.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Kazuhiro Okumura
- Division of Experimental Animal Research, Cancer Genome Center, Chiba Cancer Center Research Institute, Chiba, Japan
| | - Takao Morinaga
- Division of Cell Therapy, Chiba Cancer Center Research Institute, Chiba, Japan
| | - Megumi Saito
- Division of Experimental Animal Research, Cancer Genome Center, Chiba Cancer Center Research Institute, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yurika Tokunaga
- Division of Experimental Animal Research, Cancer Genome Center, Chiba Cancer Center Research Institute, Chiba, Japan
| | - Keisuke Otoyama
- Division of Experimental Animal Research, Cancer Genome Center, Chiba Cancer Center Research Institute, Chiba, Japan
| | - Sora Tanaka
- Division of Experimental Animal Research, Cancer Genome Center, Chiba Cancer Center Research Institute, Chiba, Japan
| | - Eriko Isogai
- Division of Experimental Animal Research, Cancer Genome Center, Chiba Cancer Center Research Institute, Chiba, Japan
| | - Masahito Kawazu
- Division of Cell Therapy, Chiba Cancer Center Research Institute, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yosuke Togashi
- Division of Cell Therapy, Chiba Cancer Center Research Institute, Chiba, Japan; Department of Tumor Microenvironment, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama, Japan
| | - Kimi Araki
- Division of Developmental Genetics, Institute of Resource Development and Analysis, Kumamoto University, Chuouku, Japan
| | - Yuichi Wakabayashi
- Division of Experimental Animal Research, Cancer Genome Center, Chiba Cancer Center Research Institute, Chiba, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Sannigrahi MK, Cao AC, Rajagopalan P, Sun L, Brody RM, Raghav L, Gimotty PA, Basu D. A novel pipeline for prioritizing cancer type-specific therapeutic vulnerabilities using DepMap identifies PAK2 as a target in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas. Mol Oncol 2024; 18:336-349. [PMID: 37997254 PMCID: PMC10850805 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13558] [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: 06/10/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
There is limited guidance on exploiting the genome-wide loss-of-function CRISPR screens in cancer Dependency Map (DepMap) to identify new targets for individual cancer types. This study integrated multiple tools to filter these data in order to seek new therapeutic targets specific to head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). The resulting pipeline prioritized 143 targetable dependencies that represented both well-studied targets and emerging target classes like mitochondrial carriers and RNA-binding proteins. In total, 14 targets had clinical inhibitors used for other cancers or nonmalignant diseases that hold near-term potential to repurpose for HNSCC therapy. Comparing inhibitor response data that were publicly available for 13 prioritized targets between the cell lines with high vs. low dependency on each target uncovered novel therapeutic potential for the PAK2 serine/threonine kinase. PAK2 gene dependency was found to be associated with wild-type p53, low PAK2 mRNA, and diploid status of the 3q amplicon containing PAK2. These findings establish a generalizable pipeline to prioritize clinically relevant targets for individual cancer types using DepMap. Its application to HNSCC highlights novel relevance for PAK2 inhibition and identifies biomarkers of PAK2 inhibitor response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Malay K. Sannigrahi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology‐Head and Neck SurgeryUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPAUSA
| | - Austin C. Cao
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology‐Head and Neck SurgeryUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPAUSA
| | - Pavithra Rajagopalan
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology‐Head and Neck SurgeryUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPAUSA
| | - Lova Sun
- Department of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPAUSA
| | - Robert M. Brody
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology‐Head and Neck SurgeryUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPAUSA
| | - Lovely Raghav
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology‐Head and Neck SurgeryUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPAUSA
| | - Phyllis A. Gimotty
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and InformaticsUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPAUSA
| | - Devraj Basu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology‐Head and Neck SurgeryUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPAUSA
- Ellen and Ronald Caplan Cancer CenterThe Wistar InstitutePhiladelphiaPAUSA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Liu S, Yang P, Wang L, Zou X, Zhang D, Chen W, Hu C, Xiao D, Ren H, Zhang H, Cai S. Targeting PAK4 reverses cisplatin resistance in NSCLC by modulating ER stress. Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:36. [PMID: 38238316 PMCID: PMC10796919 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-024-01798-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Chemoresistance poses a significant impediment to effective treatments for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). P21-activated kinase 4 (PAK4) has been implicated in NSCLC progression by invasion and migration. However, the involvement of PAK4 in cisplatin resistance is not clear. Here, we presented a comprehensive investigation into the involvement of PAK4 in cisplatin resistance within NSCLC. Our study revealed enhanced PAK4 expression in both cisplatin-resistant NSCLC tumors and cell lines. Notably, PAK4 silencing led to a remarkable enhancement in the chemosensitivity of cisplatin-resistant NSCLC cells. Cisplatin evoked endoplasmic reticulum stress in NSCLC. Furthermore, inhibition of PAK4 demonstrated the potential to sensitize resistant tumor cells through modulating endoplasmic reticulum stress. Mechanistically, we unveiled that the suppression of the MEK1-GRP78 signaling pathway results in the sensitization of NSCLC cells to cisplatin after PAK4 knockdown. Our findings establish PAK4 as a promising therapeutic target for addressing chemoresistance in NSCLC, potentially opening new avenues for enhancing treatment efficacy and patient outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shixin Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, No.601 Huangpu Road West, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, China
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment, and Minister of Education Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Biology, Institute of Precision Cancer Medicine and Pathology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Pingshan Yang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, No.601 Huangpu Road West, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, China
| | - Lu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment, and Minister of Education Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Biology, Institute of Precision Cancer Medicine and Pathology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Xiaofang Zou
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, Meizhou People's Hospital (Huangtang Hospital), Meizhou Academy of Medical Sciences, Meizhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine and Clinical Translational Research of Hakka Population, Meizhou, China
| | - Dongdong Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, No.601 Huangpu Road West, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, China
| | - Wenyou Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, No.601 Huangpu Road West, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, China
| | - Chuang Hu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, No.601 Huangpu Road West, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, China
| | - Duqing Xiao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, No.601 Huangpu Road West, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, China
| | - Hongzheng Ren
- Department of Pathology, Gongli Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200135, China.
- Department of Pathology, Heping Hospital, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, 000465, China.
| | - Hao Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, No.601 Huangpu Road West, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment, and Minister of Education Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Biology, Institute of Precision Cancer Medicine and Pathology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou; The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China.
| | - Songwang Cai
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, No.601 Huangpu Road West, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Vasudevan HN, Payne E, Delley CL, John Liu S, Mirchia K, Sale MJ, Lastella S, Nunez MS, Lucas CHG, Eaton CD, Casey-Clyde T, Magill ST, Chen WC, Braunstein SE, Perry A, Jacques L, Reddy AT, Pekmezci M, Abate AR, McCormick F, Raleigh DR. Functional interactions between neurofibromatosis tumor suppressors underlie Schwann cell tumor de-differentiation and treatment resistance. Nat Commun 2024; 15:477. [PMID: 38216572 PMCID: PMC10786885 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-44755-9] [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: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Schwann cell tumors are the most common cancers of the peripheral nervous system and can arise in patients with neurofibromatosis type-1 (NF-1) or neurofibromatosis type-2 (NF-2). Functional interactions between NF1 and NF2 and broader mechanisms underlying malignant transformation of the Schwann lineage are unclear. Here we integrate bulk and single-cell genomics, biochemistry, and pharmacology across human samples, cell lines, and mouse allografts to identify cellular de-differentiation mechanisms driving malignant transformation and treatment resistance. We find DNA methylation groups of Schwann cell tumors can be distinguished by differentiation programs that correlate with response to the MEK inhibitor selumetinib. Functional genomic screening in NF1-mutant tumor cells reveals NF2 loss and PAK activation underlie selumetinib resistance, and we find that concurrent MEK and PAK inhibition is effective in vivo. These data support a de-differentiation paradigm underlying malignant transformation and treatment resistance of Schwann cell tumors and elucidate a functional link between NF1 and NF2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Harish N Vasudevan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Emily Payne
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Cyrille L Delley
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - S John Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kanish Mirchia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Matthew J Sale
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Sydney Lastella
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Maria Sacconi Nunez
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Charlotte D Eaton
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Tim Casey-Clyde
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Stephen T Magill
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - William C Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Steve E Braunstein
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Arie Perry
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Line Jacques
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Alyssa T Reddy
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Melike Pekmezci
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Adam R Abate
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Frank McCormick
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - David R Raleigh
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Wang H, Zhou Y, Chu C, Xiao J, Zheng S, Korpal M, Korn JM, Penaloza T, Drake RR, Gan W, Gao X. Generating a Murine PTEN Null Cell Line to Discover the Key Role of p110β-PAK1 in Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer Invasion. Mol Cancer Res 2023; 21:1317-1328. [PMID: 37606694 PMCID: PMC10841189 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-22-0808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
Although androgen deprivation treatment often effectively decreases prostate cancer, incurable metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) eventually occurs. It is important to understand how CRPC metastasis progresses, which is not clearly defined. The loss of PTEN, a phosphatase to dephosphorylate phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate in the PI3K pathway, occurs in up to 70% to 80% of CRPC. We generated a mouse androgen-independent prostate cancer cell line (PKO) from PTEN null and Hi-Myc transgenic mice in C57BL/6 background. We confirmed that this PKO cell line has an activated PI3K pathway and can metastasize into the femur and tibia of immunodeficient nude and immunocompetent C57BL/6 mice. In vitro, we found that androgen deprivation significantly enhanced PKO cell migration/invasion via the p110β isoform-depended PAK1-MAPK activation. Inhibition of the p110β-PAK1 axis significantly decreased prostate cancer cell migration/invasion. Of note, our analysis using clinical samples showed that PAK1 is more activated in CRPC than in advanced prostate cancer; high PAK1/phosphorylated-PAK1 levels are associated with decreased survival rates in patients with CRPC. All the information suggests that this cell line reflects the characteristics of CRPC cells and can be applied to dissect the mechanism of CRPC initiation and progression. This study also shows that PAK1 is a potential target for CRPC treatment. IMPLICATIONS This study uses a newly generated PTEN null prostate cancer cell line to define a critical functional role of p110β-PAK1 in CRPC migration/invasion. This study also shows that the p110β-PAK1 axis can potentially be a therapeutic target in CRPC metastasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haizhen Wang
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Yu Zhou
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study, Center for Medical Genetics, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Chen Chu
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jialing Xiao
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study, Center for Medical Genetics, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Shanshan Zheng
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Manav Korpal
- Oncology Disease Area, Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Joshua M Korn
- Oncology Disease Area, Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Tiffany Penaloza
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Richard R. Drake
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Wenjian Gan
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Xueliang Gao
- Department of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Weidle UH, Birzele F. Circular RNA in Non-small Cell Lung Carcinoma: Identification of Targets and New Treatment Modalities. Cancer Genomics Proteomics 2023; 20:646-668. [PMID: 38035705 PMCID: PMC10687737 DOI: 10.21873/cgp.20413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite availability of several treatment options for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy and immunotherapy, the survival rate of patients for five years is in the range of 22%. Therefore, identification of new targets and treatment modalities for this disease is an important issue. In this context, we screened the PubMed database for up-regulated circular RNAs (circRNAs) which promote growth of NSCLC in preclinical models in vitro as well as in vivo xenograft models in immuno-compromised mice. This approach led to potential targets for further validation and inhibition with small molecules or antibody-derived entities. In case of preclinical validation, the corresponding circRNAs can be inhibited with small interfering RNAs (siRNA) or short hairpin RNAs (shRNA). The identified circRNAs act by sponging microRNAs (miRs) preventing cleavage of the mRNA of the corresponding targets. We identified nine circRNAs up-regulating transmembrane receptors, five circRNAs increasing expression of secreted proteins, nine circRNAs promoting expression of components of signaling pathways, six circRNAs involved in regulation of splicing and RNA processing, six circRNAs up-regulating actin-related and RNA processing components, seven circRNAs increasing the steady-state levels of transcription factors, two circRNAs increasing high-mobility group proteins, four circRNAs increasing components of the epigenetic modification system and three circRNAs up-regulating protein components of additional systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich H Weidle
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany;
| | - Fabian Birzele
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Han W, Yang Y, Yu F, Li Q, Liu A, Xu W, Li J, Xue X. Design, synthesis and anticancer activity evaluation of 4-(3-1H-indazolyl)amino quinazoline derivatives as PAK4 inhibitors. Bioorg Med Chem 2023; 95:117501. [PMID: 37864885 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2023.117501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
A novel series of 4-(3-1H-indazolyl)amino quinazoline derivatives were developed as PAK4 inhibitors based on a scaffold hopping strategy. Compounds 27e, 27g, 27i and 27j were found to exhibit potent inhibitory activity against PAK4 (IC50 = 10, 13, 11 and 9 nM, respectively). Subsequent cellular assay demonstrated that compound 27e possessed the strongest antiproliferative activity against A549 cells with an IC50 value of 0.61 μM, a little bit better than PF-3758309. Further anticancer mechanistic investigation revealed that compound 27e significantly induced apoptosis of A549 cells in a concentration-dependent manner and blocked the cell cycle at phase G0/G1. A docking model between compound 27e and PAK4 was proposed to elucidate its possible binding modes. As a promising PAK4 inhibitor, compound 27e may serve as a candidate for the development of novel PAK4-targeted anticancer drug.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Han
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yusang Yang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Fan Yu
- The Engineering Research Center of Synthetic Polypeptide Drug Discovery and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Qianqian Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Anyao Liu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Wenbo Xu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Jiabin Li
- School of Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Xiaowen Xue
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Godbole SS, Dokholyan NV. Allosteric regulation of kinase activity in living cells. eLife 2023; 12:RP90574. [PMID: 37943025 PMCID: PMC10635643 DOI: 10.7554/elife.90574] [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] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The dysregulation of protein kinases is associated with multiple diseases due to the kinases' involvement in a variety of cell signaling pathways. Manipulating protein kinase function, by controlling the active site, is a promising therapeutic and investigative strategy to mitigate and study diseases. Kinase active sites share structural similarities, making it difficult to specifically target one kinase, and allosteric control allows specific regulation and study of kinase function without directly targeting the active site. Allosteric sites are distal to the active site but coupled via a dynamic network of inter-atomic interactions between residues in the protein. Establishing an allosteric control over a kinase requires understanding the allosteric wiring of the protein. Computational techniques offer effective and inexpensive mapping of the allosteric sites on a protein. Here, we discuss the methods to map and regulate allosteric communications in proteins, and strategies to establish control over kinase functions in live cells and organisms. Protein molecules, or 'sensors,' are engineered to function as tools to control allosteric activity of the protein as these sensors have high spatiotemporal resolution and help in understanding cell phenotypes after immediate activation or inactivation of a kinase. Traditional methods used to study protein functions, such as knockout, knockdown, or mutation, cannot offer a sufficiently high spatiotemporal resolution. We discuss the modern repertoire of tools to regulate protein kinases as we enter a new era in deciphering cellular signaling and developing novel approaches to treat diseases associated with signal dysregulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Nikolay V Dokholyan
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of MedicineHersheyUnited States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Penn State University, University ParkHersheyUnited States
- Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics, Penn State University, University ParkHersheyUnited States
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Penn State College of MedicineHersheyUnited States
- Department of Chemistry, Penn State University, University ParkHersheyUnited States
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Peytam F, Emamgholipour Z, Mousavi A, Moradi M, Foroumadi R, Firoozpour L, Divsalar F, Safavi M, Foroumadi A. Imidazopyridine-based kinase inhibitors as potential anticancer agents: A review. Bioorg Chem 2023; 140:106831. [PMID: 37683538 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Considering the fundamental role of protein kinases in the mechanism of protein phosphorylation in critical cellular processes, their dysregulation, especially in cancers, has underscored their therapeutic relevance. Imidazopyridines represent versatile scaffolds found in abundant bioactive compounds. Given their structural features, imidazopyridines have possessed pivotal potency to interact with different protein kinases, inspiring researchers to carry out numerous structural variations. In this comprehensive review, we encompass an extensive survey of the design and biological evaluations of imidazopyridine-based small molecules as potential agents targeting diverse kinases for anticancer applications. We describe the structural elements critical to inhibitory potency, elucidating their key structure-activity relationships (SAR) and mode of actions, where available. We classify these compounds into two groups: Serine/threonine and Tyrosine inhibitors. By highlighting the promising role of imidazopyridines in kinase inhibition, we aim to facilitate the design and development of more effective, targeted compounds for cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fariba Peytam
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Emamgholipour
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Mousavi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahfam Moradi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Roham Foroumadi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Loghman Firoozpour
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Divsalar
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Maliheh Safavi
- Department of Biotechnology, Iranian Research Organization for Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Foroumadi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Drug Design and Development Research Center, The Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (TIPS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Feng W, Zhou L, Du H, Okoth E, Mrode R, Jin W, Hu Z, Liu JF. Transcriptome analysis reveals gene expression changes of pigs infected with non-lethal African swine fever virus. Genet Mol Biol 2023; 46:e20230037. [PMID: 37844188 PMCID: PMC10578457 DOI: 10.1590/1678-4685-gmb-2023-0037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
African swine fever (ASF) is an important viral disease of swine caused by the African swine fever virus (ASFV), which threatens swine production profoundly. To better understand the gene expression changes when pig infected with ASFV, RNA sequencing was performed to characterize differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of six tissues from Kenya domestic pigs and Landrace × Yorkshire (L/Y) pigs infected with ASFV Kenya1033 in vivo. As results, a total of 209, 522, 34, 505, 634 and 138 DEGs (q-value < 0.05 and |Log2foldchange| values >2) were detected in the kidney, liver, mesenteric lymph node, peripheral blood mononuclear cell, submandibular lymph node and spleen, respectively. The expression profiles of DEGs shared in the multiple tissues illustrated variation in regulation function in the different tissues. Functional annotation analysis and interaction of proteins encoded by DEGs revealed that genes including IFIT1, IFITM1, MX1, OASL, ISG15, SAMHD1, IFINA1, S100A12 and S100A8 enriched in the immune and antivirus pathways were significantly changed when the hosts were infected with ASFV. The genes mentioned could play crucial roles in the process of the reaction to non-lethal ASF infection, which may will help to improve the ASF tolerance in the pig population through molecular breeding strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wen Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Beijing, China
- Ministry of Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Beijing, China
- China Agricultural University, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding (MOE), Beijing, China
- China Agricultural University, College of Animal Science and Technology, Beijing, China
- Yulin University, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi, China
| | - Lei Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Beijing, China
- Ministry of Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Beijing, China
- China Agricultural University, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding (MOE), Beijing, China
- China Agricultural University, College of Animal Science and Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Heng Du
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Beijing, China
- Ministry of Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Beijing, China
- China Agricultural University, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding (MOE), Beijing, China
- China Agricultural University, College of Animal Science and Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Edward Okoth
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Raphael Mrode
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Wenjiao Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Beijing, China
- Ministry of Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Beijing, China
- China Agricultural University, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding (MOE), Beijing, China
- China Agricultural University, College of Animal Science and Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Zhengzheng Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Beijing, China
- Ministry of Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Beijing, China
- China Agricultural University, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding (MOE), Beijing, China
- China Agricultural University, College of Animal Science and Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Jian-Feng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Beijing, China
- Ministry of Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Beijing, China
- China Agricultural University, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding (MOE), Beijing, China
- China Agricultural University, College of Animal Science and Technology, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Godbole S, Dokholyan NV. Allosteric regulation of kinase activity in living cells. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.19.549709. [PMID: 37503033 PMCID: PMC10370130 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.19.549709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
The dysregulation of protein kinases is associated with multiple diseases due to the kinases' involvement in a variety of cell signaling pathways. Manipulating protein kinase function, by controlling the active site, is a promising therapeutic and investigative strategy to mitigate and study diseases. Kinase active sites share structural similarities making it difficult to specifically target one kinase, allosteric control allows specific regulation and study of kinase function without directly targeting the active site. Allosteric sites are distal to the active site but coupled via a dynamic network of inter-atomic interactions between residues in the protein. Establishing an allosteric control over a kinase requires understanding the allosteric wiring of the protein. Computational techniques offer effective and inexpensive mapping of the allosteric sites on a protein. Here, we discuss methods to map and regulate allosteric communications in proteins, and strategies to establish control over kinase functions in live cells and organisms. Protein molecules, or "sensors" are engineered to function as tools to control allosteric activity of the protein as these sensors have high spatiotemporal resolution and help in understanding cell phenotypes after immediate activation or inactivation of a kinase. Traditional methods used to study protein functions, such as knockout, knockdown, or mutation, cannot offer a sufficiently high spatiotemporal resolution. We discuss the modern repertoire of tools to regulate protein kinases as we enter a new era in deciphering cellular signaling and developing novel approaches to treat diseases associated with signal dysregulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shivani Godbole
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033-0850, USA
| | - Nikolay V. Dokholyan
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033-0850, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Penn State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
- Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics, Penn State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033-0850, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Penn State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Su N, Fang Y, Chen X, Chen X, Xia Z, Huang H, Xia Y, Liu P, Tian X, Cai Q. Targeting P21-activated kinase suppresses proliferation and enhances chemosensitivity in T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma. BLOOD SCIENCE 2023; 5:249-257. [PMID: 37941919 PMCID: PMC10629744 DOI: 10.1097/bs9.0000000000000169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma (T-LBL) is a highly aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma with a poor prognosis. P21-activated kinase (PAK) is a component of the gene expression-based classifier that can predict the prognosis of T-LBL. However, the role of PAK in T-LBL progression and survival remains poorly understood. Herein, we found that the expression of PAK1 was significantly higher in T-LBL cell lines (Jurkat, SUP-T1, and CCRF-CEM) compared to the human T-lymphoid cell line. Moreover, PAK2 mRNA level of 32 relapsed T-LBL patients was significantly higher than that of 37 cases without relapse (P = .012). T-LBL patients with high PAK1 and PAK2 expression had significantly shorter median RFS than those with low PAK1 and PAK2 expression (PAK1, P = .028; PAK2, P = .027; PAK1/2, P = .032). PAK inhibitors, PF3758309 (PF) and FRAX597, could suppress the proliferation of T-LBL cells by blocking the G1/S cell cycle phase transition. Besides, PF could enhance the chemosensitivity to doxorubicin in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, through western blotting and RNA sequencing, we identified that PF could inhibit the phosphorylation of PAK1/2 and downregulate the expression of cyclin D1, NF-κB and cell adhesion signaling pathways in T-LBL cell lines. These findings suggest that PAK might be associated with T-LBL recurrence and further found that PAK inhibitors could suppress proliferation and enhance chemosensitivity of T-LBL cells treated with doxorubicin. Collectively, our present study underscores the potential therapeutic effect of inhibiting PAK in T-LBL therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ning Su
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Oncology, Guangzhou Chest Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu Fang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Oncology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Xu Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoqin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Hematology Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhongjun Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Hematology Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huiqiang Huang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Xia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Panpan Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaopeng Tian
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qingqing Cai
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center of Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Samant C, Kale R, Bokare A, Verma M, Pai KSR, Bhonde M. PAK4 inhibition significantly potentiates Gemcitabine activity in PDAC cells via inhibition of Wnt/β-catenin, p-ERK/MAPK and p-AKT/PI3K pathways. Biochem Biophys Rep 2023; 35:101544. [PMID: 37720313 PMCID: PMC10500449 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2023.101544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains one of the most difficult to treat cancers. Gemcitabine is still the standard of care treatment for PDAC but with modest survival benefit and well reported resistance. Here we explored potential of inhibiting p21 activated kinase 4 (PAK4), a downstream protein of KRAS oncogenic pathway, in combination with Gemcitabine in PDAC cells. PAK4 inhibition by KPT-9274 led to significant potentiation of Gemcitabine activity in PDAC cells, with an increase in apoptosis, DNA damage and cell cycle arrest. At molecular level, PAK4 inhibition dose dependently inhibited Gemcitabine-induced β-catenin, c-JUN and Ribonucleotide Reductase subunit 2 (RRM2) levels. PAK4 inhibition further inhibited levels of phosphorylated ERK (p-ERK); Gemcitabine-induced phosphorylated AKT (p-AKT), phosphorylated and total c-Myc. These results suggest possible role of β-catenin, p-ERK and p-AKT, key effector proteins of Wnt/β-catenin, MAPK and PI3K pathways respectively, in sensitisation of Gemcitabine activity with PAK4 inhibition. Our data unravel probable molecular mechanisms behind combination of PAK4 inhibition with Gemcitabine to counter PDAC, which may be unequivocally proved further with knock down of PAK4. Our findings provide a strong rationale to exploit the combination therapy of Gemcitabine and PAK4 inhibitor for PDAC at pre-clinical and clinical levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charudatt Samant
- Department of Pharmacology, Novel Drug Discovery and Development (NDDD), Lupin Limited, Survey No. 46A/47A, Village Nande, Taluka Mulshi, Pune, 412115, Maharashtra, India
| | - Ramesh Kale
- Department of Pharmacology, Novel Drug Discovery and Development (NDDD), Lupin Limited, Survey No. 46A/47A, Village Nande, Taluka Mulshi, Pune, 412115, Maharashtra, India
| | - Anand Bokare
- Department of Pharmacology, Novel Drug Discovery and Development (NDDD), Lupin Limited, Survey No. 46A/47A, Village Nande, Taluka Mulshi, Pune, 412115, Maharashtra, India
| | - Mahip Verma
- Department of Pharmacology, Novel Drug Discovery and Development (NDDD), Lupin Limited, Survey No. 46A/47A, Village Nande, Taluka Mulshi, Pune, 412115, Maharashtra, India
| | - K. Sreedhara Ranganath Pai
- Department of Pharmacology, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal, Karnataka, 576104, India
| | - Mandar Bhonde
- Department of Pharmacology, Novel Drug Discovery and Development (NDDD), Lupin Limited, Survey No. 46A/47A, Village Nande, Taluka Mulshi, Pune, 412115, Maharashtra, India
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Lu M, Xing H, Shao W, Wu P, Fan Y, He H, Barth S, Zheng A, Liang XJ, Huang Y. Antitumor synergism between PAK4 silencing and immunogenic phototherapy of engineered extracellular vesicles. Acta Pharm Sin B 2023; 13:3945-3955. [PMID: 37719367 PMCID: PMC10501866 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has revolutionized the landscape of cancer treatment. However, single immunotherapy only works well in a small subset of patients. Combined immunotherapy with antitumor synergism holds considerable potential to boost the therapeutic outcome. Nevertheless, the synergistic, additive or antagonistic antitumor effects of combined immunotherapies have been rarely explored. Herein, we established a novel combined cancer treatment modality by synergizing p21-activated kinase 4 (PAK4) silencing with immunogenic phototherapy in engineered extracellular vesicles (EVs) that were fabricated by coating M1 macrophage-derived EVs on the surface of the nano-complex cores assembled with siRNA against PAK4 and a photoactivatable polyethyleneimine. The engineered EVs induced potent PAK4 silencing and robust immunogenic phototherapy, thus contributing to effective antitumor effects in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, the antitumor synergism of the combined treatment was quantitatively determined by the CompuSyn method. The combination index (CI) and isobologram results confirmed that there was an antitumor synergism for the combined treatment. Furthermore, the dose reduction index (DRI) showed favorable dose reduction, revealing lower toxicity and higher biocompatibility of the engineered EVs. Collectively, the study presents a synergistically potentiated cancer treatment modality by combining PAK4 silencing with immunogenic phototherapy in engineered EVs, which is promising for boosting the therapeutic outcome of cancer immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mei Lu
- Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, School of Life Science, School of Medical Technology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
- Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Haonan Xing
- Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing 100190, China
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Wanxuan Shao
- Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, School of Life Science, School of Medical Technology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Pengfei Wu
- Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, School of Life Science, School of Medical Technology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Yuchuan Fan
- Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, School of Life Science, School of Medical Technology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Huining He
- Tianjin Key Laboratory on Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of Pharmacy, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Stefan Barth
- South African Research Chair in Cancer Biotechnology, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine (IDM), Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
| | - Aiping Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Xing-Jie Liang
- Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Yuanyu Huang
- Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, School of Life Science, School of Medical Technology, Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Liu Y, Ruan H, Lu F, Peng H, Luan W. miR-224-5p acts as a tumour suppressor and reverses the resistance to BRAF inhibitor in melanoma through directly targeting PAK4 to block the MAPK pathway. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 249:154772. [PMID: 37611431 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
miR-224-5p has been shown to play both an oncogene and tumour suppressor role in many human tumours. However, the role and molecular mechanism of miR-224-5p in cutaneous melanoma remains unclear. miR-224-5p levels were downregulated in melanoma tissue, and low miR-224-5p expression was an independent risk factor for melanoma patients. miR-224-5p blocked proliferation, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), invasion, migration in BRAF wild-type melanoma cell, and overcome acquired BRAFi resistance in VMF-resistant melanoma cells. miR-224-5p exerted its role by directly repressing PAK4 to block the downstream CRAF/MEK/ERK pathways. We demonstrated that miR-224-5p inhibited melanoma growth and metastasis in vivo though xenograft tumor and pulmonary metastasis assay. Thus, miR-224-5p/PAK4-mediated CRAF/MEK/ERK pathways have therapeutic potential in melanoma treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Liu
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hongru Ruan
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Feng Lu
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Huiyong Peng
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang Medical School of Nanjing Medical University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China; Department of Genetic Toxicology, The Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Wenkang Luan
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Affiliated People's Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Chen Y, Jin L, Ma Y, Liu Y, Zhu Q, Huang Y, Feng W. BACH1 promotes lung adenocarcinoma cell metastasis through transcriptional activation of ITGA2. Cancer Sci 2023; 114:3568-3582. [PMID: 37311571 PMCID: PMC10475762 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15884] [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: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACH1 plays an important role in promoting cancer. This study aims to further verify the relationship between the expression level of BACH1 in lung adenocarcinoma prognosis, as well as the influence of BACH1 expression on lung adenocarcinoma and the potential mechanism. The expression level of BACH1 in lung adenocarcinoma and its relationship with prognosis was evaluated by lung adenocarcinoma tissue microarray analysis combined with bioinformatics approaches. Gene knockdown and overexpression were used to investigate the functions and molecular mechanisms of BACH1 in lung adenocarcinoma cells. The regulatory downstream pathways and target genes of BACH1 in lung adenocarcinoma cells were explored by bioinformatics and RNA sequencing data analysis, real-time PCR, western blot analysis, and cell immunofluorescence and cell adhesion assays. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and dual-luciferase reporter assays were carried out to verify the target gene binding site. In the present study, BACH1 is abnormally highly expressed in lung adenocarcinoma tissues, and high BACH1 expression is negatively correlated with patient prognosis. BACH1 promotes the migration and invasion of lung adenocarcinoma cells. Mechanistically, BACH1 directly binds to the upstream sequence of the ITGA2 promoter to promote ITGA2 expression, and the BACH1-ITGA2 axis is involved in cytoskeletal regulation in lung adenocarcinoma cells by activating the FAK-RAC1-PAK signaling pathway. Our results indicated that BACH1 positively regulates the expression of ITGA2 through a transcriptional mechanism, thereby activating the FAK-RAC1-PAK signaling pathway to participate in the formation of the cytoskeleton in tumor cells and then promoting the migration and invasion of tumor cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yingji Chen
- Department of Cardiothoracic SurgeryThird Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Longyu Jin
- Department of Cardiothoracic SurgeryThird Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Yuchao Ma
- Department of Cardiothoracic SurgeryThird Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Yicai Liu
- Department of Cardiothoracic SurgeryThird Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Qianjun Zhu
- Department of Cardiothoracic SurgeryThird Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Yu Huang
- Department of Cardiothoracic SurgeryThird Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Wei Feng
- Department of Cardiothoracic SurgeryThird Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Huang M, Zhang J, Li M, Cao H, Zhu Q, Yang D. PAK1 contributes to cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury by regulating the blood-brain barrier integrity. iScience 2023; 26:107333. [PMID: 37529106 PMCID: PMC10387573 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Globally, stroke is one of the leading causes of death and significant contributors to disability. Gaining a thorough comprehension of the underlying pathogenic processes is essential for stroke treatment and prevention. In this study, we investigated the role of p21-activated kinase 1 (PAK1) in stroke by using oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) and transient middle cerebral artery occlusion and reperfusion (tMCAO/R) models. We reported that focal ischemia and reperfusion affect the PAK1 expression and activity levels. We further demonstrated that PAK1 is responsible for the endothelial hyperpermeability that occurs in the early stages of ischemia and reperfusion. Additionally, inhibition of PAK1 was discovered to alleviate blood-brain barrier disruption and protect against brain injury induced by tMCAO/R. Mechanistically, we provide the evidence that PAK1 regulates the formation of stress fibers and expression of surface junctional proteins. Together, our findings reveal a pathogenic function of PAK1 in stroke.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ming Huang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Brain Disease and Bioinformation, Research Center for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, China
| | - Jinshun Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Brain Disease and Bioinformation, Research Center for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, China
| | - Mengwei Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Brain Disease and Bioinformation, Research Center for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, China
| | - Haowei Cao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Brain Disease and Bioinformation, Research Center for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, China
| | - Qiuju Zhu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Brain Disease and Bioinformation, Research Center for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, China
| | - Dejun Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Brain Disease and Bioinformation, Research Center for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, China
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Jiang T, Wang X, Huang J, Chen D. CDC42-A promising immune-related target in glioma. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1192766. [PMID: 37476838 PMCID: PMC10354248 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1192766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioma is the worst prognostic neoplasm in the central nervous system. A polarity-regulating GTPase in cells, known as cell division cycle 42 (CdC42), has been proven to have its overactivation tightly connected to high tumor malignancy. The RNA-seq and protein expression of CDC42 in tumor and comparison tissues were analyzed based on the online tools; CDC42 was remarkably boosted in tumor tissues compared to normal controls. A total of 600 patients in the analysis set from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and 657 patients in the validation set from the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA) database were adopted. The expression of CDC42 in clinical features and biological functions of glioma was analyzed, including differential expression analysis, survival analysis, Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis, and immune infiltration analysis. The enrichment of CDC42 was shown to be strongly associated with poor prognosis and terrible clinical indexes of glioma, including higher World Health Organization scale grade, wild-type isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 expression, O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase non-methylated status, and 1p19q non-codeletion status (p < 0.0001). Functional enrichment analysis showed that CDC42 was highly correlated with immune and inflammatory responses in glioma. Additionally, the concentration extent of CDC42 was closely related to immune infiltration, immune checkpoints, and regulatory T (Treg) cell markers (CD4, CD25, and CD127). All evidence suggested that CDC42 may be a potential target for glioma immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tao Jiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Dalian Municipal Central Hospital, Dalian, China
- Dalian Municipal Central Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xianwei Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Dalian Municipal Central Hospital, Dalian, China
| | - Jiaming Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Dalian Municipal Central Hospital, Dalian, China
| | - Dong Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Dalian Municipal Central Hospital, Dalian, China
- Dalian Municipal Central Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Du Y, Zhang S, Zhang G, Hu J, Zhao L, Xiong Y, Shen L, Chen R, Ye K, Xu Y. Mutational profiling of Chinese patients with thyroid cancer. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1156999. [PMID: 37465126 PMCID: PMC10351985 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1156999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The incidence of thyroid cancer in China has rapidly increased in recent decades. As the genetic profiles of thyroid cancer vary dramatically between different geographical regions, a comprehensive genetic landscape of thyroid cancer in the Chinese population is urgently needed. Methods We retrospectively included thyroid cancer patients from three Chinese medical centers between February 2015 and August 2020. To dissect the genomic profiling of these patients, we performed targeted next-generation sequencing on their tumor tissues using a 1,021-gene panel. Results A total of 458 Chinese patients with thyroid cancer were enrolled, including four malignant histological subtypes arising from follicular epithelial thyroid cells. BRAF driver mutations were identified in 76.0% of patients, followed by RET rearrangements (7.6%) and RAS driver mutations (4.1%). Tumors with more somatic mutations correlated with worse clinical characteristics, including older age at diagnosis, less differentiation of tumor, larger tumor size, lymph node metastasis and distal metastasis. Subclonal BRAF mutations occurred in 20% (6/30) of patients and were frequent in poorly differentiated or anaplastic tumors (33.3% [2/6] vs. 4.2% [1/24], P = 0.09) and those with distal metastasis (50.0% [2/4] vs. 8.7% [2/23], P = 0.09). Tumors with TERT promoter mutations had significantly more somatic mutations (average: 6.5 vs. 1.8, P < 0.001). Moreover, TERT promoter mutations were not associated with lymph node metastasis but significantly associated with older age at diagnosis and poorly differentiated or anaplastic tumors, regardless of their clonal architecture. Conclusion Our results shed light on the molecular pathogenesis and clinical characteristics of thyroid cancer in the Chinese population. The number of somatic mutations, TERT promoter mutations, and the clonal architecture of BRAF mutations should be considered in the risk stratification of thyroid cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yaying Du
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shu Zhang
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Gang Zhang
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiaying Hu
- Ultrasound Diagnostic Department, Daping Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lianhua Zhao
- Department of Pathology, Daping Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | | | - Lu Shen
- Geneplus-Beijing, Beijing, China
| | | | - Ke Ye
- Department of General Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yan Xu
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Daping Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Yamahashi Y, Tsuboi D, Funahashi Y, Kaibuchi K. Neuroproteomic mapping of kinases and their substrates downstream of acetylcholine: finding and implications. Expert Rev Proteomics 2023; 20:291-298. [PMID: 37787112 DOI: 10.1080/14789450.2023.2265067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Since the emergence of the cholinergic hypothesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD), acetylcholine has been viewed as a mediator of learning and memory. Donepezil improves AD-associated learning deficits and memory loss by recovering brain acetylcholine levels. However, it is associated with side effects due to global activation of acetylcholine receptors. Muscarinic acetylcholine receptor M1 (M1R), a key mediator of learning and memory, has been an alternative target. The importance of targeting a specific pathway downstream of M1R has recently been recognized. Elucidating signaling pathways beyond M1R that lead to learning and memory holds important clues for AD therapeutic strategies. AREAS COVERED This review first summarizes the role of acetylcholine in aversive learning, one of the outputs used for preliminary AD drug screening. It then describes the phosphoproteomic approach focused on identifying acetylcholine intracellular signaling pathways leading to aversive learning. Finally, the intracellular mechanism of donepezil and its effect on learning and memory is discussed. EXPERT OPINION The elucidation of signaling pathways beyond M1R by phosphoproteomic approach offers a platform for understanding the intracellular mechanism of AD drugs and for developing AD therapeutic strategies. Clarifying the molecular mechanism that links the identified acetylcholine signaling to AD pathophysiology will advance the development of AD therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yukie Yamahashi
- Division of Cell Biology, International Center for Brain Science, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi, Japan
| | - Daisuke Tsuboi
- Division of Cell Biology, International Center for Brain Science, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Funahashi
- Division of Cell Biology, International Center for Brain Science, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi, Japan
| | - Kozo Kaibuchi
- Division of Cell Biology, International Center for Brain Science, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Tang H, Wang L, Wang T, Yang J, Zheng S, Tong J, Jiang S, Zhang X, Zhang K. Recent advances of targeting nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT) for cancer drug discovery. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 258:115607. [PMID: 37413882 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
Nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT) is the rate-limiting enzyme for the biosynthesis of NAD+ in the salvage pathway. NAMPT is overexpressed in various cancers, associating with a poor prognosis and tumor progression. Beyond cancer metabolism, recent evidence unravels additional roles of NAMPT in cancer biology, including DNA repair machinery, crosstalk with oncogenic signaling pathways, cancer cell stemness, and immune responses. NAMPT is a promising therapeutic target for cancer. However, first-generation NAMPT inhibitors exhibited limited efficacy and dose-limiting toxicities in clinical trials. Multiple strategies are being exploited to improve their efficacy and minimize toxic-side effects. This review discusses the biomarkers predictive of response to NAMPT inhibitors, and summarizes the most significant advances in the evolution of structurally distinct NAMPT inhibitors, the manipulation of targeted delivery technologies via antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), PhotoActivated ChemoTherapy (PACT) and the intratumoral delivery system, as well as the development and pharmacological outcomes of NAMPT degraders. Finally, a discussion of future perspectives and challenges in this area is also included.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- He Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Lin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Tianyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Jiamei Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Shuai Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Jun Tong
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Sheng Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| | - Xiangyu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| | - Kuojun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Skjervold AH, Valla M, Ytterhus B, Bofin AM. PAK1 copy number in breast cancer-Associations with proliferation and molecular subtypes. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0287608. [PMID: 37368917 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0287608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION P21-activated kinase 1 (PAK1) is known to be overexpressed in several human tumour types, including breast cancer (BC). It is located on chromosome 11 (11q13.5-q14.1) and plays a significant role in proliferation in BC. In this study we aimed to assess PAK1 gene copy number (CN) in primary breast tumours and their corresponding lymph node metastases, and associations between PAK1 CN and proliferation status, molecular subtype, and prognosis. In addition, we aimed to study associations between CNs of PAK1 and CCND1. Both genes are located on the long arm of chromosome 11 (11q13). METHODS Fluorescence in situ hybridization for PAK1 and Chromosome enumeration probe (CEP)11 were used on tissue microarray sections from a series of 512 BC cases. Copy numbers were estimated by counting the number of fluorescent signals for PAK1 and CEP11 in 20 tumour cell nuclei. Pearson's x2 test was performed to assess associations between PAK1 CN and tumour features, and between PAK1 and CCND1 CNs. Cumulative risk of death from BC and hazard ratios were estimated in analysis of prognosis. RESULTS We found mean PAK1 CN ≥4<6 in 26 (5.1%) tumours, and CN ≥ 6 in 22 (4.3%) tumours. The proportion of cases with copy number increase (mean CN ≥4) was highest among HER2 type and Luminal B (HER2-) tumours. We found an association between PAK1 CN increase, and high proliferation, and high histological grade, but not prognosis. Of cases with PAK1 CN ≥ 6, 30% also had CCND1 CN ≥ 6. CONCLUSIONS PAK1 copy number increase is associated with high proliferation and high histological grade, but not with prognosis. PAK1 CN increase was most frequent in the HER2 type and Luminal B (HER2-) subtype. PAK1 CN increase is associated with CN increase of CCND1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anette H Skjervold
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Marit Valla
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Pathology, St. Olav's Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Borgny Ytterhus
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Anna M Bofin
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Belli S, Esposito D, Allotta A, Servetto A, Ciciola P, Pesapane A, Ascione CM, Napolitano F, Di Mauro C, Vigliar E, Iaccarino A, De Angelis C, Bianco R, Formisano L. Pak1 pathway hyper-activation mediates resistance to endocrine therapy and CDK4/6 inhibitors in ER+ breast cancer. NPJ Breast Cancer 2023; 9:48. [PMID: 37258566 DOI: 10.1038/s41523-023-00556-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyclin-dependent kinase 4 and 6 inhibitors (CDK4/6i) have been approved in combination with endocrine therapy (ET) to treat estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) metastatic breast cancer (BC). However, drug resistance represents the leading cause of breast cancer patients mortality. This study aimed to identify novel resistance mechanisms to ER antagonists in combination with CDK4/6 inhibitors. We generated two ER+ BC cell lines, T47D and MCF7, resistant to the combination of the ER antagonist fulvestrant and CDK4/6i abemaciclib, named T47D-FAR and MCF7-FAR. Transcriptomic analysis revealed common up-regulation of genes involved in MAPK and epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) pathways in FAR cells, sustaining their hyper-invasive phenotype and increased anchorage-independent growth, compared to sensitive cells. FAR cells showed higher p21-activated kinase 1 (Pak1) expression and phosphorylation levels than parental cells. PAK1 knockdown by siRNAs hampered cell proliferation, reduced anchorage-independent growth and invasive properties of T47D-FAR and MCF7-FAR, re-sensitizing them to fulvestrant and abemaciclib. Conversely, over-expression of PAK1 in MCF7 and T47D cells increased tumor spheroids' growth and invasion and reduced sensitivity to fulvestrant and abemaciclib, confirming its role in inducing drug resistance. Finally, treatment with Pak1 inhibitors, PF-3758309 (PF309) and NVS-PAK1-1, restored cell sensitivity to fulvestrant and abemaciclib of MCF7-FAR and T47D-FAR cells, both in vitro and in vivo. In conclusion, our data suggested a pivotal role for Pak1 in resistance to ET and CDK4/6i in ER+ breast cancers. These data might promote the rationale for the development of novel Pak1 inhibitors for treatment of patients with ER+ BC progressing on ET plus CDK4/6i.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Belli
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Daniela Esposito
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandra Allotta
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Alberto Servetto
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Paola Ciciola
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Ada Pesapane
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Claudia M Ascione
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Fabiana Napolitano
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Concetta Di Mauro
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Elena Vigliar
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonino Iaccarino
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Carmine De Angelis
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto Bianco
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy.
| | - Luigi Formisano
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131, Naples, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Yin G, Huang J, Petela J, Jiang H, Zhang Y, Gong S, Wu J, Liu B, Shi J, Gao Y. Targeting small GTPases: emerging grasps on previously untamable targets, pioneered by KRAS. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:212. [PMID: 37221195 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01441-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Small GTPases including Ras, Rho, Rab, Arf, and Ran are omnipresent molecular switches in regulating key cellular functions. Their dysregulation is a therapeutic target for tumors, neurodegeneration, cardiomyopathies, and infection. However, small GTPases have been historically recognized as "undruggable". Targeting KRAS, one of the most frequently mutated oncogenes, has only come into reality in the last decade due to the development of breakthrough strategies such as fragment-based screening, covalent ligands, macromolecule inhibitors, and PROTACs. Two KRASG12C covalent inhibitors have obtained accelerated approval for treating KRASG12C mutant lung cancer, and allele-specific hotspot mutations on G12D/S/R have been demonstrated as viable targets. New methods of targeting KRAS are quickly evolving, including transcription, immunogenic neoepitopes, and combinatory targeting with immunotherapy. Nevertheless, the vast majority of small GTPases and hotspot mutations remain elusive, and clinical resistance to G12C inhibitors poses new challenges. In this article, we summarize diversified biological functions, shared structural properties, and complex regulatory mechanisms of small GTPases and their relationships with human diseases. Furthermore, we review the status of drug discovery for targeting small GTPases and the most recent strategic progress focused on targeting KRAS. The discovery of new regulatory mechanisms and development of targeting approaches will together promote drug discovery for small GTPases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guowei Yin
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China.
| | - Jing Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Johnny Petela
- Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27101, USA
| | - Hongmei Jiang
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Yuetong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Siqi Gong
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
- School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Jiaxin Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Bei Liu
- National Biomedical Imaging Center, School of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Jianyou Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology, Chengdu, 610072, China.
| | - Yijun Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Somanath PR, Chernoff J, Cummings BS, Prasad SM, Homan HD. Targeting P21-Activated Kinase-1 for Metastatic Prostate Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15082236. [PMID: 37190165 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15082236] [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: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Metastatic prostate cancer (mPCa) has limited therapeutic options and a high mortality rate. The p21-activated kinase (PAK) family of proteins is important in cell survival, proliferation, and motility in physiology, and pathologies such as infectious, inflammatory, vascular, and neurological diseases as well as cancers. Group-I PAKs (PAK1, PAK2, and PAK3) are involved in the regulation of actin dynamics and thus are integral for cell morphology, adhesion to the extracellular matrix, and cell motility. They also play prominent roles in cell survival and proliferation. These properties make group-I PAKs a potentially important target for cancer therapy. In contrast to normal prostate and prostatic epithelial cells, group-I PAKs are highly expressed in mPCA and PCa tissue. Importantly, the expression of group-I PAKs is proportional to the Gleason score of the patients. While several compounds have been identified that target group-I PAKs and these are active in cells and mice, and while some inhibitors have entered human trials, as of yet, none have been FDA-approved. Probable reasons for this lack of translation include issues related to selectivity, specificity, stability, and efficacy resulting in side effects and/or lack of efficacy. In the current review, we describe the pathophysiology and current treatment guidelines of PCa, present group-I PAKs as a potential druggable target to treat mPCa patients, and discuss the various ATP-competitive and allosteric inhibitors of PAKs. We also discuss the development and testing of a nanotechnology-based therapeutic formulation of group-I PAK inhibitors and its significant potential advantages as a novel, selective, stable, and efficacious mPCa therapeutic over other PCa therapeutics in the pipeline.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Payaningal R Somanath
- Department of Clinical & Administrative Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
- MetasTx LLC, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920, USA
| | - Jonathan Chernoff
- MetasTx LLC, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920, USA
- Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA 19111, USA
| | - Brian S Cummings
- MetasTx LLC, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
| | - Sandip M Prasad
- Morristown Medical Center, Atlantic Health System, Morristown, NJ 07960, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Uechi H, Kuranaga E. Underlying mechanisms that ensure actomyosin-mediated directional remodeling of cell-cell contacts for multicellular movement: Tricellular junctions and negative feedback as new aspects underlying actomyosin-mediated directional epithelial morphogenesis: Tricellular junctions and negative feedback as new aspects underlying actomyosin-mediated directional epithelial morphogenesis. Bioessays 2023; 45:e2200211. [PMID: 36929512 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202200211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
Actomyosin (actin-myosin II complex)-mediated contractile forces are central to the generation of multifaceted uni- and multi-cellular material properties and dynamics such as cell division, migration, and tissue morphogenesis. In the present article, we summarize our recent researches addressing molecular mechanisms that ensure actomyosin-mediated directional cell-cell junction remodeling, either shortening or extension, driving cell rearrangement for epithelial morphogenesis. Genetic perturbation clarified two points concerning cell-cell junction remodeling: an inhibitory mechanism against negative feedback in which actomyosin contractile forces, which are well known to induce cell-cell junction shortening, can concomitantly alter actin dynamics, oppositely leading to perturbation of the shortening; and tricellular junctions as a point that organizes extension of new cell-cell junctions after shortening. These findings highlight the notion that cells develop underpinning mechanisms to transform the multi-tasking property of actomyosin contractile forces into specific and proper cellular dynamics in space and time.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Uechi
- Laboratory for Histogenetic Dynamics, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Erina Kuranaga
- Laboratory for Histogenetic Dynamics, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Expression Patterns of PAK4 and PHF8 Are Associated with the Survival of Gallbladder Carcinoma Patients. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13061149. [PMID: 36980457 PMCID: PMC10047028 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13061149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: PAK4 and PHF8 are involved in cancer progression and are under evaluation as targets for cancer therapy. However, despite extensive studies in human cancers, there are limited reports on the roles of PAK4 and PHF8 in gallbladder cancers. Methods: Immunohistochemical expression of PAK4 and PHF8 and their prognostic significance were evaluated in 148 human gallbladder carcinomas. Results: PAK4 expression was significantly associated with PHF8 expression in gallbladder carcinomas. Positive expression of nuclear PAK4, cytoplasmic PAK4, nuclear PHF8, and cytoplasmic PHF8 were significantly associated with shorter overall survival and relapse-free survival in univariate analysis. Multivariate analysis showed that nuclear PAK4 expression and nuclear PHF8 expression were independent predictors of overall survival and relapse-free survival in gallbladder carcinomas. Furthermore, coexpression of nuclear PAK4 and nuclear PHF8 predicted shorter overall survival (p < 0.001) and relapse-free survival (p < 0.001) of gallbladder carcinoma in multivariate analysis. Conclusions: This study suggests that the individual and coexpression patterns of PAK4 and PHF8 as the prognostic indicators for gallbladder carcinoma patients.
Collapse
|
32
|
Buikhuisen JY, Gomez Barila PM, Cameron K, Suijkerbuijk SJE, Lieftink C, di Franco S, Krotenberg Garcia A, Uceda Castro R, Lenos KJ, Nijman LE, Torang A, Longobardi C, de Jong JH, Dekker D, Stassi G, Vermeulen L, Beijersbergen RL, van Rheenen J, Huveneers S, Medema JP. Subtype-specific kinase dependency regulates growth and metastasis of poor-prognosis mesenchymal colorectal cancer. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:56. [PMID: 36869386 PMCID: PMC9983221 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02600-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer (CRC) can be divided into four consensus molecular subtypes (CMS), each with distinct biological features. CMS4 is associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition and stromal infiltration (Guinney et al., Nat Med 21:1350-6, 2015; Linnekamp et al., Cell Death Differ 25:616-33, 2018), whereas clinically it is characterized by lower responses to adjuvant therapy, higher incidence of metastatic spreading and hence dismal prognosis (Buikhuisen et al., Oncogenesis 9:66, 2020). METHODS To understand the biology of the mesenchymal subtype and unveil specific vulnerabilities, a large CRISPR-Cas9 drop-out screen was performed on 14 subtyped CRC cell lines to uncover essential kinases in all CMSs. Dependency of CMS4 cells on p21-activated kinase 2 (PAK2) was validated in independent 2D and 3D in vitro cultures and in vivo models assessing primary and metastatic outgrowth in liver and peritoneum. TIRF microscopy was used to uncover actin cytoskeleton dynamics and focal adhesion localization upon PAK2 loss. Subsequent functional assays were performed to determine altered growth and invasion patterns. RESULTS PAK2 was identified as a key kinase uniquely required for growth of the mesenchymal subtype CMS4, both in vitro and in vivo. PAK2 plays an important role in cellular attachment and cytoskeletal rearrangements (Coniglio et al., Mol Cell Biol 28:4162-72, 2008; Grebenova et al., Sci Rep 9:17171, 2019). In agreement, deletion or inhibition of PAK2 impaired actin cytoskeleton dynamics in CMS4 cells and, as a consequence, significantly reduced invasive capacity, while it was dispensable for CMS2 cells. Clinical relevance of these findings was supported by the observation that deletion of PAK2 from CMS4 cells prevented metastatic spreading in vivo. Moreover, growth in a model for peritoneal metastasis was hampered when CMS4 tumor cells were deficient for PAK2. CONCLUSION Our data reveal a unique dependency of mesenchymal CRC and provide a rationale for PAK2 inhibition to target this aggressive subgroup of colorectal cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joyce Y Buikhuisen
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental Molecular Medicine, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, location AMC, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Oncode Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Patricia M Gomez Barila
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental Molecular Medicine, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, location AMC, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Oncode Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kate Cameron
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental Molecular Medicine, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, location AMC, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Oncode Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia J E Suijkerbuijk
- Oncode Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cor Lieftink
- Oncode Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Division of Molecular Carcinogenesis, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Simone di Franco
- Department of Surgical Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Ana Krotenberg Garcia
- Oncode Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rebeca Uceda Castro
- Oncode Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kristiaan J Lenos
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental Molecular Medicine, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, location AMC, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Oncode Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lisanne E Nijman
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental Molecular Medicine, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, location AMC, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Oncode Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Arezo Torang
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental Molecular Medicine, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, location AMC, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Oncode Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ciro Longobardi
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental Molecular Medicine, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, location AMC, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Oncode Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joan H de Jong
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental Molecular Medicine, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, location AMC, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Oncode Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Daniëlle Dekker
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental Molecular Medicine, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, location AMC, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Oncode Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Giorgio Stassi
- Department of Surgical Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Louis Vermeulen
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental Molecular Medicine, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, location AMC, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Oncode Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Roderick L Beijersbergen
- Oncode Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Division of Molecular Carcinogenesis, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jacco van Rheenen
- Oncode Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Stephan Huveneers
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Paul Medema
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental Molecular Medicine, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, location AMC, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. .,Oncode Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Testicular germ cell tumors: Genomic alternations and RAS-dependent signaling. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2023; 183:103928. [PMID: 36717007 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2023.103928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) are a common malignancy occurring in young adult men. The various genetic risk factors have been suggested to contribute to TGCT pathogenesis, however, they have a distinct mutational profile with a low rate of somatic point mutations, more frequent chromosomal gains, and aneuploidy. The most frequently mutated oncogenes in human cancers are RAS oncogenes, while their impact on testicular carcinogenesis and refractory disease is still poorly understood. In this mini-review, we summarize current knowledge on genetic alternations of RAS signaling-associated genes (the single nucleotide polymorphisms and point mutations) in this particular cancer type and highlight their link to chemotherapy resistance mechanisms. We also mention the impact of epigenetic changes on TGCT progression. Lastly, we propose a model for RAS-dependent signaling networks, regulation, cross-talks, and outcomes in TGCTs.
Collapse
|
34
|
Kunimura K, Akiyoshi S, Uruno T, Matsubara K, Sakata D, Morino K, Hirotani K, Fukui Y. DOCK2 regulates MRGPRX2/B2-mediated mast cell degranulation and drug-induced anaphylaxis. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2023:S0091-6749(23)00209-9. [PMID: 36804596 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2023.01.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Drug-induced anaphylaxis is triggered by the direct stimulation of mast cells (MCs) via Mas-related G protein-coupled receptor X2 (MRGPRX2; mouse ortholog MRGPRB2). However, the precise mechanism that links MRGPRX2/B2 to MC degranulation is poorly understood. Dedicator of cytokinesis 2 (DOCK2) is a Rac activator predominantly expressed in hematopoietic cells. Although DOCK2 regulates migration and activation of leukocytes, its role in MCs remains unknown. OBJECTIVE We aimed to elucidate whether-and if so, how-DOCK2 is involved in MRGPRX2/B2-mediated MC degranulation and anaphylaxis. METHODS Induction of drug-induced systemic and cutaneous anaphylaxis was compared between wild-type and DOCK2-deficient mice. In addition, genetic or pharmacologic inactivation of DOCK2 in human and murine MCs was used to reveal its role in MRGPRX2/B2-mediated signal transduction and degranulation. RESULTS Induction of MC degranulation and anaphylaxis by compound 48/80 and ciprofloxacin was severely attenuated in the absence of DOCK2. Although calcium influx and phosphorylation of several signaling molecules were unaffected, MRGPRB2-mediated Rac activation and phosphorylation of p21-activated kinase 1 (PAK1) were impaired in DOCK2-deficient MCs. Similar results were obtained when mice or MCs were treated with small-molecule inhibitors that bind to the catalytic domain of DOCK2 and inhibit Rac activation. CONCLUSION DOCK2 regulates MRGPRX2/B2-mediated MC degranulation through Rac activation and PAK1 phosphorylation, thereby indicating that the DOCK2-Rac-PAK1 axis could be a target for preventing drug-induced anaphylaxis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kazufumi Kunimura
- Department of Immunobiology and Neuroscience, Division of Immunogenetics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan.
| | - Sayaka Akiyoshi
- Department of Immunobiology and Neuroscience, Division of Immunogenetics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Takehito Uruno
- Department of Immunobiology and Neuroscience, Division of Immunogenetics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Keisuke Matsubara
- Department of Immunobiology and Neuroscience, Division of Immunogenetics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Daiji Sakata
- Department of Immunobiology and Neuroscience, Division of Immunogenetics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Kenji Morino
- Department of Immunobiology and Neuroscience, Division of Immunogenetics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Kenichiro Hirotani
- Department of Immunobiology and Neuroscience, Division of Immunogenetics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Fukui
- Department of Immunobiology and Neuroscience, Division of Immunogenetics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Hamidi AA, Taghehchian N, Zangouei AS, Akhlaghipour I, Maharati A, Basirat Z, Moghbeli M. Molecular mechanisms of microRNA-216a during tumor progression. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:19. [PMID: 36740668 PMCID: PMC9899407 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-02865-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) as the members of non-coding RNAs family are involved in post-transcriptional regulation by translational inhibiting or mRNA degradation. They have a critical role in regulation of cell proliferation and migration. MiRNAs aberrations have been reported in various cancers. Considering the importance of these factors in regulation of cellular processes and their high stability in body fluids, these factors can be suggested as suitable non-invasive markers for the cancer diagnosis. MiR-216a deregulation has been frequently reported in different cancers. Therefore, in the present review we discussed the molecular mechanisms of the miR-216a during tumor progression. It has been reported that miR-216a mainly functioned as a tumor suppressor through the regulation of signaling pathways and transcription factors. This review paves the way to suggest the miR-216a as a probable therapeutic and diagnostic target in cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Abbas Hamidi
- grid.411583.a0000 0001 2198 6209Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Negin Taghehchian
- grid.411583.a0000 0001 2198 6209Medical Genetics Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amir Sadra Zangouei
- grid.411583.a0000 0001 2198 6209Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Iman Akhlaghipour
- grid.411583.a0000 0001 2198 6209Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amirhosein Maharati
- grid.411583.a0000 0001 2198 6209Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Zahra Basirat
- grid.411583.a0000 0001 2198 6209Medical Genetics Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Meysam Moghbeli
- grid.411583.a0000 0001 2198 6209Medical Genetics Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran ,grid.411583.a0000 0001 2198 6209Department of Medical Genetics and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Hyperactivation of p21-Activated Kinases in Human Cancer and Therapeutic Sensitivity. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11020462. [PMID: 36830998 PMCID: PMC9953343 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11020462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the last three decades, p21-activated kinases (PAKs) have emerged as prominent intracellular nodular signaling molecules in cancer cells with a spectrum of cancer-promoting functions ranging from cell survival to anchorage-independent growth to cellular invasiveness. As PAK family members are widely overexpressed and/or hyperactivated in a variety of human tumors, over the years PAKs have also emerged as therapeutic targets, resulting in the development of clinically relevant PAK inhibitors. Over the last two decades, this has been a promising area of active investigation for several academic and pharmaceutical groups. Similar to other kinases, blocking the activity of one PAK family member leads to compensatory activity on the part of other family members. Because PAKs are also activated by stress-causing anticancer drugs, PAKs are components in the rewiring of survival pathways in the action of several therapeutic agents; in turn, they contribute to the development of therapeutic resistance. This, in turn, creates an opportunity to co-target the PAKs to achieve a superior anticancer cellular effect. Here we discuss the role of PAKs and their effector pathways in the modulation of cellular susceptibility to cancer therapeutic agents and therapeutic resistance.
Collapse
|
37
|
Dukel M, Fiskin K. Combination of PAKs inhibitors IPA-3 and PF-3758309 effectively suppresses colon carcinoma cell growth by perturbing DNA damage response. Int J Radiat Biol 2023; 99:340-354. [PMID: 35939342 DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2022.2110326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE PAKs proteins are speculated as new promising targets for cancer therapy due to their central role in many oncogenic pathways. Because PAKs proteins are very significant during carcinogenesis, we aimed to investigate the hypothesis that inhibition of PAKs with IPA-3 and PF-3758309 treatment could synergistically reduce colon carcinoma cell growth. MATERIALS AND METHODS The cytotoxic effects of both drugs were determined by a cell viability assay. Cell cycle and apoptosis were analyzed by flow cytometry. The effects of inhibitor drugs on marker genes of apoptosis, autophagy, cell cycle, and DNA damage were tested via immunoblotting. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS We found out the synergistic effect of these drugs in pair on five colon cancer cell lines. Combined treatment with IPA-3+PF-3758309 in SW620 and Colo 205 cells markedly suppressed colon formation and induced apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and autophagy compared with treatment with each drug alone. Additionally, this combination sensitized colon cancer cells to ionizing radiation that resulted in inhibition of cell growth. SIGNIFICANCE Collectively, our findings show for the first time that cotreatment of IPA-3 with PF-3758309 exhibits superior inhibitory effects on colon carcinoma cell growth via inducing DNA damage-related cell death and also enforces a cell cycle arrest.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muzaffer Dukel
- Molecular Biology and Genetics Department, Faculty of Art and Science, Mehmet Akif Ersoy University, Burdur, Turkey
| | - Kayahan Fiskin
- Biology Department, Faculty of Science, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Wang D, Zhu J, Yang Y, Wang Z, Ying Z, Zhang H. The role of the miR-4306/PAK6 axis in degenerative nucleus pulposus cells in human intervertebral disc degeneration. Cell Signal 2023; 102:110528. [PMID: 36423859 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2022.110528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD), characterized by degenerative changes that occur in intervertebral discs due to aging or structural injury, is thought to be the most common cause of lower back pain. Recent studies have shown that microRNAs (miRNAs) have a critical role in the etiopathogenesis of IDD. In the current study, we aimed to determine the role of miRNAs in mediating the underlying mechanisms associated with IDD. First, differentially expressed miRNAs (DEmiRNAs) were identified using the GEO database, and subsequently confirmed by RT-qPCR and in situ hybridization. We found that miR-4306 expression was significantly decreased in human nucleus pulposus (NP) tissues compared with healthy controls, and was negatively correlated with the patients' Pfirrmann grade. To determine the mechanism by which miR-4306 was involved in IDD pathogenesis, we examined the effects of overexpressing or silencing miR-4306 on extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis/degradation, proliferation, autophagy and apoptosis of human degenerated NP cells isolated from IDD patients. Next, we used dual-luciferase reporter assays to demonstrate that miR-4306 interacted with the 3'-untranslated regions of p21-activated kinase 6 (PAK6) mRNA, resulting in significant suppression of PAK6 expression. This effect was abolished by miR-4306 binding site mutations. Using miR-4306/PAK6 gain-of-function and loss-of-function studies in human degenerated NP cells, we demonstrated that miR-4306 promoted NP cell proliferation, ECM synthesis and autophagy, while inhibiting apoptosis and ECM degradation via PAK6. Thus, our findings indicate that miR-4306, acting via PAK6, has an important role in IDD and can be used as a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of patients with IDD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dongdong Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai 200060, China
| | - Ji Zhu
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuanqing Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai 200060, China
| | - Zhizhou Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai 200060, China
| | - Zhengran Ying
- Department of Orthopedics, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai 200060, China
| | - Hailong Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai 200060, China.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Wang Y, Zhang K, Guo J, Yang S, Shi X, Pan J, Sun Z, Zou J, Li Y, Li Y, Fan T, Song W, Cheng F, Zeng C, Li J, Zhang T, Sun ZS. Loss-of-Function of p21-Activated Kinase 2 Links BMP Signaling to Neural Tube Patterning Defects. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2204018. [PMID: 36504449 PMCID: PMC9896034 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202204018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Closure of the neural tube represents a highly complex and coordinated process, the failure of which constitutes common birth defects. The serine/threonine kinase p21-activated kinase 2 (PAK2) is a critical regulator of cytoskeleton dynamics; however, its role in the neurulation and pathogenesis of neural tube defects (NTDs) remains unclear. Here, the results show that Pak2-/- mouse embryos fail to develop dorsolateral hinge points (DLHPs) and exhibit craniorachischisis, a severe phenotype of NTDs. Pak2 knockout activates BMP signaling that involves in vertebrate bone formation. Single-cell transcriptomes reveal abnormal differentiation trajectories and transcriptional events in Pak2-/- mouse embryos during neural tube development. Two nonsynonymous and one recurrent splice-site mutations in the PAK2 gene are identified in five human NTD fetuses, which exhibit attenuated PAK2 expression and upregulated BMP signaling in the brain. Mechanistically, PAK2 regulates Smad9 phosphorylation to inhibit BMP signaling and ultimately induce DLHP formation. Depletion of pak2a in zebrafish induces defects in the neural tube, which are partially rescued by the overexpression of wild-type, but not mutant PAK2. The findings demonstrate the conserved role of PAK2 in neurulation in multiple vertebrate species, highlighting the molecular pathogenesis of PAK2 mutations in NTDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- Beijing Institutes of Life ScienceChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic InteractionsUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Kaifan Zhang
- Institute of Genomic MedicineWenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000China
| | - Jin Guo
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and NutriomicsCapital Institute of PediatricsBeijing100020China
| | - Shuyan Yang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and NutriomicsCapital Institute of PediatricsBeijing100020China
| | - Xiaohui Shi
- Beijing Institutes of Life ScienceChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic InteractionsUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Jinrong Pan
- Beijing Institutes of Life ScienceChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic InteractionsUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Zheng Sun
- Beijing Institutes of Life ScienceChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic InteractionsUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Jizhen Zou
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and NutriomicsCapital Institute of PediatricsBeijing100020China
| | - Yi Li
- Institute of Genomic MedicineWenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- Beijing Institutes of Life ScienceChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic InteractionsUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Tianda Fan
- Institute of Genomic MedicineWenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000China
| | - Wei Song
- Beijing Institutes of Life ScienceChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic InteractionsUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Fang Cheng
- Institute of Genomic MedicineWenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000China
| | - Cheng Zeng
- Beijing Institutes of Life ScienceChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic InteractionsUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Jinchen Li
- Bioinformatics Center & National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric DisordersXiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaHunan410078China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and NutriomicsCapital Institute of PediatricsBeijing100020China
| | - Zhong Sheng Sun
- Beijing Institutes of Life ScienceChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic InteractionsUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
- Institute of Genomic MedicineWenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhouZhejiang325000China
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and RodentsChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101China
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Clinical Significance of Combined Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Markers Expression and Role of Rac1 in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021765. [PMID: 36675278 PMCID: PMC9865966 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been implicated in cancer progression, invasion, and metastasis. We aimed to evaluate the correlations between clinicopathological characteristics and EMT markers in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who underwent surgical resection and to identify the key regulator in EMT process. Fresh-frozen HCC tissues and adjacent nontumor liver tissues from 30 patients who underwent surgical resection were provided by the Gachon University Gil Medical Center Bio Bank. Human HCC cell lines, Hep3B, SNU449, and Huh7 cells were transfected with Rac1 siRNA and exposed to hypoxic conditions. The combined EMT markers expression (down-expression of E-cadherin and overexpression of p21-activated kinases 1 (PAK1)/Snail) by Western blot in HCC tissues when compared to adjacent nontumor liver tissues was significantly associated with macrovascular invasion (p = 0.021), microvascular invasion (p = 0.001), large tumor size (p = 0.021), and advanced tumor stage (p = 0.015). Patients with combined EMT markers expression showed early recurrence and poor overall survival. In vitro studies showed that Rac1 knockdown decreased the expression of EMT markers including PAK1 and Snail in hypoxia-induced Hep3B cells and suppressed the migration and invasion of hypoxia-induced HCC cells. Rac1 may be a potential therapeutic target for inhibition of EMT process through the inhibition of PAK1 and Snail in HCC.
Collapse
|
41
|
Tang L, Gao Y, Li T. Pan-cancer analysis identifies the immunological and prognostic role of PAK4. Life Sci 2023; 312:121263. [PMID: 36470541 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.121263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
AIMS P21-activated kinase 4 (PAK4) belongs to the wider family of Serine/Threonine p21-activated kinases (PAKs) and functions as a hub for signaling pathways in cancer progression. Numerous studies have indicated the significance of PAK4 for tumorigenesis, but no systematic pan-cancer analysis has been performed. MAIN METHODS The current study aimed to investigate the prognostic and immunological functions of PAK4 through bioinformatic analysis of datasets from The Cancer Genome Atlas, UALCAN, GEPIA2, cBioPortal, TIMER2, and Human Protein Atlas. PAK4 expression was correlated with prognosis, DNA methylation, tumor mutational burden, microsatellite instability, and immune cell infiltration. KEY FINDINGS PAK4 was highly expressed in various cancers but showed decreased expression in colon adenocarcinoma, kidney renal clear cell carcinoma, kidney renal papillary cell carcinoma, and thyroid carcinoma. PAK4 was found to have a positive or negative correlation with prognosis of different cancers. PAK4 expression was related to tumor mutational burden in 11 tumor types, and associated with microsatellite instability in 10 tumor types and was correlated with immune infiltration and immune checkpoint genes. SIGNIFICANCE PAK4 could be considered as a prognostic and immunotherapeutic marker for some types of malignant tumor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lina Tang
- Advanced Medical Research Center of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou Central Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450007, China.
| | - Yunling Gao
- Department of Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, National Health Commission of the PRC and Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education of the PRC, China Medical University, No. 77, Puhe Road, Shenyang North New Area, Shenyang, Liaoning 110122, China
| | - Tingting Li
- Department of Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, National Health Commission of the PRC and Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education of the PRC, China Medical University, No. 77, Puhe Road, Shenyang North New Area, Shenyang, Liaoning 110122, China
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Chow HY, Karchugina S, Groendyke BJ, Toenjes S, Hatcher J, Donovan KA, Fischer ES, Abalakov G, Faezov B, Dunbrack R, Gray NS, Chernoff J. Development and Utility of a PAK1-Selective Degrader. J Med Chem 2022; 65:15627-15641. [PMID: 36416208 PMCID: PMC10029980 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c00756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Overexpression of PAK1, a druggable kinase, is common in several malignancies, and inhibition of PAK1 by small molecules has been shown to impede the growth and survival of such cells. Potent inhibitors of PAKs 1-3 have been described, but clinical development has been hindered by recent findings that PAK2 function is required for normal cardiovascular function in adult mice. A unique allosteric PAK1-selective inhibitor, NVS-PAK1-1, provides a potential path forward, but has modest potency. Here, we report the development of BJG-05-039, a PAK1-selective degrader consisting of NVS-PAK1-1 conjugated to lenalidomide, a recruiter of the E3 ubiquitin ligase substrate adaptor Cereblon. BJG-05-039 induced selective degradation of PAK1 and displayed enhanced anti-proliferative effects relative to its parent compound in PAK1-dependent, but not PAK2-dependent, cell lines. Our findings suggest that selective PAK1 degradation may confer more potent pharmacological effects compared with catalytic inhibition and highlight the potential advantages of PAK1-targeted degradation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hoi-Yee Chow
- Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA 19111
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, China 610041
| | | | - Brian J. Groendyke
- Department of Cancer Biology; Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215
- Current address: Blueprint Medicines, Cambridge, MA 02139
| | - Sean Toenjes
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Chem-H and Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - John Hatcher
- Department of Cancer Biology; Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215
| | - Katherine A. Donovan
- Department of Cancer Biology; Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215
| | - Eric S. Fischer
- Department of Cancer Biology; Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215
| | | | - Bulat Faezov
- Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA 19111
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, Kazan, Russian Federation, 420008
| | | | - Nathanael S. Gray
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Chem-H and Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
| | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Medina JI, Cruz-Collazo A, Maldonado MDM, Matos Gascot T, Borrero-Garcia LD, Cooke M, Kazanietz MG, Hernandez O'Farril E, Vlaar CP, Dharmawardhane S. Characterization of Novel Derivatives of MBQ-167, an inhibitor of the GTP-binding proteins Rac/Cdc42. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2022; 2:1711-1726. [PMID: 36861094 PMCID: PMC9970268 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-22-0303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Rac and Cdc42, are homologous GTPases that regulate cell migration, invasion, and cell cycle progression; thus, representing key targets for metastasis therapy. We previously reported on the efficacy of MBQ-167, which blocks both Rac1 and Cdc42 in breast cancer cells and mouse models of metastasis. To identify compounds with increased activity, a panel of MBQ-167 derivatives was synthesized, maintaining its 9-ethyl-3-(1H-1,2,3-triazol-1-yl)-9H-carbazole core. Similar to MBQ-167, MBQ-168 and EHop-097, inhibit activation of Rac and Rac1B splice variant and breast cancer cell viability, and induce apoptosis. MBQ-167 and MBQ-168 inhibit Rac and Cdc42 by interfering with guanine nucleotide binding, and MBQ-168 is a more effective inhibitor of PAK (1,2,3) activation. EHop-097 acts via a different mechanism by inhibiting the interaction of the guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) Vav with Rac. MBQ-168 and EHop-097 inhibit metastatic breast cancer cell migration, and MBQ-168 promotes loss of cancer cell polarity to result in disorganization of the actin cytoskeleton and detachment from the substratum. In lung cancer cells, MBQ-168 is more effective than MBQ-167 or EHop-097 at reducing ruffle formation in response to EGF. Comparable to MBQ-167, MBQ-168 significantly inhibits HER2+ tumor growth and metastasis to lung, liver, and spleen. Both MBQ-167 and MBQ-168 inhibit the cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes 3A4, 2C9, and 2C19. However, MBQ-168 is ~10X less potent than MBQ-167 at inhibiting CYP3A4, thus demonstrating its utility in relevant combination therapies. In conclusion, the MBQ-167 derivatives MBQ-168 and EHop-097 are additional promising anti metastatic cancer compounds with similar and distinct mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia I. Medina
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Ailed Cruz-Collazo
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Maria del Mar Maldonado
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Tatiana Matos Gascot
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | | | - Mariana Cooke
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Marcelo G. Kazanietz
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Eliud Hernandez O'Farril
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico
- MBQ Pharma, Inc., San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Cornelis P. Vlaar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico
- MBQ Pharma, Inc., San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Suranganie Dharmawardhane
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico
- MBQ Pharma, Inc., San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Corresponding Author: Suranganie Dharmawardhane, University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences Campus, School of Medicine, PO Box 365067, San Juan, PR 00936-5067. Phone: 787-758-2525, ext. 1623; E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Meng X, Li W, Meng Z, Li Y. EIF4A3-induced circBRWD3 promotes tumorigenesis of breast cancer through miR-142-3p_miR-142-5p/RAC1/PAK1 signaling. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:1225. [PMID: 36443711 PMCID: PMC9703775 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-022-10200-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
CircBRWD3 is a newly discovered circRNA, and its potential function has not been probed. Here, we aimed to molecularly dissect the role of circBRWD3 in the tumorigenesis and progression of breast cancer (BC). qRT-PCR analysis revealed that circBRWD3 expression was dramatically upregulated in BC tissues, a feature that was positively correlated with the poor prognosis of patients with BC. CircBRWD3 knockdown repressed cell proliferation and metastasis, while promoting cell apoptosis in vitro. Consistently, an in vivo circBRWD3 deficiency model exhibited suppressed tumor metastasis and oncogenesis. On the other hand, circBRWD3 overexpression promoted cancer cell activity and tumorigenesis. Further, mechanistic studies elucidated that circBRWD3 sponged both miR-142-3p and miR-142-5p to modulate RAC1 expression, which subsequently activated the RAC1/PAK1 signaling to facilitate the tumorigenesis and progression of BC. Moreover, we discovered that EIF4A3 facilitated circBRWD3 expression by targeting the upstream of BRWD3 pre-mRNA. In conclusion, our study reveals that circBRWD3 facilitates BC tumorigenesis by regulating the circBRWD3/miR-142-3p_miR-142-5p /RAC1/PAK1 axis. In addition, circBRWD3 expression is positively regulated by an RNA-binding protein, EIFA3. Our results provide valuable scientific data for early diagnosis and therapy for breast cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xianguo Meng
- grid.460018.b0000 0004 1769 9639College of Sports Medicines and Rehabilitation, Shandong First Medical University, No. 6699 Qingdao Road, Jinan, 250118 Shandong China
| | - Wei Li
- grid.460018.b0000 0004 1769 9639College of Sports Medicines and Rehabilitation, Shandong First Medical University, No. 6699 Qingdao Road, Jinan, 250118 Shandong China
| | - Ziqi Meng
- grid.443413.50000 0000 9074 5890Accounting Institute, Shandong University of Finance and Economics, No. 7366 East Second Ring Road, Jinan, 250220 Shandong China
| | - Yan Li
- grid.460018.b0000 0004 1769 9639College of Sports Medicines and Rehabilitation, Shandong First Medical University, No. 6699 Qingdao Road, Jinan, 250118 Shandong China
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Chetty AK, Ha BH, Boggon TJ. Rho family GTPase signaling through type II p21-activated kinases. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:598. [PMID: 36401658 PMCID: PMC10105373 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04618-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Signaling from the Rho family small GTPases controls a wide range of signaling outcomes. Key among the downstream effectors for many of the Rho GTPases are the p21-activated kinases, or PAK group. The PAK family comprises two types, the type I PAKs (PAK1, 2 and 3) and the type II PAKs (PAK4, 5 and 6), which have distinct structures and mechanisms of regulation. In this review, we discuss signal transduction from Rho GTPases with a focus on the type II PAKs. We discuss the role of PAKs in signal transduction pathways and selectivity of Rho GTPases for PAK family members. We consider the less well studied of the Rho GTPases and their PAK-related signaling. We then discuss the molecular basis for kinase domain recognition of substrates and for regulation of signaling. We conclude with a discussion of the role of PAKs in cross talk between Rho family small GTPases and the roles of PAKs in disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashwin K Chetty
- Yale College, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Byung Hak Ha
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Titus J Boggon
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale University, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Chen X, Ma L, Zhao J, Pan X, Chen S. Effect of empagliflozin on cytoskeletal repair in the hippocampus of obese mice. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:1000839. [PMID: 36408417 PMCID: PMC9667058 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.1000839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to investigate the effect of empagliflozin on hippocampal phosphorylated protein levels in obese mice. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sixteen obese mice successfully modeled on high-fat diet were randomly divided into high-fat feeding group (group H) and empagliflozin group (group H + empagliflozin, group E), eight mice in each group, and eight C57BL/6J male normal mice were selected as the control group (normal control, group C). Group E was treated with empagliflozin 10 mg/kg/d for 12 weeks, while mice in groups H and C were treated with equal amounts of saline. The spatial learning memory ability of the mice was determined by the Morris water maze experiment. Further, their body weights and serological indices were measured. Finally, total proteins were extracted from hippocampal tissues for functional analysis by the phosphorylated proteomics method. RESULTS The results showed that escape latency was prolonged, retention time in the target quadrant was shortened, and the number of loop penetrations was reduced in the obese mice induced by a high-calorie diet compared with normal controls, whereas escape latency was shortened, retention time in the target quadrant was increased, and the number of loop penetrations was increased after empagliflozin treatment. Phosphoproteomics in the high-fat/control (H/C), empagliflozin/high-fat (E/H), and E/C groups showed 844, 1,552, and 1,512 differentially significant phosphorylation sites, respectively. The proteins corresponding to these differentially phosphorylated sites were mainly involved in neurodegenerative pathways and actin cytoskeleton regulation. Notably, myosin heavy chain 10 (MYH10), p21 protein-activated kinase 4 (PAK4), phosphatidylinositol 3 -phosphate 5-kinase (PIKfyve), and other differentially phosphorylated proteins were involved in actin cytoskeleton regulation. CONCLUSION We concluded that empagliflozin protects cognitive functions by inducing serine phosphorylation in MYH10, PAK4, and PIKfyve in the hippocampal tissue of obese mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyi Chen
- Graduate School of Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou, China,Department of Endocrinology, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Liang Ma
- Department of Neurology, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Jingyu Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, China,Graduate School of North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Xiaoyu Pan
- Department of Endocrinology, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Shuchun Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, China,*Correspondence: Shuchun Chen,
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Li X, Li F. p21-Activated Kinase: Role in Gastrointestinal Cancer and Beyond. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14194736. [PMID: 36230657 PMCID: PMC9563254 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14194736] [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: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Gastrointestinal tumors are the most common tumors with a high mortality rate worldwide. Numerous protein kinases have been studied in anticipation of finding viable tumor therapeutic targets, including PAK. PAK is a serine/threonine kinase that plays an important role in the malignant phenotype of tumors. The function of PAK in tumors is highlighted in cell proliferation, survival, motility, tumor cell plasticity and the tumor microenvironment, therefore providing a new possible target for clinical tumor therapy. Based on the current research works of PAK, we summarize and analyze the PAK features and signaling pathways in cells, especially the role of PAK in gastrointestinal tumors, thereby hoping to provide a theoretical basis for both the future studies of PAK and potential tumor therapeutic targets. Abstract Gastrointestinal tumors are the most common tumors, and they are leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide, but their mechanisms are still unclear, which need to be clarified to discover therapeutic targets. p21-activating kinase (PAK), a serine/threonine kinase that is downstream of Rho GTPase, plays an important role in cellular signaling networks. According to the structural characteristics and activation mechanisms of them, PAKs are divided into two groups, both of which are involved in the biological processes that are critical to cells, including proliferation, migration, survival, transformation and metabolism. The biological functions of PAKs depend on a large number of interacting proteins and the signaling pathways they participate in. The role of PAKs in tumors is manifested in their abnormality and the consequential changes in the signaling pathways. Once they are overexpressed or overactivated, PAKs lead to tumorigenesis or a malignant phenotype, especially in tumor invasion and metastasis. Recently, the involvement of PAKs in cellular plasticity, stemness and the tumor microenvironment have attracted attention. Here, we summarize the biological characteristics and key signaling pathways of PAKs, and further analyze their mechanisms in gastrointestinal tumors and others, which will reveal new therapeutic targets and a theoretical basis for the clinical treatment of gastrointestinal cancer.
Collapse
|
48
|
Lei K, Luo M, Tu Z, Lv S, Liu J, Gong C, Ye M, Wu M, Sheng Y, Long X, Li J, Zhu X, Huang K. Comprehensive analysis of the prognostic implications and functional exploration of PAK gene family in human cancer. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:275. [PMID: 36064705 PMCID: PMC9442929 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02689-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The p21-activated kinase (PAK) family (PAKs) plays a key role in the formation and development of human tumors. However, a systematic analysis of PAKs in human cancers is lacking and the potential role of PAKs in cancer immunity has not been explored. Methods We used datasets from in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and Genotype-Tissue Expression database (GTEx). Results Based on TCGA datasets most PAKs show noteworthy differences in expression between tumors and corresponding normal tissues or across different tumor tissues. Patients with high expression of PAKs often show a worse prognosis. However, copy number variation, mutation, and DNA methylation of PAKs have limited impact on tumor development. Further analysis showed that the impact of PAKs on immunity varies with the type of tumor and the respective tumor microenvironment. PAK1 and PAK4 may be stronger predictors of immune characteristics, and are more suitable as drugs and molecular therapeutic targets. Furthermore, Cox regression analysis revealed that a PAK gene signature could be used as an independent prognostic factor for lower grade glioma (LGG) and glioblastoma (GBM). Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) analysis indicated that PAK genes may affect the occurrence and development of GBM through the PI3K signaling pathway. Further experiments verified that PAK1 and AKT1 have a significant interaction in GBM cells, and inhibiting the overactivation of PAK1 can significantly inhibit the proliferation of GBM cells. Conclusions Our study provides a rationale for further research on the prognostic and therapeutic potential of PAKs in human tumors. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12935-022-02689-6.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kunjian Lei
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Neuroscience, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Luo
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Neuroscience, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China.,East China Institute of Digital Medical Engineering, Shangrao, 334000, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Zewei Tu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Neuroscience, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China.,East China Institute of Digital Medical Engineering, Shangrao, 334000, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Shigang Lv
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Neuroscience, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Junzhe Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Neuroscience, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Chuandong Gong
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Neuroscience, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Minhua Ye
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Neuroscience, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Miaojing Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Neuroscience, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Yilei Sheng
- Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyan Long
- East China Institute of Digital Medical Engineering, Shangrao, 334000, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingying Li
- Department of Comprehensive Intensive Care Unit, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xingen Zhu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China. .,Institute of Neuroscience, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China.
| | - Kai Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China. .,Institute of Neuroscience, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Lu M, Xing H, Shao W, Zhang T, Zhang M, Wang Y, Li F, Weng Y, Zheng A, Huang Y, Liang XJ. Photoactivatable Silencing Extracellular Vesicle (PASEV) Sensitizes Cancer Immunotherapy. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2204765. [PMID: 35793475 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202204765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapy has delivered impressive outcomes in combating tumor malignancies. However, insufficient immune infiltration and poor immunogenicity within the tumor microenvironment (TME) greatly compromise patient response rates. Here, a photoactivatable silencing extracellular vesicle (PASEV) is developed for sensitized cancer immunotherapy. p21-Activated kinase 4 (PAK4) is a newly identified tumor-cell-intrinsic "guard" associated with immune exclusion. Small interfering RNA against PAK4 (siPAK4) is designed and assembled with a photoactivatable reactive-oxygen-species (ROS)-sensitive polymer to form the nanocomplex core, which is further camouflaged by extracellular vesicles from M1 macrophages. The PASEV not only serves as a vehicle for packaging, tumor accumulation, and ROS-responsive release of siPAK4 for potent PAK4 silencing, but also primes the TME through immunogenic phototherapy, thereby simultaneously boosting intratumoral infiltration and immune activation. The combined immunotherapy elicits robust anticancer immunity, thus showing great promise for fighting cancers. This work opens a new avenue to simultaneously boost intratumoral infiltration and immune activation for sensitized cancer immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mei Lu
- Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, School of Life Science, School of Medical Technology (Institute of Engineering Medicine), Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
- Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Haonan Xing
- Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing, 100190, China
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Wanxuan Shao
- Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, School of Life Science, School of Medical Technology (Institute of Engineering Medicine), Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Tian Zhang
- Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, School of Life Science, School of Medical Technology (Institute of Engineering Medicine), Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Mengjie Zhang
- Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, School of Life Science, School of Medical Technology (Institute of Engineering Medicine), Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Yongchao Wang
- Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Fangzhou Li
- Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Yuhua Weng
- Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, School of Life Science, School of Medical Technology (Institute of Engineering Medicine), Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Aiping Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Yuanyu Huang
- Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, School of Life Science, School of Medical Technology (Institute of Engineering Medicine), Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Xing-Jie Liang
- Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, School of Life Science, School of Medical Technology (Institute of Engineering Medicine), Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Key Laboratory of Medical Molecule Science and Pharmaceutics Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
- Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing, 100190, China
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Li Y, Lu Q, Xie C, Yu Y, Zhang A. Recent advances on development of p21-activated kinase 4 inhibitors as anti-tumor agents. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:956220. [PMID: 36105226 PMCID: PMC9465411 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.956220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The p21-activated kinase 4 (PAK4) is a member of the PAKs family. It is overexpressed in multiple tumor tissues. Pharmacological inhibition of PAK4 attenuates proliferation, migration, and invasion of cancer cells. Recent studies revealed that inhibition of PAK4 sensitizes immunotherapy which has been extensively exploited as a new strategy to treat cancer. In the past few years, a large number of PAK4 inhibitors have been reported. Of note, the allosteric inhibitor KPT-9274 has been tested in phase Ⅰ clinic trials. Herein, we provide an update on recent research progress on the PAK4 mediated signaling pathway and highlight the development of the PAK4 small molecular inhibitors in recent 5 years. Meanwhile, challenges, limitations, and future developmental directions will be discussed as well.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Li
- Pharm-X Center, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing Lu
- Pharm-X Center, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chenghu Xie
- Pharm-X Center, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiming Yu
- Pharm-X Center, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ao Zhang
- Pharm-X Center, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Ao Zhang,
| |
Collapse
|