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Hildebrandt ER, Hussain SA, Sieburg MA, Ravishankar R, Asad N, Gore S, Ito T, Hougland JL, Dore TM, Schmidt WK. Targeted genetic and small molecule disruption of N-Ras CaaX cleavage alters its localization and oncogenic potential. Bioorg Chem 2024; 147:107316. [PMID: 38583246 PMCID: PMC11098683 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Ras GTPases and other CaaX proteins undergo multiple post-translational modifications at their carboxyl-terminus. These events initiate with prenylation of a cysteine and are followed by endoproteolytic removal of the 'aaX' tripeptide and carboxylmethylation. Some CaaX proteins are only subject to prenylation, however, due to the presence of an uncleavable sequence. In this study, uncleavable sequences were used to stage Ras isoforms in a farnesylated and uncleaved state to address the impact of CaaX proteolysis on protein localization and function. This targeted strategy is more specific than those that chemically inhibit the Rce1 CaaX protease or delete the RCE1 gene because global abrogation of CaaX proteolysis impacts the entire CaaX protein proteome and effects cannot be attributed to any specific CaaX protein of the many concurrently affected. With this targeted strategy, clear mislocalization and reduced activity of farnesylated and uncleaved Ras isoforms was observed. In addition, new peptidomimetics based on cleavable Ras CaaX sequences and the uncleavable CAHQ sequence were synthesized and tested as Rce1 inhibitors using in vitro and cell-based assays. Consistently, these non-hydrolyzable peptidomimetic Rce1 inhibitors recapitulate Ras mislocalization effects when modeled on cleavable but not uncleavable CaaX sequences. These findings indicate that a prenylated and uncleavable CaaX sequence, which can be easily applied to a wide range of mammalian CaaX proteins, can be used to probe the specific impact of CaaX proteolysis on CaaX protein properties under conditions of an otherwise normally processed CaaX protein proteome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily R Hildebrandt
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Shaneela A Hussain
- New York University Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, PO Box 129188, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | | | - Rajani Ravishankar
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Nadeem Asad
- New York University Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, PO Box 129188, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Sangram Gore
- New York University Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, PO Box 129188, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Takahiro Ito
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - James L Hougland
- Department of Chemistry, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, USA; Department of Biology, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, USA; BioInspired Syracuse, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Timothy M Dore
- New York University Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, PO Box 129188, Abu Dhabi, UAE; Department of Chemistry, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Walter K Schmidt
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA.
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2
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Tripathi S, Gupta E, Galande S. Statins as anti-tumor agents: A paradigm for repurposed drugs. Cancer Rep (Hoboken) 2024; 7:e2078. [PMID: 38711272 PMCID: PMC11074523 DOI: 10.1002/cnr2.2078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Statins, frequently prescribed medications, work by inhibiting the rate-limiting enzyme HMG-CoA reductase (HMGCR) in the mevalonate pathway to reduce cholesterol levels. Due to their multifaceted benefits, statins are being adapted for use as cost-efficient, safe and effective anti-cancer treatments. Several studies have shown that specific types of cancer are responsive to statin medications since they rely on the mevalonate pathway for their growth and survival. RECENT FINDINGS Statin are a class of drugs known for their potent inhibition of cholesterol production and are typically prescribed to treat high cholesterol levels. Nevertheless, there is growing interest in repurposing statins for the treatment of malignant neoplastic diseases, often in conjunction with chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The mechanism behind statin treatment includes targeting apoptosis through the BCL2 signaling pathway, regulating the cell cycle via the p53-YAP axis, and imparting epigenetic modulations by altering methylation patterns on CpG islands and histone acetylation by downregulating DNMTs and HDACs respectively. Notably, some studies have suggested a potential chemo-preventive effect, as decreased occurrence of tumor relapse and enhanced survival rate were reported in patients undergoing long-term statin therapy. However, the definitive endorsement of statin usage in cancer therapy hinges on population based clinical studies with larger patient cohorts and extended follow-up periods. CONCLUSIONS The potential of anti-cancer properties of statins seems to reach beyond their influence on cholesterol production. Further investigations are necessary to uncover their effects on cancer promoting signaling pathways. Given their distinct attributes, statins might emerge as promising contenders in the fight against tumorigenesis, as they appear to enhance the efficacy and address the limitations of conventional cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sneha Tripathi
- Laboratory of Chromatin Biology & EpigeneticsIndian Institute of Science Education and ResearchPuneIndia
| | - Ekta Gupta
- Laboratory of Chromatin Biology & EpigeneticsIndian Institute of Science Education and ResearchPuneIndia
| | - Sanjeev Galande
- Laboratory of Chromatin Biology & EpigeneticsIndian Institute of Science Education and ResearchPuneIndia
- Centre of Excellence in Epigenetics, Department of Life SciencesShiv Nadar Institution of EminenceGautam Buddha NagarIndia
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3
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Kareff SA, Trabolsi A, Krause HB, Samec T, Elliott A, Rodriguez E, Olazagasti C, Watson DC, Bustos MA, Hoon DSB, Graff SL, Antonarakis ES, Goel S, Sledge G, Lopes G. The Genomic, Transcriptomic, and Immunologic Landscape of HRAS Mutations in Solid Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1572. [PMID: 38672653 PMCID: PMC11049662 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16081572] [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: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Tipifarnib is the only targeted therapy breakthrough for HRAS-mutant (HRASmt) recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). The molecular profiles of HRASmt cancers are difficult to explore given the low frequency of HRASmt. This study aims to understand the molecular co-alterations, immune profiles, and clinical outcomes of 524 HRASmt solid tumors including urothelial carcinoma (UC), breast cancer (BC), non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), melanoma, and HNSCC. HRASmt was most common in UC (3.0%), followed by HNSCC (2.82%), melanoma (1.05%), BC (0.45%), and NSCLC (0.44%). HRASmt was absent in Her2+ BC regardless of hormone receptor status. HRASmt was more frequently associated with squamous compared to non-squamous NSCLC (60% vs. 40% in HRASwt, p = 0.002). The tumor microenvironment (TME) of HRASmt demonstrated increased M1 macrophages in triple-negative BC (TNBC), HNSCC, squamous NSCLC, and UC; increased M2 macrophages in TNBC; and increased CD8+ T-cells in HNSCC (all p < 0.05). Finally, HRASmt was associated with shorter overall survival in HNSCC (HR: 1.564, CI: 1.16-2.11, p = 0.003) but not in the other cancer types examined. In conclusion, this study provides new insights into the unique molecular profiles of HRASmt tumors that may help to identify new targets and guide future clinical trial design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel A. Kareff
- Department of Graduate Medical Education, University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center/Jackson Memorial Hospital, Miami, FL 33136, USA (A.T.)
| | - Asaad Trabolsi
- Department of Graduate Medical Education, University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center/Jackson Memorial Hospital, Miami, FL 33136, USA (A.T.)
| | | | - Timothy Samec
- Caris Life Sciences, Phoenix, AZ 85040, USA; (H.B.K.)
| | | | - Estelamari Rodriguez
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (E.R.)
| | - Coral Olazagasti
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (E.R.)
| | - Dionysios C. Watson
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (E.R.)
| | - Matias A. Bustos
- Division of Translational Molecular Medicine, St. Johns’ Cancer Institute at Providence Saint John’s Health Center, Santa Monica, CA 90404, USA; (M.A.B.); (D.S.B.H.)
| | - Dave S. B. Hoon
- Division of Translational Molecular Medicine, St. Johns’ Cancer Institute at Providence Saint John’s Health Center, Santa Monica, CA 90404, USA; (M.A.B.); (D.S.B.H.)
| | - Stephanie L. Graff
- Department of Medicine, Lifespan Cancer Institute, Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Emmanuel S. Antonarakis
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, University of Minnesota Masonic Cancer Center, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA;
| | - Sanjay Goel
- Division of Medical Oncology, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA;
| | - George Sledge
- Caris Life Sciences, Phoenix, AZ 85040, USA; (H.B.K.)
| | - Gilberto Lopes
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (E.R.)
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4
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Yang B, Lin Y, Huang Y, Shen YQ, Chen Q. Thioredoxin (Trx): A redox target and modulator of cellular senescence and aging-related diseases. Redox Biol 2024; 70:103032. [PMID: 38232457 PMCID: PMC10827563 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2024.103032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Thioredoxin (Trx) is a compact redox-regulatory protein that modulates cellular redox state by reducing oxidized proteins. Trx exhibits dual functionality as an antioxidant and a cofactor for diverse enzymes and transcription factors, thereby exerting influence over their activity and function. Trx has emerged as a pivotal biomarker for various diseases, particularly those associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, and aging. Recent clinical investigations have underscored the significance of Trx in disease diagnosis, treatment, and mechanistic elucidation. Despite its paramount importance, the intricate interplay between Trx and cellular senescence-a condition characterized by irreversible growth arrest induced by multiple aging stimuli-remains inadequately understood. In this review, our objective is to present a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the structure and function of Trx, its involvement in redox signaling pathways and cellular senescence, its association with aging and age-related diseases, as well as its potential as a therapeutic target. Our review aims to elucidate the novel and extensive role of Trx in senescence while highlighting its implications for aging and age-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bowen Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Oral Carcinogenesis and Management, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Yumeng Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Oral Carcinogenesis and Management, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Yibo Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Oral Carcinogenesis and Management, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Ying-Qiang Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Oral Carcinogenesis and Management, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Qianming Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Oral Carcinogenesis and Management, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
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5
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Yuan Y, Li P, Li J, Zhao Q, Chang Y, He X. Protein lipidation in health and disease: molecular basis, physiological function and pathological implication. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:60. [PMID: 38485938 PMCID: PMC10940682 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01759-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Posttranslational modifications increase the complexity and functional diversity of proteins in response to complex external stimuli and internal changes. Among these, protein lipidations which refer to lipid attachment to proteins are prominent, which primarily encompassing five types including S-palmitoylation, N-myristoylation, S-prenylation, glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchor and cholesterylation. Lipid attachment to proteins plays an essential role in the regulation of protein trafficking, localisation, stability, conformation, interactions and signal transduction by enhancing hydrophobicity. Accumulating evidence from genetic, structural, and biomedical studies has consistently shown that protein lipidation is pivotal in the regulation of broad physiological functions and is inextricably linked to a variety of diseases. Decades of dedicated research have driven the development of a wide range of drugs targeting protein lipidation, and several agents have been developed and tested in preclinical and clinical studies, some of which, such as asciminib and lonafarnib are FDA-approved for therapeutic use, indicating that targeting protein lipidations represents a promising therapeutic strategy. Here, we comprehensively review the known regulatory enzymes and catalytic mechanisms of various protein lipidation types, outline the impact of protein lipidations on physiology and disease, and highlight potential therapeutic targets and clinical research progress, aiming to provide a comprehensive reference for future protein lipidation research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Yuan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Peiyuan Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jianghui Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiu Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China.
| | - Ying Chang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China.
| | - Xingxing He
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China.
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6
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Chen SY, Lin CC, Wu J, Chen Y, Wang YE, Setayeshpour Y, Mestre A, Chi JT. NINJ1 regulates ferroptosis via xCT antiporter interaction and CoA modulation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.22.581432. [PMID: 38464226 PMCID: PMC10925083 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.22.581432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Ninjurin-1 (NINJ1), initially identified as a stress-induced protein in neurons, recently emerged as a key mediator of plasma membrane rupture during apoptosis, necrosis, and pyroptosis. However, its involvement in ferroptosis remains unknown. Here, we demonstrate that NINJ1 also plays a crucial role in ferroptosis, but through a distinct mechanism. NINJ1 knockdown significantly protected cancer cells against ferroptosis induced by xCT inhibitors but no other classes of ferroptosis-inducing compounds (FINs). Glycine, known to inhibit canonical NINJ1-mediated membrane rupture in other cell deaths, had no impact on ferroptosis. A compound screen revealed that NINJ1-mediated ferroptosis protection can be abolished by pantothenate kinase inhibitor (PANKi), buthionine sulfoximine (BSO), and diethylmaleate (DEM). These results suggest that this ferroptosis protection is mediated via Coenzyme A (CoA) and glutathione (GSH), both of which were found to be elevated upon NINJ1 knockdown. Furthermore, we discovered that NINJ1 interacts with the xCT antiporter, which is responsible for cystine uptake for the biosynthesis of CoA and GSH. The removal of NINJ1 increased xCT levels and stability, enhanced cystine uptake, and contributed to elevated CoA and GSH levels, collectively contributing to ferroptosis protection. These findings reveal that NINJ1 regulates ferroptosis via a non-canonical mechanism, distinct from other regulated cell deaths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ssu-Yu Chen
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Chao-Chieh Lin
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Jianli Wu
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Yubin Chen
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Ya-En Wang
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Yasaman Setayeshpour
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Alexander Mestre
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Jen-Tsan Chi
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Center for Advanced Genomic Technologies, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
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7
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Sambath J, Noronha V, Manda SS, Mishra R, Chandrani P, Patil V, Menon N, Chougule A, Ramachandran V, Limaye S, Kuriakose MA, Banavali SD, Kumar P, Prabhash K. Whole exome sequencing uncovers HRAS mutations as potential mediators of resistance to metronomic chemotherapy. Gene 2024; 893:147952. [PMID: 37918550 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.147952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this pilot study is to identify the genetic factors that contribute to the response of metronomic chemotherapy in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients using whole-exome sequencing (WES). This study would facilitate the identification of predictive biomarkers, which would enable personalized treatment strategies and improve treatment outcomes for patients with HNSCC. MATERIALS AND METHODS We have selected patients with recurrent head and neck cancer who underwent metronomic chemotherapy. Sequential tumor biopsies were collected from the patients at different stages of treatment to capture the genomic alterations and tumor evolution during metronomic chemotherapy and sequenced using WES. RESULTS We identified several known HNSCC hallmark genes reported in COSMIC, including KMT2B, NOTCH1, FAT1, TP53, HRAS, CASP8, and CDKN2A. Copy number alteration analysis revealed amplifications and deletions in several oncogenic and tumor suppressor genes. COSMIC Mutational Signature 15 associated with defective DNA mismatch repair was enriched in 73% of HNSCC samples. Further, the comparison of genomic alterations between responders and non-responders identified HRAS gene uniquely mutated in non-responders that could potentially contribute to resistance against metronomic chemotherapy. DISCUSSION Our findings corroborate the molecular heterogeneity of recurrent HNSCC tumors and establish an association between HRAS mutations and resistance to metronomic chemotherapy, suggesting HRAS as a potential therapeutic target. Combining HRAS inhibitors with metronomic regimens could improve treatment sensitivity in HRAS-mutated HNSCC patients. Further studies are needed to fully elucidate the genomic mechanisms underlying the response to metronomic chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janani Sambath
- Institute of Bioinformatics, Bangalore, India; Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal, India
| | | | - Srikanth S Manda
- Karkinos Foundation, Mumbai, India; Karkinos Healthcare Pvt Ltd., Mumbai, India
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Sewanti Limaye
- Division of Medical and Precision Oncology, Sir H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, India
| | - Moni A Kuriakose
- Karkinos Foundation, Mumbai, India; Karkinos Healthcare Pvt Ltd., Mumbai, India
| | | | - Prashant Kumar
- Karkinos Foundation, Mumbai, India; Karkinos Healthcare Pvt Ltd., Mumbai, India.
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8
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Rahman M, Nguyen TM, Lee GJ, Kim B, Park MK, Lee CH. Unraveling the Role of Ras Homolog Enriched in Brain (Rheb1 and Rheb2): Bridging Neuronal Dynamics and Cancer Pathogenesis through Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin Signaling. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1489. [PMID: 38338768 PMCID: PMC10855792 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Ras homolog enriched in brain (Rheb1 and Rheb2), small GTPases, play a crucial role in regulating neuronal activity and have gained attention for their implications in cancer development, particularly in breast cancer. This study delves into the intricate connection between the multifaceted functions of Rheb1 in neurons and cancer, with a specific focus on the mTOR pathway. It aims to elucidate Rheb1's involvement in pivotal cellular processes such as proliferation, apoptosis resistance, migration, invasion, metastasis, and inflammatory responses while acknowledging that Rheb2 has not been extensively studied. Despite the recognized associations, a comprehensive understanding of the intricate interplay between Rheb1 and Rheb2 and their roles in both nerve and cancer remains elusive. This review consolidates current knowledge regarding the impact of Rheb1 on cancer hallmarks and explores the potential of Rheb1 as a therapeutic target in cancer treatment. It emphasizes the necessity for a deeper comprehension of the molecular mechanisms underlying Rheb1-mediated oncogenic processes, underscoring the existing gaps in our understanding. Additionally, the review highlights the exploration of Rheb1 inhibitors as a promising avenue for cancer therapy. By shedding light on the complicated roles between Rheb1/Rheb2 and cancer, this study provides valuable insights to the scientific community. These insights are instrumental in guiding the identification of novel targets and advancing the development of effective therapeutic strategies for treating cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafizur Rahman
- College of Pharmacy, Dongguk University, Seoul 04620, Republic of Korea; (M.R.); (G.J.L.)
| | - Tuan Minh Nguyen
- College of Pharmacy, Dongguk University, Seoul 04620, Republic of Korea; (M.R.); (G.J.L.)
| | - Gi Jeong Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Dongguk University, Seoul 04620, Republic of Korea; (M.R.); (G.J.L.)
| | - Boram Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Dongguk University, Seoul 04620, Republic of Korea; (M.R.); (G.J.L.)
| | - Mi Kyung Park
- Department of BioHealthcare, Hwasung Medi-Science University, Hwaseong-si 18274, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Hoon Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Dongguk University, Seoul 04620, Republic of Korea; (M.R.); (G.J.L.)
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9
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McKay-Corkum GB, Collins VJ, Yeung C, Ito T, Issaq SH, Holland D, Vulikh K, Zhang Y, Lee U, Lei H, Mendoza A, Shern JF, Yohe ME, Yamamoto K, Wilson K, Ji J, Karim BO, Thomas CJ, Krishna MC, Neckers LM, Heske CM. Inhibition of NAD+-Dependent Metabolic Processes Induces Cellular Necrosis and Tumor Regression in Rhabdomyosarcoma Models. Clin Cancer Res 2023; 29:4479-4491. [PMID: 37616468 PMCID: PMC10841338 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-23-0200] [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: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Deregulated metabolism in cancer cells represents a vulnerability that may be therapeutically exploited to benefit patients. One such target is nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT), the rate-limiting enzyme in the NAD+ salvage pathway. NAMPT is necessary for efficient NAD+ production and may be exploited in cells with increased metabolic demands. We have identified NAMPT as a dependency in rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), a malignancy for which novel therapies are critically needed. Here we describe the effect of NAMPT inhibition on RMS proliferation and metabolism in vitro and in vivo. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Assays of proliferation and cell death were used to determine the effects of pharmacologic NAMPT inhibition in a panel of ten molecularly diverse RMS cell lines. Mechanism of the clinical NAMPTi OT-82 was determined using measures of NAD+ and downstream NAD+-dependent functions, including energy metabolism. We used orthotopic xenograft models to examine tolerability, efficacy, and drug mechanism in vivo. RESULTS Across all ten RMS cell lines, OT-82 depleted NAD+ and inhibited cell growth at concentrations ≤1 nmol/L. Significant impairment of glycolysis was a universal finding, with some cell lines also exhibiting diminished oxidative phosphorylation. Most cell lines experienced profound depletion of ATP with subsequent irreversible necrotic cell death. Importantly, loss of NAD and glycolytic activity were confirmed in orthotopic in vivo models, which exhibited complete tumor regressions with OT-82 treatment delivered on the clinical schedule. CONCLUSIONS RMS is highly vulnerable to NAMPT inhibition. These findings underscore the need for further clinical study of this class of agents for this malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace B. McKay-Corkum
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research (CCR), National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH)
| | - Victor J. Collins
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research (CCR), National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH)
| | - Choh Yeung
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research (CCR), National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH)
| | - Takeshi Ito
- Urologic Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research (CCR), National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH)
| | - Sameer H. Issaq
- Urologic Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research (CCR), National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH)
| | - David Holland
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health (NIH)
| | - Ksenia Vulikh
- Molecular Histopathology Lab, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH)
| | - Yiping Zhang
- National Clinical Target Validation Laboratory, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH)
| | - Unsun Lee
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research (CCR), National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH)
| | - Haiyan Lei
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research (CCR), National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH)
| | - Arnulfo Mendoza
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research (CCR), National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH)
| | - Jack F. Shern
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research (CCR), National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH)
| | - Marielle E. Yohe
- Laboratory of Cell and Developmental Signaling, Center for Cancer Research (CCR), National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH)
| | - Kazutoshi Yamamoto
- Radiation Biology Branch, Center for Cancer Research (CCR), National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH)
| | - Kelli Wilson
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health (NIH)
| | - Jiuping Ji
- National Clinical Target Validation Laboratory, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH)
| | - Baktiar O. Karim
- Molecular Histopathology Lab, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH)
| | - Craig J. Thomas
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health (NIH)
| | - Murali C. Krishna
- Radiation Biology Branch, Center for Cancer Research (CCR), National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH)
| | - Leonard M. Neckers
- Urologic Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research (CCR), National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH)
| | - Christine M. Heske
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research (CCR), National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH)
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10
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Yan AP, Venkatramani R, Bradley JA, Lautz TB, Urla CI, Merks JHM, Oberoi S. Clinical Characteristics, Treatment Considerations, and Outcomes of Infants with Rhabdomyosarcoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15082296. [PMID: 37190224 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15082296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
RMS most commonly presents in children and adolescents, however a subset of tumors are diagnosed in infants under one year of age. Due to the rarity of infant RMS, utilization of different treatment approaches and goals, and small sample sizes, the published studies of infants with RMS have yielded heterogeneous results. In this review, we discuss the outcomes of infants with RMS treated in various clinical trials and the strategies that various international cooperative groups have employed to reduce the morbidity and mortality related to treatment without compromising the overall survival of this population. This review discusses the unique scenarios of diagnosing and managing congenitals or neonatal RMS, spindle cell RMS and relapsed RMS. This review concludes by exploring novel approaches to diagnosis and management of infants with RMS that are currently being studied by various international cooperative groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam P Yan
- Division of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1R1, Canada
- Dana-Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center and Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Rajkumar Venkatramani
- Department of Pediatrics, Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Julie A Bradley
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Florida, Jacksonville, FL 33024, USA
| | - Timothy B Lautz
- Department of Surgery, Ann & Robert H Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60208, USA
| | - Cristian I Urla
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Urology, University Children's Hospital of Tuebingen, Hoppe-Seyler-Strasse 3, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Johannes H M Merks
- Princess Ma'xima Center for Paediatric Oncology, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Division of Imaging and Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sapna Oberoi
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3T 0A1, Canada
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, CancerCare Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada
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11
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Ali S, Ali U, Qamar A, Zafar I, Yaqoob M, Ain QU, Rashid S, Sharma R, Nafidi HA, Bin Jardan YA, Bourhia M. Predicting the effects of rare genetic variants on oncogenic signaling pathways: A computational analysis of HRAS protein function. Front Chem 2023; 11:1173624. [PMID: 37153521 PMCID: PMC10160440 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2023.1173624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The HRAS gene plays a crucial role in regulating essential cellular processes for life, and this gene's misregulation is linked to the development of various types of cancers. Nonsynonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (nsSNPs) within the coding region of HRAS can cause detrimental mutations that disrupt wild-type protein function. In the current investigation, we have employed in-silico methodologies to anticipate the consequences of infrequent genetic variations on the functional properties of the HRAS protein. We have discovered a total of 50 nsSNPs, of which 23 were located in the exon region of the HRAS gene and denoting that they were expected to cause harm or be deleterious. Out of these 23, 10 nsSNPs ([G60V], [G60D], [R123P], [D38H], [I46T], [G115R], [R123G], [P11OL], [A59L], and [G13R]) were identified as having the most delterious effect based on results of SIFT analysis and PolyPhen2 scores ranging from 0.53 to 69. The DDG values -3.21 kcal/mol to 0.87 kcal/mol represent the free energy change associated with protein stability upon mutation. Interestingly, we identified that the three mutations (Y4C, T58I, and Y12E) were found to improve the structural stability of the protein. We performed molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to investigate the structural and dynamic effects of HRAS mutations. Our results showed that the stable model of HRAS had a significantly lower energy value of -18756 kj/mol compared to the initial model of -108915 kj/mol. The RMSD value for the wild-type complex was 4.40 Å, and the binding energies for the G60V, G60D, and D38H mutants were -107.09 kcal/mol, -109.42 kcal/mol, and -107.18 kcal/mol, respectively as compared to wild-type HRAS protein had -105.85 kcal/mol. The result of our investigation presents convincing corroboration for the potential functional significance of nsSNPs in augmenting HRAS expression and adding to the activation of malignant oncogenic signalling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadaqat Ali
- Medical Department, DHQ Hospital Bhawalnagr, Punjab, Pakistan
| | | | - Adeem Qamar
- Department of Pathology, Sahiwal Medical College Sahiwal, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Imran Zafar
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Virtual University of Pakistan, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Yaqoob
- Department of Life Sciences, ARID University-Barani Institute of Sciences Burewala Campus, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Qurat ul Ain
- Department of Chemistry, Government College Women University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Summya Rashid
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Virtual University of Pakistan, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Rohit Sharma
- Department of Rasa Shastra and Bhaishajya Kalpana, Faculty of Ayurveda, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
- *Correspondence: Mohammed Bourhia, ; Rohit Sharma,
| | - Hiba-Allah Nafidi
- Department of Food Science, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Yousef A. Bin Jardan
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Bourhia
- Laboratory of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco
- *Correspondence: Mohammed Bourhia, ; Rohit Sharma,
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12
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Predicting Deleterious Non-Synonymous Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (nsSNPs) of HRAS Gene and In Silico Evaluation of Their Structural and Functional Consequences towards Diagnosis and Prognosis of Cancer. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11111604. [DOI: 10.3390/biology11111604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The Harvey rat sarcoma (HRAS) proto-oncogene belongs to the RAS family and is one of the pathogenic genes that cause cancer. Deleterious nsSNPs might have adverse consequences at the protein level. This study aimed to investigate deleterious nsSNPs in the HRAS gene in predicting structural alterations associated with mutants that disrupt normal protein–protein interactions. Functional and structural analysis was employed in analyzing the HRAS nsSNPs. Putative post-translational modification sites and the changes in protein–protein interactions, which included a variety of signal cascades, were also investigated. Five different bioinformatics tools predicted 33 nsSNPs as “pathogenic” or “harmful”. Stability analysis predicted rs1554885139, rs770492627, rs1589792804, rs730880460, rs104894227, rs104894227, and rs121917759 as unstable. Protein–protein interaction analysis revealed that HRAS has a hub connecting three clusters consisting of 11 proteins, and changes in HRAS might cause signal cascades to dissociate. Furthermore, Kaplan–Meier bioinformatics analyses indicated that the HRAS gene deregulation affected the overall survival rate of patients with breast cancer, leading to prognostic significance. Thus, based on these analyses, our study suggests that the reported nsSNPs of HRAS may serve as potential targets for different proteomic studies, diagnoses, and therapeutic interventions focusing on cancer.
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