1
|
Kalra S, Coolon JD. Decoding RAP1 's Role in Yeast mRNA Splicing. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2025:2025.04.04.647307. [PMID: 40291741 PMCID: PMC12026737 DOI: 10.1101/2025.04.04.647307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/30/2025]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) splicing is a fundamental and tightly regulated process in eukaryotes, where the spliceosome removes non-coding sequences from pre-mRNA to produce mature mRNA for protein translation. Alternative splicing enables the generation of multiple RNA isoforms and protein products from a single gene, regulating both isoform diversity and abundance. While splicing is widespread in eukaryotes, only ∼3% of genes in Saccharomyces cerevisiae undergo splicing, with most containing a single intron. However, intron-containing genes, primarily ribosomal protein genes, are highly expressed and constitute about one-third of the total mRNA pool. These genes are transcriptionally regulated by Repressor Activator Protein 1 ( RAP1 ), prompting us to investigate whether RAP1 influences mRNA splicing. Using RNA sequencing, we identified a novel role for RAP1 in alternative splicing, particularly in intron retention (IR) while minor effects were observed on alternative 3' and 5' splice site usage. Many IR-containing transcripts introduced premature termination codons, likely leading to degradation via nonsense-mediated decay (NMD). Consistent with previous literature, genes with predicted NMD in our study also had reduced overall expression levels suggesting that RAP1 plays an important role in this understudied mechanism of gene expression regulation.
Collapse
|
2
|
Than H, Fan X, Cheung AMS, Hwang WYK, Poon Z. Rapid disease progression of myelodysplastic syndrome is reflected in transcriptomic and functional abnormalities of bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells. Stem Cells 2025; 43:sxae073. [PMID: 39541184 DOI: 10.1093/stmcls/sxae073] [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: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 10/24/2024] [Indexed: 11/16/2024]
Abstract
Bone marrow (BM) mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are important regulators of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs). When transformed into a dysplastic phenotype, MSCs contribute to hematopoietic diseases such as myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), but it remains unclear if there are specific properties in MDS-MSCs that contribute to the disease course. To understand this, we investigated MDS-MSCs from fast (MDSfast) vs slow (MDSslow) progressing disease groups and discovered differences between these groups. MDSfast-MSCs secrete more inflammatory factors, support myeloid-skewed differentiation of HSPCs, and importantly, show poorer response to hypomethylation as a key differentiator in GSEA analysis. When exposed to long-term in vivo stimulation with primary MDSfast-MSCs-based scaffolds, healthy donor (HD) HSPCs show elevated NF-κB expression, similar to leukemic HSPCs in MDS. Those "MDSfast-MSCs-primed" HD-HSPCs continue to show enhanced engraftment rates in secondary MDS-MSC-based scaffolds, providing evidence for the microenvironmental selection pressures in MDS toward leukemic HSPCs. Together, our data point toward a degree of co-development between MSCs and HSPCs during the progression of MDS, where changes in MDS-MSCs take place mainly at the transcriptomic and functional levels. These unique differences in MDS-MSCs can be utilized to improve disease prognostication and implement targeted therapy for unmet clinical needs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hein Than
- Department of Hematology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore 169608
- Duke-NUS Medical School, National University of Singapore, Singapore 169857
- Department of Hematology, National Cancer Center, Singapore 168583
| | - Xiubo Fan
- Duke-NUS Medical School, National University of Singapore, Singapore 169857
- Department of Clinical Translational Research, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore 169608
| | - Alice M S Cheung
- Department of Hematology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore 169608
- Duke-NUS Medical School, National University of Singapore, Singapore 169857
| | - William Y K Hwang
- Department of Hematology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore 169608
- Duke-NUS Medical School, National University of Singapore, Singapore 169857
- Department of Hematology, National Cancer Center, Singapore 168583
| | - Zhiyong Poon
- Duke-NUS Medical School, National University of Singapore, Singapore 169857
- Department of Clinical Translational Research, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore 169608
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Khaveh N, Buschow R, Metzger J. Deciphering transcriptome patterns in porcine mesenchymal stem cells promoting phenotypic maintenance and differentiation by key driver genes. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1478757. [PMID: 39568509 PMCID: PMC11576426 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1478757] [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: 08/10/2024] [Accepted: 10/28/2024] [Indexed: 11/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) are fibroblast-like non-hematopoietic cells with self-renewal and differentiation capacity, and thereby great potential in regeneration and wound healing. MSC populations are heterogeneous not only inherently, but also among different model species. In particular, porcine MSC serve as a frequently used resource for translational research, due to pigs' distinctive closeness to human anatomy and physiology. However, information on gene expression profiles from porcine MSC and its dynamics during differentiation is sparse, especially with regard to cell surface and inner cell markers. In this study, we investigated the transcriptome of bone marrow-derived MSC and its differentiated cell types in a minipig breed for experimental research, known as Mini-LEWE, using bulk mRNA sequencing. Our data highlighted Rap1 signaling and downstream pathways PI3K-Akt and MAPK signaling as potential players for the maintenance of stemness of BM-MSC. In addition, we were able to link the process of differentiation to changes in the regulation of actin cytoskeleton. A total of 18 "BM-MSC differentiation driver markers" were identified, potentially promoting the process of differentiation into adipocytes, chondrocytes as well as osteocytes. Our results offer a new perspective on the molecular phenotype of porcine BM-MSC and the transcriptional responses in new differentiated progeny.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Khaveh
- Institute of Animal Genomics, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
- Research Group Veterinary Functional Genomics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
| | - René Buschow
- Microscopy and Cryo-Electron Microscopy Facility, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Julia Metzger
- Institute of Animal Genomics, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
- Research Group Veterinary Functional Genomics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Zhang L, Li M, Li X, Xiao T, Zhou H, Zhang W, Wang P. Deciphering the role of PLCD3 in lung cancer: A gateway to glycolytic reprogramming via PKC-Rap1 activation. Heliyon 2024; 10:e37063. [PMID: 39296221 PMCID: PMC11408031 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e37063] [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: 05/13/2024] [Revised: 08/21/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/21/2024] Open
Abstract
PLCD3 belongs to the phospholipase C delta group and is involved in numerous biological functions, including cell growth, programmed cell death, and specialization. However, the role of PLCD3 in lung cancer still needs further investigation. This research aimed to investigate if PLCD3 influences glycolytic reprogramming and lung cancer development through the PKC-dependent Rap1 signaling pathway. This study found that PLCD3 was increased in lung cancer tissues. PLCD3 promotes the proliferation and invasion of lung cancer cells by activating the PKC-dependent Rap1 pathway. The detailed process involves PLCD3 triggering PKC, which subsequently stimulates the Rap1 pathway, leading to glycolytic reprogramming that supplies adequate energy and metabolic substrates necessary for the growth and spread of lung cancer cells. Moreover, PLCD3 can also promote the metastasis and invasion of lung cancer cells by activating the Rap1 pathway. This study reveals the mechanism of PLCD3 in lung cancer and provides new ideas for the treatment of lung cancer. Inhibiting PLCD3, PKC, and the Rap1 pathway may be an effective strategy for treating lung cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liang Zhang
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, PR China
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin, 300192, PR China
| | - Mingjiang Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin, 300192, PR China
| | - Xiaoping Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin, 300192, PR China
| | - Ting Xiao
- College of Pharmacy and Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Honggang Zhou
- College of Pharmacy and Key Laboratory of Molecular Drug Research, Nankai University, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Weidong Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin, 300192, PR China
| | - Ping Wang
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Blancas-Zugarazo SS, Langley E, Hidalgo-Miranda A. Exosomal lncRNAs as regulators of breast cancer chemoresistance and metastasis and their potential use as biomarkers. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1419808. [PMID: 39148900 PMCID: PMC11324554 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1419808] [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: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women and the leading cause of female deaths by cancer in the world worldwide. Hence, understanding the molecular mechanisms associated with breast cancer development and progression, including drug resistance and breast cancer metastasis, is essential for achieving the best management of breast cancer patients. Cancer-related long noncoding RNAs have been shown to be involved in the regulation of each stage of breast cancer progression. Additionally, exosomes are extracellular microvesicles that are central to intercellular communication and play an important role in tumorigenesis. Exosomes can be released from primary tumor cells into the bloodstream and transmit cellular signals to distant body sites. In this work, we review the findings regarding the cellular mechanisms regulated by exosomal lncRNAs that are essentials to chemoresistance development and metastasis of breast cancer. Likewise, we evaluate the outcomes of the potential clinical use of exosomal lncRNAs as breast cancer biomarkers to achieve personalized management of the patients. This finding highlights the importance of transcriptomic analysis of exosomal lncRNAs to understand the breast cancer tumorigenesis as well as to improve the clinical tests available for this disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sugela Susana Blancas-Zugarazo
- Cátedras CONAHCYT (Consejo Nacional de Humanidades Ciencia y Tecnología) - Laboratorio de Genómica del Cáncer, Instituto Nacional de Medicina Genómica (INMEGEN), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Elizabeth Langley
- Laboratorio de Cáncer Hormono Regulado, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología (INCAN), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Alfredo Hidalgo-Miranda
- Laboratorio de Genómica del Cáncer, Instituto Nacional de Medicina Genómica (INMEGEN), Mexico City, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Hegde M, Girisa S, Devanarayanan TN, Alqahtani MS, Abbas M, Sethi G, Kunnumakkara AB. Network of Extracellular Traps in the Pathogenesis of Sterile Chronic Inflammatory Diseases: Role of Oxidative Stress and Potential Clinical Applications. Antioxid Redox Signal 2024; 41:396-427. [PMID: 37725535 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2023.0329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mangala Hegde
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, India
| | - Sosmitha Girisa
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, India
| | - Thulasidharan Nair Devanarayanan
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, India
| | - Mohammed S Alqahtani
- Radiological Sciences Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
- BioImaging Unit, Space Research Centre, Michael Atiyah Building, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Mohamed Abbas
- Electrical Engineering Department, College of Engineering, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ajaikumar B Kunnumakkara
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, India
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ng YB, Akincilar SC. Shaping DNA damage responses: Therapeutic potential of targeting telomeric proteins and DNA repair factors in cancer. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2024; 76:102460. [PMID: 38776747 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2024.102460] [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: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Shelterin proteins regulate genomic stability by preventing inappropriate DNA damage responses (DDRs) at telomeres. Unprotected telomeres lead to persistent DDR causing cell cycle inhibition, growth arrest, and apoptosis. Cancer cells rely on DDR to protect themselves from DNA lesions and exogenous DNA-damaging agents such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Therefore, targeting DDR machinery is a promising strategy to increase the sensitivity of cancer cells to existing cancer therapies. However, the success of these DDR inhibitors depends on other mutations, and over time, patients develop resistance to these therapies. This suggests the need for alternative approaches. One promising strategy is co-inhibiting shelterin proteins with DDR molecules, which would offset cellular fitness in DNA repair in a mutation-independent manner. This review highlights the associations and dependencies of the shelterin complex with the DDR proteins and discusses potential co-inhibition strategies that might improve the therapeutic potential of current inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Bin Ng
- Laboratory of NFκB Signalling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Republic of Singapore
| | - Semih Can Akincilar
- Laboratory of NFκB Signalling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Republic of Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Thakur MR, Nachane SS, Tupe RS. Alleviation of albumin glycation-induced diabetic cardiomyopathy by L-Arginine: Insights into Nrf-2 signaling. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 264:130478. [PMID: 38428781 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.130478] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
In hyperglycemia, accelerated glycation and oxidative stress give rise to many diabetic complications, such as diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM). Glycated human serum albumin (GHSA) has disturbed structural integrity and hampered functional capabilities. When GHSA accumulates around cardiac cells, Nrf-2 is dysregulated, aiding oxidative stress. L-Arginine (L-Arg) is prescribed to patients with diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. This research contributes to the mechanistic insights on antiglycation and antioxidant potential of L-Arg in alleviating DCM. HSA was glycated with methylglyoxal in the presence of L-Arg (20-640 mM). Structural and functional modifications of HSA were studied. L-Arg and HSA, GHSA interactions, and thermodynamics were determined by steady-state fluorescence. H9c2 cardiomyocytes were given treatments of GHSA-L-Arg along with the inhibitor of the receptor of AGEs. Cellular antioxidant levels, detoxification enzyme activities were measured. Gene, protein expressions, and immunofluorescence data examined the activation and nuclear translocation of Nrf-2 during glycation and oxidative stress. L-Arg protected HSA from glycation-induced structural and functional modifications. The binding affinity of L-Arg was more towards HSA (104 M-1). L-Arg, specifically at lower concentration (20 mM), upregulated Nrf-2 gene, protein expressions and facilitated its nuclear translocation by activating Nrf-2 signaling. The study concluded that L-Arg can be of therapeutic advantage in glycation-induced DCM and associated oxidative stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muskan R Thakur
- Symbiosis School of Biological Sciences (SSBS), Symbiosis International (Deemed University) (SIU), Lavale, Pune 412115, Maharashtra State, India
| | - Sampada S Nachane
- Symbiosis School of Biological Sciences (SSBS), Symbiosis International (Deemed University) (SIU), Lavale, Pune 412115, Maharashtra State, India
| | - Rashmi S Tupe
- Symbiosis School of Biological Sciences (SSBS), Symbiosis International (Deemed University) (SIU), Lavale, Pune 412115, Maharashtra State, India.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Kumar N, Sethi G. Telomerase and hallmarks of cancer: An intricate interplay governing cancer cell evolution. Cancer Lett 2023; 578:216459. [PMID: 37863351 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Transformed cells must acquire specific characteristics to be malignant. Weinberg and Hanahan characterize these characteristics as cancer hallmarks. Though these features are independently driven, substantial signaling crosstalk in transformed cells efficiently promotes these feature acquisitions. Telomerase is an enzyme complex that maintains telomere length. However, its main component, Telomere reverse transcriptase (TERT), has been found to interact with various signaling molecules like cMYC, NF-kB, BRG1 and cooperate in transcription and metabolic reprogramming, acting as a strong proponent of malignant features such as cell death resistance, sustained proliferation, angiogenesis activation, and metastasis, among others. It allows cells to avoid replicative senescence and achieve endless replicative potential. This review summarizes both the canonical and noncanonical functions of TERT and discusses how they promote cancer hallmarks. Understanding the role of Telomerase in promoting cancer hallmarks provides vital insight into the underlying mechanism of cancer genesis and progression and telomerase intervention as a possible therapeutic target for cancer treatment. More investigation into the precise molecular mechanisms of telomerase-mediated impacts on cancer hallmarks will contribute to developing more focused and customized cancer treatment methods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naveen Kumar
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore, 138673, Singapore
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology and NUS Centre for Cancer Research, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117600, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Anh NH, Long NP, Min YJ, Ki Y, Kim SJ, Jung CW, Park S, Kwon SW, Lee SJ. Molecular and Metabolic Phenotyping of Hepatocellular Carcinoma for Biomarker Discovery: A Meta-Analysis. Metabolites 2023; 13:1112. [PMID: 37999208 PMCID: PMC10672761 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13111112] [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: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Identifying and translating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) biomarkers from bench to bedside using mass spectrometry-based metabolomics and lipidomics is hampered by inconsistent findings. Here, we investigated HCC at systemic and metabolism-centric multiomics levels by conducting a meta-analysis of quantitative evidence from 68 cohorts. Blood transcript biomarkers linked to the HCC metabolic phenotype were externally validated and prioritized. In the studies under investigation, about 600 metabolites were reported as putative HCC-associated biomarkers; 39, 20, and 10 metabolites and 52, 12, and 12 lipids were reported in three or more studies in HCC vs. Control, HCC vs. liver cirrhosis (LC), and LC vs. Control groups, respectively. Amino acids, fatty acids (increased 18:1), bile acids, and lysophosphatidylcholine were the most frequently reported biomarkers in HCC. BAX and RAC1 showed a good correlation and were associated with poor prognosis. Our study proposes robust HCC biomarkers across diverse cohorts using a data-driven knowledge-based approach that is versatile and affordable for studying other diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Hoang Anh
- College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea; (N.H.A.); (Y.J.M.); (S.J.K.); (C.W.J.); (S.W.K.)
| | - Nguyen Phuoc Long
- Department of Pharmacology and PharmacoGenomics Research Center, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan 47392, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Jin Min
- College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea; (N.H.A.); (Y.J.M.); (S.J.K.); (C.W.J.); (S.W.K.)
| | - Yujin Ki
- School of Mathematics, Statistics and Data Science, Sungshin Women’s University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea; (Y.K.); (S.P.)
| | - Sun Jo Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea; (N.H.A.); (Y.J.M.); (S.J.K.); (C.W.J.); (S.W.K.)
| | - Cheol Woon Jung
- College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea; (N.H.A.); (Y.J.M.); (S.J.K.); (C.W.J.); (S.W.K.)
| | - Seongoh Park
- School of Mathematics, Statistics and Data Science, Sungshin Women’s University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea; (Y.K.); (S.P.)
| | - Sung Won Kwon
- College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea; (N.H.A.); (Y.J.M.); (S.J.K.); (C.W.J.); (S.W.K.)
| | - Seul Ji Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Sajeev A, BharathwajChetty B, Vishwa R, Alqahtani MS, Abbas M, Sethi G, Kunnumakkara AB. Crosstalk between Non-Coding RNAs and Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling in Head and Neck Cancer: Identification of Novel Biomarkers and Therapeutic Agents. Noncoding RNA 2023; 9:63. [PMID: 37888209 PMCID: PMC10610319 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna9050063] [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: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck cancers (HNC) encompass a broad spectrum of neoplastic disorders characterized by significant morbidity and mortality. While contemporary therapeutic interventions offer promise, challenges persist due to tumor recurrence and metastasis. Central to HNC pathogenesis is the aberration in numerous signaling cascades. Prominently, the Wnt signaling pathway has been critically implicated in the etiology of HNC, as supported by a plethora of research. Equally important, variations in the expression of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have been identified to modulate key cancer phenotypes such as cellular proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, metastatic potential, recurrence, and treatment resistance. This review aims to provide an exhaustive insight into the multifaceted influence of ncRNAs on HNC, with specific emphasis on their interactions with the Wnt/β-catenin (WBC) signaling axis. We further delineate the effect of ncRNAs in either exacerbating or attenuating HNC progression via interference with WBC signaling. An overview of the mechanisms underlying the interplay between ncRNAs and WBC signaling is also presented. In addition, we described the potential of various ncRNAs in enhancing the efficacy of chemotherapeutic and radiotherapeutic modalities. In summary, this assessment posits the potential of ncRNAs as therapeutic agents targeting the WBC signaling pathway in HNC management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anjana Sajeev
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India; (A.S.); (B.B.); (R.V.)
| | - Bandari BharathwajChetty
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India; (A.S.); (B.B.); (R.V.)
| | - Ravichandran Vishwa
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India; (A.S.); (B.B.); (R.V.)
| | - Mohammed S. Alqahtani
- Radiological Sciences Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha 61421, Saudi Arabia;
- BioImaging Unit, Space Research Centre, Michael Atiyah Building, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Mohamed Abbas
- Electrical Engineering Department, College of Engineering, King Khalid University, Abha 61421, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore
| | - Ajaikumar B. Kunnumakkara
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, Guwahati 781039, Assam, India; (A.S.); (B.B.); (R.V.)
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Deręgowska A, Pępek M, Solarska I, Machnicki MM, Pruszczyk K, Dudziński M, Niesiobędzka-Krężel J, Seferyńska I, Sawicki W, Wnuk M, Stokłosa T. The interplay between telomeric complex members and BCR::ABL1 oncogenic tyrosine kinase in the maintenance of telomere length in chronic myeloid leukemia. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:7103-7112. [PMID: 36871092 PMCID: PMC10374722 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-04662-w] [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: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a myeloproliferative neoplasm characterized by recurrent genetic aberration in leukemic stem cells, namely Philadelphia chromosome caused by reciprocal translocation t(9;22)(q34;q11). In our study, we analyzed the telomeric complex expression and function in the molecular pathogenesis of CML. METHODS We employed CD34+ primary leukemic cells, comprising both leukemic stem and progenitor cell populations, isolated from peripheral blood or bone marrow of CML patients in chronic and blastic phase to analyze the telomere length and telomeric-associated proteins. RESULTS The reduction in telomere length during disease progression was correlated with increased expression of BCR::ABL1 transcript and the dynamic changes were neither associated with the enzymatic activity of telomerase nor with gene copy number and expression of telomerase subunits. Increased expression of BCR::ABL1 was positively correlated with expression of TRF2, RAP1, TPP1, DKC1, TNKS1, and TNKS2 genes. CONCLUSIONS The dynamics of telomere length changes in CD34+ CML cells is dependent on the expression level of BCR::ABL, which promotes the expression of certain shelterins including RAP1 and TRF2, as well as TNKS, and TNKS2, and results in telomere shortening regardless of telomerase activity. Our results may allow better understanding of the mechanisms responsible for the genomic instability of leukemic cells and CML progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Deręgowska
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Biology and Biotechnology, College of Natural Sciences, University of Rzeszow, Pigonia 1, 35-310, Rzeszow, Poland
| | - Monika Pępek
- Department of Tumor Biology and Genetics, Medical University of Warsaw, Pawińskiego 7, 02-106, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Iwona Solarska
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Diagnostic Hematology, Institute of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, 02-776, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marcin M Machnicki
- Department of Tumor Biology and Genetics, Medical University of Warsaw, Pawińskiego 7, 02-106, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Pruszczyk
- Department of Hematology, Institute of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, 02-776, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marek Dudziński
- Department of Hematology, Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medical Sciences, University of Rzeszow, Rzeszow, Poland
| | - Joanna Niesiobędzka-Krężel
- Department of Hematology, Transplantation and Internal Medicine, University Clinical Centre, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ilona Seferyńska
- Department of Hematology, Institute of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, 02-776, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Waldemar Sawicki
- Department of Hematology, Military Institute of Medicine-National Research Institute, 04-141, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maciej Wnuk
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Biology and Biotechnology, College of Natural Sciences, University of Rzeszow, Pigonia 1, 35-310, Rzeszow, Poland.
| | - Tomasz Stokłosa
- Department of Tumor Biology and Genetics, Medical University of Warsaw, Pawińskiego 7, 02-106, Warsaw, Poland.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Shi W, Sethi G. Long noncoding RNAs induced control of ferroptosis: Implications in cancer progression and treatment. J Cell Physiol 2023; 238:880-895. [PMID: 36924057 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
A novel kind of nonapoptotic, iron-dependent cell death brought on by lipid peroxidation is known as ferroptosis. Numerous pathological processes, including neurotoxicity, neurological disorders, ischemia-reperfusion damage, and particularly cancer, have been demonstrated to be influenced by changes in the ferroptosis-regulating network. Recent studies have established the critical roles that ferroptosis can play in cancer development and the evolution of resistance to standard chemoradiotherapy, thus suggesting that ferroptosis may be a feasible therapeutic strategy for cancer management. Gene expression may be regulated at the transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels by long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs). They have been implicated in tumorigenesis. Some lncRNAs participate in the biological process of ferroptosis, which represents an exciting alternative to regulate ferroptosis as a means of cancer therapy. Even though there is evidence that lncRNAs have a mechanistic role in the ferroptosis of cancer cells, research on the mechanism and potential treatments for these lncRNAs is still lacking. We elucidate the potential mechanisms by which lncRNAs modulate ferroptosis in cancer and examine the promise and challenges of employing lncRNAs as novel therapeutic targets in cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Shi
- Laboratory of NF-κB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Winkler R, Piskor EM, Kosan C. Lessons from Using Genetically Engineered Mouse Models of MYC-Induced Lymphoma. Cells 2022; 12:37. [PMID: 36611833 PMCID: PMC9818924 DOI: 10.3390/cells12010037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Oncogenic overexpression of MYC leads to the fatal deregulation of signaling pathways, cellular metabolism, and cell growth. MYC rearrangements are found frequently among non-Hodgkin B-cell lymphomas enforcing MYC overexpression. Genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) were developed to understand MYC-induced B-cell lymphomagenesis. Here, we highlight the advantages of using Eµ-Myc transgenic mice. We thoroughly compiled the available literature to discuss common challenges when using such mouse models. Furthermore, we give an overview of pathways affected by MYC based on knowledge gained from the use of GEMMs. We identified top regulators of MYC-induced lymphomagenesis, including some candidates that are not pharmacologically targeted yet.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Christian Kosan
- Department of Biochemistry, Center for Molecular Biomedicine (CMB), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, 07745 Jena, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Ren S, Xiao Y, Yang L, Hu Y. RNA m6A methyltransferase METTL14 promotes the procession of non-small cell lung cancer by targeted CSF1R. Thorac Cancer 2022; 14:254-266. [PMID: 36448247 PMCID: PMC9870747 DOI: 10.1111/1759-7714.14741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is one of the most malignant cancer types, characterized by a poor prognosis. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is a prevalent internal modification of mRNA. METTL14, an RNA methyltransferase that mediates m6A modification, is implicated in mRNA biogenesis. However, the biomechanism of METTL14 in NSCLC is not very clear. METHODS Here, immunohistochemical (IHC) assay was employed to detect METTL14 in NSCLC tissues. The biological functions of METTL14 were demonstrated using cell transfection, cell proliferation assay, cell clone formation assay, cell cycle analysis, cell death analysis, transwell and wound healing assays. Transcriptome and methylated RNA immunoprecipitation (MERIP)-sequencing were used to explore the pathways and potential mechanism of METTL14 in NSCLC. RNA sequencing, METTL14 rip-sequencing, and METTL14 merip-sequencing were conducted to identify the potential targets of METTL14. RESULTS METTL14 was significantly correlated with clinical pathological parameters of differentiation and M stage. Additionally, METTL14 promotes cell proliferation, induces cell death, and enhances cell migration and invasion in vitro. Transcriptome and MeRIP-sequencing reveal oncogenic mechanism of METTL14. RIP-sequencing highlights CSF1R and AKR1C1 as targets of METTL14. After validation with TCGA dataset, colony stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF1R) showed significant positive coefficient with METTL14, and was presumed to be one target of METTl14 in lung cancer and verified by the cellular experiments. CONCLUSION In conclusion, our results revealed the clinical significance of m6A RNA modification atlas, the function, and molecular targets CSF1R of METTL14 in NSCLC cell lines. The RNA m6A methyltransferase METTL14 promotes the progression of NSCLC by targeted CSF1R.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siying Ren
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care MedicineThe Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Ying Xiao
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care MedicineThe Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Lulu Yang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care MedicineThe Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Yan Hu
- Department of Thoracic SurgeryThe Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Stock AJ, McDevitt RA, Puligilla C, Wang Y, Zhang Y, Wang K, Sun C, Becker KG, Lehrmann E, Wood WH, Gong Y, Aqdas M, Sung MH, Hoffmann V, Liu C, Gorospe M, Harrington L, Ferrucci L, Liu Y. Aberrant expression and localization of the RAP1 shelterin protein contribute to age-related phenotypes. PLoS Genet 2022; 18:e1010506. [PMID: 36441670 PMCID: PMC9704629 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Short telomeres induce a DNA damage response (DDR) that evokes apoptosis and senescence in human cells. An extant question is the contribution of telomere dysfunction-induced DDR to the phenotypes observed in aging and telomere biology disorders. One candidate is RAP1, a telomere-associated protein that also controls transcription at extratelomeric regions. To distinguish these roles, we generated a knockin mouse carrying a mutated Rap1, which was incapable of binding telomeres and did not result in eroded telomeres or a DDR. Primary Rap1 knockin embryonic fibroblasts showed decreased RAP1 expression and re-localization away from telomeres, with an increased cytosolic distribution akin to that observed in human fibroblasts undergoing telomere erosion. Rap1 knockin mice were viable, but exhibited transcriptomic alterations, proinflammatory cytokine/chemokine signaling, reduced lifespan, and decreased healthspan with increased body weight/fasting blood glucose levels, spontaneous tumor incidence, and behavioral deficits. Taken together, our data present mechanisms distinct from telomere-induced DDR that underlie age-related phenotypes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda J. Stock
- Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics, National Institute on Aging/National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Ross A. McDevitt
- Comparative Medicine Section, National Institute on Aging/National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Chandrakala Puligilla
- Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics, National Institute on Aging/National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Yajun Wang
- Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics, National Institute on Aging/National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Yongqing Zhang
- Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics, National Institute on Aging/National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Kun Wang
- Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics, National Institute on Aging/National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Chongkui Sun
- Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics, National Institute on Aging/National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Kevin G. Becker
- Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics, National Institute on Aging/National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Elin Lehrmann
- Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics, National Institute on Aging/National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - William H. Wood
- Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics, National Institute on Aging/National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Yi Gong
- Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics, National Institute on Aging/National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Mohammad Aqdas
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Immunology, National Institute on Aging/National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Myong-Hee Sung
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Immunology, National Institute on Aging/National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Victoria Hoffmann
- Division of Veterinary Resources, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Chengyu Liu
- Transgenic Core Facility, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute/National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Myriam Gorospe
- Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics, National Institute on Aging/National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Lea Harrington
- Institute for Research in Immunology & Cancer, Marcelle-Coutu Pavilion, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Luigi Ferrucci
- Translational Gerontology Branch, Biomedical Research Center, National Institute on Aging/National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Yie Liu
- Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics, National Institute on Aging/National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Yu EY, Cheung NKV, Lue NF. Connecting telomere maintenance and regulation to the developmental origin and differentiation states of neuroblastoma tumor cells. J Hematol Oncol 2022; 15:117. [PMID: 36030273 PMCID: PMC9420296 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-022-01337-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
A cardinal feature that distinguishes clinically high-risk neuroblastoma from low-risk tumors is telomere maintenance. Specifically, neuroblastoma tumors with either active telomerase or alternative lengthening of telomeres exhibit aggressive growth characteristics that lead to poor outcomes, whereas tumors without telomere maintenance can be managed with observation or minimal treatment. Even though the need for cancer cells to maintain telomere DNA-in order to sustain cell proliferation-is well established, recent studies suggest that the neural crest origin of neuroblastoma may enforce unique relationships between telomeres and tumor malignancy. Specifically in neuroblastoma, telomere structure and telomerase activity are correlated with the adrenergic/mesenchymal differentiation states, and manipulating telomerase activity can trigger tumor cell differentiation. Both findings may reflect features of normal neural crest development. This review summarizes recent advances in the characterization of telomere structure and telomere maintenance mechanisms in neuroblastoma and discusses the findings in the context of relevant literature on telomeres during embryonic and neural development. Understanding the canonical and non-canonical roles of telomere maintenance in neuroblastoma could reveal vulnerabilities for telomere-directed therapies with potential applications to other pediatric malignancies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eun Young Yu
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, W. R. Hearst Microbiology Research Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, 1300 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Nai-Kong V Cheung
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Neal F Lue
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, W. R. Hearst Microbiology Research Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, 1300 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, 1300 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Exosomes Derived from Tumor Cells Initiate Breast Cancer Cell Metastasis and Chemoresistance through a MALAT1-Dependent Mechanism. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2022; 2022:5483523. [PMID: 35813865 PMCID: PMC9262507 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5483523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background. Chemoresistance poses a great hindrance in the treatment of breast cancer (BC). Interestingly, exosome (Exo)-mediated transfer of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) has been reported to regulate chemoresistance in diverse diseases. We herein investigate the potential role of lncRNA metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) transferred by BC cell-derived Exo in chemoresistance of BC cells. Methods. BC-related lncRNAs were identified. Exosomes were isolated and verified from BC cells. The expression patterns of MALAT1 were then examined in the adriamycin (ADR)-sensitive and resistant cells and the isolated Exo, followed by the analysis of the downstream microRNA (miRNA) of MALAT1. The role and mechanism of MALAT1 transmitted by BC cell-derived Exo in BC cell metastasis and chemoresistance were assessed. Results. MALAT1 was highly expressed in BC cells and their Exo. In addition, MALAT1 delivered by BC cell-derived Exo augmented the malignant properties and chemoresistance of BC cells. Mechanistically, MALAT1 bound to miR-1-3p and limited the miR-1-3p expression, which sequentially targeted the vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP) protein. Moreover, silencing of VASP inhibited the activation of the RAP1 member of RAS oncogene family (Rap1) signaling pathway, which led to the attenuation of BC cell malignant properties and chemoresistance. In vivo assay further validated the tumor-promoting effect of Exo-MALAT1 via regulation of the miR-1-3p/VASP/Rap1 axis. Conclusion. Collectively, MALAT1 loaded by BC cell-derived Exo can accelerate BC cell metastasis and chemoresistance via disruption of miR-1-3p-mediated inhibition of the VASP/Rap1 signaling axis.
Collapse
|
19
|
Akıncılar S, Chua J, Ng Q, Chan C, Eslami-S Z, Chen K, Low JL, Arumugam S, Aswad L, Chua C, Tan I, DasGupta R, Fullwood M, Tergaonkar V. Identification of mechanism of cancer-cell-specific reactivation of hTERT offers therapeutic opportunities for blocking telomerase specifically in human colorectal cancer. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 51:1-16. [PMID: 35697349 PMCID: PMC9841410 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Transcriptional reactivation of hTERT is the limiting step in tumorigenesis. While mutations in hTERT promoter present in 19% of cancers are recognized as key drivers of hTERT reactivation, mechanisms by which wildtype hTERT (WT-hTERT) promoter is reactivated, in majority of human cancers, remain unknown. Using primary colorectal cancers (CRC) we identified Tert INTeracting region 2 (T-INT2), the critical chromatin region essential for reactivating WT-hTERT promoter in CRCs. Elevated β-catenin and JunD level in CRC facilitates chromatin interaction between hTERT promoter and T-INT2 that is necessary to turn on hTERTexpression. Pharmacological screens uncovered salinomycin, which inhibits JunD mediated hTERT-T-INT2 interaction that is required for the formation of a stable transcription complex on the hTERT promoter. Our results showed for the first time how known CRC alterations, such as APC, lead to WT-hTERT promoter reactivation during stepwise-tumorigenesis and provide a new perspective for developing cancer-specific drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Semih Can Akıncılar
- Division of Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Laboratory of NFκB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 138673, Singapore
| | - Joelle Yi Heng Chua
- Division of Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Laboratory of NFκB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 138673, Singapore
| | - Qin Feng Ng
- Division of Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Laboratory of NFκB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 138673, Singapore
| | - Claire Hian Tzer Chan
- Division of Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Laboratory of NFκB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 138673, Singapore
| | - Zahra Eslami-S
- Division of Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Laboratory of NFκB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 138673, Singapore
| | - Kaijing Chen
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, 117599, Singapore
| | - Joo-Leng Low
- Laboratory of Precision Oncology and Cancer Evolution, Genome Institute of Singapore, A*STAR, 138672, Singapore
| | - Surendar Arumugam
- Division of Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Laboratory of NFκB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 138673, Singapore
| | - Luay Aswad
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, 117599, Singapore
| | - Clarinda Chua
- Genome Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 138672, Singapore,Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 169610, Singapore
| | - Iain Beehuat Tan
- Genome Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 138672, Singapore,Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 169610, Singapore
| | - Ramanuj DasGupta
- Laboratory of Precision Oncology and Cancer Evolution, Genome Institute of Singapore, A*STAR, 138672, Singapore
| | - Melissa Jane Fullwood
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, 117599, Singapore,School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 637551, Singapore
| | - Vinay Tergaonkar
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. Tel: +65 65869836; Fax: +65 67791117;
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Mirzaei S, Saghari S, Bassiri F, Raesi R, Zarrabi A, Hushmandi K, Sethi G, Tergaonkar V. NF-κB as a regulator of cancer metastasis and therapy response: A focus on epithelial-mesenchymal transition. J Cell Physiol 2022; 237:2770-2795. [PMID: 35561232 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Metastasis of tumor cells is a complex challenge and significantly diminishes the overall survival and prognosis of cancer patients. The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a well-known mechanism responsible for the invasiveness of tumor cells. A number of molecular pathways can regulate the EMT mechanism in cancer cells and nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) is one of them. The nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 can induce the transcription of several genes involved in EMT induction. The present review describes NF-κB and EMT interaction in cancer cells and their association in cancer progression. Due to the oncogenic role NF-κB signaling, its activation enhances metastasis of tumor cells via EMT induction. This has been confirmed in various cancers including brain, breast, lung and gastric cancers, among others. The ZEB1/2, transforming growth factor-β, and Slug as inducers of EMT undergo upregulation by NF-κB to promote metastasis of tumor cells. After EMT induction driven by NF-κB, a significant decrease occurs in E-cadherin levels, while N-cadherin and vimentin levels undergo an increase. The noncoding RNAs can potentially also function as upstream mediators and modulate NF-κB/EMT axis in cancers. Moreover, NF-κB/EMT axis is involved in mediating drug resistance in tumor cells. Thus, suppressing NF-κB/EMT axis can also promote the sensitivity of cancer cells to chemotherapeutic agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sepideh Mirzaei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sam Saghari
- Department of Health Services Management, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Bassiri
- Department of Biology, Fars Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Fars, Iran.,Department of Biology, Shiraz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Rasoul Raesi
- PhD in Health Services Management, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Ali Zarrabi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istinye University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Kiavash Hushmandi
- Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, Division of Epidemiology and Zoonoses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR), National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Vinay Tergaonkar
- Laboratory of NF-κB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Ashrafizadeh M, Zarrabi A, Mostafavi E, Aref AR, Sethi G, Wang L, Tergaonkar V. Non-coding RNA-based regulation of inflammation. Semin Immunol 2022; 59:101606. [PMID: 35691882 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2022.101606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Inflammation is a multifactorial process and various biological mechanisms and pathways participate in its development. The presence of inflammation is involved in pathogenesis of different diseases such as diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases and even, cancer. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) comprise large part of transcribed genome and their critical function in physiological and pathological conditions has been confirmed. The present review focuses on miRNAs, lncRNAs and circRNAs as ncRNAs and their potential functions in inflammation regulation and resolution. Pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory factors are regulated by miRNAs via binding to 3'-UTR or indirectly via affecting other pathways such as SIRT1 and NF-κB. LncRNAs display a similar function and they can also affect miRNAs via sponging in regulating levels of cytokines. CircRNAs mainly affect miRNAs and reduce their expression in regulating cytokine levels. Notably, exosomal ncRNAs have shown capacity in inflammation resolution. In addition to pre-clinical studies, clinical trials have examined role of ncRNAs in inflammation-mediated disease pathogenesis and cytokine regulation. The therapeutic targeting of ncRNAs using drugs and nucleic acids have been analyzed to reduce inflammation in disease therapy. Therefore, ncRNAs can serve as diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic targets in inflammation-related diseases in pre-clinical and clinical backgrounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Milad Ashrafizadeh
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, Orta Mahalle, Üniversite Caddesi No. 27, Orhanlı, Tuzla, 34956 Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ali Zarrabi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istinye University, 34396 Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Ebrahim Mostafavi
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Amir Reza Aref
- Belfer Center for Applied Cancer Science, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Translational Sciences, Xsphera Biosciences Inc. 6, Tide Street, Boston, MA 02210, USA
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore; NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228, Singapore.
| | - Lingzhi Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore; Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Vinay Tergaonkar
- Laboratory of NF-κB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Singapore, Singapore; Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore; Department of Pathology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
RAP1/TERF2IP-A Multifunctional Player in Cancer Development. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13235970. [PMID: 34885080 PMCID: PMC8657031 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13235970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary RAP1 (TERF2IP) is a member of the shelterin complex that protects telomeric DNA and plays a critical role in maintaining chromosome stability. However, mammalian RAP1 was recently found to have additional functions apart from telomeres, acting as a regulator of the NF-κB pathway and transcription factor, and has been suggested that they have putative roles in cancer development. Here, we focus on the main roles of RAP1 in different mechanisms of oncogenesis, progression, and chemoresistance, and consider the clinical significance of findings about its regulation and biological functions. Abstract Mammalian RAP1 (TERF2IP), the most conserved shelterin component, plays a pleiotropic role in the regulation of a variety of cellular processes, including cell metabolism, DNA damage response, and NF-κB signaling, beyond its canonical telomeric role. Moreover, it has been demonstrated to be involved in oncogenesis, progression, and chemoresistance in human cancers. Several mutations and different expression patterns of RAP1 in cancers have been reported. However, the functions and mechanisms of RAP1 in various cancers have not been extensively studied, suggesting the necessity of further investigations. In this review, we summarize the main roles of RAP1 in different mechanisms of cancer development and chemoresistance, with special emphasis on the contribution of RAP1 mutations, expression patterns, and regulation by non-coding RNA, and briefly discuss telomeric and non-telomeric functions.
Collapse
|
23
|
Lam HY, Tergaonkar V, Kumar AP, Ahn KS. Mast cells: Therapeutic targets for COVID-19 and beyond. IUBMB Life 2021; 73:1278-1292. [PMID: 34467628 PMCID: PMC8652840 DOI: 10.1002/iub.2552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Mast cells (MCs) are innate immune cells that widely distribute throughout all tissues and express a variety of cell surface receptors. Upon activation, MCs can rapidly release a diverse array of preformed mediators residing within their secretory granules and newly synthesize a broad spectrum of inflammatory and immunomodulatory mediators. These unique features of MCs enable them to act as sentinels in response to rapid changes within their microenvironment. There is increasing evidence now that MCs play prominent roles in other pathophysiological processes besides allergic inflammation. In this review, we highlight the recent findings on the emerging roles of MCs in the pathogenesis of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) and discuss the potential of MCs as novel therapeutic targets for COVID-19 and other non-allergic inflammatory diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiu Yan Lam
- Cancer Science Institute of SingaporeNational University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
- Laboratory of NF‐κB SignalingInstitute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB)SingaporeSingapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
| | - Vinay Tergaonkar
- Laboratory of NF‐κB SignalingInstitute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB)SingaporeSingapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
- Department of Pathology, Yong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
| | - Alan Prem Kumar
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore and Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
- National University Cancer InstituteNational University Health SystemSingaporeSingapore
| | - Kwang Seok Ahn
- Department of Science in Korean MedicineKyung Hee UniversitySeoulRepublic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Oncogenes, Proto-Oncogenes, and Lineage Restriction of Cancer Stem Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22189667. [PMID: 34575830 PMCID: PMC8470404 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22189667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In principle, an oncogene is a cellular gene (proto-oncogene) that is dysfunctional, due to mutation and fusion with another gene or overexpression. Generally, oncogenes are viewed as deregulating cell proliferation or suppressing apoptosis in driving cancer. The cancer stem cell theory states that most, if not all, cancers are a hierarchy of cells that arises from a transformed tissue-specific stem cell. These normal counterparts generate various cell types of a tissue, which adds a new dimension to how oncogenes might lead to the anarchic behavior of cancer cells. It is that stem cells, such as hematopoietic stem cells, replenish mature cell types to meet the demands of an organism. Some oncogenes appear to deregulate this homeostatic process by restricting leukemia stem cells to a single cell lineage. This review examines whether cancer is a legacy of stem cells that lose their inherent versatility, the extent that proto-oncogenes play a role in cell lineage determination, and the role that epigenetic events play in regulating cell fate and tumorigenesis.
Collapse
|
25
|
Tu Z, Wang C, Davis AK, Hu M, Zhao C, Xin M, Lu QR, Zheng Y. The chromatin remodeler CHD8 governs hematopoietic stem/progenitor survival by regulating ATM-mediated P53 protein stability. Blood 2021; 138:221-233. [PMID: 34292326 PMCID: PMC8310427 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2020009997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The Chd8 gene encodes a member of the chromodomain helicase DNA-binding (CHD) family of SNF2H-like adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-dependent chromatin remodeler, the mutations of which define a subtype of autism spectrum disorders. Increasing evidence from recent studies indicates that ATP-dependent chromatin-remodeling genes are involved in the control of crucial gene-expression programs in hematopoietic stem/progenitor cell (HSPC) regulation. In this study, we identified CHD8 as a specific and essential regulator of normal hematopoiesis. Loss of Chd8 leads to severe anemia, pancytopenia, bone marrow failure, and engraftment failure related to a drastic depletion of HSPCs. CHD8 forms a complex with ATM and its deficiency increases chromatin accessibility and drives genomic instability in HSPCs causing an activation of ATM kinase that further stabilizes P53 protein by phosphorylation and leads to increased HSPC apoptosis. Deletion of P53 rescues the apoptotic defects of HSPCs and restores overall hematopoiesis in Chd8-/- mice. Our findings demonstrate that chromatin organization by CHD8 is uniquely necessary for the maintenance of hematopoiesis by integrating the ATM-P53-mediated survival of HSPCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Yi Zheng
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Kuijpers TJM, Kleinjans JCS, Jennen DGJ. From multi-omics integration towards novel genomic interaction networks to identify key cancer cell line characteristics. Sci Rep 2021; 11:10542. [PMID: 34006939 PMCID: PMC8131752 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-90047-3] [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: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a complex disease where cancer cells express epigenetic and transcriptomic mechanisms to promote tumor initiation, progression, and survival. To extract relevant features from the 2019 Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia (CCLE), a multi-layer nonnegative matrix factorization approach is used. We used relevant feature genes and DNA promoter regions to construct genomic interaction network to study gene-gene and gene-DNA promoter methylation relationships. Here, we identified a set of gene transcripts and methylated DNA promoter regions for different clusters, including one homogeneous lymphoid neoplasms cluster. In this cluster, we found different methylated transcription factors that affect transcriptional activation of EGFR and downstream interactions. Furthermore, the hippo-signaling pathway might not function properly because of DNA hypermethylation and low gene expression of both LATS2 and YAP1. Finally, we could identify a potential dysregulation of the CD28-CD86-CTLA4 axis. Characterizing the interaction of the epigenome and the transcriptome is vital for our understanding of cancer cell line behavior, not only for deepening insights into cancer-related processes but also for future disease treatment and drug development. Here we have identified potential candidates that characterize cancer cell lines, which give insight into the development and progression of cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T J M Kuijpers
- Department of Toxicogenomics, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| | - J C S Kleinjans
- Department of Toxicogenomics, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - D G J Jennen
- Department of Toxicogenomics, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Akincilar SC, Chan CHT, Ng QF, Fidan K, Tergaonkar V. Non-canonical roles of canonical telomere binding proteins in cancers. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:4235-4257. [PMID: 33599797 PMCID: PMC8164586 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03783-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Reactivation of telomerase is a major hallmark observed in 90% of all cancers. Yet paradoxically, enhanced telomerase activity does not correlate with telomere length and cancers often possess short telomeres; suggestive of supplementary non-canonical roles that telomerase might play in the development of cancer. Moreover, studies have shown that aberrant expression of shelterin proteins coupled with their release from shortening telomeres can further promote cancer by mechanisms independent of their telomeric role. While targeting telomerase activity appears to be an attractive therapeutic option, this approach has failed in clinical trials due to undesirable cytotoxic effects on stem cells. To circumvent this concern, an alternative strategy could be to target the molecules involved in the non-canonical functions of telomeric proteins. In this review, we will focus on emerging evidence that has demonstrated the non-canonical roles of telomeric proteins and their impact on tumorigenesis. Furthermore, we aim to address current knowledge gaps in telomeric protein functions and propose future research approaches that can be undertaken to achieve this.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Semih Can Akincilar
- Division of Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Laboratory of NFκB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Proteos, 61, Biopolis Drive, Singapore, 138673, Singapore
| | - Claire Hian Tzer Chan
- Division of Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Laboratory of NFκB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Proteos, 61, Biopolis Drive, Singapore, 138673, Singapore
| | - Qin Feng Ng
- Division of Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Laboratory of NFκB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Proteos, 61, Biopolis Drive, Singapore, 138673, Singapore
| | - Kerem Fidan
- Division of Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Laboratory of NFκB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Proteos, 61, Biopolis Drive, Singapore, 138673, Singapore
| | - Vinay Tergaonkar
- Division of Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Laboratory of NFκB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Proteos, 61, Biopolis Drive, Singapore, 138673, Singapore.
- Department of Pathology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117593, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Luo Z, Liu W, Sun P, Wang F, Feng X. Pan-cancer analyses reveal regulation and clinical outcome association of the shelterin complex in cancer. Brief Bioinform 2021; 22:6120315. [PMID: 33497432 DOI: 10.1093/bib/bbaa441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Shelterin, a protective complex at telomeres, plays essential roles in cancer. In addition to maintain telomere integrity, shelterin functions in various survival pathways. However, the detailed mechanisms of shelterin regulation in cancer remain elusive. Here, we perform a comprehensive analysis of shelterin in 9125 tumor samples across 33 cancer types using multi-omic data from The Cancer Genome Atlas, and validate some findings in Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas and cancer cell lines from Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia. In the genomic landscape, we identify the amplification of TRF1 and POT1, co-amplification/deletion of TRF2-RAP1-TPP1 as the dominant alteration events. Clustering analysis based on shelterin expression reveals three cancer clusters with different degree of genome instability. To measure overall shelterin activity in cancer, we derive a shelterin score based on shelterin expression. Pathway analysis shows shelterin is positively correlated with E2F targets, while is negatively correlated with p53 pathway. Importantly, shelterin links to tumor immunity and predicts response to PD-1 blockade immune therapy. In-depth miRNA analysis reveals a miRNA-shelterin interaction network, with p53 regulated miRNAs targeting multiple shelterin components. We also identify a significant amount of lncRNAs regulating shelterin expression. In addition, we find shelterin expression could be used to predict patient survival in 24 cancer types. Finally, by mining the connective map database, we discover a number of potential drugs that might target shelterin. In summary, this study provides broad molecular signatures for further functional and therapeutic studies of shelterin, and also represents a systemic approach to characterize key protein complex in cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenhua Luo
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Weijin Liu
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Panpan Sun
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Xuyang Feng
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Liu YQ, Wang XL, He DH, Cheng YX. Protection against chemotherapy- and radiotherapy-induced side effects: A review based on the mechanisms and therapeutic opportunities of phytochemicals. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 80:153402. [PMID: 33203590 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2020.153402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although great achievements have been made in the field of cancer therapy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy remain the mainstay cancer therapeutic modalities. However, they are associated with various side effects, including cardiocytotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, myelosuppression, neurotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, gastrointestinal toxicity, mucositis, and alopecia, which severely affect the quality of life of cancer patients. Plants harbor a great chemical diversity and flexible biological properties that are well-compatible with their use as adjuvant therapy in reducing the side effects of cancer therapy. PURPOSE This review aimed to comprehensively summarize the molecular mechanisms by which phytochemicals ameliorate the side effects of cancer therapies and their potential clinical applications. METHODS We obtained information from PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, and Google scholar, and introduced the molecular mechanisms by which chemotherapeutic drugs and irradiation induce toxic side effects. Accordingly, we summarized the underlying mechanisms of representative phytochemicals in reducing these side effects. RESULTS Representative phytochemicals exhibit a great potential in reducing the side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy due to their broad range of biological activities, including antioxidation, antimutagenesis, anti-inflammation, myeloprotection, and immunomodulation. However, since a majority of the phytochemicals have only been subjected to preclinical studies, clinical trials are imperative to comprehensively evaluate their therapeutic values. CONCLUSION This review highlights that phytochemicals have interesting properties in relieving the side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Future studies are required to explore the clinical benefits of these phytochemicals for exploitation in chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Qiang Liu
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China; Research Center of Chinese Herbal Resources Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Resource from Lingnan, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, China.
| | - Xiao-Lu Wang
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Natural Products, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Dan-Hua He
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, China; Research Center of Chinese Herbal Resources Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Resource from Lingnan, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yong-Xian Cheng
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen 518060, China.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Ahmed SA, Parama D, Daimari E, Girisa S, Banik K, Harsha C, Dutta U, Kunnumakkara AB. Rationalizing the therapeutic potential of apigenin against cancer. Life Sci 2020; 267:118814. [PMID: 33333052 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 11/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the remarkable advances made in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer during the past couple of decades, it remains the second largest cause of mortality in the world, killing approximately 9.6 million people annually. The major challenges in the treatment of the advanced stage of this disease are the development of chemoresistance, severe adverse effects of the drugs, and high treatment cost. Therefore, the development of drugs that are safe, efficacious, and cost-effective remains a 'Holy Grail' in cancer research. However, the research over the past four decades shed light on the cancer-preventive and therapeutic potential of natural products and their underlying mechanism of action. Apigenin is one such compound, which is known to be safe and has significant potential in the prevention and therapy of this disease. AIM To assess the literature available on the potential of apigenin and its analogs in modulating the key molecular targets leading to the prevention and treatment of different types of cancer. METHOD A comprehensive literature search has been carried out on PubMed for obtaining information related to the sources and analogs, chemistry and biosynthesis, physicochemical properties, biological activities, bioavailability and toxicity of apigenin. KEY FINDINGS The literature search resulted in many in vitro, in vivo and a few cohort studies that evidenced the effectiveness of apigenin and its analogs in modulating important molecular targets and signaling pathways such as PI3K/AKT/mTOR, JAK/STAT, NF-κB, MAPK/ERK, Wnt/β-catenin, etc., which play a crucial role in the development and progression of cancer. In addition, apigenin was also shown to inhibit chemoresistance and radioresistance and make cancer cells sensitive to these agents. Reports have further revealed the safety of the compound and the adaptation of nanotechnological approaches for improving its bioavailability. SIGNIFICANCE Hence, the present review recapitulates the properties of apigenin and its pharmacological activities against different types of cancer, which warrant further investigation in clinical settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Semim Akhtar Ahmed
- Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Cotton University, Pan Bazar, Guwahati, Assam 781001, India
| | - Dey Parama
- Cancer Biology Laboratory and DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Assam 781039, India
| | - Enush Daimari
- Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Cotton University, Pan Bazar, Guwahati, Assam 781001, India
| | - Sosmitha Girisa
- Cancer Biology Laboratory and DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Assam 781039, India
| | - Kishore Banik
- Cancer Biology Laboratory and DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Assam 781039, India
| | - Choudhary Harsha
- Cancer Biology Laboratory and DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Assam 781039, India
| | - Uma Dutta
- Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Cotton University, Pan Bazar, Guwahati, Assam 781001, India.
| | - Ajaikumar B Kunnumakkara
- Cancer Biology Laboratory and DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Assam 781039, India.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Shi Q, Sun B, Wang D, Zhu Y, Zhao X, Yang X, Zhang Y. Circ6401, a novel circular RNA, is implicated in repair of the damaged endometrium by Wharton's jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cells through regulation of the miR-29b-1-5p/RAP1B axis. Stem Cell Res Ther 2020; 11:520. [PMID: 33261656 PMCID: PMC7708228 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-020-02027-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Accumulating evidence indicates that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) exert tissue repair effects and therapeutic angiogenesis through their noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs). Our previous studies showed that MSCs derived from Wharton’s jelly (WJ-MSCs) can ameliorate damaged human endometrium by promoting angiogenesis. There is limited information on the functions and mechanism of ncRNAs in MSC-induced endometrial repair, and additional studies are needed for more insights. Methods Here, WJ-MSCs were cocultured with or without endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) damaged by mifepristone (cocultured group versus non-cocultured group). TUNEL staining assays, EdU proliferation assays, flow cytometry apoptosis assays, and western blot assays were performed to observe the reparative effect of WJ-MSCs on damaged ESCs. Subsequently, circular RNA (circRNA) and microRNA microarrays were performed between the two groups. A subset of top upregulated circRNAs was validated by qRT-PCR. The functions of circ6401 (hsa_circ_0006401) in WJ-MSCs were investigated using lentivirus-mediated circRNA overexpression assays. The subcellular localization of circ6401 and miR-29b-1-5p in WJ-MSCs was identified by double RNA fluorescence in situ hybridization. Dual-luciferase reporter assays and western blot assays were performed to elucidate the regulatory mechanisms among circ6401, miR-29b-1-5p, and RAP1B. Results WJ-MSCs significantly improved ESC proliferation and upregulated the expression of vascular angiogenesis markers. Circ6401 was upregulated in WJ-MSCs cocultured with damaged ESCs, while miR-29b-1-5p was significantly downregulated. Furthermore, circ6401 was found to bind to miR-29b-1-5p and prevent it from decreasing the level of RAP1B, a crucial protein involved in the VEGF signaling pathway, which promoted angiogenesis and stimulated the proliferation of ESCs. Conclusions Our results showed the abundance and regulation profiles of ncRNAs of WJ-MSCs during repair of damaged ESCs and, for the first time, clarified the underlying mechanism by which circ6401 promotes endometrial repair by WJ-MSCs; thus, demonstrating that circ6401 may serve as a potential therapeutic target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qin Shi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, 19 Xisi Road, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226000, People's Republic of China
| | - Baolan Sun
- Department of Pediatrics, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, People's Republic of China
| | - Di Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Zhu
- Affiliated Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinxin Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, 19 Xisi Road, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226000, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoqing Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, 19 Xisi Road, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226000, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yuquan Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, 19 Xisi Road, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226000, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Sezaki M, Hayashi Y, Wang Y, Johansson A, Umemoto T, Takizawa H. Immuno-Modulation of Hematopoietic Stem and Progenitor Cells in Inflammation. Front Immunol 2020; 11:585367. [PMID: 33329562 PMCID: PMC7732516 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.585367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Lifelong blood production is maintained by bone marrow (BM)-residing hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) that are defined by two special properties: multipotency and self-renewal. Since dysregulation of either may lead to a differentiation block or extensive proliferation causing dysplasia or neoplasia, the genomic integrity and cellular function of HSCs must be tightly controlled and preserved by cell-intrinsic programs and cell-extrinsic environmental factors of the BM. The BM had been long regarded an immune-privileged organ shielded from immune insults and inflammation, and was thereby assumed to provide HSCs and immune cells with a protective environment to ensure blood and immune homeostasis. Recently, accumulating evidence suggests that hemato-immune challenges such as autoimmunity, inflammation or infection elicit a broad spectrum of immunological reactions in the BM, and in turn, influence the function of HSCs and BM environmental cells. Moreover, in analogy with the emerging concept of “trained immunity”, certain infection-associated stimuli are able to train HSCs and progenitors to produce mature immune cells with enhanced responsiveness to subsequent challenges, and in some cases, form an inflammatory or infectious memory in HSCs themselves. In this review, we will introduce recent findings on HSC and hematopoietic regulation upon exposure to various hemato-immune stimuli and discuss how these challenges can elicit either beneficial or detrimental outcomes on HSCs and the hemato-immune system, as well as their relevance to aging and hematologic malignancies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maiko Sezaki
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Stress, International Research Center for Medical Sciences (IRCMS), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Yoshikazu Hayashi
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Stress, International Research Center for Medical Sciences (IRCMS), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan.,Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Engineering, International Research Center for Medical Sciences (IRCMS), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan.,Division of Functional Structure, Department of Morphological Biology, Fukuoka Dental College, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yuxin Wang
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Stress, International Research Center for Medical Sciences (IRCMS), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan.,Department of Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Alban Johansson
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Stress, International Research Center for Medical Sciences (IRCMS), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan.,Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Engineering, International Research Center for Medical Sciences (IRCMS), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Terumasa Umemoto
- Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Engineering, International Research Center for Medical Sciences (IRCMS), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Takizawa
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Stress, International Research Center for Medical Sciences (IRCMS), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan.,Center for Metabolic Regulation of Healthy Aging, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Differential Regulation of Telomeric Complex by BCR-ABL1 Kinase in Human Cellular Models of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia-From Single Cell Analysis to Next-Generation Sequencing. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:genes11101145. [PMID: 33003326 PMCID: PMC7601685 DOI: 10.3390/genes11101145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Revised: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomeres are specialized nucleoprotein complexes, localized at the physical ends of chromosomes, that contribute to the maintenance of genome stability. One of the features of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) cells is a reduction in telomere length which may result in increased genomic instability and progression of the disease. Aberrant telomere maintenance in CML is not fully understood and other mechanisms such as the alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) are involved. In this work, we employed five BCR-ABL1-positive cell lines, namely K562, KU-812, LAMA-84, MEG-A2, and MOLM-1, commonly used in the laboratories to study the link between mutation, copy number, and expression of telomere maintenance genes with the expression, copy number, and activity of BCR-ABL1. Our results demonstrated that the copy number and expression of BCR-ABL1 are crucial for telomere lengthening. We observed a correlation between BCR-ABL1 expression and telomere length as well as shelterins upregulation. Next-generation sequencing revealed pathogenic variants and copy number alterations in major tumor suppressors, such as TP53 and CDKN2A, but not in telomere-associated genes. Taken together, we showed that BCR-ABL1 kinase expression and activity play a crucial role in the maintenance of telomeres in CML cell lines. Our results may help to validate and properly interpret results obtained by many laboratories employing these in vitro models of CML.
Collapse
|
34
|
Khattar E, Tergaonkar V. Role of Rap1 in DNA damage response: implications in stem cell homeostasis and cancer. Exp Hematol 2020; 90:12-17. [PMID: 32858091 DOI: 10.1016/j.exphem.2020.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian Rap1 is a part of the telomere binding complex named shelterin and is one of the most conserved telomeric proteins. With its essential requirement in lower species to its becoming necessary in higher species, it appears to have gained and lost several functions simultaneously evolving with telomeres. Mammalian Rap1 has been reported to play a role in inflammation, metabolism, and oxidative stress. Mammalian Rap1 has also been found to regulate DNA damage response from telomeres in senescent cells. Recently our group uncovered its novel role in stem cell maintenance, and modulation of the chemotherapeutic response. Mechanistically it was found to function as an adaptor via protein-protein interactions and to modulate the response to DNA damage. In the current review we highlight newly identified functions of Rap1 in regulating telomeric and general DNA damage response with its impact at the cellular and organismal levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ekta Khattar
- Sunandan Divatia School of Science, SVKM's NMIMS (Deemed to be) University, Mumbai, India.
| | - Vinay Tergaonkar
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A-STAR), Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Wong AHH, Shin EM, Tergaonkar V, Chng WJ. Targeting NF-κB Signaling for Multiple Myeloma. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12082203. [PMID: 32781681 PMCID: PMC7463546 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12082203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is the second most common hematologic malignancy in the world. Even though survival rates have significantly risen over the past years, MM remains incurable, and is also far from reaching the point of being managed as a chronic disease. This paper reviews the evolution of MM therapies, focusing on anti-MM drugs that target the molecular mechanisms of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling. We also provide our perspectives on contemporary research findings and insights for future drug development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ada Hang-Heng Wong
- Laboratory of NF-κB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore 138673, Singapore; (E.M.S.); (V.T.)
- AW Medical Company Limited, Macau, China
- Correspondence: (A.H.-H.W.); (W.-J.C.); Tel.: +65-6586-9709 (A.H.-H.W.); +65-6772-4612 (W.-J.C.)
| | - Eun Myoung Shin
- Laboratory of NF-κB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore 138673, Singapore; (E.M.S.); (V.T.)
| | - Vinay Tergaonkar
- Laboratory of NF-κB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore 138673, Singapore; (E.M.S.); (V.T.)
- Department of Pathology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119074, Singapore
- Department of Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Wee-Joo Chng
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, Singapore 117599, Singapore
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228, Singapore
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, National University Cancer Institute of Singapore, National University Health System, Singapore 119074, Singapore
- Correspondence: (A.H.-H.W.); (W.-J.C.); Tel.: +65-6586-9709 (A.H.-H.W.); +65-6772-4612 (W.-J.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Ramadass V, Vaiyapuri T, Tergaonkar V. Small Molecule NF-κB Pathway Inhibitors in Clinic. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E5164. [PMID: 32708302 PMCID: PMC7404026 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21145164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling is implicated in all major human chronic diseases, with its role in transcription of hundreds of gene well established in the literature. This has propelled research into targeting the NF-κB pathways for modulating expression of those genes and the diseases mediated by them. In-spite of the critical, but often promiscuous role played by this pathway and the inhibition causing adverse drug reaction, currently many biologics, macromolecules, and small molecules that modulate this pathway are in the market or in clinical trials. Furthermore, many marketed drugs that were later found to also have NF-κB targeting activity were repurposed for new therapeutic interventions. Despite the rising importance of biologics in drug discovery, small molecules got around 76% of US-FDA (Food and Drug Administration-US) approval in the last decade. This encouraged us to review information regarding clinically relevant small molecule inhibitors of the NF-κB pathway from cell surface receptor stimulation to nuclear signaling. We have also highlighted the underexplored targets in this pathway that have potential to succeed in clinic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Vinay Tergaonkar
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Singapore 138673, Singapore;
- Department of Pathology, NUS, Singapore 117597, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Fernandes SG, Dsouza R, Pandya G, Kirtonia A, Tergaonkar V, Lee SY, Garg M, Khattar E. Role of Telomeres and Telomeric Proteins in Human Malignancies and Their Therapeutic Potential. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E1901. [PMID: 32674474 PMCID: PMC7409176 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12071901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomeres are the ends of linear chromosomes comprised of repetitive nucleotide sequences in humans. Telomeres preserve chromosomal stability and genomic integrity. Telomere length shortens with every cell division in somatic cells, eventually resulting in replicative senescence once telomere length becomes critically short. Telomere shortening can be overcome by telomerase enzyme activity that is undetectable in somatic cells, while being active in germline cells, stem cells, and immune cells. Telomeres are bound by a shelterin complex that regulates telomere lengthening as well as protects them from being identified as DNA damage sites. Telomeres are transcribed by RNA polymerase II, and generate a long noncoding RNA called telomeric repeat-containing RNA (TERRA), which plays a key role in regulating subtelomeric gene expression. Replicative immortality and genome instability are hallmarks of cancer and to attain them cancer cells exploit telomere maintenance and telomere protection mechanisms. Thus, understanding the role of telomeres and their associated proteins in cancer initiation, progression and treatment is very important. The present review highlights the critical role of various telomeric components with recently established functions in cancer. Further, current strategies to target various telomeric components including human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) as a therapeutic approach in human malignancies are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stina George Fernandes
- Sunandan Divatia School of Science, SVKM’s NMIMS (Deemed to be University), Vile Parle West, Mumbai 400056, India; (S.G.F.); (R.D.)
| | - Rebecca Dsouza
- Sunandan Divatia School of Science, SVKM’s NMIMS (Deemed to be University), Vile Parle West, Mumbai 400056, India; (S.G.F.); (R.D.)
| | - Gouri Pandya
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research (AIMMSCR), Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida 201313, India; (G.P.); (A.K.)
| | - Anuradha Kirtonia
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research (AIMMSCR), Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida 201313, India; (G.P.); (A.K.)
| | - Vinay Tergaonkar
- Laboratory of NF-κB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore; (V.T.); (S.Y.L.)
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore 117597, Singapore
- Department of Pathology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore 117597, Singapore
| | - Sook Y. Lee
- Laboratory of NF-κB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore; (V.T.); (S.Y.L.)
| | - Manoj Garg
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research (AIMMSCR), Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida 201313, India; (G.P.); (A.K.)
| | - Ekta Khattar
- Sunandan Divatia School of Science, SVKM’s NMIMS (Deemed to be University), Vile Parle West, Mumbai 400056, India; (S.G.F.); (R.D.)
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Lam HY, Arumugam S, Bae HG, Wang CC, Jung S, St John AL, Hong W, Han W, Tergaonkar V. ELKS1 controls mast cell degranulation by regulating the transcription of Stxbp2 and Syntaxin 4 via Kdm2b stabilization. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2020; 6:6/31/eabb2497. [PMID: 32937583 PMCID: PMC7531903 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abb2497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
ELKS1 is a protein with proposed roles in regulated exocytosis in neurons and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) signaling in cancer cells. However, how these two potential roles come together under physiological settings remain unknown. Since both regulated exocytosis and NF-κB signaling are determinants of mast cell (MC) functions, we generated mice lacking ELKS1 in connective tissue MCs (Elks1f/f Mcpt5-Cre) and found that while ELKS1 is dispensable for NF-κB-mediated cytokine production, it is essential for MC degranulation both in vivo and in vitro. Impaired degranulation was caused by reduced transcription of Syntaxin 4 (STX4) and Syntaxin binding protein 2 (Stxpb2), resulting from a lack of ELKS1-mediated stabilization of lysine-specific demethylase 2B (Kdm2b), which is an essential regulator of STX4 and Stxbp2 transcription. These results suggest a transcriptional role for active-zone proteins like ELKS1 and suggest that they may regulate exocytosis through a novel mechanism involving transcription of key exocytosis proteins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiu Yan Lam
- Laboratory of NF-κB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore 117596, Singapore
| | - Surendar Arumugam
- Laboratory of NF-κB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - Han Gyu Bae
- Singapore Bioimaging Consortium, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, #02-02 Helios, 11 Biopolis Way, Singapore 138667, Singapore
| | - Cheng Chun Wang
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - Sangyong Jung
- Singapore Bioimaging Consortium, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, #02-02 Helios, 11 Biopolis Way, Singapore 138667, Singapore
| | - Ashley Lauren St John
- Program in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS, Singapore 169857, Singapore
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, NUS, Singapore 119077, Singapore
- Department of Pathology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Wanjin Hong
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - Weiping Han
- Singapore Bioimaging Consortium, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, #02-02 Helios, 11 Biopolis Way, Singapore 138667, Singapore
| | - Vinay Tergaonkar
- Laboratory of NF-κB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore.
- Department of Pathology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore 119074, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Lam H, Tergaonkar V, Ahn K. Mechanisms of allergen-specific immunotherapy for allergic rhinitis and food allergies. Biosci Rep 2020; 40:BSR20200256. [PMID: 32186703 PMCID: PMC7109000 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20200256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) is currently the only potential treatment for allergies including allergic rhinitis (AR) and food allergies (FA) that can modify the underlying course of the diseases. Although AIT has been performed for over a century, the precise and detailed mechanism for AIT is still unclear. Previous clinical trials have reported that successful AIT induces the reinstatement of tolerance against the specific allergen. In this review, we aim to provide an updated summary of the knowledge on the underlying mechanisms of IgE-mediated AR and FA as well as the immunological changes observed after AIT and discuss on how better understanding of these can lead to possible identification of biomarkers and novel strategies for AIT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiu Yan Lam
- Laboratory of NF-κB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore 117596, Singapore
| | - Vinay Tergaonkar
- Laboratory of NF-κB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore 117596, Singapore
- Department of Pathology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore 117596, Singapore
| | - Kwang Seok Ahn
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 24 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Wu L, Fidan K, Um JY, Ahn KS. Telomerase: Key regulator of inflammation and cancer. Pharmacol Res 2020; 155:104726. [PMID: 32109579 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.104726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The telomerase holoenzyme, which has a highly conserved role in maintaining telomere length, has long been regarded as a high-profile target in cancer therapy due to the high dependency of the majority of cancer cells on constitutive and elevated telomerase activity for sustained proliferation and immortality. In this review, we present the salient findings in the telomerase field with special focus on the association of telomerase with inflammation and cancer. The elucidation of extra-telomeric roles of telomerase in inflammation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and cancer development further complicated the design of anti-telomerase therapy. Of note, the discovery of the unique mechanism that underlies reactivation of the dormant telomerase reverse transcriptase TERT promoter in somatic cells not only enhanced our understanding of the critical role of TERT in carcinogenesis but also opens up new intervention ideas that enable the differential targeting of cancer cells only. Despite significant effort invested in developing telomerase-targeted therapeutics, devising efficacious cancer-specific telomerase/TERT inhibitors remains an uphill task. The latest discoveries of the telomere-independent functionalities of telomerase in inflammation and cancer can help illuminate the path of developing specific anti-telomerase/TERT therapeutics against cancer cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lele Wu
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - Kerem Fidan
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore 138673, Singapore; Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore 117597, Singapore
| | - Jae-Young Um
- College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, #47, Kyungheedae-gil, Dongdaemoon-gu, Seoul 130-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang Seok Ahn
- College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, #47, Kyungheedae-gil, Dongdaemoon-gu, Seoul 130-701, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|