p53RFP, a p53-inducible RING-finger protein, regulates the stability of p21WAF1

The TP53-activated E3 ligase RNF144B is a tumour suppressor that prevents genomic instability

BACKGROUND

TP53, the most frequently mutated gene in human cancers, orchestrates a complex transcriptional program crucial for cancer prevention. While certain TP53-dependent genes have been extensively studied, others, like the recently identified RNF144B, remained poorly understood. This E3 ubiquitin ligase has shown potent tumor suppressor activity in murine Eμ Myc-driven lymphoma, emphasizing its significance in the TP53 network. However, little is known about its targets and its role in cancer development, requiring further exploration. In this work, we investigate RNF144B's impact on tumor suppression beyond the hematopoietic compartment in human cancers.

METHODS

Employing TP53 wild-type cells, we generated models lacking RNF144B in both non-transformed and cancerous cells of human and mouse origin. By using proteomics, transcriptomics, and functional analysis, we assessed RNF144B's impact in cellular proliferation and transformation. Through in vitro and in vivo experiments, we explored proliferation, DNA repair, cell cycle control, mitotic progression, and treatment resistance. Findings were contrasted with clinical datasets and bioinformatics analysis.

RESULTS

Our research underscores RNF144B's pivotal role as a tumor suppressor, particularly in lung adenocarcinoma. In both human and mouse oncogene-expressing cells, RNF144B deficiency heightened cellular proliferation and transformation. Proteomic and transcriptomic analysis revealed RNF144B's novel function in mediating protein degradation associated with cell cycle progression, DNA damage response and genomic stability. RNF144B deficiency induced chromosomal instability, mitotic defects, and correlated with elevated aneuploidy and worse prognosis in human tumors. Furthermore, RNF144B-deficient lung adenocarcinoma cells exhibited resistance to cell cycle inhibitors that induce chromosomal instability.

CONCLUSIONS

Supported by clinical data, our study suggests that RNF144B plays a pivotal role in maintaining genomic stability during tumor suppression.

Ubiquitin E3 ligases assisted technologies in protein degradation: Sharing pathways in neurodegenerative disorders and cancer

E3 ligases, essential components of the ubiquitin-proteasome-mediated protein degradation system, play a critical role in cellular regulation. By covalently attaching ubiquitin (Ub) molecules to target proteins, these ligases mark them for degradation, influencing various bioprocesses. With over 600 E3 ligases identified, there is a growing realization of their potential as therapeutic candidates for addressing proteinopathies in cancer and neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs). Recent research has highlighted the need to delve deeper into the intricate roles of E3 ligases as nexus points in the pathogenesis of both cancer and NDDs. Their dysregulation is emerging as a common thread linking these seemingly disparate diseases, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of their molecular intricacies. Herein, we have discussed (i) the fundamental mechanisms through which different types of E3 ligases actively participate in selective protein degradation in cancer and NDDs, followed by an examination of common E3 ligases playing pivotal roles in both situations, emphasising common players. Moving to, (ii) the functional domains and motifs of E3 ligases involved in ubiquitination, we have explored their interactions with specific substrates in NDDs and cancer. Additionally, (iii) we have explored techniques like PROTAC, molecular glues, and other state-of-the-art methods for hijacking neurotoxic and oncoproteins. Lastly, (iv) we have provided insights into ongoing clinical trials, offering a glimpse into the evolving landscape of E3-based therapeutics for cancer and NDDs. Unravelling the intricate network of E3 ligase-mediated regulation holds the key to unlocking targeted therapies that address the specific molecular signatures of individual patients, heralding a new era in personalized medicines.

RIG-I promotes cell proliferation in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma by facilitating p21 degradation

Retinoic acid-inducible gene-I (RIG-I) is considered a key sensor for host recognition of RNA virus infections. Recent studies have shown that RIG-I also regulates carcinogenesis. However, the role of RIG-I in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains unclear. We investigated the RIG-I expression in ESCC cells using a public database, immunohistochemistry, and Western blotting. We evaluated the proliferative activity of ESCC cells using CCK-8, colony formation, and EdU staining assays. Further, we determined the ESCC cell-cycle changes using flow cytometry and the ubiquitination of p21 in the cells using cycloheximide chase and ubiquitination assays. Finally, we verified the in vivo effects of RIG-I on ESCC cells by constructing xenograft models. RIG-I was highly expressed in ESCC cells and significantly promoted their proliferation and cell-cycle. Moreover, RIG-I knockdown inhibited xenograft growth in nude mice. Furthermore, RIG-I accelerated the cell-cycle by promoting the ubiquitination and degradation of p21. Overall, this study revealed that the increased expression of RIG-I due to ESCC accelerated the progression of esophageal cancer by promoting the ubiquitination and degradation of p21, which is related to the prognosis of ESCC. Thus, RIG-I may be a novel therapeutic target for ESCC treatment.

Rnf144b alleviates the inflammatory responses and cardiac dysfunction in sepsis

AIMS

Sepsis is an inflammatory disease with high mortality and morbidity. Inflammation plays an essential role in sepsis, and suppressing inflammation has been shown to ameliorate sepsis. Rnf144b is an ubiquitin E3 ligation with anti-inflammation activities. Its precise roles in sepsis remain unknown. Here, we explored the function of Rnf144b in sepsis.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We generated conditional knockout mice with Rnf144b deficiency in the myeloid cells. We monitored the Rnf144b expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from healthy donor and patients with sepsis, and in lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-treated bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs). The cytokine expression between wild-type BMDMs and Rnf144b-deficient BMDMs after LPS and CpG treatments was compared. The survival rate and cardiac function were monitored. The activation of TANK binding kinase 1 and nuclear factor kappa-B was examined by Western blot and real-time PCR. Up-regulated expression of Rnf144b was observed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients with sepsis. LPS induced the expression of Rnf144b in BMDMs. Rnf144b-deficient BMDMs produced more inflammatory cytokines after LPS or CpG stimulation. Septic mice with Rnf144b deficiency in myeloid cells had higher mortality and exacerbated cardiac dysfunction. Rnf144b interacted with TANK binding kinase 1 and Rnf144b deficiency resulted in impaired activation of TBK1 but enhanced activation of nuclear factor kappa-B.

CONCLUSIONS

Rnf144b prevents inflammatory responses and cardiac dysfunction in sepsis.

RBR E3 ubiquitin ligases in tumorigenesis

RING-in-between-RING (RBR) E3 ligases are one class of E3 ligases that is characterized by the unique RING-HECT hybrid mechanism to function with E2s to transfer ubiquitin to target proteins for degradation. Emerging evidence has demonstrated that RBR E3 ligases play essential roles in neurodegenerative diseases, infection, inflammation and cancer. Accumulated evidence has revealed that RBR E3 ligases exert their biological functions in various types of cancers by modulating the degradation of tumor promoters or suppressors. Hence, we summarize the differential functions of RBR E3 ligases in a variety of human cancers. In general, ARIH1, RNF14, RNF31, RNF144B, RNF216, and RBCK1 exhibit primarily oncogenic roles, whereas ARIH2, PARC and PARK2 mainly have tumor suppressive functions. Moreover, the underlying mechanisms by which different RBR E3 ligases are involved in tumorigenesis and progression are also described. We discuss the further investigation is required to comprehensively understand the critical role of RBR E3 ligases in carcinogenesis. We hope our review can stimulate the researchers to deeper explore the mechanism of RBR E3 ligases-mediated carcinogenesis and to develop useful inhibitors of these oncogenic E3 ligases for cancer therapy.

RNF144B inhibits LPS-induced inflammatory responses via binding TBK1

Innate immune responses need to be precisely controlled to avoid prolonged inflammation and prevent unwanted damage to the host. Here, we report that RNF144B responded dynamically to LPS stimulation and negatively regulated LPS‐induced inflammation. We found that RNF144B interacted with the scaffold/dimerization domain (SDD) of TANK binding kinase 1 (TBK1) through the in between RING (IBR) domain to inhibit its phosphorylation and K63‐linked polyubiquitination, which led to TBK1 inactivation, IRF3 dephosphorylation, and IFN‐β reduction. RNF144B knockdown with siRNA increased IRF3 activation and IFN‐β production in response to LPS stimulation. Our study identifies that RNF144B interaction with TBK1 is sufficient to inactivate TBK1 and delineates a previously unrecognized role for RNF144B in innate immune responses.

Molecular cloning and preliminary functional analysis of six RING-between-ring (RBR) genes in grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus)

Ubiquitination is a post-translational modification of proteins that is widely present in eukaryotic cells. There is increasing evidence that ubiquitinated proteins play crucial roles in the immune response process. In mammals, RING-between-RING (RBR) proteins play a key role in regulating immune signaling as the important E3 ubiquitin ligases during ubiquitination. However, the function of RBR in fish is still unclear. In the present study, six RBR genes (RNF19A, RNF19B, RNF144AA, RNF144AB, RNF144B and RNF217) of grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus) were cloned and characterized. Similar to mammals, all six members of RBR family contained RING, in-between-ring (IBR) and transmembrane (TM) domains. These genes were constitutively expressed in all studied tissues, but the relative expression level differed. Following grass carp reovirus(GCRV) infection, the expression of six RBR genes in liver, gill, spleen and intestine significantly altered. Additionally, their expression in Ctenopharyngodon idellus kidney (CIK) cells was significantly increased after GCRV infection. And deficiency of RNF144B in CIK with small interference RNA (siRNA) up-regulated polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid poly(I:C))-induced inflammatory cytokines production, including IFN-I, TNF-α, IL-6, and transcription factor IRF3, which demonstrated that RNF144B was a negative regulator of inflammatory cytokines. Our results suggested that the RBR might play a vital role in regulating immune signaling and laid the foundation for the further mechanism research of RBR in fishes.

Differential RNA Expression Profile of Skeletal Muscle Induced by Experimental Autoimmune Myasthenia Gravis in Rats

The differential susceptibility of skeletal muscle by myasthenia gravis (MG) is not well understood. We utilized RNA expression profiling of extraocular muscle (EOM), diaphragm (DIA), and extensor digitorum (EDL) of rats with experimental autoimmune MG (EAMG) to evaluate the hypothesis that muscles respond differentially to injury produced by EAMG. EAMG was induced in female Lewis rats by immunization with acetylcholine receptor purified from the electric organ of the Torpedo. Six weeks later after rats had developed weakness and serum antibodies directed against the AChR, animals underwent euthanasia and RNA profiling performed on DIA, EDL, and EOM. Profiling results were validated by qPCR. Across the three muscles between the experiment and control groups, 359 probes (1.16%) with greater than 2-fold changes in expression in 7 of 9 series pairwise comparisons from 31,090 probes were identified with approximately two-thirds being increased. The three muscles shared 16 genes with increased expression and 6 reduced expression. Functional annotation demonstrated that these common expression changes fell predominantly into categories of metabolism, stress response, and signaling. Evaluation of specific gene function indicated that EAMG led to a change to oxidative metabolism. Genes related to muscle regeneration and suppression of immune response were activated. Evidence of a differential immune response among muscles was not evident. Each muscle had a distinct RNA profile but with commonality in gene categories expressed that are focused on muscle repair, moderation of inflammation, and oxidative metabolism.

The E3 ubiquitin ligase RNF144B is LPS-inducible in human, but not mouse, macrophages and promotes inducible IL-1β expression

Differences in human and mouse immune responses may partly reflect species-specific adaptations and can provide important insights into human immunity. In this study, we show that RNF144B, which encodes an E3 ubiquitin ligase, was lipopolysaccharide-inducible in primary human macrophages and in human macrophage-like THP-1 cells. In contrast, Rnf144b was not lipopolysaccharide-inducible in several mouse cell populations, including primary macrophages from C57BL/6 and BALB/c mice and RAW264.7 macrophages. Similarly, Rnf144b was not up-regulated by infection of C57BL/6 mice with Escherichia coli Although the human and mouse RNF144B genes have conserved transcription start sites, cap analysis of gene expression data confirmed that the RNF144B promoter directs transcription in human but not mouse macrophages. The human and mouse RNF144B genes are controlled by highly conserved TATA-containing promoters, but subtle differences in transcription factor binding sites may account for differential regulation. Using gene silencing, we showed that RNF144B is necessary for priming of inflammasome responses in primary human macrophages. Specifically, RNF144B promotes lipopolysaccharide-inducible IL-1b mRNA expression but does not regulate expression of several other lipopolysaccharide-inducible cytokines (e.g., interleukin-10, interferon-γ) or affect expression of inflammasome components or substrates (e.g., procaspase-1, pro-interleukin-18). Our findings thus revealed a species-specific regulatory mechanism for selective inflammasome priming in human macrophages.

Regulation of RNF144A E3 Ubiquitin Ligase Activity by Self-association through Its Transmembrane Domain

RNF144A, an E3 ubiquitin ligase for DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs), can promote DNA damage-induced cell apoptosis. Here we characterize an important regulation of RNF144A through its transmembrane (TM) domain. The TM domain of RNF144A is highly conserved among species. Deletion of the TM domain abolishes its membrane localization and also significantly reduces its ubiquitin ligase activity. Further evidence shows that the TM domain is required for RNF144A self-association and that the self-association may be partially mediated through a classic GXXXG interaction motif. A mutant RNF144A-G252L/G256L (in the G(252)XXXG(256) motif) preserves membrane localization but is defective in self-association and ubiquitin ligase activity. On the other hand, a membrane localization loss mutant of RNF144A still retains self-association and E3 ligase activity, which can be blocked by additional G252L/G256L mutations. Therefore, our data demonstrate that the TM domain of RNF144A has at least two independent roles, membrane localization and E3 ligase activation, to regulate its physiological function. This regulatory mechanism may be applicable to other RBR (RING1-IBR-RING2) E3 ubiquitin ligases because, first, RNF144B also self-associates. Second, all five TM-containing RBR E3 ligases, including RNF144A and RNF144B, RNF19A/Dorfin, RNF19B, and RNF217, have the RBR-TM(GXXXG) superstructure. Mutations of the GXXXG motifs in RNF144A and RNF217 have also be found in human cancers, including a G252D mutation of RNF144A. Interestingly, RNF144A-G252D still preserves self-association and ubiquitin ligase activity but loses membrane localization and is turned over rapidly. In conclusion, both proper membrane localization and self-association are important for RNF144A function.

RNF144A, an E3 ubiquitin ligase for DNA-PKcs, promotes apoptosis during DNA damage

Several ring between ring fingers (RBR) -domain proteins, such as Parkin and Parc, have been shown to be E3 ligases involved in important biological processes. Here, we identify a poorly characterized RBR protein, Ring Finger protein 144A (RNF144A), as the first, to our knowledge, mammalian E3 ubiquitin ligase for DNA-PKcs. We show that DNA damage induces RNF144A expression in a p53-dependent manner. RNF144A is mainly localized in the cytoplasmic vesicles and plasma membrane and interacts with cytoplasmic DNA-dependent protein kinase, catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs). DNA-PKcs plays a critical role in the nonhomologous end-joining DNA repair pathway and provides prosurvival signaling during DNA damage. We show that RNF144A induces ubiquitination of DNA-PKcs in vitro and in vivo and promotes its degradation. Depletion of RNF144A leads to an increased level of DNA-PKcs and resistance to DNA damaging agents, which is reversed by a DNA-PK inhibitor. Taken together, our data suggest that RNF144A may be involved in p53-mediated apoptosis through down-regulation of DNA-PKcs when cells suffer from persistent or severe DNA damage insults.

RBR E3 ubiquitin ligases: new structures, new insights, new questions

The RBR (RING-BetweenRING-RING) or TRIAD [two RING fingers and a DRIL (double RING finger linked)] E3 ubiquitin ligases comprise a group of 12 complex multidomain enzymes. This unique family of E3 ligases includes parkin, whose dysfunction is linked to the pathogenesis of early-onset Parkinson's disease, and HOIP (HOIL-1-interacting protein) and HOIL-1 (haem-oxidized IRP2 ubiquitin ligase 1), members of the LUBAC (linear ubiquitin chain assembly complex). The RBR E3 ligases share common features with both the larger RING and HECT (homologous with E6-associated protein C-terminus) E3 ligase families, directly catalysing ubiquitin transfer from an intrinsic catalytic cysteine housed in the C-terminal domain, as well as recruiting thioester-bound E2 enzymes via a RING domain. Recent three-dimensional structures and biochemical findings of the RBRs have revealed novel protein domain folds not previously envisioned and some surprising modes of regulation that have raised many questions. This has required renaming two of the domains in the RBR E3 ligases to more accurately reflect their structures and functions: the C-terminal Rcat (required-for-catalysis) domain, essential for catalytic activity, and a central BRcat (benign-catalytic) domain that adopts the same fold as the Rcat, but lacks a catalytic cysteine residue and ubiquitination activity. The present review discusses how three-dimensional structures of RBR (RING1-BRcat-Rcat) E3 ligases have provided new insights into our understanding of the biochemical mechanisms of these important enzymes in ubiquitin biology.

RBR E3-ligases at work

The RING-in-between-RING (RBR) E3s are a curious family of ubiquitin E3-ligases, whose mechanism of action is unusual in several ways. Their activities are auto-inhibited, causing a requirement for activation by protein-protein interactions or posttranslational modifications. They catalyse ubiquitin conjugation by a concerted RING/HECT-like mechanism in which the RING1 domain facilitates E2-discharge to directly form a thioester intermediate with a cysteine in RING2. This short-lived, HECT-like intermediate then modifies the target. Uniquely, the RBR ligase HOIP makes use of this mechanism to target the ubiquitin amino-terminus, by presenting the target ubiquitin for modification using its distinctive LDD region.

The transcription factor p53: not a repressor, solely an activator

The predominant function of the tumor suppressor p53 is transcriptional regulation. It is generally accepted that p53-dependent transcriptional activation occurs by binding to a specific recognition site in promoters of target genes. Additionally, several models for p53-dependent transcriptional repression have been postulated. Here, we evaluate these models based on a computational meta-analysis of genome-wide data. Surprisingly, several major models of p53-dependent gene regulation are implausible. Meta-analysis of large-scale data is unable to confirm reports on directly repressed p53 target genes and falsifies models of direct repression. This notion is supported by experimental re-analysis of representative genes reported as directly repressed by p53. Therefore, p53 is not a direct repressor of transcription, but solely activates its target genes. Moreover, models based on interference of p53 with activating transcription factors as well as models based on the function of ncRNAs are also not supported by the meta-analysis. As an alternative to models of direct repression, the meta-analysis leads to the conclusion that p53 represses transcription indirectly by activation of the p53-p21-DREAM/RB pathway.

Mapping the p53 transcriptome universe using p53 natural polymorphs

The tumor suppressor p53 has defined roles in varied cellular processes including apoptosis and DNA repair. While conventional genomic approaches have suggested a large number of p53 targets, there is a need for a systematic approach to validate these putative genes. We developed a method to identify and validate p53's transcriptional behavior by utilizing 16 non-synonymous p53 single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) variants. Five SNPs located within the DNA-binding domain of p53 were found to be functionally null, whereas the other 11 SNPs were p53WT-like in behavior. By integrating p53 ChIP-seq analysis with transcriptome data from the p53 SNP variants, 592 genes were identified as novel p53 targets. Many of these genes mapped to previously less well-characterized aspects of p53 function, such as cell signalling, metabolism, central nervous system, and immune system. These data provide pivotal insights into the involvement of p53 in diverse pathways of normal physiological processes and open new avenues for investigation of p53 function.

E6AP/UBE3A ubiquitin ligase harbors two E2~ubiquitin binding sites

By exploiting (125)I-polyubiquitin chain formation as a functional readout of enzyme activity, we have quantitatively examined the mechanism of human E6AP/UBE3A for the first time. Initial rate studies identify UbcH7 as the cognate E2 carrier protein for E6AP, although related Ubc5 isoforms and the ISG15-specific UbcH8 paralog also support E6AP with reduced efficacy due to impaired binding and catalytic competence. Initial rates of polyubiquitin chain formation displayed hyperbolic kinetics with respect to UbcH7 concentration (K(m) = 57.6 ± 5.7 nM and kcat = 0.032 ± 0.001 s(-1)) and substrate inhibition above 2 μM. Competitive inhibition by an isosteric UbcH7C86S-ubiquitin oxyester substrate analog (K(i) = 64 ± 18 nM) demonstrates that Km reflects intrinsic substrate affinity. In contrast, noncompetitive inhibition by a UbcH7C86A product analog (K(i) = 7 ± 0.7 μM) and substrate inhibition at high concentrations require two functionally distinct E2∼ubiquitin substrate binding sites. The kinetics of polyubiquitin chain formation reflect binding at a cryptic Site 1 not previously recognized that catalyzes E6AP∼ubiquitin thioester formation. Subsequent binding of E2∼ubiquitin at the canonical Site 2 present in the extant crystal structure is responsible for polyubiquitin chain elongation. Other rate studies show that the conserved -4 Phe(849) residue is required for polyubiquitin chain formation rather than target protein conjugation as originally suggested. The present studies unambiguously preclude earlier models for the mechanism of Hect domain-catalyzed conjugation through the canonical binding site suggested by the crystal structure and define a novel two-step mechanism for formation of the polyubiquitin degradation signal.

Stabilization of p21 (Cip1/WAF1) following Tip60-dependent acetylation is required for p21-mediated DNA damage response

The molecular mechanisms controlling post-translational modifications of p21 have been pursued assiduously in recent years. Here, utilizing mass-spectrometry analysis and site-specific acetyl-p21 antibody, two lysine residues of p21, located at amino-acid sites 161 and 163, were identified as Tip60-mediated acetylation targets for the first time. Detection of adriamycin-induced p21 acetylation, which disappeared after Tip60 depletion with concomitant destabilization of p21 and disruption of G1 arrest, suggested that Tip60-mediated p21 acetylation is necessary for DNA damage-induced cell-cycle regulation. The ability of 2KQ, a mimetic of acetylated p21, to induce cell-cycle arrest and senescence was significantly enhanced in p21 null MEFs compared with those of cells expressing wild-type p21. Together, these observations demonstrate that Tip60-mediated p21 acetylation is a novel and essential regulatory process required for p21-dependent DNA damage-induced cell-cycle arrest.

Mutual exclusivity analysis identifies oncogenic network modules

Although individual tumors of the same clinical type have surprisingly diverse genomic alterations, these events tend to occur in a limited number of pathways, and alterations that affect the same pathway tend to not co-occur in the same patient. While pathway analysis has been a powerful tool in cancer genomics, our knowledge of oncogenic pathway modules is incomplete. To systematically identify such modules, we have developed a novel method, Mutual Exclusivity Modules in cancer (MEMo). The method uses correlation analysis and statistical tests to identify network modules by three criteria: (1) Member genes are recurrently altered across a set of tumor samples; (2) member genes are known to or are likely to participate in the same biological process; and (3) alteration events within the modules are mutually exclusive. Applied to data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), the method identifies the principal known altered modules in glioblastoma (GBM) and highlights the striking mutual exclusivity of genomic alterations in the PI(3)K, p53, and Rb pathways. In serous ovarian cancer, we make the novel observation that inactivation of BRCA1 and BRCA2 is mutually exclusive of amplification of CCNE1 and inactivation of RB1, suggesting distinct alternative causes of genomic instability in this cancer type; and, we identify RBBP8 as a candidate oncogene involved in Rb-mediated cell cycle control. When applied to any cancer genomics data set, the algorithm can nominate oncogenic alterations that have a particularly strong selective effect and may also be useful in the design of therapeutic combinations in cases where mutual exclusivity reflects synthetic lethality.

The Role of the Transmembrane RING Finger Proteins in Cellular and Organelle Function

A large number of RING finger (RNF) proteins are present in eukaryotic cells and the majority of them are believed to act as E3 ubiquitin ligases. In humans, 49 RNF proteins are predicted to contain transmembrane domains, several of which are specifically localized to membrane compartments in the secretory and endocytic pathways, as well as to mitochondria and peroxisomes. They are thought to be molecular regulators of the organization and integrity of the functions and dynamic architecture of cellular membrane and membranous organelles. Emerging evidence has suggested that transmembrane RNF proteins control the stability, trafficking and activity of proteins that are involved in many aspects of cellular and physiological processes. This review summarizes the current knowledge of mammalian transmembrane RNF proteins, focusing on their roles and significance.

Multiple degradation pathways regulate versatile CIP/KIP CDK inhibitors

The mammalian CIP/KIP family of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitors (CKIs) comprises three proteins--p21(Cip1/WAF1), p27(Kip1), and p57(Kip2)--that bind and inhibit cyclin-CDK complexes, which are key regulators of the cell cycle. CIP/KIP CKIs have additional independent functions in regulating transcription, apoptosis and actin cytoskeletal dynamics. These divergent functions are performed in distinct cellular compartments and contribute to the seemingly contradictory observation that the CKIs can both suppress and promote cancer. Multiple ubiquitin ligases (E3s) direct the proteasome-mediated degradation of p21, p27 and p57. This review analyzes recent data highlighting our current understanding of how distinct E3 pathways regulate subpopulations of the CKIs to control their diverse functions.

E3 ubiquitin ligase Siah-1 facilitates poly-ubiquitylation and proteasomal degradation of the hepatitis B viral X protein

Hepatitis B viral X protein (HBx) is a multifunctional transactivator and implicated in hepatitis B virus (HBV) replication and hepatocarcinogenesis. HBx can be ubiquitinated and degraded through ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. However, the E3 ubiquitin ligase regulating HBx ubiquitin-dependent degradation is still unknown. In this study, we identified Siah-1 as a novel E3 ubiquitin ligase for HBx, which interacted with HBx and facilitated HBx poly-ubiquitylation and proteasomal degradation. Co-expression of Siah-1 attenuated the transcriptional transactivation of HBx on glucocorticoid response element (GRE), heat shock response element (HSE) and cAMP response element (CRE) signal pathways. Moreover, Siah-1 participated in p53-mediated HBx degradation. Therefore, Siah-1 may play important roles in ubiquitin-dependent degradation of HBx and may be involved in suppressing the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Differential control of TAp73 and DeltaNp73 protein stability by the ring finger ubiquitin ligase PIR2

p73 is a p53-related transcription factor with fundamental roles in development and tumor suppression. Transcription from two different promoters on the p73 gene results in generation of transcriptionally active TAp73 isoforms and dominant negative DeltaNp73 isoforms with opposing pro- and anti-apoptotic functions. Therefore, the relative ratio of each isoform is an important determinant of the cell fate. Proteasomal degradation of p73 is mediated by polyubiquitination-dependent and -independent processes both of which appear, thus far, to lack selectivity for the TAp73 and DeltaNp73 isoforms. Here, we describe the characterization of another transcriptional target of TAp73; a ring finger domain ubiquitin ligase p73 Induced RING 2 protein (PIR2). Although PIR2 was initially identified a p53-induced gene (p53RFP), low abundance of PIR2 transcript in mouse embryonic fibroblasts of TAp73 KO mice compared with WT mice and comparison of PIR2 mRNA and protein levels following TAp73 or p53 overexpression substantiate TAp73 isoforms as strong inducers of PIR2. Although PIR2 expression was induced by DNA damage, its expression did not alter apoptotic response or cell cycle profile per se. However, coexpression of PIR2 with TAp73 or DeltaNp73 resulted in an increase of the TA/DeltaNp73 ratio, due to preferential degradation of DeltaNp73. Finally, PIR2 was able to relieve the inhibitory effect of DeltaNp73 on TAp73 induced apoptosis following DNA damage. These results suggest that PIR2, by being induced by TAp73 and degrading DeltaNp73, differentially regulates TAp73/DeltaNp73 stability, and, hence, it may offer a therapeutic approach to enhance the chemosensitivity of tumor cells.

Ubiquitylation and proteasomal degradation of the p21(Cip1), p27(Kip1) and p57(Kip2) CDK inhibitors

The expression levels of the p21(Cip1) family CDK inhibitors (CKIs), p21(Cip1), p27(Kip1) and p57(Kip2), play a pivotal role in the precise regulation of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) activity, which is instrumental to proper cell cycle progression. The stabilities of p21(Cip1), p27(Kip1) and p57(Kip2) are all tightly and differentially regulated by ubiquitylation and proteasome-mediated degradation during various stages of the cell cycle, either in steady state or in response to extracellular stimuli, which often elicit site-specific phosphorylation of CKIs triggering their degradation.

Crosstalk of EDA-A2/XEDAR in the p53 signaling pathway

We recently identified X-linked ectodermal dysplasia receptor (XEDAR, also known as TNFRSF27 or EDA2R) as a direct p53 target that was frequently downregulated in colorectal cancer tissues due to its epigenetic alterations or through the p53 gene mutations. However, the role of the posttranslational regulation of XEDAR protein in colorectal carcinogenesis was not well clarified thus far. Here, we report that the extracellular NH(2) terminus of XEDAR protein was cleaved by a metalloproteinase and released into culture media. The remaining COOH-terminal membrane-anchored fragment was rapidly degraded through the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. Interestingly, ectopic p53 expression also transactivated an XEDAR ligand, EDA-A2, together with XEDAR. Moreover, EDA-A2 blocked the cleavage of XEDAR and subsequently inhibited cell growth. We also found a missense mutation of the XEDAR gene in NCI-H716 colorectal cancer cells, which caused the translocation of XEDAR protein from cell membrane to cytoplasm. This mutation attenuated the growth-suppressive effect of XEDAR, indicating that membrane localization is critical for physiologic XEDAR function. Thus, our findings clearly revealed the crucial role of EDA-A2/XEDAR interaction in the p53-signaling pathway.

IBRDC2, an IBR-type E3 ubiquitin ligase, is a regulatory factor for Bax and apoptosis activation

Bax, a pro-apoptotic protein from the Bcl-2 family, is central to apoptosis regulation. To suppress spontaneous apoptosis, Bax must be under stringent control that may include regulation of Bax conformation and expression levels. We report that IBRDC2, an IBR-type RING-finger E3 ubiquitin ligase, regulates the levels of Bax and protects cells from unprompted Bax activation and cell death. Downregulation of IBRDC2 induces increased cellular levels and accumulation of the active form of Bax. The ubiquitination-dependent regulation of Bax stability is suppressed by IBRDC2 downregulation and stimulated by IBRDC2 overexpression in both healthy and apoptotic cells. Although mostly cytosolic in healthy cells, upon induction of apoptosis, IBRDC2 accumulates in mitochondrial domains enriched with Bax. Mitochondrial accumulation of IBRDC2 occurs in parallel with Bax activation and also depends on the expression levels of Bcl-xL. Furthermore, IBRDC2 physically interacts with activated Bax. By applying Bax mutants in HCT116 Bax(-/-) cells, combined with the use of active Bax-specific antibodies, we have established that both mitochondrial localization and apoptotic activation of Bax are required for IBRDC2 translocation to the mitochondria.

Tumor suppressor protein p53 induces degradation of the oncogenic protein HBx

The progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is known to be strongly related to overexpression of hepatitis Bx (HBx) protein and dysfunction of p53. While the inhibition of p53 by HBx is well known, the effect of p53 on HBx function has not been well studied. In this report, we found that p53 affects the stability of HBx protein. Overexpression of p53 protein reduced the level of HBx protein and downregulation of p53 protein by siRNA increased the level of HBx protein in HCC cell lines. This HBx degradation resulted in reduced HBx-mediated oncogenic signaling, such as activation of NF-kappaB and upregulation of cyclin D1. On the other hand, this p53-mediated HBx protein downregulation is impaired by the ablation of p53 nuclear function, which is accomplished by introducing a common feature of HCC, such as the mutation of p53 and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. In addition, this ablation of p53 function increases HBx-mediated oncogenic signaling with a simultaneous increase in the HBx protein level. Our data suggest that p53 dysfunction in HCC can cause an upregulation of the HBx protein level through the stabilizing of HBx protein in HCC. This upregulation may induce the further progression of HCC.

Wild-type p53 in cancer cells: when a guardian turns into a blackguard

The tumor suppressor p53 controls a broad range of cellular responses. Induction of a transient (cell cycle arrest) or a permanent (senescence) block of cell proliferation, or the activation of cell death pathways in response to genotoxic stress comprise the major arms of the survival-death axis governed by p53. Due to these biological properties, inactivation of p53 is a crucial step in tumor development and progression, reflected by the high incidence of TP53 mutations in different types of human cancers. The remarkable potency of p53 in suppressing tumorigenic outgrowth has promoted the expectation that tumor cells expressing wild-type p53 (wtp53) should be more prone to elimination by cytotoxic treatments than tumor cells expressing mutant p53 (mutp53) with defunct wtp53 activities. However, recent findings yielded somewhat unexpected insights concerning the preponderance of the survival-promoting effects of wtp53 in cancer cells, a rather undesired property from the therapeutic point of view. In this commentary we will discuss the possibility that the developmentally established distinct patterns of wtp53 mediated responses in different tissues are an important factor in determining the ultimate outcome of cellular responses mediated by wtp53 in different types of tumor cells, with a particular focus on the divergent impact of wtp53 in malignant tumors of the central nervous system. We infer that a selective gain of pro-survival functions of wtp53 in cancer cells will confer a survival advantage that counteracts tumor therapy.

Glycogen synthase kinase 3beta phosphorylates p21WAF1/CIP1 for proteasomal degradation after UV irradiation

UV irradiation has been reported to induce p21(WAF1/CIP1) protein degradation through a ubiquitin-proteasome pathway, but the underlying biochemical mechanism remains to be elucidated. Here, we show that ser-114 phosphorylation of p21 protein by glycogen synthase kinase 3beta (GSK-3beta) is required for its degradation in response to UV irradiation and that GSK-3beta activation is a downstream event in the ATR signaling pathway triggered by UV. UV transiently increased GSK-3beta activity, and this increase could be blocked by caffeine or by ATR small interfering RNA, indicating ATR-dependent activation of GSK-3beta. ser-114, located within the putative GSK-3beta target sequence, was phosphorylated by GSK-3beta upon UV exposure. The nonphosphorylatable S114A mutant of p21 was protected from UV-induced destabilization. Degradation of p21 protein by UV irradiation was independent of p53 status and prevented by proteasome inhibitors. In contrast to the previous report, the proteasomal degradation of p21 appeared to be ubiquitination independent. These data show that GSK-3beta is activated by UV irradiation through the ATR signaling pathway and phosphorylates p21 at ser-114 for its degradation by the proteasome. To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of GSK-3beta as the missing link between UV-induced ATR activation and p21 degradation.

The ring between ring fingers (RBR) protein family

Proteins of the ring between ring fingers (RBR)-domain family are characterized by three groups of specifically clustered (typically eight) cysteine and histidine residues. Whereas the amino-terminal ring domain (N-RING) binds two zinc ions and folds into a classical cross-brace ring finger, the carboxy-terminal ring domain (C-RING) involves only one zinc ion. The three-dimensional structure of the central ring domain, the IBR domain, is still unsolved. About 400 genes coding for RBR proteins have been identified in the genomes of uni- and multicellular eukaryotes and some of their viruses, but the family has not been found in archaea or bacteria. The RBR proteins are classified into 15 major subfamilies (besides some orphan cases) by the phylogenetic relationships of the RBR segments and the conservation of their sequence architecture. The RBR domain mediates protein-protein interactions and a subset of RBR proteins has been shown to function as E3 ubiquitin ligases. RBR proteins have attracted interest because of their involvement in diseases such as parkinsonism, dementia with Lewy bodies, and Alzheimer's disease, and in susceptibility to some intracellular bacterial pathogens. Here, we present an overview of the RBR-domain containing proteins and their subcellular localization, additional domains, function, specificity, and regulation.

Embryo-induced transcriptome changes in bovine endometrium reveal species-specific and common molecular markers of uterine receptivity

The endometrium plays a central role among the reproductive tissues in the context of early embryo–maternal communication and pregnancy. This study investigated transcriptome profiles of endometrium samples from day 18 pregnant vs non-pregnant heifers to get insight into the molecular mechanisms involved in conditioning the endometrium for embryo attachment and implantation. Using a combination of subtracted cDNA libraries and cDNA array hybridisation, 109 mRNAs with at least twofold higher abundance in endometrium of pregnant animals and 70 mRNAs with higher levels in the control group were identified. Among the mRNAs with higher abundance in pregnant animals, at least 41 are already described as induced by interferons. In addition, transcript levels of many new candidate genes involved in the regulation of transcription, cell adhesion, modulation of the maternal immune system and endometrial remodelling were found to be increased. The different expression level was confirmed with real-time PCR for nine genes. Localisation of mRNA expression in the endometrium was shown byin situhybridisation forAGRN,LGALS3BP,LGALS9,USP18,PARP12andBST2. A comparison with similar studies in humans, mice, and revealed species-specific and common molecular markers of uterine receptivity.

Identification of p53-46F as a super p53 with an enhanced ability to induce p53-dependent apoptosis

More than half of human cancers contain mutations in the tumor suppressor protein p53, most of which accumulate in the DNA binding domain of the protein. Here we report the identification of a mutant p53, designated p53-46F, in which Ser-46 is replaced with phenylalanine. In vitro, adenovirus-mediated transduction of the p53-46F gene induced apoptosis more efficiently than wild-type p53 in a number of cancer cell lines, whereas Ser-15 phosphorylation of p53-46F was enhanced in all cancer cell lines examined. Moreover, the expression level of the cell cycle inhibitor p21/WAF1 was decreased in cell lines infected with adenovirus p53-46F (Ad-p53-46F). p53-46F caused a more enhanced level of transcriptional activation of several p53-target genes, including Noxa, p53AIP1 and p53RFP, compared with wild-type p53. In vivo, adenovirus-mediated gene transfer of p53-46F enhanced apoptosis, thus suppressing tumor growth of a lung cancer cell line more effectively than wild-type p53 or p53-121F, another p53 mutant. Collectively, our data suggest that p53-46F is an active version of p53 that demonstrates enhanced induction of p53-dependent apoptosis. This is probably mediated by upregulated transactivation of genes downstream of p53, increased Ser-15 phosphorylation and a decrease in p21/WAF1 levels. We propose p53-46F as an alternative candidate to wild-type p53 for use in developing new therapeutic strategies for the treatment of cancer.

The p53-inducible E3 ubiquitin ligase p53RFP induces p53-dependent apoptosis

Recently, it has been shown that really interesting new gene (RING)-in between ring finger (IBR)-RING domain-containing proteins, such as Parkin and Parc, are E3 ubiquitin ligases and are involved in regulation of apoptosis. In this report, we show that p53-inducible RING-finger protein (p53RFP), a p53-inducible E3 ubiquitin ligase, induces p53-dependent but caspase-independent apoptosis. p53RFP contains an N-terminal RING-IBR-RING domain and an uncharacterized, evolutionally highly conserved C-terminal domain. p53RFP interacts with E2 ubiquitin-conjugating enzymes UbcH7 and UbcH8 but not with UbcH5, and this interaction is mediated through the RING-IBR-RING domain of p53RFP. Interestingly, the conserved C-terminal domain of p53RFP is required and sufficient for p53RFP-mediated apoptosis, suggesting p53RFP-mediated apoptosis does not require its E3 ubiquitin ligase activity. Together with a recent report showing that p53RFP is involved in ubiquitination and degradation of p21, a p53 downstream protein promoting growth arrest and antagonizing apoptosis, our findings suggest that p53RFP is involved in switching a cell from p53-mediated growth arrest to apoptosis.

The E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase Triad1 inhibits clonogenic growth of primary myeloid progenitor cells

Protein ubiquitination plays important roles in a variety of basic cellular processes. Proteins are ubiquitinated by E2-E3 ubiquitin ligase complexes. Depending on the type of ubiquitin chain conjugated, proteins are either targeted for degradation by the proteasome or their activity is specifically altered. We describe a novel conserved nuclear protein, Triad1 (2 RING [really interesting new gene] fingers and DRIL [double RING finger linked] 1), which is strongly induced during myeloid differentiation. Triad1 contains a TRIAD motif that harbors 2 RING finger structures. Triad1 binds the E2 ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme UbcH7 as well as ubiquitinated proteins and supports the formation of ubiquitin chains that are recognized by the proteasome. The biologic function of Triad1 in myelopoiesis was studied by performing granulocyte-macrophage colony-forming unit (CFU-GM) assays using retrovirally transduced primary murine bone marrow cells. Triad1 severely inhibited myeloid colony formation. In contrast, 2 Triad1 RING finger point mutants that failed to bind UbcH7 did not affect colony formation. Moreover, proteasome inhibition counteracted the inhibition of colony formation exerted by wild-type Triad1. In liquid cultures, Triad1 did not influence differentiation but strongly inhibited proliferation resulting in a G0/G1 accumulation. We conclude that proteasomal degradation of proteins that are ubiquitinated by Triad1 affects the clonogenic growth of primary myeloid progenitor cells.

Glycolytic Enzymes Can Modulate Cellular Life Span

An unbiased screen for genes that can immortalize mouse embryonic fibroblasts identified the glycolytic enzyme phosphoglycerate mutase (PGM). A 2-fold increase in PGM activity enhances glycolytic flux, allows indefinite proliferation, and renders cells resistant to ras-induced arrest. Glucosephosphate isomerase, another glycolytic enzyme, displays similar activity and, conversely, depletion of PGM or glucosephosphate isomerase with short interfering RNA triggers premature senescence. Immortalized mouse embryonic fibroblasts and mouse embryonic stem cells display higher glycolytic flux and more resistance to oxidative damage than senescent cells. Because wild-type p53 down-regulates PGM, mutation of p53 can facilitate immortalization via effects on PGM levels and glycolysis.

Parkin and relatives: the RBR family of ubiquitin ligases

Mutations in the parkin gene cause autosomal-recessive juvenile parkinsonism. Parkin encodes a ubiquitin-protein ligase characterized by having the RBR domain, composed of two RING fingers plus an IBR/DRIL domain. The RBR family is defined as the group of genes whose products contain an RBR domain. RBR family members exist in all eukaryotic species for which significant sequence data is available, including animals, plants, fungi, and several protists. The integration of comparative genomics with structural and functional data allows us to conclude that RBR proteins have multiple roles, not only in protein quality control mechanisms, but also as indirect regulators of transcription. A recently formulated hypothesis, based on a case of gene fusion, suggested that RBR proteins may be often part of cullin-containing ubiquitin ligase complexes. Recent data on Parkin protein agrees with that hypothesis. We discuss the involvement of RBR proteins in several neurodegenerative diseases and cancer.

Isolation of p53-target genes and their functional analysis

Mutations of the p53 gene are the most common genetic alterations found in human cancers, and are known to play crucial roles in tumor development and progression. The p53 gene encodes a protein functioning as a transcription factor, and the biological functions of p53 are manifested through the activities of its downstream genes. Identification of these downstream genes involved in the p53-signaling pathway should provide more detailed insight into the molecular mechanisms that mediate tumor-suppressor activities, as well as various responses to cellular stress. We have been attempting to isolate p53-target genes by means of various approaches, including differential display, cDNA microarray analysis, and direct cloning of the p53-binding sequences from human genomic DNA. Here I review our recent work on isolation of p53-target genes and their functional analysis. The physiological functions of p53-target genes include apoptosis (GML, p53AIP1, and STAG1), DNA repair (p53R2), inhibition of angiogenesis (BAI1), re-entry into the cell cycle (p53RFP), oxidative stress (CSR), and determination of cell fate (p53RDL1).