Identification of a gene at 11q23 encoding a guanine nucleotide exchange factor: evidence for its fusion with MLL in acute myeloid leukemia

Nucleating amoeboid cancer cell motility with Diaphanous related formins

The tissue invasive capacity of cancer cells is determined by their phenotypic plasticity. For instance, mesenchymal to amoeboid transition has been found to facilitate the passage of cancer cells through confined environments. This phenotypic transition is also heavily regulated by the architecture of the actin cytoskeleton, which may increase myosin contractility and the intracellular pressure that is known to drive bleb formation. In this review, we highlight several Diaphanous related formins (DRFs) that have been found to promote or suppress bleb formation in cancer cells, which is a hallmark of amoeboid migration. Based on the work discussed here, the role of the DRFs in cancer(s) is worthy of further scrutiny in animal models, as they may prove to be therapeutic targets.

RHO subfamily of small GTPases in the development and function of hematopoietic cells

RHOA, RHOB, and RHOC comprise a subfamily of RHO GTPase proteins famed for controlling cytoskeletal dynamics. RHO proteins operate downstream of multiple signals emerging from the microenvironment, leading to diverse cell responses, such as proliferation, adhesion, and migration. Therefore, RHO signaling has been centrally placed in the regulation of blood cells. Despite their high homology, unique roles of RHOA, RHOB, and RHOC have been described in hematopoietic cells. In this article, we overview the contribution of RHO proteins in the development and function of each blood cell lineage. Additionally, we highlight the aberrations of the RHO signaling pathways found in hematological malignancies, providing clues for the identification of new therapeutic targets.

To stay in shape and keep moving: MLL emerges as a new transcriptional regulator of Rho GTPases

RhoA, Rac1 and CDC42 are small G proteins that play a crucial role in regulating various cellular processes, such as the formation of actin cytoskeleton, cell shape and cell migration. Our recent results suggest that MLL is responsible for maintaining the balance of these small Rho GTPases. MLL depletion affects the stability of Rho GTPases, leading to a decrease in their protein levels and loss of activity. These changes manifest in the form of abnormal cell shape and disrupted actin cytoskeleton, resulting in reduced cell spreading and migration. Interestingly, their chaperone protein RhoGDI1 but not the Rho GTPases, is under the direct transcriptional regulation of MLL. Here, we comment on the possible implications of these observations on the signalling by Rho GTPases protein network.

Interaction kinetics between p115-RhoGEF and Gα13 are determined by unique molecular interactions affecting agonist sensitivity

The three RH-RhoGEFs (Guanine nucleotide exchange factors) p115-RhoGEF, LARG (leukemia-associated RhoGEF) and PDZ-RhoGEF link G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) with RhoA signaling through activation of Gα_12/13. In order to find functional differences in signaling between the different RH-RhoGEFs we examined their interaction with Gα₁₃ in high spatial and temporal resolution, utilizing a FRET-based single cell assay. We found that p115-RhoGEF interacts significantly shorter with Gα₁₃ than LARG and PDZ-RhoGEF, while narrowing the structural basis for these differences down to a single amino acid in the rgRGS domain of p115-RhoGEF. The mutation of this amino acid led to an increased interaction time with Gα₁₃ and an enhanced agonist sensitivity, comparable to LARG, while mutating the corresponding amino acid in Gα₁₃ the same effect could be achieved. While the rgRGS domains of RH-RhoGEFs showed GAP (GTPase-activating protein) activity towards Gα₁₃ in vitro, our approach suggests higher GAP activity of p115-RhoGEF in intact cells.

Prediction of Protein–Protein Interactions Between Alsin DH/PH and Rac1 and Resulting Protein Dynamics

Alsin is a protein of 1,657 amino acids known for its crucial role in vesicular trafficking in neurons thanks to its ability to interact with two guanosine triphosphatases, Rac1 and Rab5. Evidence suggests that Rac1 can bind Alsin central region, composed by a Dbl Homology (DH) domain followed by a Pleckstrin Homology (PH) domain, leading to Alsin relocalization. However, Alsin three-dimensional structure and its relationship with known biological functions of this protein are still unknown. In this work, a homology model of the Alsin DH/PH domain was developed and studied through molecular dynamics both in the presence and in the absence of its binding partner, Rac1. Due to different conformations of DH domain, the presence of Rac1 seems to stabilize an open state of the protein, while the absence of its binding partner results in closed conformations. Furthermore, Rac1 interaction was able to reduce the fluctuations in the second conserved region of DH motif, which may be involved in the formation of a homodimer. Moreover, the dynamics of DH/PH was described through a Markov State Model to study the pathways linking the open and closed states. In conclusion, this work provided an all-atom model for the DH/PH domain of Alsin protein; moreover, molecular dynamics investigations suggested underlying molecular mechanisms in the signal transduction between Rac1 and Alsin, providing the basis for a deeper understanding of the whole structure–function relationship for Alsin protein.

Regulation of Leukaemia Associated Rho GEF (LARG/ARHGEF12)

The Ras homologous (Rho) protein family of GTPases (RhoA, RhoB and RhoC) are the members of the Ras superfamily and regulate cellular processes such as cell migration, proliferation, polarization, adhesion, gene transcription and cytoskeletal structure. Rho GTPases function as molecular switches that cycle between GTP-bound (active state) and GDP-bound (inactive state) forms. Leukaemia-associated RhoGEF (LARG) is a guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) that activates RhoA subfamily GTPases by promoting the exchange of GDP for GTP. LARG is selective for RhoA subfamily GTPases and is an essential regulator of cell migration and invasion. Here, we describe the mechanisms by which LARG is regulated to facilitate the understanding of how LARG mediates functions like cell motility and to provide insight for better therapeutic targeting of these functions.

GPCRs that Rhoar the Guanine nucleotide exchange factors

Cell migration, a crucial step in numerous biological processes, is tightly regulated in space and time. Cells employ Rho GTPases, primarily Rho, Rac, and Cdc42, to regulate their motility. Like other small G proteins, Rho GTPases function as biomolecular switches in regulating cell migration by operating between GDP bound 'OFF' and GTP bound 'ON' states. Guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) catalyse the shuttling of GTPases from OFF to ON state. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the largest family of cell surface receptors that are involved in many signalling phenomena including cell survival and cell migration events. In this review, we summarize signalling mechanisms, involving GPCRs, leading to the activation of RhoGEFs. GPCRs exhibit diverse GEF activation modes that include the interaction of heterotrimeric G protein subunits with different domains of GEFs, phosphorylation, protein-protein interaction, protein-lipid interaction, and/or a combination of these processes.

KMT2A-ARHGEF12, a therapy related fusion with poor prognosis

BACKGROUND

The detection of KMT2A gene rearrangements have an important impact on the prognosis and management of acute leukemias. These alterations most commonly involve reciprocal translocations at specific breakpoint regions within KMT2A. To date, more than 100 translocation partner genes of KMT2A have been identified, with different effects on risk stratification.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We report the case of a mature plasmacytoid dendritic cells proliferation associated with B lymphoblasts harboring a KMT2A-ARHGEF12 fusion. This rare rearrangement, resulting from a cryptic deletion on the long arm of chromosome 11, is located outside the known major and minor breakpoint regions of KMT2A, not reported to date. The review of the few cases of KMT2A-ARHGEF12 reveals the tendency of this deletion to occur in therapy related hematologic neoplasm and confer unfavorable prognosis.

CONCLUSION

This review sheds light into the rare KMT2A-ARHGEF12 fusion in leukemia. Reporting rare chimeras is essential to improve knowledge about the biological mechanism and associated clinical consequences.

Identification of KMT2A-ARHGEF12 fusion in a child with a high-grade B-cell lymphoma

Rearrangements involving KMT2A are common in de novo and therapy-related acute myeloid and lymphoblastic leukemias. There is a diverse recombinome associated with KMT2A involving at least 135 partner genes, with more being discovered due to advances in molecular genetic diagnostics. KMT2A-ARHGEF12 fusion has only rarely been reported, in five cases of acute leukemia and a single case of high-grade B-cell lymphoma. We present a 12-year-old boy with high-grade B-cell lymphoma and KMT2A-ARHGEF12 fusion, whose clinical, morphologic, phenotypic and genotypic profile is strikingly similar to the other case of high grade B cell lymphoma, both otherwise perfectly mimicking Burkitt lymphoma.

Interstitial Deletions Generating Fusion Genes

A fusion gene is the physical juxtaposition of two different genes resulting in a structure consisting of the head of one gene and the tail of the other. Gene fusion is often a primary neoplasia-inducing event in leukemias, lymphomas, solid malignancies as well as benign tumors. Knowledge about fusion genes is crucial not only for our understanding of tumorigenesis, but also for the diagnosis, prognostication, and treatment of cancer. Balanced chromosomal rearrangements, in particular translocations and inversions, are the most frequent genetic events leading to the generation of fusion genes. In the present review, we summarize the existing knowledge on chromosome deletions as a mechanism for fusion gene formation. Such deletions are mostly submicroscopic and, hence, not detected by cytogenetic analyses but by array comparative genome hybridization (aCGH) and/or high throughput sequencing (HTS). They are found across the genome in a variety of neoplasias. As tumors are increasingly analyzed using aCGH and HTS, it is likely that more interstitial deletions giving rise to fusion genes will be found, significantly impacting our understanding and treatment of cancer.

Therapy-induced Deletion in 11q23 Leading to Fusion of KMT2A With ARHGEF12 and Development of B Lineage Acute Lymphoplastic Leukemia in a Child Treated for Acute Myeloid Leukemia Caused by t(9;11)(p21;q23)/KMT2A-MLLT3

BACKGROUND/AIM

Fusion of histone-lysine N-methyltransferase 2A gene (KMT2A) with the Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factor 12 gene (ARHGEF12), both located in 11q23, was reported in some leukemic patients. We report a KMT2A-ARHGEF12 fusion occurring during treatment of a pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with topoisomerase II inhibitors leading to a secondary acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Multiple genetic analyses were performed on bone marrow cells of a girl initially diagnosed with AML.

RESULTS

At the time of diagnosis with AML, the t(9;11)(p21;q23)/KMT2A-MLLT3 genetic abnormality was found. After chemotherapy resulting in AML clinical remission, a 2 Mb deletion in 11q23 was found generating a KMT2A-ARHGEF12 fusion gene. When the patient later developed B lineage ALL, a t(14;19)(q32;q13), loss of one chromosome 9, and KMT2A-ARHGEF12 were detected.

CONCLUSION

The patient sequentially developed AML and ALL with three leukemia-specific genomic abnormalities in her bone marrow cells, two of which were KMT2A-rearrangements.

Detection of leukemia gene fusions by targeted RNA-sequencing in routine diagnostics

BACKGROUND

We have evaluated an NGS-based method to detect recurrent gene fusions of diagnostic and prognostic importance in hematological malignancies. Our goal was to achieve a highly specific assay with a simple workflow, short turnaround time and low cost.

METHOD

The assay uses a commercially available anchored multiplex PCR panel for target enrichment and library preparation, followed by sequencing using a MiSeq instrument. The panel includes all recurrent gene fusions in AML and ALL and is designed to detect gene-specific fusions without prior knowledge of the partner sequence or specific break points. Diagnostic RNA samples from 27 cases with hematological malignancies encompassing 23 different transcript variants were analyzed. In addition, 12 cases from a validation cohort were assessed.

RESULT

All known fusion transcripts were identified with a high degree of confidence, with a large number of reads covering the breakpoints. Importantly, we could identify gene fusions where conventional methods had failed due to cryptic rearrangements or rare fusion partners. The newly-identified fusion partners were verified by RT-PCR and transcript-specific qPCR was designed for patient-specific follow-up. In addition, 12 cases were correctly assessed in a blind test, without prior knowledge of molecular cytogenetics or diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

In summary, our results demonstrate that targeted RNA sequencing using anchored multiplex PCR can be implemented in a clinical laboratory for the detection of recurrent and rare gene fusions in hematological diagnostic samples.

Leukemia-Associated Rho Guanine Nucleotide Exchange Factor and Ras Homolog Family Member C Play a Role in Glioblastoma Cell Invasion and Resistance

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common primary malignant brain cancer in adults. A hallmark of GBM is aggressive invasion of tumor cells into the surrounding normal brain. Both the current standard of care and targeted therapies have largely failed to specifically address this issue. Therefore, identifying key regulators of GBM cell migration and invasion is important. The leukemia-associated Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factor (LARG) has previously been implicated in cell invasion in other tumor types; however, its role in GBM pathobiology remains undefined. Herein, we report that the expression levels of LARG and ras homolog family members C (RhoC), and A (RhoA) increase with glial tumor grade and are highest in GBM. LARG and RhoC protein expression is more prominent in invading cells, whereas RhoA expression is largely restricted to cells in the tumor core. Knockdown of LARG by siRNA inhibits GBM cell migration in vitro and invasion ex vivo in organotypic brain slices. Moreover, siRNA-mediated silencing of RhoC suppresses GBM cell migration in vitro and invasion ex vivo, whereas depletion of RhoA enhances GBM cell migration and invasion, supporting a role for LARG and RhoC in GBM cell migration and invasion. Depletion of LARG increases the sensitivity of GBM cells to temozolomide treatment. Collectively, these results suggest that LARG and RhoC may represent unappreciated targets to inhibit glioma invasion.

FGD1 exhibits oncogenic properties in hepatocellular carcinoma through regulating cell morphology, autophagy and mitochondrial function

Faciogenital Dysplasia 1 (FGD1) has been involved in a variety of biological processes, including cytoskeleton restructuring, cell morphology, cell cycle progression, and cell polarity. Abnormal expression of FGD1 was also identified in several types of cancers, indicating its critical role in the development of cancers. However, little is known about the role of FGD1 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this study, the expression of FGD1 in HCC was mined with the RNA sequencing data from the cancer genome atlas. By over-expressing or knocking down of FGD1, the effects of FGD1 on the malignant behavior of HCC were evaluated both in vitro and in vivo. We find that FGD1 is up-regulated in HCC and correlated with the development and prognosis of HCC. By over-expressing or knocking down of FGD1, the effects of FGD1 on the malignant behavior of HCC were evaluated both in vitro and in vivo. Knockdown of FGD1 remarkably inhibits the malignant behaviors and causes morphological disorder of pseudopodia, autophagy inhibition and mitochondrial dyfunction in HCC cells. Further investigation shows that Cdc42, a Rho GTPase, plays a role in these processes. Overexpression of FGD1 significantly promotes the oncogenic properties of HCC cells. Collectively, these findings reveal that FGD1 exhibits oncogenic properties in HCC through regulating cell morphology, autophagy and mitochondrial function, suggesting that FGD1 may serve as a potential therapeutic target for HCC.

A rare case of acute myeloid leukemia with ARHGEF12 (LARG, 11q23.3) and MAPRE1 (EB1, 20q11.21) fusion gene in an elderly patient

Introduction. We report one elderly patient diagnosed with a rare subtype of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and also with a very rare fusion gene involving ARHGEF12 (LARG, 11q23.3) and MAPRE1 (EB1, 20q11.21) genes.

Material and methods. Clinical examination and routine analysis were performed including peripheral blood smear, immunophenotyping of the peripheral blood by flow cytometry and several molecular analyses.

Results. Peripheral blood smear showed 80% blasts with round and some with convoluted nuclei, with basophilic cytoplasm, identified as monoblast and the majority of cells as promonocytes. Peripheral blood immunophenotyping was consistent with monocytic differentiation. Molecular analysis was negative for FLT3 ITD, FLT3 D835, NPM1, and DNMT3A R882 mutations. Multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification revealed no copy number aberration. Ligation-dependent reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (LD-RT-PCR) analysis identified the presence of one gene fusion between ARHGEF12 (LARG, 11q23.3) and MAPRE1 (EB1, 20q11.21) genes. The patient had no significant comorbidities, the renal function was normal and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status was 2 at diagnosis and 1 after treatment. She was treated with decitabine. She became transfusion independent and a reduction of the number of blasts was obtained.

Conclusions. The outcome of our AML patient was favorable but other patients with fusion genes involving ARHGEF12 (LARG, 11q23.3) and MAPRE1 (EB1, 20q11.21) should be reported, contributing to a better characterization of the disease, to monitor the minimal residual disease and in the end to more targeted treatment options. LD-RT-PCR represent a valuable multiplex technique for fusion gene analysis.

Approaches to Identify and Characterise MYO6-Cargo Interactions

Given the prevalence and importance of the actin cytoskeleton and the host of associated myosin motors, it comes as no surprise to find that they are linked to a plethora of cellular functions and pathologies. Although our understanding of the biophysical properties of myosin motors has been aided by the high levels of conservation in their motor domains and the extensive work on myosin in skeletal muscle contraction, our understanding of how the nonmuscle myosins participate in such a wide variety of cellular processes is less clear. It is now well established that the highly variable myosin tails are responsible for targeting these myosins to distinct cellular sites for specific functions, and although a number of adaptor proteins have been identified, our current understanding of the cellular processes involved is rather limited. Furthermore, as more adaptor proteins, cargoes and complexes are identified, the importance of elucidating the regulatory mechanisms involved is essential. Ca2+, and now phosphorylation and ubiquitination, are emerging as important regulators of cargo binding, and it is likely that other post-translational modifications are also involved. In the case of myosin VI (MYO6), a number of immediate binding partners have been identified using traditional approaches such as yeast two-hybrid screens and affinity-based pull-downs. However, these methods have only been successful in identifying the cargo adaptors, but not the cargoes themselves, which may often comprise multi-protein complexes. Furthermore, motor-adaptor-cargo interactions are dynamic by nature and often weak, transient and highly regulated and therefore difficult to capture using traditional affinity-based methods. In this chapter we will discuss the various approaches including functional proteomics that have been used to uncover and characterise novel MYO6-associated proteins and complexes and how this work contributes to a fuller understanding of the targeting and function(s) of this unique myosin motor.

ARHGEF12 regulates erythropoiesis and is involved in erythroid regeneration after chemotherapy in acute lymphoblastic leukemia patients

Hematopoiesis is a finely regulated process in vertebrates under both homeostatic and stress conditions. By whole exome sequencing, we studied the genomics of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients who needed multiple red blood cell (RBC) transfusions after intensive chemotherapy treatment. ARHGEF12, encoding a RhoA guanine nucleotide exchange factor, was found to be associated with chemotherapy-induced anemia by genome-wide association study analyses. A single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of ARHGEF12 located in an intron predicted to be a GATA1 binding site, rs10892563, is significantly associated with patients who need RBC transfusion (P=3.469E-03, odds ratio 5.864). A luciferase reporter assay revealed that this SNP impairs GATA1-mediated trans-regulation of ARHGEF12, and quantitative polymerase chain reaction studies confirmed that the homozygotes status is associated with an approximately 61% reduction in ARHGEF12 expression (P=0.0088). Consequently, erythropoiesis was affected at the pro-erythroblast phases. The role of ARHGEF12 and its homologs in erythroid differentiation was confirmed in human K562 cells, mouse 32D cells and primary murine bone marrow cells. We further demonstrated in zebrafish by morpholino-mediated knockdown and CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout of arhgef12 that its reduction resulted in erythropoiesis defects. The p38 kinase pathway was affected by the ARHGEF12-RhoA signaling in K562 cells, and consistently, the Arhgef12-RhoA-p38 pathway was also shown to be important for erythroid differentiation in zebrafish as active RhoA or p38 readily rescued the impaired erythropoiesis caused by arhgef12 knockdown. Finally, ARHGEF12-mediated p38 activity also appeared to be involved in phenotypes of patients of the rs10892563 homozygous genotype. Our findings present a novel SNP of ARHGEF12 that may involve ARHGEF12-RhoA-p38 signaling in erythroid regeneration in ALL patients after chemotherapy.

G-Alpha Subunit Abundance and Activity Differentially Regulate β-Catenin Signaling

Heterotrimeric G proteins are signal transduction proteins involved in regulating numerous signaling events. In particular, previous studies have demonstrated a role for G-proteins in regulating β-catenin signaling. However, the link between G-proteins and β-catenin signaling is controversial and appears to depend on G-protein specificity. We describe a detailed analysis of a link between specific G-alpha subunits and β-catenin using G-alpha subunit genetic knockout and knockdown approaches. The Pasteurella multocida toxin was utilized as a unique tool to activate G-proteins, with LiCl treatment serving as a β-catenin signaling agonist. The results show that Pasteurella multocida toxin (PMT) significantly enhanced LiCl-induced active β-catenin levels in HEK293T cells and mouse embryo fibroblasts. Evaluation of the effect of specific G-alpha proteins on the regulation of β-catenin showed that G_q/11 and G_12/13 knockout cells had significantly higher levels of active and total β-catenin than wild-type cells. The stimulation of active β-catenin by PMT and LiCl was lost upon both constitutive and transient knockdown of G₁₂ and G₁₃ but not G_q Based on our results, we conclude that endogenous G-alpha proteins are negative regulators of active β-catenin; however, PMT-activated G-alpha subunits positively regulate LiCl-induced β-catenin expression in a G_12/13-dependent manner. Hence, G-alpha subunit regulation of β-catenin is context dependent.

Characterization of FGD5 Expression in Primary Breast Cancers and Lymph Node Metastases

Faciogenital dysplasia 5 ( FGD5) amplification drives tumor cell proliferation, and is present in 9.5% of breast cancers. We describe FGD5 expression, assess associations between FGD5 amplification and FGD5 expression, and assess FGD5 expression in relation to proliferation and prognosis. FGD5 immunohistochemistry was done on primary tumors ( n=829) and lymph node metastases ( n=231) from a cohort of Norwegian patients. We explored associations between FGD5 amplification, FGD5 expression, and proliferation, and analyzed the prognostic value of FGD5 expression by estimating cumulative risks of death and hazard ratios (HRs). We identified nuclear and cytoplasmic expression in 64% and 73% of primary tumors, respectively, and found an association between gene amplification and nuclear expression ( p=0.02). The proportion of cases with FGD5 expression was higher in lymph node metastases, compared with primary tumors ( p=0.004 for nuclear and p=0.001 for cytoplasmic staining). Neither proliferation nor prognosis was associated with FGD5 expression (age-adjusted HR 1.12 [95% confidence interval = 0.89-1.41] for nuclear expression; and 0.88 [95% CI = 0.70-1.12] for cytoplasmic expression). FGD5 is expressed in a high proportion of breast cancers and lymph node metastases. There was a correlation between FGD5 amplification and nuclear expression, but no association between FGD5 expression and proliferation or prognosis.

DNA hypermethylation of tumor suppressor genes RASSF6 and RASSF10 as independent prognostic factors in adult acute lymphoblastic leukemia

BACKGROUND

The Hypermethylation of Ras association domain family (RASSF) often plays a key role in malignant progression of solid tumors; however, their impact on the prognosis and survival of adult ALL patients remain elusive.

METHODS

The frequency of the promoter methylation pattern of RASSF6 and RASSF10 were analyzed in the peripheral blood (PB) samples taken at the time of diagnosis of 45 ALL patients. The methylation-specific PCR (MSP) assay was used to detect the DNA methylation patterns.

RESULTS

RASSF6 was frequently hypermethylated in patients diagnosed with pre-B-ALL (90.9%) and B-ALL (87.5%), followed by T-ALL (66.7%); whereas, RASSF10 methylation was more confined to T-ALL (80%) as compared to B-ALL (25%) and pre-B ALL (9.1%) patients. Moreover, hypermethylation of RASSF6 was significantly associated with a poor prognosis and shorter overall survival (OS) in patients with pre-B-ALL (log-rank test; P=0.041).

CONCLUSION

RASSF6 and RASSF10 were frequently hypermethylated in the samples at the time of diagnosis of adult ALL patients. Our study represents the first report of methylation of RASSF6 at a high frequency in patients with pre-B ALL. Furthermore, hypermethylation of RASSF6 was significantly associated with inferior overall survival in pre-B ALL patients. It may suggest that the frequent epigenetic inactivation of RASSF6 plays an important role in the pathogenesis and progression of pre-B-ALL.

Potentiation of receptor responses induced by prolonged binding of Gα13 and leukemia-associated RhoGEF

Diverse cellular functions are controlled by RhoA-GTPases, which are activated by trimeric G proteins via RhoGEFs, among others. In this study, we focused on the signaling from GPCRs to RhoA via Gα₁₃ and leukemia-associated RhoGEF (LARG). The activation of Gα₁₃ was elucidated in living cells with high temporal and spatial resolution by means of FRET. The inactivation after agonist withdrawal occurred in the same range (t_1/2 = 25.3 ± 2.2 s; mean ± sem; n = 22) as described for other Gα proteins. The interaction of Gα₁₃ and LARG and the thereby-induced LARG translocation to the plasma membrane were at least 1 order of magnitude more stable after agonist withdrawal, exceeding Gα₁₃ deactivation in the absence of LARG several fold. Consequently, we observed an almost 100-fold higher agonist sensitivity of the Gα₁₃ LARG interaction compared to the Gα₁₃ activation in the absence of LARG.-Bodmann, E.-L., Krett, A.-L., Bünemann, M. Potentiation of receptor responses induced by prolonged binding of Gα₁₃ and leukemia-associated RhoGEF.

Antitumour activity of trabectedin in myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative neoplasms

BACKGROUND

Juvenile myelomonocytic leukaemia (JMML) and chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia (CMML) are myelodysplastic myeloproliferative (MDS/MPN) neoplasms with unfavourable prognosis and without effective chemotherapy treatment. Trabectedin is a DNA minor groove binder acting as a modulator of transcription and interfering with DNA repair mechanisms; it causes selective depletion of cells of the myelomonocytic lineage. We hypothesised that trabectedin might have an antitumour effect on MDS/MPN.

METHODS

Malignant CD14+ monocytes and CD34+ haematopoietic progenitor cells were isolated from peripheral blood/bone marrow mononuclear cells. The inhibition of CFU-GM colonies and the apoptotic effect on CD14+ and CD34+ induced by trabectedin were evaluated. Trabectedin's effects were also investigated in vitro on THP-1, and in vitro and in vivo on MV-4-11 cell lines.

RESULTS

On CMML/JMML cells, obtained from 20 patients with CMML and 13 patients with JMML, trabectedin - at concentration pharmacologically reasonable, 1-5 nM - strongly induced apoptosis and inhibition of growth of haematopoietic progenitors (CFU-GM). In these leukaemic cells, trabectedin downregulated the expression of genes belonging to the Rho GTPases pathway (RAS superfamily) having a critical role in cell growth and cytoskeletal dynamics. Its selective activity on myelomonocytic malignant cells was confirmed also on in vitro THP-1 cell line and on in vitro and in vivo MV-4-11 cell line models.

CONCLUSIONS

Trabectedin could be good candidate for clinical studies in JMML/CMML patients.

Acute leukaemia and myelodysplastic syndromes with chromosomal rearrangement involving 11q23 locus, but not MLL gene

AIMS

Chromosome 11q23 translocations, resulting in MLL (KMT2A) rearrangement, have been well characterised in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). However, little is known of haematopoietic neoplasms associated with 11q23 translocation but without MLL rearrangement (11q23+/MLL-). The aim of this study is to characterise such cases with 11q23+/MLL-.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We retrospectively searched our database for cases with haematopoietic malignancies with 11q23+/MLL-. We identified nine patients, two with AML, two with B-lymphoblastic leukaemia (B-ALL); two with T-lymphoblastic leukaemia (T-ALL), two with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and one with chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia (CMML). The translocations included t(X;11)(p11.2;q23), t(2;11)(p21;q23), t(6;11)(q27;q23), t(8;9;11)(q13;q13;q23), t(11;11)(p15;q23), t(11;14)(q23;q24) and t(11;15)(q23;q14). Five of six patients with acute leukaemia had received chemotherapy and detection of 11q23 translocation occurred at time of disease relapse. Both patients with MDS and the patient with CMML had 11q23 translocation detected at time of initial diagnosis, all three patients progressed to AML after >1 year on hypomethylating agent therapy. All patients received risk-adapted therapies, including stem cell transplant in five patients. At the last follow-up, eight patients died with a median overall survival of 14 months.

CONCLUSIONS

11q23+/MLL- occurs rarely, involving different partner chromosomes and showing clinical and pathological features and disease subtypes different from those cases with MLL rearrangement. 11q23+/MLL- appears to be associated with clonal evolution/disease progression in acute leukaemia, a high risk for AML progression in MDS/CMML and a high incidence of disease relapse.

Association of FGD1 polymorphisms with early-onset breast cancer

Recent cancer studies have suggested that the faciogenital dysplasia 1 (FGD1) gene may play a role in the development of tumor cells. Somatic alterations in the FGD1 gene and increased Fgd1 protein expression have been observed in many breast tumor cases. The present study sequenced the FGD1 gene in tumor DNA from 46 breast cancer patients using Ion Torrent sequencing. Three synonymous polymorphisms and one missense polymorphism were detected with next-generation sequencing; however, no somatic mutations were observed. The Thr697 variant was identified in 18 patients with an average age at diagnosis of 55 years, which was a lower average age than patients without the polymorphism. In addition, a higher frequency of Thr697 was observed in African-American patients. The Pro712 was observed in 15 breast cancer patients with an average age of 58 years, and was observed as a haplotype with the Thr697 variant in 28% of the breast cancer patients studied. The missense polymorphism (Ala226Thr) was identified in a 40-year-old female patient who had a recurrence of cancer. These polymorphisms (Ala226Thr, Thr697 and Pro712) may be associated with an earlier onset of breast cancer.

Deregulation of Rho GTPases in cancer

In vitro and in vivo studies and evidence from human tumors have long implicated Rho GTPase signaling in the formation and dissemination of a range of cancers. Recently next generation sequencing has identified direct mutations of Rho GTPases in human cancers. Moreover, the effects of ablating genes encoding Rho GTPases and their regulators in mouse models, or through pharmacological inhibition, strongly suggests that targeting Rho GTPase signaling could constitute an effective treatment. In this review we will explore the various ways in which Rho signaling can be deregulated in human cancers.

Leukaemia-associated Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factor (LARG) plays an agonist specific role in platelet function through RhoA activation

Leukemia-Associated RhoGEF (LARG) is highly expressed in platelets, which are essential for maintaining normal haemostasis. We studied the function of LARG in murine and human megakaryocytes and platelets with Larg knockout (KO), shRNA-mediated knockdown and small molecule-mediated inhibition. We found that LARG is important for human, but not murine, megakaryocyte maturation. Larg KO mice exhibit macrothrombocytopenia, internal bleeding in the ovaries and prolonged bleeding times. KO platelets have impaired aggregation, α-granule release and integrin α2bβ3 activation in response to thrombin and thromboxane, but not to ADP. The same agonist-specific reductions in platelet aggregation occur in human platelets treated with a LARG inhibitor. Larg KO platelets have reduced RhoA activation and myosin light chain phosphorylation, suggesting that Larg plays an agonist-specific role in platelet signal transduction. Using two different in vivo assays, Larg KO mice are protected from in vivo thrombus formation. Together, these results establish that LARG regulates human megakaryocyte maturation, and is critical for platelet function in both humans and mice.

ARHGEF15 overexpression worsens the prognosis in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma through enhancing the motility and proliferative activity of the cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most aggressive neoplastic diseases, associated with a remarkably poor prognosis. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the development of PDAC remain elusive. The aim of this study was to identify genes whose expressions are correlated with a poor prognosis in PDAC patients, and to unravel the mechanisms underlying the involvement of these genes in the development of the cancer.

METHODS

Global gene expression profiling was conducted in 39 specimens obtained from Japanese patients with PDAC to identify genes whose expressions were correlated with a shorter overall survival. The effect of gene silencing or overexpression of ARHGEF15 in pancreatic cancer cell lines was examined by introducing siRNAs of ARHGEF15 or the ARHGEF15 expression vector. After assessing the effect of ARHGEF15 deregulation on the Rho-family proteins by pull-down assay, wound healing, transwell and cell viability assays were carried out to investigate the cellular phenotypes caused by the perturbation.

RESULTS

The global mRNA expression profiling revealed that overexpression of ARHGEF15, a Rho-specific GEF, was significantly associated with a poor prognosis in patients with PDAC. We also found that the depletion of ARHGEF15 by RNA interference in pancreatic cancer cell lines downregulated the activities of molecules of the Rho signaling pathway, including RhoA, Cdc42 and Rac1. Then, we also showed that ARHGEF15 silencing significantly reduced the motility and viability of the cells, while its overexpression resulted in the development of the opposite phenotype in multiple pancreatic cancer cell lines.

CONCLUSION

These data suggest that upregulation of ARHGEF15 contributes to the development of aggressive PDAC by increasing the growth and motility of the pancreatic cancer cells, thereby worsening the prognosis of these patients. Therefore, ARHGEF15 could serve as a novel therapeutic target in patients with PDAC.

Formin-like2 regulates Rho/ROCK pathway to promote actin assembly and cell invasion of colorectal cancer

Formin-like2 (FMNL2) is a member of the diaphanous-related formins family, which act as effectors and upstream modulators of Rho GTPases signaling and control the actin-dependent processes, such as cell motility or invasion. FMNL2 has been identified as promoting the motility and metastasis in colorectal carcinoma (CRC). However, whether FMNL2 regulates Rho signaling to promote cancer cell invasion remains unclear. In this study, we demonstrated an essential role for FMNL2 in the activations of Rho/ROCK pathway, SRF transcription or actin assembly, and subsequent CRC cell invasion. FMNL2 could activate Rho/ROCK pathway, and required ROCK to promote CRC cell invasion. Moreover, FMNL2 promoted the formation of filopodia and stress fiber, and activated the SRF transcription in a Rho-dependent manner. We also demonstrated that FMNL2 was necessary for LPA-induced invasion, RhoA/ROCK activation, actin assembly and SRF activation. FMNL2 was an essential component of LPA signal transduction toward RhoA by directly interacting with LARG. LARG silence inhibited RhoA/ROCK pathway and CRC cell invasion. Collectively, these data indicate that FMNL2, acting as upstream of RhoA by interacting with LARG, can promote actin assembly and CRC cell invasion through a Rho/ROCK-dependent mechanism.

Mitotic-dependent phosphorylation of leukemia-associated RhoGEF (LARG) by Cdk1

Rho GTPases are integral to the regulation of actin cytoskeleton-dependent processes, including mitosis. Rho and leukemia-associated Rho guanine-nucleotide exchange factor (LARG), also known as ARHGEF12, are involved in mitosis as well as diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Since LARG has a role in mitosis and diverse signaling functions beyond mitosis, it is important to understand the regulation of the protein through modifications such as phosphorylation. Here we report that LARG undergoes a mitotic-dependent and cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (Cdk1) inhibitor-sensitive phosphorylation. Additionally, LARG is phosphorylated at the onset of mitosis and dephosphorylated as cells exit mitosis, concomitant with Cdk1 activity. Furthermore, using an in vitro kinase assay, we show that LARG can be directly phosphorylated by Cdk1. Through expression of phosphonull mutants that contain non-phosphorylatable alanine mutations at potential Cdk1 S/TP sites, we demonstrate that LARG phosphorylation occurs in both termini. Using phosphospecific antibodies, we confirm that two sites, serine 190 and serine 1176, are phosphorylated during mitosis in a Cdk1-dependent manner. In addition, these phosphospecific antibodies show phosphorylated LARG at specific mitotic locations, namely the mitotic organizing centers and flanking the midbody. Lastly, RhoA activity assays reveal that phosphonull LARG is more active in cells than phosphomimetic LARG. Our data thus identifies LARG as a phosphoregulated RhoGEF during mitosis.

Approaches of targeting Rho GTPases in cancer drug discovery

INTRODUCTION

Rho GTPases are master regulators of actomyosin structure and dynamics and play pivotal roles in a variety of cellular processes including cell morphology, gene transcription, cell cycle progression, and cell adhesion. Because aberrant Rho GTPase signaling activities are widely associated with human cancer, key components of Rho GTPase signaling pathways have attracted increasing interest as potential therapeutic targets. Similar to Ras, Rho GTPases themselves were, until recently, deemed "undruggable" because of structure-function considerations. Several approaches to interfere with Rho GTPase signaling have been explored and show promise as new ways for tackling cancer cells.

AREAS COVERED

This review focuses on the recent progress in targeting the signaling activities of three prototypical Rho GTPases, that is, RhoA, Rac1, and Cdc42. The authors describe the involvement of these Rho GTPases, their key regulators and effectors in cancer. Furthermore, the authors discuss the current approaches for rationally targeting aberrant Rho GTPases along their signaling cascades, upstream and downstream of Rho GTPases, and posttranslational modifications at a molecular level.

EXPERT OPINION

To date, while no clinically effective drugs targeting Rho GTPase signaling for cancer treatment are available, tool compounds and lead drugs that pharmacologically inhibit Rho GTPase pathways have shown promise. Small-molecule inhibitors targeting Rho GTPase signaling may add new treatment options for future precision cancer therapy, particularly in combination with other anti-cancer agents.

The leukemia-associated Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factor LARG is required for efficient replication stress signaling

We previously identified and characterized TELO2 as a human protein that facilitates efficient DNA damage response (DDR) signaling. A subsequent yeast 2-hybrid screen identified LARG; Leukemia-Associated Rho Guanine Nucleotide Exchange Factor (also known as Arhgef12), as a potential novel TELO2 interactor. LARG was previously shown to interact with Pericentrin (PCNT), which, like TELO2, is required for efficient replication stress signaling. Here we confirm interactions between LARG, TELO2 and PCNT and show that a sub-set of LARG co-localizes with PCNT at the centrosome. LARG-deficient cells exhibit replication stress signaling defects as evidenced by; supernumerary centrosomes, reduced replication stress-induced γH2AX and RPA nuclear foci formation, and reduced activation of the replication stress signaling effector kinase Chk1 in response to hydroxyurea. As such, LARG-deficient cells are sensitive to replication stress-inducing agents such as hydroxyurea and mitomycin C. Conversely we also show that depletion of TELO2 and the replication stress signaling kinase ATR leads to RhoA signaling defects. These data therefore reveal a level of crosstalk between the RhoA and DDR signaling pathways. Given that mutations in both ATR and PCNT can give rise to the related primordial dwarfism disorders of Seckel Syndrome and Microcephalic osteodysplastic primordial dwarfism type II (MOPDII) respectively, which both exhibit defects in ATR-dependent checkpoint signaling, these data also raise the possibility that mutations in LARG or disruption to RhoA signaling may be contributory factors to the etiology of a sub-set of primordial dwarfism disorders.

Circulating tumor cells exhibit a biologically aggressive cancer phenotype accompanied by selective resistance to chemotherapy

With prostate cancer (PCa), circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and disseminated tumor cells (DTCs) portend a poor clinical prognosis. Their unknown biology precludes rational therapeutic design. We demonstrate that CTC and DTC cell lines, established from mice bearing human PCa orthotopic implants, exhibit increased cellular invasion in vitro, increased metastasis in mice, and express increased epithelial to mesenchymal transition biomarkers. Further, they are selectively resistant to growth inhibition by mitoxantrone-like agents. These findings demonstrate that CTC formation is accompanied by phenotypic progression without obligate reversion. Their increased metastatic potential, selective therapeutic resistance, and differential expression of potential therapeutic targets provide a rational basis to test further interventions.

Rho GTPases modulate malignant transformation of tumor cells

Rho GTPases are involved in the acquisition of all the hallmarks of cancer, which comprise 6 biological capabilities acquired during the development of human tumors. The hallmarks include proliferative signaling, evading growth suppressors, resisting cell death, enabling replicative immortality, inducing angiogenesis, and activating invasion and metastasis programs, as defined by Hanahan and Weinberg. (1) Controlling these hallmarks are genome instability and inflammation. Emerging hallmarks are reprogramming of energy metabolism and evading immune destruction. To give a different view to the readers, we will not be focusing on invasion, metastasis, or cytoskeletal remodeling, but we will review here how Rho GTPases contribute to other hallmarks of cancer with a special emphasis on malignant transformation.

Tubulin, actin and heterotrimeric G proteins: coordination of signaling and structure

G proteins mediate signals from membrane G protein coupled receptors to the cell interior, evoking significant regulation of cell physiology. The cytoskeleton contributes to cell morphology, motility, division, and transport functions. This review will discuss the interplay between heterotrimeric G protein signaling and elements of the cytoskeleton. Also described and discussed will be the interplay between tubulin and G proteins that results in atypical modulation of signaling pathways and cytoskeletal dynamics. This will be extended to describe how tubulin and G proteins act in concert to influence various aspects of cellular behavior. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Reciprocal influences between cell cytoskeleton and membrane channels, receptors and transporters.This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Reciprocal influences between cell cytoskeleton and membrane channels, receptors and transporters. Guest Editor: Jean Claude Hervé.

Role of Rho-GTPases and their regulatory proteins in glomerular podocyte function

Podocytes play a critical role in maintaining glomerular permselectivity. It has been long recognized that their intricate actin-based structures are tightly associated with their normal function; however, the precise mechanisms by which podocytes form and maintain their complex structure had been poorly understood until the intensive investigations on podocyte biology began in 1998, triggered by the breakthrough discovery of nephrin. This review summarizes the recent discoveries of the molecular mechanisms by which the actin cytoskeleton is regulated in podocytes. A particular focus will be on the role of the Rho-family of small GTPases, represented by RhoA, Rac1, and Cdc42. Rho-GTPases are known for their versatile cellular functions, most importantly for the actin regulatory roles. We will also discuss the potential roles of the 3 groups of proteins known to regulate Rho-GTPases, namely GTPase-activating proteins, guanine nucleotide exchange factors, and guanine nucleotide dissociation inhibitors.

Characterization of chromosome 11 breakpoints and the areas of deletion and amplification in patients with newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia

Chromosome 11 abnormalities are found in many hematological malignancies. In acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a proto-oncogene MLL (11q23.3) is frequently altered. However, rearrangements involving other regions of chromosome 11 have been reported. Therefore, we have characterized the chromosome 11 breakpoints and common deleted and amplified areas in the bone marrow or peripheral blood cells of newly diagnosed patients with AML. Using molecular-cytogenetic methods (multicolor fluorescence in situ hybridization (mFISH), multicolor banding (mBAND), microarrays, and FISH with bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) probes, chromosome 11 abnormalities were delineated in 54 out of 300 (18%) newly diagnosed AML patients. At least 36 different chromosome 11 breakpoints were identified; two were recurrent (11p15.4 in the NUP98 gene and 11q23.3 in the MLL gene), and three were possibly nonrandom: 11p13 (ch11:29.31-31.80 Mb), 11p12 (ch11:36.75-37.49 Mb) and 11q13.2 (68.31-68.52 Mb). One new MLL gene rearrangement is also described. No commonly deleted region of chromosome 11 was identified. However, some regions were affected more often: 11pter-11p15.5 (n = 4; ch11:0-3.52 Mb), 11p14.1-11p13 (n = 4; ch11:28.00-31.00 Mb) and 11p13 (n = 4; ch11:31.00-31.50 Mb). One commonly duplicated (3 copies) region was identified in chromosomal band 11q23.3-11q24 (n = 9; ch11:118.35-125.00 Mb). In all eight cases of 11q amplification (>3 copies), only the 5' part of the MLL gene was affected. This study highlights several chromosome 11 loci that might be important for the leukemogeneic process in AML.

G12/13-dependent signaling of G-protein-coupled receptors: disease context and impact on drug discovery

G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) transmit extracellular signals across the plasma membrane via intracellular activation of heterotrimeric G proteins. The signal transduction pathways of Gs, Gi and Gq protein families are widely studied, whereas signaling properties of G12 proteins are only emerging. Many GPCRs were found to couple to G12/13 proteins in addition to coupling to one or more other types of G proteins. G12/13 proteins couple GPCRs to activation of the small monomeric GTPase RhoA. Activation of RhoA modulates various downstream effector systems relevant to diseases such as hypertension, artherosclerosis, asthma and cancer. GPCR screening assays exist for Gs-, Gi- and Gq-linked pathways, whereas a drug-screening assay for the G12-Rho pathway was developed only recently. The review gives an overview of the present understanding of the G12/13-related biology of GPCRs.

CYLD regulates RhoA activity by modulating LARG ubiquitination

Rho family guanosine triphosphatases (GTPases), such as RhoA, Cdc42, and Rac1, play a fundamental role in various cellular processes. The activation of Rho proteins is catalyzed by guanine nucleotide-exchange factors (GEFs), which promote the exchange of GDP for GTP. The precise mechanisms regulating the activation of Rho proteins are not fully understood. Herein, we demonstrate that RhoA activity is regulated by cylindromatosis (CYLD), a deubiquitinase harboring multiple functions. In addition, we find that RhoA-mediated cytoskeletal rearrangement, chromosome separation, and cell polarization are altered in CYLD-depleted cells. Mechanistically, CYLD does not interact with RhoA; instead, it interacts with and deubiquitinates leukemia-associated RhoGEF (LARG). Our data further show that CYLD-mediated deubiquitination of LARG enhances its ability to stimulate the GDP/GTP exchange on RhoA. These data thus identify LARG as a new substrate of CYLD and provide novel insights into the regulation of RhoA activation. Our results also suggest that the LARG-RhoA signaling pathway may play a role in diverse CYLD-mediated cellular events.

Genome-wide identification of Epstein-Barr virus-driven promoter methylation profiles of human genes in gastric cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Aberrant methylation of tumor-related genes has been reported in Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-associated gastric cancers. This study sought to profile EBV-driven hypermethylation in EBV-infected cells.

METHODS

The EBV-positive AGS gastric cancer cell line (AGS-EBV) and EBV-negative AGS cells were used in this study. DNA methyltransferase-3b (DNMT3b) activity was assessed by EpiQuick activity assay, and genome-wide DNA methylation profiles were assessed by methyl-DNA immunoprecipitation microarray assay.

RESULTS

EBV infection was confirmed in AGS-EBV cells by EBV-encoded RNA in situ hybridization. Expression and activity of DNA methyltransferase-3b (DNMT3b) was significantly increased in AGS-EBV compared to AGS. Ectopic expression of LMP2A (latent membrane protein 2A) in AGS increased activity of DNMT3b. A total of 1065 genes were differentially methylated by EBV infection (fold-changes ≥ 2, P < .05) in AGS-EBV compared to AGS cells. The majority of the differentially methylated genes (83.2%, 886 of 1065 genes) had cytosine-guanine dinucleotide (CpG) hypermethylation in AGS-EBV (fold-changes 2.43∼65.2) versus that found in AGS cells. Gene ontology analysis revealed that hypermethylated genes were enriched in the important cancer pathways (≥ 10 genes each, P ≤ .05) including mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling, cell adhesion molecules, wnt signaling pathway, and so forth. Six novel hypermethylated candidates (IL15RA, REC8, SSTR1, EPHB6, MDGA2, and SCARF2) were further validated. Higher levels of DNA methylation were confirmed for all these genes in AGS-EBV cells by bisulfite genomic sequencing. Furthermore, these candidates were silenced or down-regulated in AGS-EBV cells, but can be restored by demethylation treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

EBV infection in AGS cells induced aberrant CpG hypermethylation of 886 genes involving in important cancer-related pathways. Induction of promoter methylation by EBV is regulated by up-regulation of DNMT3b through LMP2A.

In Drosophila, RhoGEF2 cooperates with activated Ras in tumorigenesis through a pathway involving Rho1-Rok-Myosin-II and JNK signalling

The Ras oncogene contributes to ≈ 30% of human cancers, but alone is not sufficient for tumorigenesis. In a Drosophila screen for oncogenes that cooperate with an activated allele of Ras (Ras(ACT)) to promote tissue overgrowth and invasion, we identified the GTP exchange factor RhoGEF2, an activator of Rho-family signalling. Here, we show that RhoGEF2 also cooperates with an activated allele of a downstream effector of Ras, Raf (Raf(GOF)). We dissect the downstream pathways through which RhoGEF2 cooperates with Ras(ACT) (and Raf(GOF)), and show that RhoGEF2 requires Rho1, but not Rac, for tumorigenesis. Furthermore, of the Rho1 effectors, we show that RhoGEF2 + Ras (Raf)-mediated tumorigenesis requires the Rho kinase (Rok)-Myosin-II pathway, but not Diaphanous, Lim kinase or protein kinase N. The Rho1-Rok-Myosin-II pathway leads to the activation of Jun kinase (JNK), in cooperation with Ras(ACT). Moreover, we show that activation of Rok or Myosin II, using constitutively active transgenes, is sufficient for cooperative tumorigenesis with Ras(ACT), and together with Ras(ACT) leads to strong activation of JNK. Our results show that Rok-Myosin-II activity is necessary and sufficient for Ras-mediated tumorigenesis. Our observation that activation of Myosin II, which regulates Filamentous actin (F-actin) contractility without affecting F-actin levels, cooperates with Ras(ACT) to promote JNK activation and tumorigenesis, suggests that increased cell contractility is a key factor in tumorigenesis. Furthermore, we show that signalling via the Tumour necrosis factor (TNF; also known as Egr)-ligand-JNK pathway is most likely the predominant pathway that activates JNK upon Rok activation. Overall, our analysis highlights the need for further analysis of the Rok-Myosin-II pathway in cooperation with Ras in human cancers.

Prognostic significance of 11q23 aberrations in adult acute myeloid leukemia and the role of allogeneic stem cell transplantation

The clinical features and outcomes of 148 patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and 11q23 chromosomal abnormalities were compared with those of 2640 patients with non-11q23 AML. Patients with t(9;11) ), t(6;11) or other 11q23 balanced translocations (t(11;v)(q23;v)) presented at a younger age and with higher percentage of bone marrow blasts. Unbalanced 11q23 abnormalities were commonly associated with deletions of chromosomes 5q, 7q and/or complex karyotypes. In multivariate analysis, when compared with patients with non-11q23 AML and unfavorable-risk karyotype, there was a significant difference in overall survival (OS) for patients with t(9;11) (P=0.004), whereas there were no differences in OS for patients with t(6;11) (P=0.62), t(11;19) (P=0.20) and unbalanced 11q23 aberrations (P=0.85) or t(11;v)(q23;v) (P=0.59), indicating that t(9;11) has an independent intermediate prognostic significance, with all others being poor prognostic factors for OS; this was further confirmed by comparing them with patients with non-11q23 AML and intermediate-risk karyotype. Using intention-to treat analysis based on donor availability, we also noted that allogeneic stem cell transplant in first remission had a significant benefit toward improving OS (P<0.001) and relapse-free survival (P<0.001) in patients with AML and 11q23 abnormalities.

SGEF is overexpressed in prostate cancer and contributes to prostate cancer progression

The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential roles of the SH3-containing guanine nucleotide exchange factor (SGEF) in human prostate cancer. Experimental data showed that SGEF was overexpressed in human prostate cancer cells and specimens. The reduction of SGEF expression through an SGEF-targeting siRNA in androgen-independent C4-2 and C4-2B cells suppressed both anchorage-dependent and anchorage-independent growth. In addition, the androgen receptor (AR) antagonist bicalutamide further strengthened this inhibitory effect due to the suppression of the elevated AR transactivation after knockdown of SGEF. Collectively, our results provide the first demonstration that SGEF is a novel promoter of human prostate cancer progression and development.

Sickling cells, cyclic nucleotides, and protein kinases: the pathophysiology of urogenital disorders in sickle cell anemia

Sickle cell anemia is one of the best studied inherited diseases, and despite being caused by a single point mutation in the HBB gene, multiple pleiotropic effects of the abnormal hemoglobin S production range from vaso-occlusive crisis, stroke, and pulmonary hypertension to osteonecrosis and leg ulcers. Urogenital function is not spared, and although priapism is most frequently remembered, other related clinical manifestations have been described, such as nocturia, enuresis, increased frequence of lower urinary tract infections, urinary incontinence, hypogonadism, and testicular infarction. Studies on sickle cell vaso-occlusion and priapism using both in vitro and in vivo models have shed light on the pathogenesis of some of these events. The authors review what is known about the deleterious effects of sickling on the genitourinary tract and how the role of cyclic nucleotides signaling and protein kinases may help understand the pathophysiology underlying these manifestations and develop novel therapies in the setting of urogenital disorders in sickle cell disease.

Targeting Rho GTPase signaling for cancer therapy

Accumulating evidence from basic and clinical studies supports the concept that signaling pathways downstream of Rho GTPases play important roles in tumor development and progression. As a result, there has been considerable interest in the possibility that specific proteins in these signal transduction pathways could be potential targets for cancer therapy. A number of inhibitors targeting critical effector proteins, activators or the Rho GTPases themselves, have been developed. We will review the strategies currently being used to develop inhibitors of Rho GTPases and downstream signaling kinases and discuss candidate entities. Although molecularly targeted drugs that inhibit Rho GTPase signaling have not yet been widely adopted for clinical use, their potential value as cancer therapeutics continues to drive considerable pharmaceutical research and development.

LARG links histamine-H1-receptor-activated Gq to Rho-GTPase-dependent signaling pathways

Activation of heterotrimeric G proteins, such as G(12/13) and G(q), by cell surface receptors is coupled to the regulation of numerous cellular functions controlled by activated Rho GTPases. Previous studies have implicated the Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factor (RhoGEF) leukemia-associated RhoGEF (LARG) as a regulatory protein receiving stimulatory inputs from activated Gα(12/13) and Gα(q). However, the molecular mechanisms of the Gα(q)-mediated LARG activation are not fully understood and the structural elements of LARG involved in this process have remained unclear. In the present work, the specific coupling of the histamine H1 receptor (HRH1) exogenously expressed in COS-7 cells to G(q), but not to G(12/13), was used to conduct a detailed analysis of receptor- and Gα(q)-mediated LARG activation and to define its structural requirements. The results show that HRH1-mediated activation of the strictly Rho-dependent transcriptional activity of serum response factor requires the PDZ domain of LARG and can be mimicked by activated Gα(q)(Q209L). The functional interaction between activated Gα(q) and LARG requires no more than the catalytic DH-PH tandem of LARG, and is independent of PLCβ activation and distinct from the mechanisms of Gα(q)-mediated p63RhoGEF and PLCβ(3) activation. Activated Gα(q) physically interacts with the relevant portions of LARG in COS-7 cells and histamine causes activation of LARG in native HeLa cells endogenously expressing HRH1, G(q), and LARG. This work is the first positive demonstration of a stimulatory effect of LARG on the ability of a strictly G(q)-coupled receptor to cause activation of a Rho-GTPase-dependent signaling pathway.

Silencing of RhoA nucleotide exchange factor, ARHGEF3, reveals its unexpected role in iron uptake

Genomewide association meta-analysis studies have identified > 100 independent genetic loci associated with blood cell indices, including volume and count of platelets and erythrocytes. Although several of these loci encode known regulators of hematopoiesis, the mechanism by which most sequence variants exert their effect on blood cell formation remains elusive. An example is the Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factor, ARHGEF3, which was previously implicated by genomewide association meta-analysis studies in bone cell biology. Here, we report on the unexpected role of ARHGEF3 in regulation of iron uptake and erythroid cell maturation. Although early erythroid differentiation progressed normally, silencing of arhgef3 in Danio rerio resulted in microcytic and hypochromic anemia. This was rescued by intracellular supplementation of iron, showing that arhgef3-depleted erythroid cells are fully capable of hemoglobinization. Disruption of the arhgef3 target, RhoA, also produced severe anemia, which was, again, corrected by iron injection. Moreover, silencing of ARHGEF3 in erythromyeloblastoid cells K562 showed that the uptake of transferrin was severely impaired. Taken together, this is the first study to provide evidence for ARHGEF3 being a regulator of transferrin uptake in erythroid cells, through activation of RHOA.

PDZ domains: the building blocks regulating tumorigenesis

Over 250 PDZ (PSD95/Dlg/ZO-1) domain-containing proteins have been described in the human proteome. As many of these possess multiple PDZ domains, the potential combinations of associations with proteins that possess PBMs (PDZ-binding motifs) are vast. However, PDZ domain recognition is a highly specific process, and much less promiscuous than originally thought. Furthermore, a large number of PDZ domain-containing proteins have been linked directly to the control of processes whose loss, or inappropriate activation, contribute to the development of human malignancies. These regulate processes as diverse as cytoskeletal organization, cell polarity, cell proliferation and many signal transduction pathways. In the present review, we discuss how PBM–PDZ recognition and imbalances therein can perturb cellular homoeostasis and ultimately contribute to malignant progression.