The DNA-dependent protein kinase is inactivated by autophosphorylation of the catalytic subunit

Enhanced radiosensitivity of head and neck cancer cells to proton therapy via hyperthermia-induced homologous recombination deficiency

Background and purpose

Radiotherapy induces tumor cell killing by generating DNA double strand breaks (DSBs). The effectiveness of radiotherapy is significantly influenced by the repair of DSBs, which counteracts this lethal effect. Current investigations are focused on determining whether non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) or homologous recombination is the predominant repair pathway following proton and photon radiation.

Materials and methods

In this study, we examined the response of FaDu cells, a head and neck squamous cell carcinoma model, to spread-out Bragg peak (SOBP) proton and photon radiation combined with mild hyperthermia (42 °C for one hour) to induce homologous recombination deficiency or NHEJ inhibition by AZD7648.

Results

Hyperthermia resulted in stronger radiosensitization after proton radiation (SR = 1.53) compared to photon radiation (SR = 1.32). Conversely, NHEJ inhibition did not produce a significant differential effect between photon and proton radiation. This indicates a greater reliance on homologous recombination following proton radiation compared to photon radiation. We found that the number of DSBs formed after photon versus proton irradiation is comparable. Interestingly, the homologous recombination protein Rad51 accumulated more frequently at DSBs following proton irradiation than photon irradiation.

Conclusions

These findings support the hypothesis that cells rely more on homologous recombination to repair proton-induced DNA damage compared to photon-induced DNA damage. As clinically applied hyperthermia enhances the therapeutic effect of photon irradiation by, among other factors, inducing homologous recombination deficiency, our results suggests that hyperthermia could be more effective in combination with proton irradiation than photon irradiation.

A compendium of Amplification-Related Gain Of Sensitivity genes in human cancer

While the effect of amplification-induced oncogene expression in cancer is known, the impact of copy-number gains on "bystander" genes is less understood. We create a comprehensive map of dosage compensation in cancer by integrating expression and copy number profiles from over 8000 tumors in The Cancer Genome Atlas and cell lines from the Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia. Additionally, we analyze 17 cancer open reading frame screens to identify genes toxic to cancer cells when overexpressed. Combining these approaches, we propose a class of 'Amplification-Related Gain Of Sensitivity' (ARGOS) genes located in commonly amplified regions, yet expressed at lower levels than expected by their copy number, and toxic when overexpressed. We validate RBM14 as an ARGOS gene in lung and breast cancer cells, and suggest a toxicity mechanism involving altered DNA damage response and STING signaling. We additionally observe increased patient survival in a radiation-treated cancer cohort with RBM14 amplification.

Quantitation of the DNA-dependent protein kinase inhibitor peposertib (M3814) and metabolite in human plasma by LC-MS/MS

The DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) is an abundant nuclear protein that mediates DNA double-strand break repair by nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ). As such, DNA-PK is critical for V(D)J recombination in lymphocytes and for survival in cells exposed to ionizing radiation and clastogens. Peposertib (M3814) is a small molecule DNA-PK inhibitor currently in preclinical and clinical development for cancer treatment. We have developed a high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry method for quantitating peposertib and its metabolite in 0.1 mL human plasma. After MTBE liquid-liquid extraction, chromatographic separation was achieved with a Phenomenex Synergi polar reverse phase (4 μm, 2 × 50 mm) column and a gradient of 0.1% formic acid in acetonitrile and water over an 8 min run time. Mass spectrometric detection was performed on an ABI SCIEX 4000 with electrospray, positive-mode ionization. The assay was linear from 10 to 3000 ng/mL for peposertib and 1-300 ng/mL for the metabolite and proved to be both accurate (97.3%-103.7%) and precise (<8.9%CV) fulfilling criteria from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidance on bioanalytical method validation. This liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectroscopy (LC-MS/MS) assay will support several ongoing clinical studies by defining peposertib pharmacokinetics.

Single-molecule imaging reveals the kinetics of non-homologous end-joining in living cells

Non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) is the predominant pathway that repairs DNA double-stranded breaks (DSBs) in vertebrates. However, due to challenges in detecting DSBs in living cells, the repair capacity of the NHEJ pathway is unknown. The DNA termini of many DSBs must be processed to allow ligation while minimizing genetic changes that result from break repair. Emerging models propose that DNA termini are first synapsed ~115 Å apart in one of several long-range synaptic complexes before transitioning into a short-range synaptic complex that juxtaposes DNA ends to facilitate ligation. The transition from long-range to short-range synaptic complexes involves both conformational and compositional changes of the NHEJ factors bound to the DNA break. Importantly, it is unclear how NHEJ proceeds in vivo because of the challenges involved in analyzing recruitment of NHEJ factors to DSBs over time in living cells. Here, we develop an approach to study the temporal and compositional dynamics of NHEJ complexes using live cell single-molecule imaging. Our results provide direct evidence for stepwise maturation of the NHEJ complex, pinpoint key regulatory steps in NHEJ progression, and allowed us to estimate the overall repair capacity of the NHEJ pathway in living cells.

DNA-PK: A synopsis beyond synapsis

Given its central role in life, DNA is remarkably easy to damage. Double strand breaks (DSBs) are the most toxic form of DNA damage, and DSBs pose the greatest danger to genomic integrity. In higher vertebrates, the non-homologous end joining pathway (NHEJ) is the predominate pathway that repairs DSBs. NHEJ has three steps: 1) DNA end recognition by the DNA dependent protein kinase [DNA-PK], 2) DNA end-processing by numerous NHEJ accessory factors, and 3) DNA end ligation by the DNA ligase IV complex (LX4). Although this would appear to be a relatively simple mechanism, it has become increasingly apparent that it is not. Recently, much insight has been derived regarding the mechanism of non-homologous end joining through a proliferation of cryo-EM studies, structure-function mutational experiments informed by these new structural data, and novel single-molecule imaging approaches. An emerging consensus in the field is that NHEJ progresses from initial DSB end recognition by DNA-PK to synapsis of the two DNA ends in a long-range synaptic complex where ends are held too far apart (115 Å) for ligation, and then progress to a short-range synaptic complex where ends are positioned close enough for ligation. What was surprising from these structural studies was the observation of two distinct types of DNA-PK dimers that represent NHEJ long-range complexes. In this review, we summarize current knowledge about the function of the distinct NHEJ synaptic complexes and align this new information with emerging cellular single-molecule microscopy studies as well as with previous studies of DNA-PK's function in repair.

Synergistic Cytotoxicity of Histone Deacetylase and Poly-ADP Ribose Polymerase Inhibitors and Decitabine in Breast and Ovarian Cancer Cells: Implications for Novel Therapeutic Combinations

Breast and ovarian cancers pose significant therapeutic challenges. We explored the synergistic cytotoxicity of histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACis), poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARPis), and decitabine in breast (MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7) and ovarian (HEY-T30 and SKOV-3) cancer cell lines that were exposed to HDACi (panobinostat or vorinostat), PARPi (talazoparib or olaparib), decitabine, or their combinations. HDACi, PARPi, and decitabine combinations had synergistic cytotoxicity (assessed by MTT and clonogenic assays) in all cell lines (combination index < 1). Clonogenic assays confirmed the sensitivity of breast and ovarian cancer cell lines to the three-drug combinations (panobinostat, talazoparib, and decitabine; panobinostat, olaparib, and decitabine; vorinostat, talazoparib, and decitabine; vorinostat, olaparib, and decitabine). Cell proliferation was inhibited by 48-70%, and Annexin V positivity was 42-59% in all cell lines exposed to the three-drug combinations. Western blot analysis showed protein PARylation inhibition, caspase 3 and PARP1 cleavage, and c-MYC down-regulation. The three-drug combinations induced more DNA damage (increased phosphorylation of histone 2AX) than the individual drugs, impaired the DNA repair pathways, and altered the epigenetic regulation of gene expression. These results indicate that HDACi, PARPi, and decitabine combinations should be further explored in these tumor types. Further clinical validation is warranted to assess their safety and efficacy.

Single-molecule imaging reveals the kinetics of non-homologous end-joining in living cells

Non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) is the predominant pathway that repairs DNA double-stranded breaks (DSBs) in vertebrates. However, due to challenges in detecting DSBs in living cells, the repair capacity of the NHEJ pathway is unknown. The DNA termini of many DSBs must be processed to allow ligation while minimizing genetic changes that result from break repair. Emerging models propose that DNA termini are first synapsed ~115Å apart in one of several long-range synaptic complexes before transitioning into a short-range synaptic complex that juxtaposes DNA ends to facilitate ligation. The transition from long-range to short-range synaptic complexes involves both conformational and compositional changes of the NHEJ factors bound to the DNA break. Importantly, it is unclear how NHEJ proceeds in vivo because of the challenges involved in analyzing recruitment of NHEJ factors to DSBs over time in living cells. Here, we develop a new approach to study the temporal and compositional dynamics of NHEJ complexes using live cell single-molecule imaging. Our results provide direct evidence for stepwise maturation of the NHEJ complex, pinpoint key regulatory steps in NHEJ progression, and define the overall repair capacity NHEJ in living cells.

Synergistic cytotoxicity of fludarabine, clofarabine, busulfan, vorinostat and olaparib in AML cells

Combinations of nucleoside analog(s) and DNA alkylating agent(s) are used for cancer treatment as components of pre-transplant regimens used in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Their efficacies are enhanced by combining drugs with different mechanisms of action, which also allows a reduction in the individual drug dosages and thus potentially in toxicity to the patient. We hypothesized that addition of SAHA and olaparib, an HDAC- and a PARP-inhibitor, respectively, to the established combination of fludarabine, clofarabine and busulfan would enhance AML cell cytotoxicity. Exposure of the AML cell lines KBM3/Bu2506, MV4-11, MOLM14 and OCI-AML3 to the 5-drug combination resulted in synergistic cytotoxicity with combination indexes < 1. Increased protein acetylation and decreased poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation were observed, as expected. Activation of apoptosis was suggested by cleavage of Caspase 3 and PARP1, DNA fragmentation, increased reactive oxygen species, and decreased mitochondrial membrane potential. The reduction in poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation was independent of caspase activation. Several proteins involved in DNA damage response and repair were downregulated, which may be contributing factors for the observed synergism. The increased phosphorylation of DNAPKcs suggests inhibition of its kinase activity and diminution of its role in DNA repair. A similar synergism was observed in patient-derived cell samples. These findings will be important in designing clinical trials using these drug combinations as pre-transplant conditioning regimens for AML patients.

How to fix DNA breaks: new insights into the mechanism of non-homologous end joining

Non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) is the major pathway for the repair of ionizing radiation-induced DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) in human cells and is essential for the generation of mature T and B cells in the adaptive immune system via the process of V(D)J recombination. Here, we review how recently determined structures shed light on how NHEJ complexes function at DNA DSBs, emphasizing how multiple structures containing the DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs) may function in NHEJ. Together, these studies provide an explanation for how NHEJ proteins assemble to detect and protect DSB ends, then proceed, through DNA-PKcs-dependent autophosphorylation, to a ligation-competent complex.

Structure and function of the apical PIKKs in double-strand break repair

Members of the phosphatidylinositol 3' kinase (PI3K)-related kinases (PIKKs) family, including DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs), ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM), ataxia-telangiectasia mutated and Rad3-related (ATR), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), suppressor with morphological effect on genitalia 1 (SMG1), and transformation/transcription domain-associated protein 1 (TRRAP/Tra1), participate in a variety of physiological processes, such as cell-cycle control, metabolism, transcription, replication, and the DNA damage response. In eukaryotic cells, DNA-PKcs, ATM, and ATR-ATRIP are the main sensors and regulators of DNA double-strand break repair. The purpose of this review is to describe recent structures of DNA-PKcs, ATM, and ATR, as well as their functions in activation and phosphorylation in different DNA repair pathways.

Holding it together: DNA end synapsis during non-homologous end joining

DNA double strand breaks (DSBs) are common lesions whose misrepair are drivers of oncogenic transformations. The non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) pathway repairs the majority of these breaks in vertebrates by directly ligating DNA ends back together. Upon formation of a DSB, a multiprotein complex is assembled on DNA ends which tethers them together within a synaptic complex. Synapsis is a critical step of the NHEJ pathway as loss of synapsis can result in mispairing of DNA ends and chromosome translocations. As DNA ends are commonly incompatible for ligation, the NHEJ machinery must also process ends to enable rejoining. This review describes how recent progress in single-molecule approaches and cryo-EM have advanced our molecular understanding of DNA end synapsis during NHEJ and how synapsis is coordinated with end processing to determine the fidelity of repair.

DNA-PK is activated by SIRT2 deacetylation to promote DNA double-strand break repair by non-homologous end joining

DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) plays a critical role in non-homologous end joining (NHEJ), the predominant pathway that repairs DNA double-strand breaks (DSB) in response to ionizing radiation (IR) to govern genome integrity. The interaction of the catalytic subunit of DNA-PK (DNA-PKcs) with the Ku70/Ku80 heterodimer on DSBs leads to DNA-PK activation; however, it is not known if upstream signaling events govern this activation. Here, we reveal a regulatory step governing DNA-PK activation by SIRT2 deacetylation, which facilitates DNA-PKcs localization to DSBs and interaction with Ku, thereby promoting DSB repair by NHEJ. SIRT2 deacetylase activity governs cellular resistance to DSB-inducing agents and promotes NHEJ. SIRT2 furthermore interacts with and deacetylates DNA-PKcs in response to IR. SIRT2 deacetylase activity facilitates DNA-PKcs interaction with Ku and localization to DSBs and promotes DNA-PK activation and phosphorylation of downstream NHEJ substrates. Moreover, targeting SIRT2 with AGK2, a SIRT2-specific inhibitor, augments the efficacy of IR in cancer cells and tumors. Our findings define a regulatory step for DNA-PK activation by SIRT2-mediated deacetylation, elucidating a critical upstream signaling event initiating the repair of DSBs by NHEJ. Furthermore, our data suggest that SIRT2 inhibition may be a promising rationale-driven therapeutic strategy for increasing the effectiveness of radiation therapy.

Cryo-EM visualization of DNA-PKcs structural intermediates in NHEJ

DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs), one of the most cytotoxic forms of DNA damage, can be repaired by the tightly regulated nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ) machinery (Stinson and Loparo and Zhao et al.). Core NHEJ factors form an initial long-range (LR) synaptic complex that transitions into a DNA-PKcs (DNA-dependent protein kinase, catalytic subunit)-free, short-range state to align the DSB ends (Chen et al.). Using single-particle cryo-electron microscopy, we have visualized three additional key NHEJ complexes representing different transition states, with DNA-PKcs adopting distinct dimeric conformations within each of them. Upon DNA-PKcs autophosphorylation, the LR complex undergoes a substantial conformational change, with both Ku and DNA-PKcs rotating outward to promote DNA break exposure and DNA-PKcs dissociation. We also captured a dimeric state of catalytically inactive DNA-PKcs, which resembles structures of other PIKK (Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-related kinase) family kinases, revealing a model of the full regulatory cycle of DNA-PKcs during NHEJ.

Potential value of PRKDC as a therapeutic target and prognostic biomarker in pan-cancer

BACKGROUND

While protein kinase, DNA-activated, catalytic subunit (PRKDC) plays an important role in double-strand break repair to retain genomic stability, there is still no pan-cancer analysis based on large clinical information on the relationship between PRKDC and different tumors. For the first time, this research used numerous databases to perform a pan-cancer review for PRKDC to explore the possible mechanism of PRKDC in the etiology and outcomes in various tumors.

METHODS

PRKDC's expression profile and prognostic significance in pan-cancer were investigated based on various databases and online platforms, including TIMER2, GEPIA2, cBioPortal, CPTAC, and SangerBox. We applied the TIMER to identified the interlink of PRKDC and the immune infiltration in assorted tumors, and the SangerBox online platform was adopted to find out the relevance between PRKDC and immune checkpoint genes, tumor mutation burden, and microsatellite instability in tumors. GeneMANIA tool was employed to create a protein-protein interaction analysis, gene set enrichment analysis was conducted to performed gene enrichment analysis.

RESULTS

Overall, tumor tissue presented a higher degree of PRKDC expression than adjacent normal tissue. Meanwhile, patients with high PRKDC expression have a worse prognosis. PRKDC mutations were present in almost all The Cancer Genome Atlas tumors and might lead to a better survival prognosis. The PRKDC expression level was shown a positive correlation with tumor-infiltrating immune cells. PRKDC high expression cohorts were enriched in "cell cycle" "oocyte meiosis" and "RNA-degradation" signaling pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed the potential value of PRKDC in tumor immunology and as a therapeutic target and prognostic biomarker in pan-cancer.

Uncovering DNA-PKcs ancient phylogeny, unique sequence motifs and insights for human disease

DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs) is a key member of the phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase-like (PIKK) family of protein kinases with critical roles in DNA-double strand break repair, transcription, metastasis, mitosis, RNA processing, and innate and adaptive immunity. The absence of DNA-PKcs from many model organisms has led to the assumption that DNA-PKcs is a vertebrate-specific PIKK. Here, we find that DNA-PKcs is widely distributed in invertebrates, fungi, plants, and protists, and that threonines 2609, 2638, and 2647 of the ABCDE cluster of phosphorylation sites are highly conserved amongst most Eukaryotes. Furthermore, we identify highly conserved amino acid sequence motifs and domains that are characteristic of DNA-PKcs relative to other PIKKs. These include residues in the Forehead domain and a novel motif we have termed YRPD, located in an α helix C-terminal to the ABCDE phosphorylation site loop. Combining sequence with biochemistry plus structural data on human DNA-PKcs unveils conserved sequence and conformational features with functional insights and implications. The defined generally progressive DNA-PKcs sequence diversification uncovers conserved functionality supported by Evolutionary Trace analysis, suggesting that for many organisms both functional sites and evolutionary pressures remain identical due to fundamental cell biology. The mining of cancer genomic data and germline mutations causing human inherited disease reveal that robust DNA-PKcs activity in tumors is detrimental to patient survival, whereas germline mutations compromising function are linked to severe immunodeficiency and neuronal degeneration. We anticipate that these collective results will enable ongoing DNA-PKcs functional analyses with biological and medical implications.

Repair of DNA Double-Strand Breaks by the Nonhomologous End Joining Pathway

DNA double-strand breaks pose a serious threat to genome stability. In vertebrates, these breaks are predominantly repaired by nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ), which pairs DNA ends in a multiprotein synaptic complex to promote their direct ligation. NHEJ is a highly versatile pathway that uses an array of processing enzymes to modify damaged DNA ends and enable their ligation. The mechanisms of end synapsis and end processing have important implications for genome stability. Rapid and stable synapsis is necessary to limit chromosome translocations that result from the mispairing of DNA ends. Furthermore, end processing must be tightly regulated to minimize mutations at the break site. Here, we review our current mechanistic understanding of vertebrate NHEJ, with a particular focus on end synapsis and processing.

Structural insights into DNA double-strand break signaling

Genomic integrity is most threatened by double-strand breaks, which, if left unrepaired, lead to carcinogenesis or cell death. The cell generates a network of protein-protein signaling interactions that emanate from the DNA damage which are now recognized as a rich basis for anti-cancer therapy development. Deciphering the structures of signaling proteins has been an uphill task owing to their large size and complex domain organization. Recent advances in mammalian protein expression/purification and cryo-EM-based structure determination have led to significant progress in our understanding of these large multidomain proteins. This review is an overview of the structural principles that underlie some of the key signaling proteins that function at the double-strand break site. We also discuss some plausible ideas that could be considered for future structural approaches to visualize and build a more complete understanding of protein dynamics at the break site.

Structural insights into the role of DNA-PK as a master regulator in NHEJ

DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit DNA-PKcs/PRKDC is the largest serine/threonine protein kinase of the phosphatidyl inositol 3-kinase-like protein kinase (PIKK) family and is the most highly expressed PIKK in human cells. With its DNA-binding partner Ku70/80, DNA-PKcs is required for regulated and efficient repair of ionizing radiation-induced DNA double-strand breaks via the non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) pathway. Loss of DNA-PKcs or other NHEJ factors leads to radiation sensitivity and unrepaired DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs), as well as defects in V(D)J recombination and immune defects. In this review, we highlight the contributions of the late Dr. Carl W. Anderson to the discovery and early characterization of DNA-PK. We furthermore build upon his foundational work to provide recent insights into the structure of NHEJ synaptic complexes, an evolutionarily conserved and functionally important YRPD motif, and the role of DNA-PKcs and its phosphorylation in NHEJ. The combined results identify DNA-PKcs as a master regulator that is activated by its detection of two double-strand DNA ends for a cascade of phosphorylation events that provide specificity and efficiency in assembling the synaptic complex for NHEJ.

Structure of an activated DNA-PK and its implications for NHEJ

DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK), like all phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-related kinases (PIKKs), is composed of conserved FAT and kinase domains (FATKINs) along with solenoid structures made of HEAT repeats. These kinases are activated in response to cellular stress signals, but the mechanisms governing activation and regulation remain unresolved. For DNA-PK, all existing structures represent inactive states with resolution limited to 4.3 Å at best. Here, we report the cryoelectron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of DNA-PKcs (DNA-PK catalytic subunit) bound to a DNA end or complexed with Ku70/80 and DNA in both inactive and activated forms at resolutions of 3.7 Å overall and 3.2 Å for FATKINs. These structures reveal the sequential transition of DNA-PK from inactive to activated forms. Most notably, activation of the kinase involves previously unknown stretching and twisting within individual solenoid segments and loosens DNA-end binding. This unprecedented structural plasticity of helical repeats may be a general regulatory mechanism of HEAT-repeat proteins.

Mec1ATR Autophosphorylation and Ddc2ATRIP Phosphorylation Regulates DNA Damage Checkpoint Signaling

In budding yeast, a single DNA double-strand break (DSB) triggers the activation of Mec1^ATR-dependent DNA damage checkpoint. After about 12 h, cells turn off the checkpoint signaling and adapt despite the persistence of the DSB. We report that the adaptation involves the autophosphorylation of Mec1 at site S1964. A non-phosphorylatable mec1-S1964A mutant causes cells to arrest permanently in response to a single DSB without affecting the initial kinase activity of Mec1. Autophosphorylation of S1964 is dependent on Ddc1^Rad9 and Dpb11^TopBP1, and it correlates with the timing of adaptation. We also report that Mec1's binding partner, Ddc2^ATRIP, is an inherently stable protein that is degraded specifically upon DNA damage. Ddc2 is regulated extensively through phosphorylation, which, in turn, regulates the localization of the Mec1-Ddc2 complex to DNA lesions. Taken together, these results suggest that checkpoint response is regulated through the autophosphorylation of Mec1 kinase and through the changes in Ddc2 abundance and phosphorylation.

Triptolide impairs genome integrity by directly blocking the enzymatic activity of DNA-PKcs in human cells

Triptolide is a multi-functional natural small molecular compound extracted from a traditional Chinese medicinal herb. Triptolide and its derivatives exhibit cytotoxicity through inducing DNA damage, therefore increasing sensitivity to DNA-damage based chemotherapy or radiotherapy in different types of cells. However, the regulatory mechanism of genotoxicity by triptolide, and the loss of genome integrity induced by triptolide are not fully understood. Here, we measured the effects of triptolide on genome integrity in a human fibroblast line HCA2-hTERT using the neutral comet assay. We demonstrated that treating cells with triptolide induced genomic instability in HCA2-hTERT cells. Furthermore, we observed the accumulation of γH2AX foci in triptolide treated cells than control cells at 24 h post ionizing radiation. Further mechanistic studies indicated that triptolide inhibited the enzymatic activity of DNA-PKcs, the critical nonhomologous end joining factor. In vitro kinase activity assays showed that triptolide suppressed the kinase activity of DNA-PKcs and molecular docking also predicted a potential interaction between triptolide and DNA-PKcs. As a consequence, we found that triptolide treatment enhanced the interaction between DNA-PKcs and KU80 and hampered the following recruitment of 53BP1. Altogether, our finding provides a new perspective about the toxicity of triptolide in non-cancer cells and highlights the necessity of taking genome effects of triptolide and its derivatives into consideration in the future clinical and research applications.

"An End to a Means": How DNA-End Structure Shapes the Double-Strand Break Repair Process

Endogenously-arising DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) rarely harbor canonical 5′-phosphate, 3′-hydroxyl moieties at the ends, which are, regardless of the pathway used, ultimately required for their repair. Cells are therefore endowed with a wide variety of enzymes that can deal with these chemical and structural variations and guarantee the formation of ligatable termini. An important distinction is whether the ends are directly “unblocked” by specific enzymatic activities without affecting the integrity of the DNA molecule and its sequence, or whether they are “processed” by unspecific nucleases that remove nucleotides from the termini. DNA end structure and configuration, therefore, shape the repair process, its requirements, and, importantly, its final outcome. Thus, the molecular mechanisms that coordinate and integrate the cellular response to blocked DSBs, although still largely unexplored, can be particularly relevant for maintaining genome integrity and avoiding malignant transformation and cancer.

A Mechanism to Minimize Errors during Non-homologous End Joining

Enzymatic processing of DNA underlies all DNA repair, yet inappropriate DNA processing must be avoided. In vertebrates, double-strand breaks are repaired predominantly by non-homologous end joining (NHEJ), which directly ligates DNA ends. NHEJ has the potential to be highly mutagenic because it uses DNA polymerases, nucleases, and other enzymes that modify incompatible DNA ends to allow their ligation. Using frog egg extracts that recapitulate NHEJ, we show that end processing requires the formation of a "short-range synaptic complex" in which DNA ends are closely aligned in a ligation-competent state. Furthermore, single-molecule imaging directly demonstrates that processing occurs within the short-range complex. This confinement of end processing to a ligation-competent complex ensures that DNA ends undergo ligation as soon as they become compatible, thereby minimizing mutagenesis. Our results illustrate how the coordination of enzymatic catalysis with higher-order structural organization of substrate maximizes the fidelity of DNA repair.

Vanillin derivative VND3207 activates DNA-PKcs conferring protection against radiation-induced intestinal epithelial cells injury in vitro and in vivo

Vanillin is a natural compound endowed with antioxidant and anti-mutagenic properties. We previously identified the vanillin derivative VND3207 with strong radio-protective and antioxidant effects and found that VND3207 confers survival benefit and protection against radiation-induced intestinal injury (RIII) in mice. We also observed that VND3207 treatment enhanced the expression level of the catalytic subunit of the DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PKcs) in human lymphoblastoid cells with or without γ-irradiation. DNA-PKcs is a critical component of DNA double strand break repair pathway and also regulates mitotic progression by stabilizing spindle formation and preventing mitotic catastrophe in response to DNA damage. In the present study, we found that VND3207 protected intestinal epithelial cells in vitro against ionizing radiation by promoting cell proliferation and inhibiting cell apoptosis. In addition, VND3207 promoted DNA-PKcs activity by increasing autophosphorylation at S2056 site. Consistent with this, VND3207 significantly decreased the number of γH2AX foci and mitotic catastrophe after radiation. DNA-PKcs deficiency abolished these VND3207 radio-protective effects, indicating that DNA-PKcs activation is essential for VND3207 activity. In conclusion, VND3207 promoted intestinal repair following radiation injury by regulating the DNA-PKcs pathway.

Knockdown of cZNF292 suppressed hypoxic human hepatoma SMMC7721 cell proliferation, vasculogenic mimicry, and radioresistance

Hypoxia is a classic feature of the tumor microenvironment, and has been established as a key epigenetic factor modulating the outcome of radiotherapy. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are novel RNA molecules with covalently closed circular structures and are highly expressed in eukaryotic transcriptomes. Although previous analysis have shown that circRNA ZNF292 (cZNF292) was hypoxia-responsive and exhibited a proangiogenic function in vitro, the molecular mechanism of cZNF292's biological function is still unclear and deserves further exploration. In this study, we investigated the effect of cZNF292 on the vasculogenic mimicry (VM) and radiosensitivity of hypoxic hepatoma SMMC7721 cells and its mechanism. Our data indicated that cZNF292 could be induced by hypoxia in a time-dependent manner in hepatoma cells independent of hypoxia inducible factor (HIF)-1α. Knockdown of cZNF292 increased SRY (sex determining region Y)-box 9 (SOX9) nuclear translocation, subsequently reduced Wnt/β-catenin pathway activity, leading to suppression of hypoxic hepatoma cell proliferation, VM, and radioresistance in vitro and in vivo. Our results delineated a novel mechanism of cZNF292 in enhancing hypoxic tumor cell radiosensitivity, which might provide valuable targets for radiation therapy for hepatoma.

Nanostructure of DNA repair foci revealed by superresolution microscopy

Induction of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) by ionizing radiation leads to formation of micrometer-sized DNA-repair foci, whose organization on the nanometer-scale remains unknown because of the diffraction limit (∼200 nm) of conventional microscopy. Here, we applied diffraction-unlimited, direct stochastic optical-reconstruction microscopy ( dSTORM) with a lateral resolution of ∼20 nm to analyze the focal nanostructure of the DSB marker histone γH2AX and the DNA-repair protein kinase (DNA-PK) in irradiated glioblastoma multiforme cells. Although standard confocal microscopy revealed substantial colocalization of immunostained γH2AX and DNA-PK, in our dSTORM images, the 2 proteins showed very little (if any) colocalization despite their close spatial proximity. We also found that γH2AX foci consisted of distinct circular subunits ("nanofoci") with a diameter of ∼45 nm, whereas DNA-PK displayed a diffuse, intrafocal distribution. We conclude that γH2AX nanofoci represent the elementary, structural units of DSB repair foci, that is, individual γH2AX-containing nucleosomes. dSTORM-based γH2AX nanofoci counting and distance measurements between nanofoci provided quantitative information on the total amount of chromatin involved in DSB repair as well as on the number and longitudinal distribution of γH2AX-containing nucleosomes in a chromatin fiber. We thus estimate that a single focus involves between ∼0.6 and ∼1.1 Mbp of chromatin, depending on radiation treatment. Because of their ability to unravel the nanostructure of DSB-repair foci, dSTORM and related single-molecule localization nanoscopy methods will likely emerge as powerful tools in biology and medicine to elucidate the effects of DNA damaging agents in cells.-Sisario, D., Memmel, S., Doose, S., Neubauer, J., Zimmermann, H., Flentje, M., Djuzenova, C. S., Sauer, M., Sukhorukov, V. L. Nanostructure of DNA repair foci revealed by superresolution microscopy.

CC-115, a dual inhibitor of mTOR kinase and DNA-PK, blocks DNA damage repair pathways and selectively inhibits ATM-deficient cell growth in vitro

CC-115, a selective dual inhibitor of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) kinase and DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK), is undergoing Phase 1 clinical studies. Here we report the characterization of DNA-PK inhibitory activity of CC-115 in cancer cell lines. CC-115 inhibits auto-phosphorylation of the catalytic subunit of DNA-PK (DNA-PKcs) at the S2056 site (pDNA-PK S2056), leading to blockade of DNA-PK-mediated non-homologous end joining (NHEJ). CC-115 also indirectly reduces the phosphorylation of ataxia-telangiectasia mutated kinase (ATM) at S1981 and its substrates as well as homologous recombination (HR). The mTOR kinase and DNA-PK inhibitory activity of CC-115 leads to not only potent anti-tumor activity against a large panel of hematopoietic and solid cancer cell lines but also strong induction of apoptosis in a subset of cancer lines. Mechanistically, CC-115 prevents NHEJ by inhibiting the dissociation of DNA-PKcs, X-ray repair cross-complementing protein 4 (XRCC4), and DNA ligase IV from DNA ends. CC-115 inhibits colony formation of ATM-deficient cells more potently than ATM-proficient cells, indicating that inhibition of DNA-PK is synthetically lethal with the loss of functional ATM. In conclusion, CC-115 inhibits both mTOR signaling and NHEJ and HR by direct inhibition of DNA-PK. The mechanistic data not only provide selection of potential pharmacodynamic (PD) markers but also support CC-115 clinical development in patients with ATM-deficient tumors.

Computational analysis of androgen receptor dependent radiosensitivity in prostate cancer

In this study, we quantitatively analyze the mechanism by which androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is enhancing radiosensitivity in prostate cancer (PCa) patients. It has been shown in laboratory experiments, as well as in patient data in the literature, that the androgen receptor (AR) reduces the effectiveness of ionizing radiation treatment by enhancing the non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) repair of radiation damage. The suppression of AR by ADT suppresses the activity of NHEJ that leads to radiosensitivity in PCa patients. In this paper, we have studied this positive interaction between AR and NHEJ using mathematical models of the NHEJ that we have developed using both the experimental and clinical data for PCa. Our results show that the biological observation of suppression of AR by ADT leading to down-regulation of the first NHEJ protein Ku and NHEJ is a plausible biological mechanism that explains both the experimental and clinical observations in the literature. The presented analysis is the first step in quantitatively analyzing possible treatment scenarios to find the optimal treatment strategies for PCa using the combination treatment with ADT, NHEJ inhibitors, and IR.

What Combined Measurements From Structures and Imaging Tell Us About DNA Damage Responses

DNA damage outcomes depend upon the efficiency and fidelity of DNA damage responses (DDRs) for different cells and damage. As such, DDRs represent tightly regulated prototypical systems for linking nanoscale biomolecular structure and assembly to the biology of genomic regulation and cell signaling. However, the dynamic and multifunctional nature of DDR assemblies can render elusive the correlation between the structures of DDR factors and specific biological disruptions to the DDR when these structures are altered. In this chapter, we discuss concepts and strategies for combining structural, biophysical, and imaging techniques to investigate DDR recognition and regulation, and thus bridge sequence-level structural biochemistry to quantitative biological outcomes visualized in cells. We focus on representative DDR responses from PARP/PARG/AIF damage signaling in DNA single-strand break repair and nonhomologous end joining complexes in double-strand break repair. Methods with exemplary experimental results are considered with a focus on strategies for probing flexibility, conformational changes, and assembly processes that shape a predictive understanding of DDR mechanisms in a cellular context. Integration of structural and imaging measurements promises to provide foundational knowledge to rationally control and optimize DNA damage outcomes for synthetic lethality and for immune activation with resulting insights for biology and cancer interventions.

Rad50 ATPase activity is regulated by DNA ends and requires coordination of both active sites

The Mre11-Rad50-Nbs1(Xrs2) (MRN/X) complex is critical for the repair and signaling of DNA double strand breaks. The catalytic core of MRN/X comprised of the Mre11 nuclease and Rad50 adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) active sites dimerizes through association between the Rad50 ATPase catalytic domains and undergoes extensive conformational changes upon ATP binding. This ATP-bound 'closed' state promotes binding to DNA, tethering DNA ends and ATM activation, but prevents nucleolytic processing of DNA ends, while ATP hydrolysis is essential for Mre11 endonuclease activity at blocked DNA ends. Here we investigate the regulation of ATP hydrolysis as well as the interdependence of the two functional active sites. We find that double-stranded DNA stimulates ATP hydrolysis by hMRN over ∼20-fold in an end-dependent manner. Using catalytic site mutants to create Rad50 dimers with only one functional ATPase site, we find that both ATPase sites are required for the stimulation by DNA. MRN-mediated endonucleolytic cleavage of DNA at sites of protein adducts requires ATP hydrolysis at both sites, as does the stimulation of ATM kinase activity. These observations suggest that symmetrical engagement of the Rad50 catalytic head domains with ATP bound at both sites is important for MRN functions in eukaryotic cells.

Genistein sensitizes sarcoma cells in vitro and in vivo by enhancing apoptosis and by inhibiting DSB repair pathways

The aim of this work was to investigate the radiosensitization effects of genistein on mice sarcoma cells and the corresponding biological mechanisms in vitro and in vivo Using the non-toxic dosage of 10 μM genistein, the sensitizer enhancement ratios after exposure to X-rays at 50% cell survival (IC50) was 1.45 for S180 cells. For mice cotreated with genistein and X-rays, the excised tumor tissues had reduced blood vessels and decreased size and volume compared with the control and irradiation-only groups. Moreover, a significant increase in apoptosis was accompanied by upregulation of Bax and downregulation of Bcl-2 in the mitochondria, and lots of cytochrome c being transferred to the cytoplasm. Furthermore, X-rays combined with genistein inhibited the activity of DNA-PKcs, so DNA-injured sites were dominated by Ku70/80, leading to incompleteness of homologous recombination (HR) and non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ) repairs and the eventual occurrence of cell apoptosis. Our study, for the first time, demonstrated that genistein sensitized sarcoma cells to X-rays and that this radiosensitizing effect depended on induction of the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway and inhibition of the double-strand break (DSB) repair pathways.

Single-stranded DNA oligomers stimulate error-prone alternative repair of DNA double-strand breaks through hijacking Ku protein

In humans, DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) are repaired by two mutually-exclusive mechanisms, homologous recombination or end-joining. Among end-joining mechanisms, the main process is classical non-homologous end-joining (C-NHEJ) which relies on Ku binding to DNA ends and DNA Ligase IV (Lig4)-mediated ligation. Mostly under Ku- or Lig4-defective conditions, an alternative end-joining process (A-EJ) can operate and exhibits a trend toward microhomology usage at the break junction. Homologous recombination relies on an initial MRN-dependent nucleolytic degradation of one strand at DNA ends. This process, named DNA resection generates 3' single-stranded tails necessary for homologous pairing with the sister chromatid. While it is believed from the current literature that the balance between joining and recombination processes at DSBs ends is mainly dependent on the initiation of resection, it has also been shown that MRN activity can generate short single-stranded DNA oligonucleotides (ssO) that may also be implicated in repair regulation. Here, we evaluate the effect of ssO on end-joining at DSB sites both in vitro and in cells. We report that under both conditions, ssO inhibit C-NHEJ through binding to Ku and favor repair by the Lig4-independent microhomology-mediated A-EJ process.

Measles Virus Infection Inactivates Cellular Protein Phosphatase 5 with Consequent Suppression of Sp1 and c-Myc Activities

Measles virus (MeV) causes several unique syndromes, including transient immunosuppression. To clarify the cellular responses to MeV infection, we previously analyzed a MeV-infected epithelial cell line and a lymphoid cell line by microarray and showed that the expression of numerous genes was up- or downregulated in the epithelial cells. In particular, there was a characteristic comprehensive downregulation of housekeeping genes during late stage infection. To identify the mechanism underlying this phenomenon, we examined the phosphorylation status of transcription factors and kinase/phosphatase activities in epithelial cells after infection. MeV infection inactivated cellular protein phosphatase 5 (PP5) that consequently inactivated DNA-dependent protein kinase, which reduced Sp1 phosphorylation levels, and c-Myc degradation, both of which downregulated the expression of many housekeeping genes. In addition, intracellular accumulation of viral nucleocapsid inactivated PP5 and subsequent downstream responses. These findings demonstrate a novel strategy of MeV during infection, which causes the collapse of host cellular functions.

IMPORTANCE

Measles virus (MeV) is one of the most important pathogens in humans. We previously showed that MeV infection induces the comprehensive downregulation of housekeeping genes in epithelial cells. By examining this phenomenon, we clarified the molecular mechanism underlying the constitutive expression of housekeeping genes in cells, which is maintained by cellular protein phosphatase 5 (PP5) and DNA-dependent protein kinase. We also demonstrated that MeV targets PP5 for downregulation in epithelial cells. This is the first report to show how MeV infection triggers a reduction in overall cellular functions of infected host cells. Our findings will help uncover unique pathogenicities caused by MeV.

The involvement of c-Myc in the DNA double-strand break repair via regulating radiation-induced phosphorylation of ATM and DNA-PKcs activity

Deregulation of c-Myc often occurs in various human cancers, which not only contributes to the genesis and progression of cancers but also affects the outcomes of cancer radio- or chemotherapy. In this study, we have investigated the function of c-Myc in the repair of DNA double-strand break (DSB) induced by γ-ray irradiation. A c-Myc-silenced Hela-630 cell line was generated from HeLa cells using RNA interference technology. The DNA DSBs were detected by γ-H2AX foci, neutral comet assay and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis. We found that the capability of DNA DSB repair in Hela-630 cells was significantly reduced, and the repair kinetics of DSB was delayed as compared to the control Hela-NC cells. Silence of c-myc sensitized the cellular sensitivity to ionizing radiation. The phosphorylated c-Myc (Thr58/pSer62) formed the consistent co-localisation foci with γ-H2AX as well as the phosphorylated DNA-PKcs/S2056 in the irradiated cells. Moreover, depression of c-Myc largely attenuated the ionizing radiation-induced phosphorylation of the ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) and decreased the in vitro kinase activity of DNA-PKcs. Taken together, our results demonstrated that c-Myc protein functions in the process of DNA double-strand break repair, at least partially, through affecting the ATM phosphorylation and DNA-PKcs kinase activity. The overexpression of c-Myc in tumours can account for the radioresistance of some tumour cell types.

TDP1 promotes assembly of non-homologous end joining protein complexes on DNA

The repair of DNA double-strand breaks (DSB) is central to the maintenance of genomic integrity. In tumor cells, the ability to repair DSBs predicts response to radiation and many cytotoxic anti-cancer drugs. DSB repair pathways include homologous recombination and non-homologous end joining (NHEJ). NHEJ is a template-independent mechanism, yet many NHEJ repair products carry limited genetic changes, which suggests that NHEJ includes mechanisms to minimize error. Proteins required for mammalian NHEJ include Ku70/80, the DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PKcs), XLF/Cernunnos and the XRCC4:DNA ligase IV complex. NHEJ also utilizes accessory proteins that include DNA polymerases, nucleases, and other end-processing factors. In yeast, mutations of tyrosyl-DNA phosphodiesterase (TDP1) reduced NHEJ fidelity. TDP1 plays an important role in repair of topoisomerase-mediated DNA damage and 3'-blocking DNA lesions, and mutation of the human TDP1 gene results in an inherited human neuropathy termed SCAN1. We found that human TDP1 stimulated DNA binding by XLF and physically interacted with XLF to form TDP1:XLF:DNA complexes. TDP1:XLF interactions preferentially stimulated TDP1 activity on dsDNA as compared to ssDNA. TDP1 also promoted DNA binding by Ku70/80 and stimulated DNA-PK activity. Because Ku70/80 and XLF are the first factors recruited to the DSB at the onset of NHEJ, our data suggest a role for TDP1 during the early stages of mammalian NHEJ.

The DNA-dependent protein kinase: A multifunctional protein kinase with roles in DNA double strand break repair and mitosis

The DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) is a serine/threonine protein kinase composed of a large catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs) and the Ku70/80 heterodimer. Over the past two decades, significant progress has been made in elucidating the role of DNA-PK in non-homologous end joining (NHEJ), the major pathway for repair of ionizing radiation-induced DNA double strand breaks in human cells and recently, additional roles for DNA-PK have been reported. In this review, we will describe the biochemistry, structure and function of DNA-PK, its roles in DNA double strand break repair and its newly described roles in mitosis and other cellular processes.

PIKKs--the solenoid nest where partners and kinases meet

The recent structure of a truncated mTOR in a complex with mLST8 has provided a basic framework for understanding all of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)-related kinases (PIKKs): mTOR, ATM, ATR, SMG-1, TRRAP and DNA-PK. The PIKK kinase domain is encircled by the FAT domain, a helical solenoid that is present in all PIKKs. PIKKs also have an extensive helical solenoid N-terminal to the FAT domain for which there is limited structural information. This N-terminal helical solenoid is essential for binding proteins that associate with the PIKKs to regulate their activity and cellular localization.

Role of polycomb group proteins in the DNA damage response--a reassessment

A growing body of evidence suggests that Polycomb group (PcG) proteins, key regulators of lineage specific gene expression, also participate in the repair of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) but evidence for direct recruitment of PcG proteins at specific breaks remains limited. Here we explore the association of Polycomb repressive complex 1 (PRC1) components with DSBs generated by inducible expression of the AsiSI restriction enzyme in normal human fibroblasts. Based on immunofluorescent staining, the co-localization of PRC1 proteins with components of the DNA damage response (DDR) in these primary cells is unconvincing. Moreover, using chromatin immunoprecipitation and deep sequencing (ChIP-seq), which detects PRC1 proteins at common sites throughout the genome, we did not find evidence for recruitment of PRC1 components to AsiSI-induced DSBs. In contrast, the S2056 phosphorylated form of DNA-PKcs and other DDR proteins were detected at a subset of AsiSI sites that are predominantly at the 5′ ends of transcriptionally active genes. Our data question the idea that PcG protein recruitment provides a link between DSB repairs and transcriptional repression.

DNA DSB repair pathway choice: an orchestrated handover mechanism

DNA double strand breaks (DSBs) are potential lethal lesions but can also lead to chromosome rearrangements, a step promoting carcinogenesis. DNA non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ) is the major DSB rejoining process and occurs in all cell cycle stages. Homologous recombination (HR) can additionally function to repair irradiation-induced two-ended DSBs in G2 phase. In mammalian cells, HR predominantly uses a sister chromatid as a template for DSB repair; thus HR functions only in late S/G2 phase. Here, we review current insight into the interplay between HR and NHEJ in G2 phase. We argue that NHEJ represents the first choice pathway, repairing approximately 80% of X-ray-induced DSBs with rapid kinetics. However, a subset of DSBs undergoes end resection and repair by HR. 53BP1 restricts resection, thereby promoting NHEJ. During the switch from NHEJ to HR, 53BP1 is repositioned to the periphery of enlarged irradiation-induced foci (IRIF) via a BRCA1-dependent process. K63-linked ubiquitin chains, which also form at IRIF, are also repositioned as well as receptor-associated protein 80 (RAP80), a ubiquitin binding protein. RAP80 repositioning requires POH1, a proteasome component. Thus, the interfacing barriers to HR, 53BP1 and RAP80 are relieved by POH1 and BRCA1, respectively. Removal of RAP80 from the IRIF core is required for loss of the ubiquitin chains and 53BP1, and for efficient replication protein A foci formation. We propose that NHEJ is used preferentially to HR because it is a compact process that does not necessitate extensive chromatin changes in the DSB vicinity.

One ring to bring them all--the role of Ku in mammalian non-homologous end joining

The repair of DNA double strand breaks is essential for cell survival and several conserved pathways have evolved to ensure their rapid and efficient repair. The non-homologous end joining pathway is initiated when Ku binds to the DNA break site. Ku is an abundant nuclear heterodimer of Ku70 and Ku80 with a toroidal structure that allows the protein to slide over the broken DNA end and bind with high affinity. Once locked into placed, Ku acts as a tool-belt to recruit multiple interacting proteins, forming one or more non-homologous end joining complexes that act in a regulated manner to ensure efficient repair of DNA ends. Here we review the structure and functions of Ku and the proteins with which it interacts during non-homologous end joining.

Unraveling the complexities of DNA-dependent protein kinase autophosphorylation

DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) orchestrates DNA repair by regulating access to breaks through autophosphorylations within two clusters of sites (ABCDE and PQR). Blocking ABCDE phosphorylation (by alanine mutation) imparts a dominant negative effect, rendering cells hypersensitive to agents that cause DNA double-strand breaks. Here, a mutational approach is used to address the mechanistic basis of this dominant negative effect. Blocking ABCDE phosphorylation hypersensitizes cells to most types of DNA damage (base damage, cross-links, breaks, and damage induced by replication stress), suggesting that DNA-PK binds DNA ends that result from many DNA lesions and that blocking ABCDE phosphorylation sequesters these DNA ends from other repair pathways. This dominant negative effect requires DNA-PK's catalytic activity, as well as phosphorylation of multiple (non-ABCDE) DNA-PK catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs) sites. PSIPRED analysis indicates that the ABCDE sites are located in the only contiguous extended region of this huge protein that is predicted to be disordered, suggesting a regulatory role(s) and perhaps explaining the large impact ABCDE phosphorylation has on the enzyme's function. Moreover, additional sites in this disordered region contribute to the ABCDE cluster. These data, coupled with recent structural data, suggest a model whereby early phosphorylations promote initiation of nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ), whereas ABCDE phosphorylations, potentially located in a "hinge" region between the two domains, lead to regulated conformational changes that initially promote NHEJ and eventually disengage NHEJ.

DNA-PK: a dynamic enzyme in a versatile DSB repair pathway

DNA double stranded breaks (DSBs) are the most cytoxic DNA lesion as the inability to properly repair them can lead to genomic instability and tumorigenesis. The prominent DSB repair pathway in humans is non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ). In the simplest sense, NHEJ mediates the direct re-ligation of the broken DNA molecule. However, NHEJ is a complex and versatile process that can repair DSBs with a variety of damages and ends via the utilization of a significant number of proteins. In this review we will describe the important factors and mechanisms modulating NHEJ with emphasis given to the versatility of this repair process and the DNA-PK complex.

The repair and signaling responses to DNA double-strand breaks

A DNA double-strand break (DSB) has long been recognized as a severe cellular lesion, potentially representing an initiating event for carcinogenesis or cell death. The evolution of DSB repair pathways as well as additional processes, such as cell cycle checkpoint arrest, to minimize the cellular impact of DSB formation was, therefore, not surprising. However, the depth and complexity of the DNA damage responses being revealed by current studies were unexpected. Perhaps the most surprising finding to emerge is the dramatic changes to chromatin architecture that arise in the DSB vicinity. In this review, we overview the cellular response to DSBs focusing on DNA repair pathways and the interface between them. We consider additional events which impact upon these DSB repair pathways, including regulated arrest of cell cycle progression and chromatin architecture alterations. Finally, we discuss the impact of defects in these processes to human disease.

Spatiotemporal dynamics of DNA repair proteins following laser microbeam induced DNA damage - when is a DSB not a DSB?

The formation of DNA lesions poses a constant threat to cellular stability. Repair of endogenously and exogenously produced lesions has therefore been extensively studied, although the spatiotemporal dynamics of the repair processes has yet to be fully understood. One of the most recent advances to study the kinetics of DNA repair has been the development of laser microbeams to induce and visualize recruitment and loss of repair proteins to base damage in live mammalian cells. However, a number of studies have produced contradictory results that are likely caused by the different laser systems used reflecting in part the wavelength dependence of the damage induced. Additionally, the repair kinetics of laser microbeam induced DNA lesions have generally lacked consideration of the structural and chemical complexity of the DNA damage sites, which are known to greatly influence their reparability. In this review, we highlight the key considerations when embarking on laser microbeam experiments and interpreting the real time data from laser microbeam irradiations. We compare the repair kinetics from live cell imaging with biochemical and direct quantitative cellular measurements for DNA repair.

Protein phosphatase 2A and DNA-dependent protein kinase are involved in mediating rapamycin-induced Akt phosphorylation

BACKGROUND

The mechanisms underlying rapamycin-induced Akt phosphorylation have not been fully elucidated.

RESULTS

Inhibition of PP2A or DNA-PK attenuates or abrogates rapamycin-induced Akt phosphorylation and co-inhibition of mTOR and DNA-PK enhances anticancer activity.

CONCLUSION

PP2A-dependent and DNA-PK-mediated mechanism is involved in rapamycin-induced Akt phosphorylation.

SIGNIFICANCE

A previously unknown mechanism underlying rapamycin-induced Akt phosphorylation and a novel strategy to enhance mTOR-targeted cancer therapy may be suggested. Inhibition of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1), for example with rapamycin, increases Akt phosphorylation while inhibiting mTORC1 signaling. However, the underlying mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. The current study has uncovered a previously unknown mechanism underlying rapamycin-induced Akt phosphorylation involving protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A)-dependent DNA protein kinase (DNA-PK) activation. In several cancer cell lines, inhibition of PP2A with okadaic acid, fostriecin, small T antigen, or PP2A knockdown abrogated rapamycin-induced Akt phosphorylation, and rapamycin increased PP2A activity. Chemical inhibition of DNA-PK, knockdown or deficiency of DNA-PK catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs), or knock-out of the DNA-PK component Ku86 inhibited rapamycin-induced Akt phosphorylation. Exposure of cancer cells to rapamycin increased DNA-PK activity, and gene silencing-mediated PP2A inhibition attenuated rapamycin-induced DNA-PK activity. Collectively these results suggest that rapamycin induces PP2A-dependent and DNA-PK-mediated Akt phosphorylation. Accordingly, simultaneous inhibition of mTOR and DNA-PK did not stimulate Akt activity and synergistically inhibited the growth of cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo. Thus, our findings also suggest a novel strategy to enhance mTOR-targeted cancer therapy by co-targeting DNA-PK.

DNA-dependent protein kinase and its inhibition in support of radiotherapy

PURPOSE

Radiotherapy has been used as a treatment of almost 50% of all malignant tumors. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the recent knowledge in the field of molecular mechanisms of radiation-induced double-stranded breaks (DSB) repair. This paper gives particular emphasis to a key DNA repair enzyme, DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK), which plays a pivotal role in non-homologous end-joining. Furthermore, we discuss possibilities of DNA-PK inhibition and other molecular approaches employed in order to facilitate radiotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

We have reviewed the recent studies using novel potent and selective small-molecular DNA-PK inhibitors and we conclude that targeted inhibition of DNA repair proteins like DNA-PK in cancer cells, in combination with ionizing radiation, improves the efficacy of cancer therapy while minimizing side-effects of ionizing radiation. Moreover, the recent discovery of short interfering RNA (siRNA) and signal interfering DNA (siDNA)-based therapeutics, or small peptides and RNA, shows a new opportunity of selective and safe application of biological treatment. All of these approaches are believed to contribute to more personalized anti-cancer therapy.

Detection and repair of ionizing radiation-induced DNA double strand breaks: new developments in nonhomologous end joining

DNA damage can occur as a result of endogenous metabolic reactions and replication stress or from exogenous sources such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy. DNA double strand breaks are the most cytotoxic form of DNA damage, and defects in their repair can result in genome instability, a hallmark of cancer. The major pathway for the repair of ionizing radiation-induced DSBs in human cells is nonhomologous end joining. Here we review recent advances on the mechanism of nonhomologous end joining, as well as new findings on its component proteins and regulation.

Inhibition of ERK activation enhances the repair of double-stranded breaks via non-homologous end joining by increasing DNA-PKcs activation

Non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) is one of the major pathways that repairs double-stranded DNA breaks (DSBs). Activation of DNA-PK is required for NHEJ. However, the mechanism leading to DNA-PKcs activation remains incompletely understood. We provide evidence here that the MEK-ERK pathway plays a role in DNA-PKcs-mediated NHEJ. In comparison to the vehicle control (DMSO), etoposide (ETOP)-induced DSBs in MCF7 cells were more rapidly repaired in the presence of U0126, a specific MEK inhibitor, based on the reduction of γH2AX and tail moments. Additionally, U0126 increased reactivation of luciferase activity, which resulted from the repair of restriction enzyme-cleaved DSBs. Furthermore, while inhibition of ERK activation using the dominant-negative MEK1K97M accelerated the repair of DSBs, enforcing ERK activation with the constitutively active MEK1Q56P reduced DSB repair. In line with MEK activating ERK1 and ERK2 kinases, knockdown of either ERK1 or ERK2 increased DSB repair. Consistent with the activation of DNA-PKcs being required for NHEJ, we demonstrated that inhibition of ERK activation using U0126, MEK1K97M, and knockdown of ERK1 or ERK2 enhanced ETOP-induced activation of DNA-PKcs. Conversely, enforcing ERK activation by MEK1Q56P reduced ETOP-initiated DNA-PKcs activation. Taken together, we demonstrate that ERK reduces NHEJ-mediated repair of DSBs via attenuation of DNA-PKcs activation.

Reversion of the ErbB malignant phenotype and the DNA damage response

The ErbB or HER family is a group of membrane bound tyrosine kinase receptors that initiate signal transduction cascades, which are critical to a wide range of biological processes. When over-expressed or mutated, members of this kinase family form homomeric or heteromeric kinase assemblies that are involved in certain human malignancies. Targeted therapy evolved from studies showing that monoclonal antibodies to the ectodomain of ErbB2/neu would reverse the malignant phenotype. Unfortunately, tumors develop resistance to targeted therapies even when coupled with genotoxic insults such as radiation. Radiation treatment predominantly induces double strand DNA breaks, which, if not repaired, are potentially lethal to the cell. Some tumors are resistant to radiation treatment because they effectively repair double strand breaks. We and others have shown that even in the presence of ionizing radiation, active ErbB kinase signaling apparently enhances the repair process, such that transformed cells resist genotoxic signal induced cell death. We review here the current understanding of ErbB signaling and DNA double strand break repair. Some studies have identified a mechanism by which DNA damage is coordinated to assemblies of proteins that associate with SUN domain containing proteins. These assemblies represent a new target for therapy of resistant tumor cells.