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Gong H, Xue B, Ru J, Pei G, Li Y. Targeted Therapy for EWS-FLI1 in Ewing Sarcoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4035. [PMID: 37627063 PMCID: PMC10452796 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15164035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma (EwS) is a rare and predominantly pediatric malignancy of bone and soft tissue in children and adolescents. Although international collaborations have greatly improved the prognosis of most EwS, the occurrence of macrometastases or relapse remains challenging. The prototypic oncogene EWS-FLI1 acts as an aberrant transcription factor that drives the cellular transformation of EwS. In addition to its involvement in RNA splicing and the DNA damage response, this chimeric protein directly binds to GGAA repeats, thereby modifying the transcriptional profile of EwS. Direct pharmacological targeting of EWS-FLI1 is difficult because of its intrinsically disordered structure. However, targeting the EWS-FLI1 protein complex or downstream pathways provides additional therapeutic options. This review describes the EWS-FLI1 protein partners and downstream pathways, as well as the related target therapies for the treatment of EwS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helong Gong
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, No. 36 Sanhao Street, Heping District, Shenyang 110004, China;
| | - Busheng Xue
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710061, China;
| | - Jinlong Ru
- Institute of Virology, Helmholtz Centre Munich, German Research Centre for Environmental Health, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany;
| | - Guoqing Pei
- Department of Orthopedics, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an 710032, China;
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, No. 36 Sanhao Street, Heping District, Shenyang 110004, China;
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2
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Kim H, Park H, Schulz ET, Azuma Y, Azuma M. EWSR1 prevents the induction of aneuploidy through direct regulation of Aurora B. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:987153. [PMID: 36875767 PMCID: PMC9975954 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.987153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
EWSR1 (Ewing sarcoma breakpoint region 1) was originally identified as a part of an aberrant EWSR1/FLI1 fusion gene in Ewing sarcoma, the second most common pediatric bone cancer. Due to formation of the EWSR1/FLI1 fusion gene in the tumor genome, the cell loses one wild type EWSR1 allele. Our previous study demonstrated that the loss of ewsr1a (homologue of human EWSR1) in zebrafish leads to the high incidence of mitotic dysfunction, of aneuploidy, and of tumorigenesis in the tp53 mutant background. To dissect the molecular function of EWSR1, we successfully established a stable DLD-1 cell line that enables a conditional knockdown of EWSR1 using an Auxin Inducible Degron (AID) system. When both EWSR1 genes of DLD-1 cell were tagged with mini-AID at its 5'-end using a CRISPR/Cas9 system, treatment of the (AID-EWSR1/AID-EWSR1) DLD-1 cells with a plant-based Auxin (AUX) led to the significant levels of degradation of AID-EWSR1 proteins. During anaphase, the EWSR1 knockdown (AUX+) cells displayed higher incidence of lagging chromosomes compared to the control (AUX-) cells. This defect was proceeded by a lower incidence of the localization of Aurora B at inner centromeres, and by a higher incidence of the protein at Kinetochore proximal centromere compared to the control cells during pro/metaphase. Despite these defects, the EWSR1 knockdown cells did not undergo mitotic arrest, suggesting that the cell lacks the error correction mechanism. Significantly, the EWSR1 knockdown (AUX+) cells induced higher incidence of aneuploidy compared to the control (AUX-) cells. Since our previous study demonstrated that EWSR1 interacts with the key mitotic kinase, Aurora B, we generated replacement lines of EWSR1-mCherry and EWSR1:R565A-mCherry (a mutant that has low affinity for Aurora B) in the (AID-EWSR1/AID-EWSR1) DLD-1 cells. The EWSR1-mCherry rescued the high incidence of aneuploidy of EWSR1 knockdown cells, whereas EWSR1-mCherry:R565A failed to rescue the phenotype. Together, we demonstrate that EWSR1 prevents the induction of lagging chromosomes, and of aneuploidy through the interaction with Aurora B.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Mizuki Azuma
- Molecular Biosciences, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, United States
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3
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Vital T, Wali A, Butler KV, Xiong Y, Foster JP, Marcel SS, McFadden AW, Nguyen VU, Bailey BM, Lamb KN, James LI, Frye SV, Mosely AL, Jin J, Pattenden SG, Davis IJ. MS0621, a novel small-molecule modulator of Ewing sarcoma chromatin accessibility, interacts with an RNA-associated macromolecular complex and influences RNA splicing. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1099550. [PMID: 36793594 PMCID: PMC9924231 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1099550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma is a cancer of children and young adults characterized by the critical translocation-associated fusion oncoprotein EWSR1::FLI1. EWSR1::FLI1 targets characteristic genetic loci where it mediates aberrant chromatin and the establishment of de novo enhancers. Ewing sarcoma thus provides a model to interrogate mechanisms underlying chromatin dysregulation in tumorigenesis. Previously, we developed a high-throughput chromatin-based screening platform based on the de novo enhancers and demonstrated its utility in identifying small molecules capable of altering chromatin accessibility. Here, we report the identification of MS0621, a molecule with previously uncharacterized mechanism of action, as a small molecule modulator of chromatin state at sites of aberrant chromatin accessibility at EWSR1::FLI1-bound loci. MS0621 suppresses cellular proliferation of Ewing sarcoma cell lines by cell cycle arrest. Proteomic studies demonstrate that MS0621 associates with EWSR1::FLI1, RNA binding and splicing proteins, as well as chromatin regulatory proteins. Surprisingly, interactions with chromatin and many RNA-binding proteins, including EWSR1::FLI1 and its known interactors, were RNA-independent. Our findings suggest that MS0621 affects EWSR1::FLI1-mediated chromatin activity by interacting with and altering the activity of RNA splicing machinery and chromatin modulating factors. Genetic modulation of these proteins similarly inhibits proliferation and alters chromatin in Ewing sarcoma cells. The use of an oncogene-associated chromatin signature as a target allows for a direct approach to screen for unrecognized modulators of epigenetic machinery and provides a framework for using chromatin-based assays for future therapeutic discovery efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Vital
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Aminah Wali
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Kyle V. Butler
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Department of Neuroscience, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Yan Xiong
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Department of Neuroscience, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Joseph P. Foster
- Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Curriculum in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Shelsa S. Marcel
- Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Curriculum in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Andrew W. McFadden
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Valerie U. Nguyen
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Benton M. Bailey
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Kelsey N. Lamb
- Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Lindsey I. James
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Stephen V. Frye
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Amber L. Mosely
- Indiana University Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Jian Jin
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
- Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Department of Neuroscience, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Samantha G. Pattenden
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Ian J. Davis
- Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
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4
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Molnar C, Reina J, Herrero A, Heinen JP, Méndiz V, Bonnal S, Irimia M, Sánchez-Jiménez M, Sánchez-Molina S, Mora J, Gonzalez C. Human EWS-FLI protein recapitulates in Drosophila the neomorphic functions that induce Ewing sarcoma tumorigenesis. PNAS NEXUS 2022; 1:pgac222. [PMID: 36714878 PMCID: PMC9802468 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgac222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma (EwS) is a human malignant tumor typically driven by the Ewing sarcoma-Friend leukemia integration (EWS-FLI) fusion protein. A paucity of genetically modified animal models, partially owed to the high toxicity of EWS-FLI, hinders research on EwS. Here, we report a spontaneous mutant variant, EWS-FLI1FS, that circumvents the toxicity issue in Drosophila. Through proteomic and genomic analyses, we show that human EWS-FLI1FS interacts with the Drosophila homologues of EWS-FLI human protein partners, including core subunits of chromatin remodeling complexes, the transcription machinery, and the spliceosome; brings about a massive dysregulation of transcription that affects a significant fraction of known targets of EWS-FLI in human cells; and modulates splicing. We also show that EWS-FLI1FS performs in Drosophila the two major neomorphic activities that it is known to have in human cells: activation of transcription from GGAA microsatellites and out competition of ETS transcription factors. We conclude that EWS-FLI1FS reproduces in Drosophila the known oncogenic activities of EWS-FLI that drive EwS tumorigenesis in humans. These results open up an unprecedented opportunity to investigate EWS-FLI's oncogenic pathways in vivo in a genetically tractable organism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Molnar
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Carrer Baldiri Reixac 10, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jose Reina
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Carrer Baldiri Reixac 10, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anastasia Herrero
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Carrer Baldiri Reixac 10, 08028 Barcelona, Spain,Developmental Tumor Biology Laboratory, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jan Peter Heinen
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Carrer Baldiri Reixac 10, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Victoria Méndiz
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Carrer Baldiri Reixac 10, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sophie Bonnal
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08003 Barcelona, Spain,Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), 08002 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manuel Irimia
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08003 Barcelona, Spain,Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), 08002 Barcelona, Spain,Institucio Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Pg Lluis Companys 23, 08010 Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Sánchez-Jiménez
- Developmental Tumor Biology Laboratory, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat 08950 Barcelona, Spain,Pediatric Cancer Center Barcelona (PCCB), Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sara Sánchez-Molina
- Developmental Tumor Biology Laboratory, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat 08950 Barcelona, Spain,Pediatric Cancer Center Barcelona (PCCB), Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jaume Mora
- To whom correspondence should be addressed:
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5
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Zhang T, Wang Z, Liu M, Liu L, Yang X, Zhang Y, Bie J, Li Y, Ren M, Song C, Wang W, Tan H, Luo J. Acetylation dependent translocation of EWSR1 regulates CHK2 alternative splicing in response to DNA damage. Oncogene 2022; 41:3694-3704. [PMID: 35732801 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-022-02383-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma breakpoint region 1 (EWSR1) is a member of FET (FUS/EWSR1/TAF15) RNA-binding family of proteins. The Ewing sarcoma oncoprotein EWS-FLI1 has been extensively studied, while much less is known about EWSR1 itself, especially the potential role of EWSR1 in response to DNA damage. Here, we found that UV irradiation induces acetylation of EWSR1, which is required for its nucleoli translocation. We identified K423, K432, K438, K640, and K643 as the major acetylation sites, p300/CBP and HDAC3/HDAC10 as the major acetyltransferases and deacetylases, respectively. Mechanically, UV-induced EWSR1 acetylation repressed its interaction with spliceosomal component U1C, which caused abnormal splicing of CHK2, suppressing the activity of CHK2 in response to UV irradiation. Taken together, our findings uncover acetylation as a novel regulatory modification of EWSR1, and is essential for its function in DNA damage response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianzhuo Zhang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Center for Medical Genetics, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China.,Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Protein Posttranslational Modifications and Cell Function, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Zhe Wang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Center for Medical Genetics, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Minghui Liu
- Department of Medical Genetics, Center for Medical Genetics, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Lu Liu
- Department of Medical Genetics, Center for Medical Genetics, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Xin Yang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Center for Medical Genetics, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Center for Medical Genetics, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Juntao Bie
- Department of Medical Genetics, Center for Medical Genetics, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yutong Li
- Department of Medical Genetics, Center for Medical Genetics, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Mengmeng Ren
- Department of Medical Genetics, Center for Medical Genetics, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Chen Song
- Department of Medical Genetics, Center for Medical Genetics, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Wengong Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Protein Posttranslational Modifications and Cell Function, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Hongyu Tan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Key laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, 100142, China.
| | - Jianyuan Luo
- Department of Medical Genetics, Center for Medical Genetics, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China. .,Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Protein Posttranslational Modifications and Cell Function, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China.
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6
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Rovira E, Moreno B, Razquin N, Hjerpe R, Gonzalez-Lopez M, Barrio R, Ruiz de los Mozos I, Ule J, Pastor F, Blazquez L, Fortes P. U1A is a positive regulator of the expression of heterologous and cellular genes involved in cell proliferation and migration. MOLECULAR THERAPY - NUCLEIC ACIDS 2022; 28:831-846. [PMID: 35664701 PMCID: PMC9136276 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2022.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Here, we show that direct recruitment of U1A to target transcripts can increase gene expression. This is a new regulatory role, in addition to previous knowledge showing that U1A decreases the levels of U1A mRNA and other specific targets. In fact, genome-wide, U1A more often increases rather than represses gene expression and many U1A-upregulated transcripts are directly bound by U1A according to individual nucleotide resolution crosslinking and immunoprecipitation (iCLIP) studies. Interestingly, U1A-mediated positive regulation can be transferred to a heterologous system for biotechnological purposes. Finally, U1A-bound genes are enriched for those involved in cell cycle and adhesion. In agreement with this, higher U1A mRNA expression associates with lower disease-free survival and overall survival in many cancer types, and U1A mRNA levels positively correlate with those of some oncogenes involved in cell proliferation. Accordingly, U1A depletion leads to decreased expression of these genes and the migration-related gene CCN2/CTGF, which shows the strongest regulation by U1A. A decrease in U1A causes a strong drop in CCN2 expression and CTGF secretion and defects in the expression of CTGF EMT targets, cell migration, and proliferation. These results support U1A as a putative therapeutic target for cancer treatment. In addition, U1A-binding sequences should be considered in biotechnological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Rovira
- Department of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra (UNAV), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Beatriz Moreno
- Department of Molecular Therapy, Aptamer Unit, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra (UNAV), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Nerea Razquin
- Department of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra (UNAV), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Roland Hjerpe
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Cooperative Research in Biosciences (CIC bioGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia Technology Park, Building 801A, 48160 Derio, Spain
| | - Monika Gonzalez-Lopez
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Cooperative Research in Biosciences (CIC bioGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia Technology Park, Building 801A, 48160 Derio, Spain
| | - Rosa Barrio
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Cooperative Research in Biosciences (CIC bioGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia Technology Park, Building 801A, 48160 Derio, Spain
| | - Igor Ruiz de los Mozos
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Institute of Neurology, UCL, WC1B5EH London, UK
- RNA Networks Lab, The Francis Crick Institute, NW11BF London, UK
| | - Jernej Ule
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Institute of Neurology, UCL, WC1B5EH London, UK
- RNA Networks Lab, The Francis Crick Institute, NW11BF London, UK
| | - Fernando Pastor
- Department of Molecular Therapy, Aptamer Unit, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra (UNAV), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Lorea Blazquez
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Institute of Neurology, UCL, WC1B5EH London, UK
- RNA Networks Lab, The Francis Crick Institute, NW11BF London, UK
- Neurosciences Area, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, 20014 San Sebastian, Spain
- Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, 48009 Bilbao, Spain
- Corresponding author. Lorea Blazquez, Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Institute of Neurology, UCL, WC1B5EH London, UK.
| | - Puri Fortes
- Department of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra (UNAV), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Liver and Digestive Diseases Networking Biomedical Research Centre (CIBERehd), Spain
- Spanish Network for Advanced Therapies (TERAV ISCIII), Spain
- Corresponding author. Puri Fortes, Neurosciences Area, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, 20014 San Sebastian, Spain.
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7
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Verdile V, Svetoni F, La Rosa P, Ferrante G, Cesari E, Sette C, Paronetto M. EWS splicing regulation contributes to balancing Foxp1 isoforms required for neuronal differentiation. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:3362-3378. [PMID: 35253879 PMCID: PMC8989529 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Alternative splicing is a key regulatory process underlying the amplification of genomic information and the expansion of proteomic diversity, particularly in brain. Here, we identify the Ewing sarcoma protein (EWS) as a new player of alternative splicing regulation during neuronal differentiation. Knockdown of EWS in neuronal progenitor cells leads to premature differentiation. Transcriptome profiling of EWS-depleted cells revealed global changes in splicing regulation. Bioinformatic analyses and biochemical experiments demonstrated that EWS regulates alternative exons in a position-dependent fashion. Notably, several EWS-regulated splicing events are physiologically modulated during neuronal differentiation and EWS depletion in neuronal precursors anticipates the splicing-pattern of mature neurons. Among other targets, we found that EWS controls the alternative splicing of the forkhead family transcription factor FOXP1, a pivotal transcriptional regulator of neuronal differentiation, possibly contributing to the switch of gene expression underlying the neuronal differentiation program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Verdile
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome “Foro Italico”, Piazza Lauro de Bosis 6, 00135 Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via del Fosso di Fiorano, 64, 00143 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Svetoni
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via del Fosso di Fiorano, 64, 00143 Rome, Italy
| | - Piergiorgio La Rosa
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via del Fosso di Fiorano, 64, 00143 Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriele Ferrante
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via del Fosso di Fiorano, 64, 00143 Rome, Italy
| | - Eleonora Cesari
- GSTEP-Organoids Core Facility, IRCCS Fondazione Policlinico Agostino Gemelli, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Sette
- GSTEP-Organoids Core Facility, IRCCS Fondazione Policlinico Agostino Gemelli, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Section of Human Anatomy, Catholic University of the Sacred Hearth, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Paronetto
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome “Foro Italico”, Piazza Lauro de Bosis 6, 00135 Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via del Fosso di Fiorano, 64, 00143 Rome, Italy
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8
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Korsching E, Matschke J, Hotfilder M. Splice variants denote differences between a cancer stem cell side population of EWSR1‑ERG‑based Ewing sarcoma cells, its main population and EWSR1‑FLI‑based cells. Int J Mol Med 2022; 49:39. [PMID: 35088879 PMCID: PMC8815407 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2022.5094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma is a challenging cancer entity, which, besides the characteristic presence of a fusion gene, is driven by multiple alternative splicing events. So far, splice variants in Ewing sarcoma cells were mainly analyzed for EWSR1‑FLI1. The present study provided a comprehensive alternative splicing study on CADO‑ES1, an Ewing model cell line for an EWSR1‑ERG fusion gene. Based on a well‑-characterized RNA‑sequencing dataset with extensive control mechanisms across all levels of analysis, the differential spliced genes in Ewing cancer stem cells were ATP13A3 and EPB41, while the main population was defined by ACADVL, NOP58 and TSPAN3. All alternatively spliced genes were further characterized by their Gene Ontology (GO) terms and by their membership in known protein complexes. These results confirm and extend previous studies towards a systematic whole‑transcriptome analysis. A highlight is the striking segregation of GO terms associated with five basic splice events. This mechanistic insight, together with a coherent integration of all observations with prior knowledge, indicates that EWSR1‑ERG is truly a close twin to EWSR1‑FLI1, but still exhibits certain individuality. Thus, the present study provided a measure of variability in Ewing sarcoma, whose understanding is essential both for clinical procedures and basic mechanistic insight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eberhard Korsching
- Institute of Bioinformatics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Münster, D‑48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Julian Matschke
- Institute of Bioinformatics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Münster, D‑48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Marc Hotfilder
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Hospital Münster, D‑48149 Münster, Germany
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9
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Flores G, Grohar PJ. One oncogene, several vulnerabilities: EWS/FLI targeted therapies for Ewing sarcoma. J Bone Oncol 2021; 31:100404. [PMID: 34976713 PMCID: PMC8686064 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbo.2021.100404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
EWS/FLI is the defining mutation of Ewing sarcoma. This oncogene drives malignant transformation and progression and occurs in a genetic background characterized by few other recurrent cooperating mutations. In addition, the tumor is absolutely dependent on the continued expression of EWS/FLI to maintain the malignant phenotype. However, EWS/FLI is a transcription factor and therefore a challenging drug target. The difficulty of directly targeting EWS/FLI stems from unique features of this fusion protein as well as the network of interacting proteins required to execute the transcriptional program. This network includes interacting proteins as well as upstream and downstream effectors that together reprogram the epigenome and transcriptome. While the vast number of proteins involved in this process challenge the development of a highly specific inhibitors, they also yield numerous therapeutic opportunities. In this report, we will review how this vast EWS-FLI transcriptional network has been exploited over the last two decades to identify compounds that directly target EWS/FLI and/or associated vulnerabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillermo Flores
- Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
- Michigan State University, College of Human Medicine, USA
| | - Patrick J Grohar
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, 3501 Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA, USA
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10
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Zhang KL, Zhou JL, Yang JF, Zhao YZ, Das D, Hao GF, Wu C, Zhang J, Zhu FY, Chen MX, Zhou SM. Phylogenetic Comparison and Splicing Analysis of the U1 snRNP-specific Protein U1C in Eukaryotes. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:696319. [PMID: 34568424 PMCID: PMC8458698 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.696319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
As a pivotal regulator of 5’ splice site recognition, U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (U1 snRNP)-specific protein C (U1C) regulates pre-mRNA splicing by interacting with other components of the U1 snRNP complex. Previous studies have shown that U1 snRNP and its components are linked to a variety of diseases, including cancer. However, the phylogenetic relationships and expression profiles of U1C have not been studied systematically. To this end, we identified a total of 110 animal U1C genes and compared them to homologues from yeast and plants. Bioinformatics analysis shows that the structure and function of U1C proteins is relatively conserved and is found in multiple copies in a few members of the U1C gene family. Furthermore, the expression patterns reveal that U1Cs have potential roles in cancer progression and human development. In summary, our study presents a comprehensive overview of the animal U1C gene family, which can provide fundamental data and potential cues for further research in deciphering the molecular function of this splicing regulator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Lu Zhang
- Division of Gastroenterology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, College of Biology and the Environment, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China.,State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, College of Life Science, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, China
| | - Jian-Li Zhou
- Division of Gastroenterology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jing-Fang Yang
- Key Laboratory of Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu-Zhen Zhao
- Division of Gastroenterology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Debatosh Das
- Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, and State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR China
| | - Ge-Fei Hao
- Key Laboratory of Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, China
| | - Caie Wu
- College of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jianhua Zhang
- Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, and State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR China
| | - Fu-Yuan Zhu
- Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, College of Biology and the Environment, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
| | - Mo-Xian Chen
- Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, College of Biology and the Environment, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shao-Ming Zhou
- Division of Gastroenterology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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11
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Abstract
Herculean efforts by the Wellcome Sanger Institute, the National Cancer Institute, and the National Human Genome Research Institute to sequence thousands of tumors representing all major cancer types have yielded more than 700 genes that contribute to neoplastic growth when mutated, amplified, or deleted. While some of these genes (now included in the COSMIC Cancer Gene Census) encode proteins previously identified in hypothesis-driven experiments (oncogenic transcription factors, protein kinases, etc.), additional classes of cancer drivers have emerged, perhaps none more surprisingly than RNA-binding proteins (RBPs). Over 40 RBPs responsible for virtually all aspects of RNA metabolism, from synthesis to degradation, are recurrently mutated in cancer, and just over a dozen are considered major cancer drivers. This Review investigates whether and how their RNA-binding activities pertain to their oncogenic functions. Focusing on several well-characterized steps in RNA metabolism, we demonstrate that for virtually all cancer-driving RBPs, RNA processing activities are either abolished (the loss-of-function phenotype) or carried out with low fidelity (the LoFi phenotype). Conceptually, this suggests that in normal cells, RBPs act as gatekeepers maintaining proper RNA metabolism and the "balanced" proteome. From the practical standpoint, at least some LoFi phenotypes create therapeutic vulnerabilities, which are beginning to be exploited in the clinic.
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12
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Saulnier O, Guedri-Idjouadiene K, Aynaud MM, Chakraborty A, Bruyr J, Pineau J, O'Grady T, Mirabeau O, Grossetête S, Galvan B, Claes M, Al Oula Hassoun Z, Sadacca B, Laud K, Zaïdi S, Surdez D, Baulande S, Rambout X, Tirode F, Dutertre M, Delattre O, Dequiedt F. ERG transcription factors have a splicing regulatory function involving RBFOX2 that is altered in the EWS-FLI1 oncogenic fusion. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 49:5038-5056. [PMID: 34009296 PMCID: PMC8136815 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
ERG family proteins (ERG, FLI1 and FEV) are a subfamily of ETS transcription factors with key roles in physiology and development. In Ewing sarcoma, the oncogenic fusion protein EWS-FLI1 regulates both transcription and alternative splicing of pre-messenger RNAs. However, whether wild-type ERG family proteins might regulate splicing is unknown. Here, we show that wild-type ERG proteins associate with spliceosomal components, are found on nascent RNAs, and induce alternative splicing when recruited onto a reporter minigene. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that ERG and FLI1 regulate large numbers of alternative spliced exons (ASEs) enriched with RBFOX2 motifs and co-regulated by this splicing factor. ERG and FLI1 are associated with RBFOX2 via their conserved carboxy-terminal domain, which is present in EWS-FLI1. Accordingly, EWS-FLI1 is also associated with RBFOX2 and regulates ASEs enriched in RBFOX2 motifs. However, in contrast to wild-type ERG and FLI1, EWS-FLI1 often antagonizes RBFOX2 effects on exon inclusion. In particular, EWS-FLI1 reduces RBFOX2 binding to the ADD3 pre-mRNA, thus increasing its long isoform, which represses the mesenchymal phenotype of Ewing sarcoma cells. Our findings reveal a RBFOX2-mediated splicing regulatory function of wild-type ERG family proteins, that is altered in EWS-FLI1 and contributes to the Ewing sarcoma cell phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Saulnier
- INSERM U830, Équipe Labellisée LNCC, PSL Research University, SIREDO Oncology Centre, Institut Curie, 75005 Paris, France.,Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, F-75013 Paris, France
| | - Katia Guedri-Idjouadiene
- University of Liège, Interdisciplinary Cluster for Applied Genoproteomics (GIGA), Liège, Belgium.,University of Liège, GIGA-Molecular Biology of Diseases, Liège, Belgium
| | - Marie-Ming Aynaud
- INSERM U830, Équipe Labellisée LNCC, PSL Research University, SIREDO Oncology Centre, Institut Curie, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Alina Chakraborty
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, CNRS UMR3348, INSERM U1278, F-91405 Orsay, France.,Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS UMR3348, INSERM U1278, F-91405 Orsay, France.,Équipe Labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, F-91405 Orsay, France
| | - Jonathan Bruyr
- University of Liège, Interdisciplinary Cluster for Applied Genoproteomics (GIGA), Liège, Belgium.,University of Liège, GIGA-Molecular Biology of Diseases, Liège, Belgium
| | - Joséphine Pineau
- INSERM U830, Équipe Labellisée LNCC, PSL Research University, SIREDO Oncology Centre, Institut Curie, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Tina O'Grady
- University of Liège, Interdisciplinary Cluster for Applied Genoproteomics (GIGA), Liège, Belgium.,University of Liège, GIGA-Molecular Biology of Diseases, Liège, Belgium
| | - Olivier Mirabeau
- INSERM U830, Équipe Labellisée LNCC, PSL Research University, SIREDO Oncology Centre, Institut Curie, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Sandrine Grossetête
- INSERM U830, Équipe Labellisée LNCC, PSL Research University, SIREDO Oncology Centre, Institut Curie, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Bartimée Galvan
- University of Liège, Interdisciplinary Cluster for Applied Genoproteomics (GIGA), Liège, Belgium.,University of Liège, GIGA-Molecular Biology of Diseases, Liège, Belgium
| | - Margaux Claes
- University of Liège, Interdisciplinary Cluster for Applied Genoproteomics (GIGA), Liège, Belgium.,University of Liège, GIGA-Molecular Biology of Diseases, Liège, Belgium
| | - Zahra Al Oula Hassoun
- University of Liège, Interdisciplinary Cluster for Applied Genoproteomics (GIGA), Liège, Belgium.,University of Liège, GIGA-Molecular Biology of Diseases, Liège, Belgium
| | - Benjamin Sadacca
- INSERM U932, RT2Lab Team, Translational Research Department, PSL Research University, Institut Curie, F-75005 Paris, France.,CNRS UMR5219, Institut de Mathématiques de Toulouse; Université de Toulouse; F-31062 Toulouse, France
| | - Karine Laud
- INSERM U830, Équipe Labellisée LNCC, PSL Research University, SIREDO Oncology Centre, Institut Curie, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Sakina Zaïdi
- INSERM U830, Équipe Labellisée LNCC, PSL Research University, SIREDO Oncology Centre, Institut Curie, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Didier Surdez
- INSERM U830, Équipe Labellisée LNCC, PSL Research University, SIREDO Oncology Centre, Institut Curie, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Sylvain Baulande
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, NGS Platform, 26 rue d'Ulm, F-75005 Paris, France
| | - Xavier Rambout
- University of Liège, Interdisciplinary Cluster for Applied Genoproteomics (GIGA), Liège, Belgium.,University of Liège, GIGA-Molecular Biology of Diseases, Liège, Belgium
| | - Franck Tirode
- Claude Bernard University Lyon 1, INSERM 1052, CNRS 5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Lyon University, Lyon, France
| | - Martin Dutertre
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, CNRS UMR3348, INSERM U1278, F-91405 Orsay, France.,Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS UMR3348, INSERM U1278, F-91405 Orsay, France.,Équipe Labellisée Ligue Nationale Contre le Cancer, F-91405 Orsay, France
| | - Olivier Delattre
- INSERM U830, Équipe Labellisée LNCC, PSL Research University, SIREDO Oncology Centre, Institut Curie, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Franck Dequiedt
- University of Liège, Interdisciplinary Cluster for Applied Genoproteomics (GIGA), Liège, Belgium.,University of Liège, GIGA-Molecular Biology of Diseases, Liège, Belgium
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13
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Tian H, Petkov PM. Mouse EWSR1 is crucial for spermatid post-meiotic transcription and spermiogenesis. Development 2021; 148:269056. [PMID: 34100066 DOI: 10.1242/dev.199414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is precisely controlled by complex gene-expression programs. During mammalian male germ-cell development, a crucial feature is the repression of transcription before spermatid elongation. Previously, we discovered that the RNA-binding protein EWSR1 plays an important role in meiotic recombination in mouse, and showed that EWSR1 is highly expressed in late meiotic cells and post-meiotic cells. Here, we used an Ewsr1 pachytene stage-specific knockout mouse model to study the roles of Ewsr1 in late meiotic prophase I and in spermatozoa maturation. We show that loss of EWSR1 in late meiotic prophase I does not affect proper meiosis completion, but does result in defective spermatid elongation and chromocenter formation in the developing germ cells. As a result, male mice lacking EWSR1 after pachynema are sterile. We found that, in Ewsr1 CKO round spermatids, transition from a meiotic gene-expression program to a post-meiotic and spermatid gene expression program related to DNA condensation is impaired, suggesting that EWSR1 plays an important role in regulation of spermiogenesis-related mRNA synthesis necessary for spermatid differentiation into mature sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Tian
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
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14
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Conn E, Hour S, Allegakoen D, Graham G, Petro J, Kouassi-Brou M, Hong SH, Selvanathan S, Çelik H, Toretsky J, Üren A. Development of an Ewing sarcoma cell line with resistance to EWS‑FLI1 inhibitor YK‑4‑279. Mol Med Rep 2020; 21:1667-1675. [PMID: 32016454 PMCID: PMC8371434 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2020.10948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite Ewing sarcoma (ES) being the second most common pediatric malignancy of bone and soft tissue, few novel therapeutic approaches have been introduced over the past few decades. ES contains a pathognomonic chromosomal translocation that leads to a fusion protein between EWSR1 and an ets family member, most often FLI1. EWS‑FLI1 is the most common type of fusion protein and is a well‑vetted therapeutic target. A small molecule inhibitor of EWS‑FLI1, YK‑4‑279 (YK) was developed with the intention to serve as a targeted therapy option for patients with ES. The present study investigated resistance mechanisms by developing an ES cell line specifically resistant to YK. The ES cell line A4573 was treated with YK to create resistant cells by long term continuous exposure. The results revealed that resistance in A4573 was robust and sustainable, with a >27‑fold increase in IC50 lasting up to 16 weeks in the absence of the compound. Resistant ES cells were still sensitive to standard of care drugs, including doxorubicin, vincristine and etoposide, which may be valuable in future combination treatments in the clinic. Resistant ES cells revealed an increased expression of CD99. RNA sequencing and qPCR validation of resistant ES cells confirmed an increased expression of ANO1, BRSK2 and IGSF21, and a reduced expression of COL24A1, PRSS23 and RAB38 genes. A functional association between these genes and mechanism of resistance remains to be investigated. The present study created a cell line to investigate YK resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Conn
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Sarah Hour
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - David Allegakoen
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Garrett Graham
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Jeff Petro
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Marilyn Kouassi-Brou
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Sung Hyeok Hong
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Saravana Selvanathan
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Haydar Çelik
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Jeffrey Toretsky
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Aykut Üren
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
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15
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Benini S, Gamberi G, Cocchi S, Righi A, Frisoni T, Longhi A, Gambarotti M. Identification of a novel fusion transcript EWSR1-VEZF1 by anchored multiplex PCR in malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor. Pathol Res Pract 2019; 216:152760. [PMID: 31812440 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2019.152760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the study is to describe a novel genetic finding examining the molecular and pathological features of a case of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor occurring in the thigh of a 17-year-old male. Fusion gene detection using a next-generation sequencing-based anchored multiplex PCR technique (Archer FusionPlex Sarcoma Panel) was used to identify the novel fusion of EWSR1-VEZF1 from the frozen tumor sample. EWSR1-VEZF1 fusion is a novel molecular gene rearrangement involving exon 8 of the EWSR1 gene and exon 2 of the VEZF1 gene. Data were validated with gene sequencing and fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis. This case report describes a novel rearrangement involving EWSR1 on chromosome 22 and VEZF1 on chromosome 17. The result obtained demonstrates the value of the next-generation sequencing-based anchored multiplex PCR technique (Archer FusionPlex Sarcoma Panel) both in diagnosis and patient care and might become a helpful diagnostic tool for this tumor type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Benini
- Department of Pathology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Gabriella Gamberi
- Department of Pathology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy; Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Science, University of Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefania Cocchi
- Department of Pathology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alberto Righi
- Department of Pathology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Tommaso Frisoni
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Science, University of Bologna, Italy; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alessandra Longhi
- Department of Chemotherapy, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marco Gambarotti
- Department of Pathology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
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16
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Selvanathan S, Graham G, Grego A, Baker T, Hogg J, Simpson M, Batish M, Crompton B, Stegmaier K, Tomazou E, Kovar H, Üren A, Toretsky J. EWS-FLI1 modulated alternative splicing of ARID1A reveals novel oncogenic function through the BAF complex. Nucleic Acids Res 2019; 47:9619-9636. [PMID: 31392992 PMCID: PMC6765149 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkz699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Revised: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Connections between epigenetic reprogramming and transcription or splicing create novel mechanistic networks that can be targeted with tailored therapies. Multiple subunits of the chromatin remodeling BAF complex, including ARID1A, play a role in oncogenesis, either as tumor suppressors or oncogenes. Recent work demonstrated that EWS-FLI1, the oncogenic driver of Ewing sarcoma (ES), plays a role in chromatin regulation through interactions with the BAF complex. However, the specific BAF subunits that interact with EWS-FLI1 and the precise role of the BAF complex in ES oncogenesis remain unknown. In addition to regulating transcription, EWS-FLI1 also alters the splicing of many mRNA isoforms, but the role of splicing modulation in ES oncogenesis is not well understood. We have identified a direct connection between the EWS-FLI1 protein and ARID1A isoform protein variant ARID1A-L. We demonstrate here that ARID1A-L is critical for ES maintenance and supports oncogenic transformation. We further report a novel feed-forward cycle in which EWS-FLI1 leads to preferential splicing of ARID1A-L, promoting ES growth, and ARID1A-L reciprocally promotes EWS-FLI1 protein stability. Dissecting this interaction may lead to improved cancer-specific drug targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saravana P Selvanathan
- Departments of Oncology and Pediatrics, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Garrett T Graham
- Departments of Oncology and Pediatrics, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Alexander R Grego
- Departments of Oncology and Pediatrics, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | | | - J Robert Hogg
- Biochemistry and Biophysics Center, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Mark Simpson
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Mona Batish
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
- Department of Medical and Molecular Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA
| | - Brian Crompton
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Kimberly Stegmaier
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Eleni M Tomazou
- Children's Cancer Research Institute, St. Anna Kinderkrebsforschung, Vienna, Austria
| | - Heinrich Kovar
- Children's Cancer Research Institute, St. Anna Kinderkrebsforschung, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Aykut Üren
- Departments of Oncology and Pediatrics, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Toretsky
- Departments of Oncology and Pediatrics, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
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17
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Kim J, Kim HS, Shim JJ, Lee J, Kim AY, Kim J. Critical role of the fibroblast growth factor signalling pathway in Ewing's sarcoma octamer-binding transcription factor 4-mediated cell proliferation and tumorigenesis. FEBS J 2019; 286:4443-4472. [PMID: 31155838 DOI: 10.1111/febs.14946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2018] [Revised: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 05/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Certain bone and soft tissue (BST) tumours harbour a chromosomal translocation [t(6;22)(p21;q12)], which fuses the Ewing's sarcoma (EWS) gene at 22q12 with the octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (Oct-4) gene at 6p21, resulting in the chimeric EWS-Oct-4 protein that possesses high transactivation ability. Although abnormal activation of signalling pathways can lead to human cancer development, the pathways underlying these processes in human BST tumours remain poorly explored. Here, we investigated the functional significance of fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signalling in human BST tumours. To identify the gene(s) involved in the FGF signalling pathway and potentially regulated by EWS-Oct-4 (also called EWS-POU5F1), we performed RNA-Seq analysis, electrophoretic mobility shift assays, chromatin immunoprecipitation assays, and xenograft assays. Treating GBS6 or ZHBTc4 cells-expressing EWS-Oct-4 with the small molecule FGF receptor (FGFR) inhibitors PD173074, NVPBGJ398, ponatinib, and dovitinib suppressed cellular proliferation. Gene expression analysis revealed that, among 22 Fgf and four Fgfr family members, Fgf-4 showed the highest upregulation (by 145-fold) in ZHBTc4 cells-expressing EWS-Oct-4. Computer-assisted analysis identified a putative EWS-Oct-4-binding site at +3017/+3024, suggesting that EWS-Oct-4 regulates Fgf-4 expression in human BST tumours. Fgf-4 enhancer constructs showed that EWS-Oct-4 transactivated the Fgf-4 gene reporter in vitro, and that overexpression of EWS-Oct-4 stimulated endogenous Fgf-4 gene expression in vivo. Finally, PD173074 significantly decreased tumour volume in mice. Taken together, these data suggest that FGF-4 signalling is involved in EWS-Oct-4-mediated tumorigenesis, and that its inhibition impairs tumour growth in vivo significantly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junghoon Kim
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Department of Life Science, Sogang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyo Sun Kim
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Department of Life Science, Sogang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jung-Jae Shim
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Department of Life Science, Sogang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jungwoon Lee
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Department of Life Science, Sogang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ah-Young Kim
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Department of Life Science, Sogang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jungho Kim
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Department of Life Science, Sogang University, Seoul, Korea
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18
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Baumann J, Ignashkova TI, Chirasani SR, Ramírez-Peinado S, Alborzinia H, Gendarme M, Kuhnigk K, Kramer V, Lindemann RK, Reiling JH. Golgi stress-induced transcriptional changes mediated by MAPK signaling and three ETS transcription factors regulate MCL1 splicing. Mol Biol Cell 2018; 29:42-52. [PMID: 29118074 PMCID: PMC5746065 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e17-06-0418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2017] [Revised: 10/11/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The secretory pathway is a major determinant of cellular homoeostasis. While research into secretory stress signaling has so far mostly focused on the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), emerging data suggest that the Golgi itself serves as an important signaling hub capable of initiating stress responses. To systematically identify novel Golgi stress mediators, we performed a transcriptomic analysis of cells exposed to three different pharmacological compounds known to elicit Golgi fragmentation: brefeldin A, golgicide A, and monensin. Subsequent gene-set enrichment analysis revealed a significant contribution of the ETS family transcription factors ELK1, GABPA/B, and ETS1 to the control of gene expression following compound treatment. Induction of Golgi stress leads to a late activation of the ETS upstream kinases MEK1/2 and ERK1/2, resulting in enhanced ETS factor activity and the transcription of ETS family target genes related to spliceosome function and cell death induction via alternate MCL1 splicing. Further genetic analyses using loss-of-function and gain-of-function experiments suggest that these transcription factors operate in parallel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Baumann
- BioMed X Innovation Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Kyra Kuhnigk
- BioMed X Innovation Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Ralph K Lindemann
- Translational Innovation Platform Oncology, Merck Biopharma, Merck KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Jan H Reiling
- BioMed X Innovation Center, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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Yau EH, Kummetha IR, Lichinchi G, Tang R, Zhang Y, Rana TM. Genome-Wide CRISPR Screen for Essential Cell Growth Mediators in Mutant KRAS Colorectal Cancers. Cancer Res 2017; 77:6330-6339. [PMID: 28954733 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-17-2043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2017] [Revised: 09/15/2017] [Accepted: 09/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Targeting mutant KRAS signaling pathways continues to attract attention as a therapeutic strategy for KRAS-driven tumors. In this study, we exploited the power of the CRISPR-Cas9 system to identify genes affecting the tumor xenograft growth of human mutant KRAS (KRASMUT) colorectal cancers. Using pooled lentiviral single-guide RNA libraries, we conducted a genome-wide loss-of-function genetic screen in an isogenic pair of human colorectal cancer cell lines harboring mutant or wild-type KRAS. The screen identified novel and established synthetic enhancers or synthetic lethals for KRASMUT colorectal cancer, including targetable metabolic genes. Notably, genetic disruption or pharmacologic inhibition of the metabolic enzymes NAD kinase or ketohexokinase was growth inhibitory in vivo In addition, the chromatin remodeling protein INO80C was identified as a novel tumor suppressor in KRASMUT colorectal and pancreatic tumor xenografts. Our findings define a novel targetable set of therapeutic targets for KRASMUT tumors. Cancer Res; 77(22); 6330-9. ©2017 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edwin H Yau
- Department of Pediatrics and Institute for Genomic Medicine, University of California San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, California.,Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, California.,Solid Tumor Therapeutics Program, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Indrasena Reddy Kummetha
- Department of Pediatrics and Institute for Genomic Medicine, University of California San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, California
| | - Gianluigi Lichinchi
- Department of Pediatrics and Institute for Genomic Medicine, University of California San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, California
| | - Rachel Tang
- Department of Pediatrics and Institute for Genomic Medicine, University of California San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, California
| | - Yunlin Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics and Institute for Genomic Medicine, University of California San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, California
| | - Tariq M Rana
- Department of Pediatrics and Institute for Genomic Medicine, University of California San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, California. .,Solid Tumor Therapeutics Program, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
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20
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Cai W, Xiong Chen Z, Rane G, Satendra Singh S, Choo Z, Wang C, Yuan Y, Zea Tan T, Arfuso F, Yap CT, Pongor LS, Yang H, Lee MB, Cher Goh B, Sethi G, Benoukraf T, Tergaonkar V, Prem Kumar A. Wanted DEAD/H or Alive: Helicases Winding Up in Cancers. J Natl Cancer Inst 2017; 109:2957323. [PMID: 28122908 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djw278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2016] [Revised: 09/08/2016] [Accepted: 10/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is one of the most studied areas of human biology over the past century. Despite having attracted much attention, hype, and investments, the search to find a cure for cancer remains an uphill battle. Recent discoveries that challenged the central dogma of molecular biology not only further increase the complexity but also demonstrate how various types of noncoding RNAs such as microRNA and long noncoding RNA, as well as their related processes such as RNA editing, are important in regulating gene expression. Parallel to this aspect, an increasing number of reports have focused on a family of proteins known as DEAD/H-box helicases involved in RNA metabolism, regulation of long and short noncoding RNAs, and novel roles as "editing helicases" and their association with cancers. This review summarizes recent findings on the roles of RNA helicases in various cancers, which are broadly classified into adult solid tumors, childhood solid tumors, leukemia, and cancer stem cells. The potential small molecule inhibitors of helicases and their therapeutic value are also discussed. In addition, analyzing next-generation sequencing data obtained from public portals and reviewing existing literature, we provide new insights on the potential of DEAD/H-box helicases to act as pharmacological drug targets in cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanpei Cai
- Affiliations of authors: Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore (WC, GR, SSS, CW, YY, TZT, HY, BCG, TB, APK); Departments of Pharmacology (WC, GR, SSS, CW, BCG, GS, APK), Physiology (ZXC, ZC, CTY), and Biochemistry (VT), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore (ZXC); Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory (FA), School of Biomedical Sciences (GS, APK), Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin Medical School (APK), Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; National University Cancer Institute, National University Health System, Singapore (CTY, BCG, APK); 2 Department of Pediatrics, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); MTA TTK Lendület Cancer Biomarker Research Group, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); Department of Renal Medicine (MBL) and Department of Haematology-Oncology (BCG), National University Health System, Singapore; Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore (VT); Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia (VT); Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX (APK)
| | - Zhi Xiong Chen
- Affiliations of authors: Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore (WC, GR, SSS, CW, YY, TZT, HY, BCG, TB, APK); Departments of Pharmacology (WC, GR, SSS, CW, BCG, GS, APK), Physiology (ZXC, ZC, CTY), and Biochemistry (VT), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore (ZXC); Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory (FA), School of Biomedical Sciences (GS, APK), Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin Medical School (APK), Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; National University Cancer Institute, National University Health System, Singapore (CTY, BCG, APK); 2 Department of Pediatrics, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); MTA TTK Lendület Cancer Biomarker Research Group, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); Department of Renal Medicine (MBL) and Department of Haematology-Oncology (BCG), National University Health System, Singapore; Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore (VT); Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia (VT); Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX (APK)
| | - Grishma Rane
- Affiliations of authors: Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore (WC, GR, SSS, CW, YY, TZT, HY, BCG, TB, APK); Departments of Pharmacology (WC, GR, SSS, CW, BCG, GS, APK), Physiology (ZXC, ZC, CTY), and Biochemistry (VT), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore (ZXC); Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory (FA), School of Biomedical Sciences (GS, APK), Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin Medical School (APK), Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; National University Cancer Institute, National University Health System, Singapore (CTY, BCG, APK); 2 Department of Pediatrics, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); MTA TTK Lendület Cancer Biomarker Research Group, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); Department of Renal Medicine (MBL) and Department of Haematology-Oncology (BCG), National University Health System, Singapore; Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore (VT); Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia (VT); Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX (APK)
| | - Shikha Satendra Singh
- Affiliations of authors: Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore (WC, GR, SSS, CW, YY, TZT, HY, BCG, TB, APK); Departments of Pharmacology (WC, GR, SSS, CW, BCG, GS, APK), Physiology (ZXC, ZC, CTY), and Biochemistry (VT), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore (ZXC); Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory (FA), School of Biomedical Sciences (GS, APK), Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin Medical School (APK), Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; National University Cancer Institute, National University Health System, Singapore (CTY, BCG, APK); 2 Department of Pediatrics, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); MTA TTK Lendület Cancer Biomarker Research Group, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); Department of Renal Medicine (MBL) and Department of Haematology-Oncology (BCG), National University Health System, Singapore; Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore (VT); Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia (VT); Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX (APK)
| | - Zhang'e Choo
- Affiliations of authors: Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore (WC, GR, SSS, CW, YY, TZT, HY, BCG, TB, APK); Departments of Pharmacology (WC, GR, SSS, CW, BCG, GS, APK), Physiology (ZXC, ZC, CTY), and Biochemistry (VT), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore (ZXC); Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory (FA), School of Biomedical Sciences (GS, APK), Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin Medical School (APK), Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; National University Cancer Institute, National University Health System, Singapore (CTY, BCG, APK); 2 Department of Pediatrics, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); MTA TTK Lendület Cancer Biomarker Research Group, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); Department of Renal Medicine (MBL) and Department of Haematology-Oncology (BCG), National University Health System, Singapore; Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore (VT); Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia (VT); Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX (APK)
| | - Chao Wang
- Affiliations of authors: Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore (WC, GR, SSS, CW, YY, TZT, HY, BCG, TB, APK); Departments of Pharmacology (WC, GR, SSS, CW, BCG, GS, APK), Physiology (ZXC, ZC, CTY), and Biochemistry (VT), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore (ZXC); Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory (FA), School of Biomedical Sciences (GS, APK), Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin Medical School (APK), Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; National University Cancer Institute, National University Health System, Singapore (CTY, BCG, APK); 2 Department of Pediatrics, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); MTA TTK Lendület Cancer Biomarker Research Group, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); Department of Renal Medicine (MBL) and Department of Haematology-Oncology (BCG), National University Health System, Singapore; Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore (VT); Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia (VT); Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX (APK)
| | - Yi Yuan
- Affiliations of authors: Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore (WC, GR, SSS, CW, YY, TZT, HY, BCG, TB, APK); Departments of Pharmacology (WC, GR, SSS, CW, BCG, GS, APK), Physiology (ZXC, ZC, CTY), and Biochemistry (VT), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore (ZXC); Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory (FA), School of Biomedical Sciences (GS, APK), Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin Medical School (APK), Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; National University Cancer Institute, National University Health System, Singapore (CTY, BCG, APK); 2 Department of Pediatrics, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); MTA TTK Lendület Cancer Biomarker Research Group, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); Department of Renal Medicine (MBL) and Department of Haematology-Oncology (BCG), National University Health System, Singapore; Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore (VT); Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia (VT); Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX (APK)
| | - Tuan Zea Tan
- Affiliations of authors: Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore (WC, GR, SSS, CW, YY, TZT, HY, BCG, TB, APK); Departments of Pharmacology (WC, GR, SSS, CW, BCG, GS, APK), Physiology (ZXC, ZC, CTY), and Biochemistry (VT), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore (ZXC); Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory (FA), School of Biomedical Sciences (GS, APK), Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin Medical School (APK), Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; National University Cancer Institute, National University Health System, Singapore (CTY, BCG, APK); 2 Department of Pediatrics, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); MTA TTK Lendület Cancer Biomarker Research Group, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); Department of Renal Medicine (MBL) and Department of Haematology-Oncology (BCG), National University Health System, Singapore; Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore (VT); Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia (VT); Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX (APK)
| | - Frank Arfuso
- Affiliations of authors: Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore (WC, GR, SSS, CW, YY, TZT, HY, BCG, TB, APK); Departments of Pharmacology (WC, GR, SSS, CW, BCG, GS, APK), Physiology (ZXC, ZC, CTY), and Biochemistry (VT), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore (ZXC); Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory (FA), School of Biomedical Sciences (GS, APK), Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin Medical School (APK), Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; National University Cancer Institute, National University Health System, Singapore (CTY, BCG, APK); 2 Department of Pediatrics, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); MTA TTK Lendület Cancer Biomarker Research Group, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); Department of Renal Medicine (MBL) and Department of Haematology-Oncology (BCG), National University Health System, Singapore; Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore (VT); Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia (VT); Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX (APK)
| | - Celestial T Yap
- Affiliations of authors: Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore (WC, GR, SSS, CW, YY, TZT, HY, BCG, TB, APK); Departments of Pharmacology (WC, GR, SSS, CW, BCG, GS, APK), Physiology (ZXC, ZC, CTY), and Biochemistry (VT), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore (ZXC); Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory (FA), School of Biomedical Sciences (GS, APK), Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin Medical School (APK), Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; National University Cancer Institute, National University Health System, Singapore (CTY, BCG, APK); 2 Department of Pediatrics, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); MTA TTK Lendület Cancer Biomarker Research Group, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); Department of Renal Medicine (MBL) and Department of Haematology-Oncology (BCG), National University Health System, Singapore; Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore (VT); Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia (VT); Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX (APK)
| | - Lorinc S Pongor
- Affiliations of authors: Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore (WC, GR, SSS, CW, YY, TZT, HY, BCG, TB, APK); Departments of Pharmacology (WC, GR, SSS, CW, BCG, GS, APK), Physiology (ZXC, ZC, CTY), and Biochemistry (VT), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore (ZXC); Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory (FA), School of Biomedical Sciences (GS, APK), Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin Medical School (APK), Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; National University Cancer Institute, National University Health System, Singapore (CTY, BCG, APK); 2 Department of Pediatrics, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); MTA TTK Lendület Cancer Biomarker Research Group, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); Department of Renal Medicine (MBL) and Department of Haematology-Oncology (BCG), National University Health System, Singapore; Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore (VT); Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia (VT); Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX (APK)
| | - Henry Yang
- Affiliations of authors: Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore (WC, GR, SSS, CW, YY, TZT, HY, BCG, TB, APK); Departments of Pharmacology (WC, GR, SSS, CW, BCG, GS, APK), Physiology (ZXC, ZC, CTY), and Biochemistry (VT), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore (ZXC); Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory (FA), School of Biomedical Sciences (GS, APK), Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin Medical School (APK), Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; National University Cancer Institute, National University Health System, Singapore (CTY, BCG, APK); 2 Department of Pediatrics, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); MTA TTK Lendület Cancer Biomarker Research Group, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); Department of Renal Medicine (MBL) and Department of Haematology-Oncology (BCG), National University Health System, Singapore; Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore (VT); Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia (VT); Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX (APK)
| | - Martin B Lee
- Affiliations of authors: Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore (WC, GR, SSS, CW, YY, TZT, HY, BCG, TB, APK); Departments of Pharmacology (WC, GR, SSS, CW, BCG, GS, APK), Physiology (ZXC, ZC, CTY), and Biochemistry (VT), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore (ZXC); Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory (FA), School of Biomedical Sciences (GS, APK), Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin Medical School (APK), Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; National University Cancer Institute, National University Health System, Singapore (CTY, BCG, APK); 2 Department of Pediatrics, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); MTA TTK Lendület Cancer Biomarker Research Group, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); Department of Renal Medicine (MBL) and Department of Haematology-Oncology (BCG), National University Health System, Singapore; Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore (VT); Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia (VT); Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX (APK)
| | - Boon Cher Goh
- Affiliations of authors: Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore (WC, GR, SSS, CW, YY, TZT, HY, BCG, TB, APK); Departments of Pharmacology (WC, GR, SSS, CW, BCG, GS, APK), Physiology (ZXC, ZC, CTY), and Biochemistry (VT), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore (ZXC); Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory (FA), School of Biomedical Sciences (GS, APK), Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin Medical School (APK), Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; National University Cancer Institute, National University Health System, Singapore (CTY, BCG, APK); 2 Department of Pediatrics, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); MTA TTK Lendület Cancer Biomarker Research Group, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); Department of Renal Medicine (MBL) and Department of Haematology-Oncology (BCG), National University Health System, Singapore; Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore (VT); Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia (VT); Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX (APK)
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Affiliations of authors: Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore (WC, GR, SSS, CW, YY, TZT, HY, BCG, TB, APK); Departments of Pharmacology (WC, GR, SSS, CW, BCG, GS, APK), Physiology (ZXC, ZC, CTY), and Biochemistry (VT), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore (ZXC); Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory (FA), School of Biomedical Sciences (GS, APK), Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin Medical School (APK), Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; National University Cancer Institute, National University Health System, Singapore (CTY, BCG, APK); 2 Department of Pediatrics, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); MTA TTK Lendület Cancer Biomarker Research Group, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); Department of Renal Medicine (MBL) and Department of Haematology-Oncology (BCG), National University Health System, Singapore; Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore (VT); Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia (VT); Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX (APK)
| | - Touati Benoukraf
- Affiliations of authors: Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore (WC, GR, SSS, CW, YY, TZT, HY, BCG, TB, APK); Departments of Pharmacology (WC, GR, SSS, CW, BCG, GS, APK), Physiology (ZXC, ZC, CTY), and Biochemistry (VT), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore (ZXC); Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory (FA), School of Biomedical Sciences (GS, APK), Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin Medical School (APK), Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; National University Cancer Institute, National University Health System, Singapore (CTY, BCG, APK); 2 Department of Pediatrics, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); MTA TTK Lendület Cancer Biomarker Research Group, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); Department of Renal Medicine (MBL) and Department of Haematology-Oncology (BCG), National University Health System, Singapore; Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore (VT); Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia (VT); Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX (APK)
| | - Vinay Tergaonkar
- Affiliations of authors: Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore (WC, GR, SSS, CW, YY, TZT, HY, BCG, TB, APK); Departments of Pharmacology (WC, GR, SSS, CW, BCG, GS, APK), Physiology (ZXC, ZC, CTY), and Biochemistry (VT), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore (ZXC); Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory (FA), School of Biomedical Sciences (GS, APK), Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin Medical School (APK), Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; National University Cancer Institute, National University Health System, Singapore (CTY, BCG, APK); 2 Department of Pediatrics, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); MTA TTK Lendület Cancer Biomarker Research Group, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); Department of Renal Medicine (MBL) and Department of Haematology-Oncology (BCG), National University Health System, Singapore; Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore (VT); Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia (VT); Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX (APK)
| | - Alan Prem Kumar
- Affiliations of authors: Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore (WC, GR, SSS, CW, YY, TZT, HY, BCG, TB, APK); Departments of Pharmacology (WC, GR, SSS, CW, BCG, GS, APK), Physiology (ZXC, ZC, CTY), and Biochemistry (VT), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore (ZXC); Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory (FA), School of Biomedical Sciences (GS, APK), Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin Medical School (APK), Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; National University Cancer Institute, National University Health System, Singapore (CTY, BCG, APK); 2 Department of Pediatrics, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); MTA TTK Lendület Cancer Biomarker Research Group, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary (LSP); Department of Renal Medicine (MBL) and Department of Haematology-Oncology (BCG), National University Health System, Singapore; Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore (VT); Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia (VT); Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton, TX (APK)
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Halcrow PW, Dancer M, Panteah M, Walden C, Ohm JE. Molecular Changes Associated With Tumor Initiation and Progression of Soft Tissue Sarcomas: Targeting the Genome and Epigenome. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2016; 144:323-380. [PMID: 27865462 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2016.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Soft tissue sarcomas are rare, but generally aggressive tumors which disproportionately affect children and young adults. They represent less than 10% of all cancers, but are one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers in pediatric patients. These cancers have a high rate of morbidity and mortality, and their overall incidence has been increasing at an estimated rate of 26% over the last 2 decades. The cause of this increased incidence is unknown but various environmental factors have been implicated. Establishing standard therapeutic strategies is challenging for soft tissue sarcomas as more than 50 different histological subtypes exist, each with their own molecular alterations and clinical characteristics, and this combination of tumor heterogeneity and a limited number of clinical cases make detailed omics level molecular studies particularly challenging. This chapter will focus on the unique genetic and epigenetic changes which characterize these cancers, with an emphasis on translocation-associated sarcomas involving primary gene fusions with the RNA chaperone protein EWSR1. We will highlight current therapeutic approaches and discuss opportunities for targeted molecular therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- P W Halcrow
- University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Grand Forks, ND, United States
| | - M Dancer
- University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Grand Forks, ND, United States
| | - M Panteah
- University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Grand Forks, ND, United States
| | - C Walden
- University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Grand Forks, ND, United States
| | - J E Ohm
- Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, NY, United States.
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22
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Alternative splicing and cell survival: from tissue homeostasis to disease. Cell Death Differ 2016; 23:1919-1929. [PMID: 27689872 DOI: 10.1038/cdd.2016.91] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2016] [Revised: 05/26/2016] [Accepted: 07/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Most human genes encode multiple mRNA variants and protein products through alternative splicing of exons and introns during pre-mRNA processing. In this way, alternative splicing amplifies enormously the coding potential of the human genome and represents a powerful evolutionary resource. Nonetheless, the plasticity of its regulation is prone to errors and defective splicing underlies a large number of inherited and sporadic diseases, including cancer. One key cellular process affected by alternative splicing is the programmed cell death or apoptosis. Many apoptotic genes encode for splice variants having opposite roles in cell survival. This regulation modulates cell and tissue homeostasis and is implicated in both developmental and pathological processes. Furthermore, recent evidence has also unveiled splicing-mediated regulation of genes involved in autophagy, another essential process for tissue homeostasis. In this review, we highlight some of the best-known examples of alternative splicing events involved in cell survival. Emphasis is given to the role of this regulation in human cancer and in the response to chemotherapy, providing examples of how alternative splicing of apoptotic genes can be exploited therapeutically.
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Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer disease (AD), frontotemporal dementia (FTD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson disease (PD), Huntington's disease (HD), and multiple sclerosis (MS) affect different neuronal cells, and have a variable age of onset, clinical symptoms, and pathological features. Despite the great progress in understanding the etiology of these disorders, the underlying mechanisms remain largely unclear. Among the processes affected in neurodegenerative diseases, alteration in RNA metabolism is emerging as a crucial player. RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) are involved at all stages of RNA metabolism and display a broad range of functions, including modulation of mRNA transcription, splicing, editing, export, stability, translation and localization and miRNA biogenesis, thus enormously impacting regulation of gene expression. On the other hand, aberrant regulation of RBP expression or activity can contribute to disease onset and progression. Recent reports identified mutations causative of neurological disorders in the genes encoding a family of RBPs named FET (FUS/TLS, EWS and TAF15). This review summarizes recent works documenting the involvement of FET proteins in the pathology of ALS, FTLD, essential tremor (ET) and other neurodegenerative diseases. Moreover, clinical implications of recent advances in FET research are critically discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Svetoni
- a University of Rome "Foro Italico," , Rome , Italy.,b Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology, Fondazione Santa Lucia , Rome , Italy
| | - Paola Frisone
- b Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology, Fondazione Santa Lucia , Rome , Italy
| | - Maria Paola Paronetto
- a University of Rome "Foro Italico," , Rome , Italy.,b Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology, Fondazione Santa Lucia , Rome , Italy
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Lawlor ER, Sorensen PH. Twenty Years on: What Do We Really Know about Ewing Sarcoma and What Is the Path Forward? Crit Rev Oncog 2016; 20:155-71. [PMID: 26349414 DOI: 10.1615/critrevoncog.2015013553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma (ES) is a highly aggressive bone and soft-tissue tumor with peak incidence among adolescents and young adults. Despite advances in local control and systemic chemotherapy, metastatic relapse after an initial clinical remission remains a significant clinical problem. In addition, metastasis at the time of presentation or at relapse continues to be the leading cause of death for patients diagnosed with ES. Since the discovery of the pathognomonic EWS-FLI1 fusion gene more than 20 years ago, much about the molecular and cellular biology of ES pathogenesis has been learned. In addition, more recent exploitation of advances in stem cell and developmental biology has provided key insights into the cellular origins of ES and the role of epigenetic deregulation in tumor initiation and maintenance. Nevertheless, the mechanisms that drive tumor relapse and metastasis remain largely unknown. These gaps in our knowledge continue to hamper the development of novel therapeutic strategies that may improve outcomes for patients with relapsed and metastatic disease. In this article we review the current status of ES biology research, highlighting areas of investigation that we consider to have the greatest potential to yield findings that will translate into clinically significant advances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth R Lawlor
- Department of Pediatrics & Communicable Diseases and Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Poul H Sorensen
- Department of Molecular Oncology, British Columbia Cancer Research Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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25
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Regulation of Stem Cell Self-Renewal and Oncogenesis by RNA-Binding Proteins. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2016; 907:153-88. [PMID: 27256386 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-29073-7_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Throughout their life span, multicellular organisms rely on stem cell systems. During development pluripotent embryonic stem cells give rise to all cell types that make up the organism. After birth, tissue stem cells maintain properly functioning tissues and organs under homeostasis as well as promote regeneration after tissue damage or injury. Stem cells are capable of self-renewal, which is the ability to divide indefinitely while retaining the potential of differentiation into multiple cell types. The ability to self-renew, however, is a double-edged sword; the molecular mechanisms of self-renewal can be a target of malignant transformation driving tumor development and progression. Growing lines of evidence have shown that RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) play pivotal roles in the regulation of self-renewal by modulating metabolism of coding and non-coding RNAs both in normal tissues and in cancers. In this review, we discuss our current understanding of tissue stem cell systems and how RBPs regulate stem cell fates as well as how the regulatory functions of RBPs contribute to oncogenesis.
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26
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Minas TZ, Han J, Javaheri T, Hong SH, Schlederer M, Saygideğer-Kont Y, Çelik H, Mueller KM, Temel I, Özdemirli M, Kovar H, Erkizan HV, Toretsky J, Kenner L, Moriggl R, Üren A. YK-4-279 effectively antagonizes EWS-FLI1 induced leukemia in a transgenic mouse model. Oncotarget 2015; 6:37678-94. [PMID: 26462019 PMCID: PMC4741957 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.5520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2015] [Accepted: 09/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma is an aggressive tumor of bone and soft tissue affecting predominantly children and young adults. Tumor-specific chromosomal translocations create EWS-FLI1 and similar aberrant ETS fusion proteins that drive sarcoma development in patients. ETS family fusion proteins and over-expressed ETS proteins are also found in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients. Transgenic expression of EWS-FLI1 in mice promotes high penetrance erythroid leukemia with dense hepatic and splenic infiltrations. We identified a small molecule, YK-4-279, that directly binds to EWS-FLI1 and inhibits its oncogenic activity in Ewing sarcoma cell lines and xenograft mouse models. Herein, we tested in vivo therapeutic efficacy and potential side effects of YK-4-279 in the transgenic mouse model with EWS-FLI1 induced leukemia. A two-week course of treatment with YK-4-279 significantly reduced white blood cell count, nucleated erythroblasts in the peripheral blood, splenomegaly, and hepatomegaly of erythroleukemic mice. YK-4-279 inhibited EWS-FLI1 target gene expression in neoplastic cells. Treated animals showed significantly better overall survival compared to control mice that rapidly succumbed to leukemia. YK-4-279 treated mice did not show overt toxicity in liver, spleen, or bone marrow. In conclusion, this in vivo study highlights the efficacy of YK-4-279 to treat EWS-FLI1 expressing neoplasms and support its therapeutic potential for patients with Ewing sarcoma and other ETS-driven malignancies.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Blotting, Western
- Chromatin Immunoprecipitation
- Disease Models, Animal
- Flow Cytometry
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/drug effects
- Humans
- Immunoenzyme Techniques
- Indoles/pharmacology
- Leukemia, Erythroblastic, Acute/drug therapy
- Leukemia, Erythroblastic, Acute/etiology
- Leukemia, Erythroblastic, Acute/pathology
- Mice
- Mice, Transgenic
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/administration & dosage
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/antagonists & inhibitors
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/toxicity
- Proto-Oncogene Protein c-fli-1/administration & dosage
- Proto-Oncogene Protein c-fli-1/antagonists & inhibitors
- Proto-Oncogene Protein c-fli-1/toxicity
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA-Binding Protein EWS/administration & dosage
- RNA-Binding Protein EWS/antagonists & inhibitors
- RNA-Binding Protein EWS/toxicity
- Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Surface Plasmon Resonance
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsion Zewdu Minas
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Jenny Han
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Sung-Hyeok Hong
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Michaela Schlederer
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cancer Research, Vienna, Austria
- Clinical Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Haydar Çelik
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Kristina M. Mueller
- Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Idil Temel
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Metin Özdemirli
- Department of Pathology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Heinrich Kovar
- Children's Cancer Research Institute, St. Anna Kinderkrebsforschung, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Jeffrey Toretsky
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Lukas Kenner
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cancer Research, Vienna, Austria
- Clinical Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Unit of Pathology of Laboratory Animals, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Richard Moriggl
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cancer Research, Vienna, Austria
- Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | - Aykut Üren
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
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27
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Shkreta L, Chabot B. The RNA Splicing Response to DNA Damage. Biomolecules 2015; 5:2935-77. [PMID: 26529031 PMCID: PMC4693264 DOI: 10.3390/biom5042935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2015] [Revised: 09/20/2015] [Accepted: 10/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The number of factors known to participate in the DNA damage response (DDR) has expanded considerably in recent years to include splicing and alternative splicing factors. While the binding of splicing proteins and ribonucleoprotein complexes to nascent transcripts prevents genomic instability by deterring the formation of RNA/DNA duplexes, splicing factors are also recruited to, or removed from, sites of DNA damage. The first steps of the DDR promote the post-translational modification of splicing factors to affect their localization and activity, while more downstream DDR events alter their expression. Although descriptions of molecular mechanisms remain limited, an emerging trend is that DNA damage disrupts the coupling of constitutive and alternative splicing with the transcription of genes involved in DNA repair, cell-cycle control and apoptosis. A better understanding of how changes in splice site selection are integrated into the DDR may provide new avenues to combat cancer and delay aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lulzim Shkreta
- Microbiologie et d'Infectiologie, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1E 4K8, Canada.
| | - Benoit Chabot
- Microbiologie et d'Infectiologie, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1E 4K8, Canada.
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28
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Kwong PN, Chambers M, Vashisht AA, Turki-Judeh W, Yau TY, Wohlschlegel JA, Courey AJ. The Central Region of the Drosophila Co-repressor Groucho as a Regulatory Hub. J Biol Chem 2015; 290:30119-30. [PMID: 26483546 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m115.681171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Groucho (Gro) is a Drosophila co-repressor that regulates the expression of a large number of genes, many of which are involved in developmental control. Previous studies have shown that its central region is essential for function even though its three domains are poorly conserved and intrinsically disordered. Using these disordered domains as affinity reagents, we have now identified multiple embryonic Gro-interacting proteins. The interactors include protein complexes involved in chromosome organization, mRNA processing, and signaling. Further investigation of the interacting proteins using a reporter assay showed that many of them modulate Gro-mediated repression either positively or negatively. The positive regulators include components of the spliceosomal subcomplex U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (U1 snRNP). A co-immunoprecipitation experiment confirms this finding and suggests that a sizable fraction of nuclear U1 snRNP is associated with Gro. The use of RNA-seq to analyze the gene expression profile of cells subjected to knockdown of Gro or snRNP-U1-C (a component of U1 snRNP) showed a significant overlap between genes regulated by these two factors. Furthermore, comparison of our RNA-seq data with Gro and RNA polymerase II ChIP data led to a number of insights, including the finding that Gro-repressed genes are enriched for promoter-proximal RNA polymerase II. We conclude that the Gro central domains mediate multiple interactions required for repression, thus functioning as a regulatory hub. Furthermore, interactions with the spliceosome may contribute to repression by Gro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pak N Kwong
- From the Departments of Chemistry and Biochemistry and
| | | | | | - Wiam Turki-Judeh
- From the Departments of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Institute, UCLA, Los Angeles, California 90095
| | - Tak Yu Yau
- From the Departments of Chemistry and Biochemistry and
| | - James A Wohlschlegel
- Biological Chemistry and Molecular Biology Institute, UCLA, Los Angeles, California 90095
| | - Albert J Courey
- From the Departments of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Institute, UCLA, Los Angeles, California 90095
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29
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Sand LGL, Szuhai K, Hogendoorn PCW. Sequencing Overview of Ewing Sarcoma: A Journey across Genomic, Epigenomic and Transcriptomic Landscapes. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:16176-215. [PMID: 26193259 PMCID: PMC4519945 DOI: 10.3390/ijms160716176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2015] [Revised: 07/03/2015] [Accepted: 07/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma is an aggressive neoplasm occurring predominantly in adolescent Caucasians. At the genome level, a pathognomonic EWSR1-ETS translocation is present. The resulting fusion protein acts as a molecular driver in the tumor development and interferes, amongst others, with endogenous transcription and splicing. The Ewing sarcoma cell shows a poorly differentiated, stem-cell like phenotype. Consequently, the cellular origin of Ewing sarcoma is still a hot discussed topic. To further characterize Ewing sarcoma and to further elucidate the role of EWSR1-ETS fusion protein multiple genome, epigenome and transcriptome level studies were performed. In this review, the data from these studies were combined into a comprehensive overview. Presently, classical morphological predictive markers are used in the clinic and the therapy is dominantly based on systemic chemotherapy in combination with surgical interventions. Using sequencing, novel predictive markers and candidates for immuno- and targeted therapy were identified which were summarized in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurens G L Sand
- Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, The Netherlands.
| | - Karoly Szuhai
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, The Netherlands.
| | - Pancras C W Hogendoorn
- Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, The Netherlands.
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30
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Oncogenic fusion protein EWS-FLI1 is a network hub that regulates alternative splicing. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2015; 112:E1307-16. [PMID: 25737553 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1500536112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The synthesis and processing of mRNA, from transcription to translation initiation, often requires splicing of intragenic material. The final mRNA composition varies based on proteins that modulate splice site selection. EWS-FLI1 is an Ewing sarcoma (ES) oncoprotein with an interactome that we demonstrate to have multiple partners in spliceosomal complexes. We evaluate the effect of EWS-FLI1 on posttranscriptional gene regulation using both exon array and RNA-seq. Genes that potentially regulate oncogenesis, including CLK1, CASP3, PPFIBP1, and TERT, validate as alternatively spliced by EWS-FLI1. In a CLIP-seq experiment, we find that EWS-FLI1 RNA-binding motifs most frequently occur adjacent to intron-exon boundaries. EWS-FLI1 also alters splicing by directly binding to known splicing factors including DDX5, hnRNP K, and PRPF6. Reduction of EWS-FLI1 produces an isoform of γ-TERT that has increased telomerase activity compared with wild-type (WT) TERT. The small molecule YK-4-279 is an inhibitor of EWS-FLI1 oncogenic function that disrupts specific protein interactions, including helicases DDX5 and RNA helicase A (RHA) that alters RNA-splicing ratios. As such, YK-4-279 validates the splicing mechanism of EWS-FLI1, showing alternatively spliced gene patterns that significantly overlap with EWS-FLI1 reduction and WT human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC). Exon array analysis of 75 ES patient samples shows similar isoform expression patterns to cell line models expressing EWS-FLI1, supporting the clinical relevance of our findings. These experiments establish systemic alternative splicing as an oncogenic process modulated by EWS-FLI1. EWS-FLI1 modulation of mRNA splicing may provide insight into the contribution of splicing toward oncogenesis, and, reciprocally, EWS-FLI1 interactions with splicing proteins may inform the splicing code.
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31
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Structure-function based molecular relationships in Ewing's sarcoma. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 2015:798426. [PMID: 25688366 PMCID: PMC4320925 DOI: 10.1155/2015/798426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2014] [Revised: 08/30/2014] [Accepted: 10/14/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Ewing's Sarcoma Oncogene (ews) on chromosome 22q12 is encoding a ubiquitously expressed RNA-binding protein (EWS) with unknown function that is target of tumor-specific chromosomal translocations in Ewing's sarcoma family of tumors. A model of transcription complex was proposed in which the heterodimer Rpb4/7 binds to EAD, connecting it to Core RNA Pol II. The DNA-binding domain, provided by EFP, is bound to the promoter. Rpb4/7 binds RNA, stabilizing the transcription complex. The complex Rpb4/7 can stabilize the preinitiation complexes by converting the conformation of RNA Pol II. EWS may change its conformation, so that NTD becomes accessible. Two different mechanisms of interaction between EWS and RNA Pol II are proposed: (I) an intermolecular EWS-EWS interaction between two molecules, pushing conformation from “closed” to “open” state, or (II) an intramolecular interaction inside the molecule of EWS, pushing conformation of the molecule from “closed” to “open” state. The modified forms of EWS may interact with Pol II subunits hsRpb5 and hsRpb7. The EWS and EFPs binding partners are described schematically in a model, an attempt to link the transcription with the splicing. The proposed model helps to understand the functional molecular interactions in cancer, to find new partners and ways to treat cancer.
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32
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Yang HC, Chuang JY, Jeng WY, Liu CI, Wang AHJ, Lu PJ, Chang WC, Hung JJ. Pin1-mediated Sp1 phosphorylation by CDK1 increases Sp1 stability and decreases its DNA-binding activity during mitosis. Nucleic Acids Res 2014; 42:13573-87. [PMID: 25398907 PMCID: PMC4267622 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gku1145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2014] [Revised: 10/27/2014] [Accepted: 10/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
We have shown that Sp1 phosphorylation at Thr739 decreases its DNA-binding activity. In this study, we found that phosphorylation of Sp1 at Thr739 alone is necessary, but not sufficient for the inhibition of its DNA-binding activity during mitosis. We demonstrated that Pin1 could be recruited to the Thr739(p)-Pro motif of Sp1 to modulate the interaction between phospho-Sp1 and CDK1, thereby facilitating CDK1-mediated phosphorylation of Sp1 at Ser720, Thr723 and Thr737 during mitosis. Loss of the C-terminal end of Sp1 (amino acids 741-785) significantly increased Sp1 phosphorylation, implying that the C-terminus inhibits CDK1-mediated Sp1 phosphorylation. Binding analysis of Sp1 peptides to Pin1 by isothermal titration calorimetry indicated that Pin1 interacts with Thr739(p)-Sp1 peptide but not with Thr739-Sp1 peptide. X-ray crystallography data showed that the Thr739(p)-Sp1 peptide occupies the active site of Pin1. Increased Sp1 phosphorylation by CDK1 during mitosis not only stabilized Sp1 levels by decreasing interaction with ubiquitin E3-ligase RNF4 but also caused Sp1 to move out of the chromosomes completely by decreasing its DNA-binding activity, thereby facilitating cell cycle progression. Thus, Pin1-mediated conformational changes in the C-terminal region of Sp1 are critical for increased CDK1-mediated Sp1 phosphorylation to facilitate cell cycle progression during mitosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang-Che Yang
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Biosignal Transduction, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 701, Taiwan
| | - Jian-Ying Chuang
- The PhD Program for Neural Regenerative Medicine, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Yih Jeng
- Center for Bioscience and Biotechnology, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 701, Taiwan Core Facilities for Protein Structural Analysis, Academia Sinica, Taipei 115, Taiwan
| | - Chia-I Liu
- Core Facilities for Protein Structural Analysis, Academia Sinica, Taipei 115, Taiwan School of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Andrew H-J Wang
- Core Facilities for Protein Structural Analysis, Academia Sinica, Taipei 115, Taiwan Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taipei 115, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Jung Lu
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan 70403, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Chang Chang
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, and Center for Neurotrauma and Neuroregeneration, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Jan-Jong Hung
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Biosignal Transduction, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 701, Taiwan School of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 701, Taiwan Center for Infectious Disease and Signal Transduction Research, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 701, Taiwan
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33
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Campos-Melo D, Droppelmann CA, Volkening K, Strong MJ. RNA-binding proteins as molecular links between cancer and neurodegeneration. Biogerontology 2014; 15:587-610. [PMID: 25231915 DOI: 10.1007/s10522-014-9531-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2014] [Accepted: 09/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
For many years, epidemiological studies have suggested an association between cancer and neurodegenerative disorders-two disease processes that seemingly have little in common. Although these two disease processes share disruptions in a wide range of cellular pathways, including cell survival, cell death and the cell cycle, the end result is very divergent: uncontrolled cell survival and proliferation in cancer and progressive neuronal cell death in neurodegeneration. Despite the clinical data connecting these two disease processes, little is known about the molecular links between them. Among the mechanisms affected in cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, alterations in RNA metabolism are obtaining significant attention given the critical role for RNA transcription, maturation, transport, stability, degradation and translation in normal cellular function. RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) are integral to each stage of RNA metabolism through their participation in the formation of ribonucleoprotein complexes (RNPs). RBPs have a broad range of functions including posttranscriptional regulation of mRNA stability, splicing, editing and translation, mRNA export and localization, mRNA polyadenylation and miRNA biogenesis, ultimately impacting the expression of every single gene in the cell. In this review, we examine the evidence for RBPs as being key a molecular linkages between cancer and neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danae Campos-Melo
- Molecular Medicine Group, Robarts Research Institute, Western University, London, ON, Canada
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34
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Paronetto M, Bernardis I, Volpe E, Bechara E, Sebestyén E, Eyras E, Valcárcel J. Regulation of FAS Exon Definition and Apoptosis by the Ewing Sarcoma Protein. Cell Rep 2014; 7:1211-26. [DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2014.03.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2013] [Revised: 02/16/2014] [Accepted: 03/31/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
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35
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Marko M, Leichter M, Patrinou-Georgoula M, Guialis A. Selective interactions of hnRNP M isoforms with the TET proteins TAF15 and TLS/FUS. Mol Biol Rep 2014; 41:2687-95. [PMID: 24474660 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-014-3128-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2013] [Accepted: 01/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The molecular composition of macromolecular assemblies engaged in transcription and splicing influences biogenesis of mRNA transcripts. Preference for one over the other interactive protein partner within those complexes is expected to change the gene expression pattern and to affect subsequent cellular events. We report here the novel and selective associations between RNA-binding proteins, namely the hnRNP M1-4 isoforms-involved in early spliceosome assembly and alternative splicing-and the transcription factors TAF15 and TLS/FUS. In immunoprecipitation studies on HeLa nuclear extracts, TAF15 co-immunoprecipitates preferably with the higher molecular weight hnRNP M3/4 isoforms, opposite to TLS/FUS that associates with the lower molecular weight hnRNP M1/2 species. We demonstrate that these associations can be mediated through direct protein-protein interactions via the amino-termini of the TET proteins, independently of RNA. Finally, we show partial co-localization of TAF15 and TLS/FUS with hnRNP M proteins in HeLa nuclei, supporting the biochemically obtained data. The participation of hnRNP M in an expanding network of protein-protein interactions suggests its important functioning in the coordination of transcriptional and post-transcriptional events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marija Marko
- Medical Faculty, Institute for Biochemistry I, University of Cologne, Joseph-Stelzmann-Str. 52, 50931, Cologne, Germany,
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36
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Kishore S, Piscuoglio S, Kovac MB, Gylling A, Wenzel F, Trapani F, Altermatt HJ, Mele V, Marra G, Peltomäki P, Terracciano L, Zavolan M, Heinimann K. 3'-UTR poly(T/U) tract deletions and altered expression of EWSR1 are a hallmark of mismatch repair-deficient cancers. Cancer Res 2013; 74:224-34. [PMID: 24158095 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-13-2100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The genome-wide accumulation of DNA replication errors known as microsatellite instability (MSI) is the hallmark lesion of DNA mismatch repair (MMR)-deficient cancers. Although testing for MSI is widely used to guide clinical management, the contribution of MSI at distinct genic loci to the phenotype remains largely unexplored. Here, we report that a mononucleotide (T/U)16 tract located in the 3' untranslated region (3'-UTR) of the Ewing sarcoma breakpoint region 1 (EWSR1) gene is a novel MSI target locus that shows perfect sensitivity and specificity in detecting mismatch repair-deficient cancers in two independent populations. We further found a striking relocalization of the EWSR1 protein from nucleus to cytoplasm in MMR-deficient cancers and that the nonprotein-coding MSI target locus itself has a modulatory effect on EWSR1 gene expression through alternative 3' end processing of the EWSR1 gene. Our results point to a MSI target gene-specific effect in MMR-deficient cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivendra Kishore
- Authors' Affiliations: Biozentrum, University of Basel; Research Group Human Genetics, Dept of Biomedicine, University of Basel, and Division of Medical Genetics, University Hospital Basel; Institute for Surgical Research and Hospital Management and Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel; Institute of Pathology, University Hospital of Basel, Basel; Pathologie Laenggasse Bern, Bern; Institute of Molecular Cancer Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Department of Medical Genetics, Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland; and Paterson Institute for Cancer Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
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Kar A, Gutierrez-Hartmann A. Molecular mechanisms of ETS transcription factor-mediated tumorigenesis. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2013; 48:522-43. [PMID: 24066765 DOI: 10.3109/10409238.2013.838202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The E26 transformation-specific (ETS) family of transcription factors is critical for development, differentiation, proliferation and also has a role in apoptosis and tissue remodeling. Changes in expression of ETS proteins therefore have a significant impact on normal physiology of the cell. Transcriptional consequences of ETS protein deregulation by overexpression, gene fusion, and modulation by RAS/MAPK signaling are linked to alterations in normal cell functions, and lead to unlimited increased proliferation, sustained angiogenesis, invasion and metastasis. Existing data show that ETS proteins control pathways in epithelial cells as well as stromal compartments, and the crosstalk between the two is essential for normal development and cancer. In this review, we have focused on ETS factors with a known contribution in cancer development. Instead of focusing on a prototype, we address cancer associated ETS proteins and have highlighted the diverse mechanisms by which they affect carcinogenesis. Finally, we discuss strategies for ETS factor targeting as a potential means for cancer therapeutics.
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Ewing sarcoma protein: a key player in human cancer. Int J Cell Biol 2013; 2013:642853. [PMID: 24082883 PMCID: PMC3776376 DOI: 10.1155/2013/642853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2013] [Accepted: 07/26/2013] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The Ewing sarcoma protein (EWS) is a well-known player in cancer biology for the specific translocations occurring in sarcomas. The EWS-FLI1 gene fusion is the prototypical translocation that encodes the aberrant, chimeric transcription factor, which is a landmark of Ewing tumors. In all described Ewing sarcoma oncogenes, the EWS RNA binding domains are completely missing; thus RNA binding properties are not retained in the hybrid proteins. However, it is currently unknown whether the absence of EWS function in RNA metabolism plays a role in oncogenic transformation or if EWS plays a role by itself in cancer development besides its contribution to the translocation. In this regard, recent reports have highlighted an essential role for EWS in the regulation of DNA damage response (DDR), a process that counteracts genome stability and is often deregulated in cancer cells. The first part of this review will describe the structural features of EWS and its multiple roles in the regulation of gene expression, which are exerted by coordinating different steps in the synthesis and processing of pre-mRNAs. The second part will examine the role of EWS in the regulation of DDR- and cancer-related genes, with potential implications in cancer therapies. Finally, recent advances on the involvement of EWS in neuromuscular disorders will be discussed. Collectively, the information reviewed herein highlights the broad role of EWS in bridging different cellular processes and underlines the contribution of EWS to genome stability and proper cell-cycle progression in higher eukaryotic cells.
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Abstract
For most of our 25,000 genes, the removal of introns by pre-messenger RNA (pre-mRNA) splicing represents an essential step toward the production of functional messenger RNAs (mRNAs). Alternative splicing of a single pre-mRNA results in the production of different mRNAs. Although complex organisms use alternative splicing to expand protein function and phenotypic diversity, patterns of alternative splicing are often altered in cancer cells. Alternative splicing contributes to tumorigenesis by producing splice isoforms that can stimulate cell proliferation and cell migration or induce resistance to apoptosis and anticancer agents. Cancer-specific changes in splicing profiles can occur through mutations that are affecting splice sites and splicing control elements, and also by alterations in the expression of proteins that control splicing decisions. Recent progress in global approaches that interrogate splicing diversity should help to obtain specific splicing signatures for cancer types. The development of innovative approaches for annotating and reprogramming splicing events will more fully establish the essential contribution of alternative splicing to the biology of cancer and will hopefully provide novel targets and anticancer strategies. Metazoan genes are usually made up of several exons interrupted by introns. The introns are removed from the pre-mRNA by RNA splicing. In conjunction with other maturation steps, such as capping and polyadenylation, the spliced mRNA is then transported to the cytoplasm to be translated into a functional protein. The basic mechanism of splicing requires accurate recognition of each extremity of each intron by the spliceosome. Introns are identified by the binding of U1 snRNP to the 5' splice site and the U2AF65/U2AF35 complex to the 3' splice site. Following these interactions, other proteins and snRNPs are recruited to generate the complete spliceosomal complex needed to excise the intron. While many introns are constitutively removed by the spliceosome, other splice junctions are not used systematically, generating the phenomenon of alternative splicing. Alternative splicing is therefore the process by which a single species of pre-mRNA can be matured to produce different mRNA molecules (Fig. 1). Depending on the number and types of alternative splicing events, a pre-mRNA can generate from two to several thousands different mRNAs leading to the production of a corresponding number of proteins. It is now believed that the expression of at least 70 % of human genes is subjected to alternative splicing, implying an enormous contribution to proteomic diversity, and by extension, to the development and the evolution of complex animals. Defects in splicing have been associated with human diseases (Caceres and Kornblihtt, Trends Genet 18(4):186-93, 2002, Cartegni et al., Nat Rev Genet 3(4):285-98, 2002, Pagani and Baralle, Nat Rev Genet 5(5):389-96, 2004), including cancer (Brinkman, Clin Biochem 37(7):584-94, 2004, Venables, Bioessays 28(4):378-86, 2006, Srebrow and Kornblihtt, J Cell Sci 119(Pt 13):2635-2641, 2006, Revil et al., Bull Cancer 93(9):909-919, 2006, Venables, Transworld Res Network, 2006, Pajares et al., Lancet Oncol 8(4):349-57, 2007, Skotheim and Nees, Int J Biochem Cell Biol 39:1432-1449, 2007). Numerous studies have now confirmed the existence of specific differences in the alternative splicing profiles between normal and cancer tissues. Although there are a few cases where specific mutations are the primary cause for these changes, global alterations in alternative splicing in cancer cells may be primarily derived from changes in the expression of RNA-binding proteins that control splice site selection. Overall, these cancer-specific differences in alternative splicing offer an immense potential to improve the diagnosis and the prognosis of cancer. This review will focus on the functional impact of cancer-associated alternative splicing variants, the molecular determinants that alter the splicing decisions in cancer cells, and future therapeutic strategies.
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Sohn EJ, Park J, Kang SI, Wu YP. Accumulation of pre-let-7g and downregulation of mature let-7g with the depletion of EWS. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2012; 426:89-93. [PMID: 22910415 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2012.08.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2012] [Accepted: 08/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
EWS functions in RNA splicing and transcription by encoding an RNA binding protein, which results in the chromosomal translocation t(11;22)(q24;q12) found in Ewing sarcoma. EWS interacts with the microprocessor complex involving Drosha and DGCR8, which play roles as the cofactors of primary microRNA processing. However, the role of EWS in microRNA biogenesis has not been investigated. Here, we show that endogenous EWS interacts with endogenous Drosha by IP-western blotting. In addition, EWS knockout mouse decreased the expression of Drosha. The depletion of EWS results in the accumulation of precursor let-7g but down-regulates mature let-7g in U2OS cells. Consistently, mature let 7g was suppressed in both Ewing sarcoma cell and primary Ewing sarcoma. Also, expression levels of Dicer and CCND1 (Cyclin D1), which are known target genes of the let-7 family were upregulated. Our findings suggest that EWS mediates generation of mature let-7g from pre-let-7g.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun Jung Sohn
- Genetics of Development and Disease Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20871, USA.
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Pediatric sarcomas: translating molecular pathogenesis of disease to novel therapeutic possibilities. Pediatr Res 2012; 72:112-21. [PMID: 22546864 PMCID: PMC4283808 DOI: 10.1038/pr.2012.54] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Pediatric sarcomas represent a diverse group of rare bone and soft tissue malignancies. Although the molecular mechanisms that propel the development of these cancers are not well understood, identification of tumor-specific translocations in many sarcomas has provided significant insight into their tumorigenesis. Each fusion protein resulting from these chromosomal translocations is thought to act as a driving force in the tumor, either as an aberrant transcription factor (TF), constitutively active growth factor, or ligand-independent receptor tyrosine kinase. Identification of transcriptional targets or signaling pathways modulated by these oncogenic fusions has led to the discovery of potential therapeutic targets. Some of these targets have shown considerable promise in preclinical models and are currently being tested in clinical trials. This review summarizes the molecular pathology of a subset of pediatric sarcomas with tumor-associated translocations and how increased understanding at the molecular level is being translated to novel therapeutic advances.
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Lim B, Jun HJ, Kim AY, Kim S, Choi J, Kim J. The TFG-TEC fusion gene created by the t(3;9) translocation in human extraskeletal myxoid chondrosarcomas encodes a more potent transcriptional activator than TEC. Carcinogenesis 2012; 33:1450-8. [PMID: 22581839 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgs164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The t(3;9)(q11-q12;q22) translocation associated with human extraskeletal myxoid chondrosarcomas results in a chimeric molecule in which the N-terminal domain (NTD) of the TFG (TRK-fused gene) is fused to the TEC (Translocated in Extraskeletal Chondrosarcoma) gene. Little is known about the biological function of TFG-TEC. Because the NTDs of TFG-TEC and TEC are structurally different, and the TFG itself is a cytoplasmic protein, the functional consequences of this fusion in extraskeletal myxoid chondrosarcomas were examined. The results showed that the chimeric gene encoded a nuclear protein that bound DNA with the same sequence specificity as the parental TEC protein. Comparison of the transactivation properties of TFG-TEC and TEC indicated that the former has higher transactivation activity for a known target reporter containing TEC-binding sites. Additional reporter assays for TFG (NTD) showed that the TGF (NTD) of TFG-TEC induced a 12-fold increase in the activation of luciferase from a reporter plasmid containing GAL4 binding sites when fused to the DNA-binding domain of GAL4, indicating that the TFG (NTD) of the TFG-TEC protein has intrinsic transcriptional activation properties. Finally, deletion analysis of the functional domains of TFG (NTD) indicated that the PB1 (Phox and Bem1p) and SPYGQ-rich region of TFG (NTD) were capable of activating transcription and that full integrity of TFG (NTD) was necessary for full transactivation. These results suggest that the oncogenic effect of the t(3;9) translocation may be due to the TFG-TEC chimeric protein and that fusion of the TFG (NTD) to the TEC protein produces a gain-of-function chimeric product.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bobae Lim
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Department of Life Science, Sogang University Seoul 121-742, Korea
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Boro A, Prêtre K, Rechfeld F, Thalhammer V, Oesch S, Wachtel M, Schäfer BW, Niggli FK. Small-molecule screen identifies modulators of EWS/FLI1 target gene expression and cell survival in Ewing's sarcoma. Int J Cancer 2012; 131:2153-64. [PMID: 22323082 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.27472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2011] [Accepted: 01/17/2012] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Ewing's sarcoma family of tumors (EFT) is characterized by the presence of chromosomal translocations leading to the expression of oncogenic transcription factors such as, in the majority of cases, EWS/FLI1. Because of its key role in Ewing's sarcoma development and maintenance, EWS/FLI1 represents an attractive therapeutic target. Here, we characterize PHLDA1 as a novel direct target gene whose expression is repressed by EWS/FLI1. Using this gene and additional specific well-characterized target genes such as NROB1, NKX2.2 and CAV1, all activated by EWS/FLI1, as a read-out system, we screened a small-molecule compound library enriched for FDA-approved drugs that modulated the expression of EWS/FLI1 target genes. Among a hit-list of nine well-known drugs such as camptothecin, fenretinide, etoposide and doxorubicin, we also identified the kinase inhibitor midostaurin (PKC412). Subsequent experiments demonstrated that midostaurin is able to induce apoptosis in a panel of six Ewing's sarcoma cell lines in vitro and can significantly suppress xenograft tumor growth in vivo. These results suggest that midostaurin might be a novel drug that is active against Ewing's cells, which might act by modulating the expression of EWS/FLI1 target genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandar Boro
- Department of Oncology and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital, Steinwiesstrasse 75, Zurich, Switzerland
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Huang L, Nakai Y, Kuwahara I, Matsumoto K. PRAS40 is a functionally critical target for EWS repression in Ewing sarcoma. Cancer Res 2012; 72:1260-9. [PMID: 22241085 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-11-2254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Ewing sarcoma family tumors (ESFT) are highly aggressive and highly metastatic tumors caused by a chromosomal fusion between the Ewing sarcoma protein (EWS) with the transcription factor FLI-1. However, expression of the EWS/FLI-1 chimeric oncogene by itself is insufficient for carcinogenesis, suggesting that additional events are required. Here, we report the identification of the Akt substrate PRAS40 as an EWS target gene. EWS negatively regulates PRAS40 expression by binding the 3' untranslated region in PRAS40 mRNA. ESFT cell proliferation was suppressed by treatment with an Akt inhibitor, and ESFT cell proliferation and metastatic growth were suppressed by siRNA-mediated PRAS40 knockdown. Furthermore, PRAS40 knockdown was sufficient to reverse an increased cell proliferation elicited by EWS knockdown. In support of a pathologic role for PRAS40 elevation in EFST, we documented inverse protein levels of EWS and PRAS40 in ESFT cells. Together, our findings suggest that PRAS40 promotes the development of ESFT and might therefore represent a novel therapeutic target in this aggressive disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Huang
- Molecular Entomology Laboratory, RIKEN, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama, Japan
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Herrero-Martin D, Fourtouna A, Niedan S, Riedmann LT, Schwentner R, Aryee DNT. Factors Affecting EWS-FLI1 Activity in Ewing's Sarcoma. Sarcoma 2011; 2011:352580. [PMID: 22135504 PMCID: PMC3216314 DOI: 10.1155/2011/352580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2011] [Revised: 08/31/2011] [Accepted: 08/31/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ewing's sarcoma family tumors (ESFT) are characterized by specific chromosomal translocations, which give rise to EWS-ETS chimeric proteins. These aberrant transcription factors are the main pathogenic drivers of ESFT. Elucidation of the factors influencing EWS-ETS expression and/or activity will guide the development of novel therapeutic agents against this fatal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Herrero-Martin
- Children's Cancer Research Institute, St Anna Kinderkrebsforschung, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Argyro Fourtouna
- Children's Cancer Research Institute, St Anna Kinderkrebsforschung, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Stephan Niedan
- Children's Cancer Research Institute, St Anna Kinderkrebsforschung, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Lucia T. Riedmann
- Children's Cancer Research Institute, St Anna Kinderkrebsforschung, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Raphaela Schwentner
- Children's Cancer Research Institute, St Anna Kinderkrebsforschung, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Dave N. T. Aryee
- Children's Cancer Research Institute, St Anna Kinderkrebsforschung, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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A fraction of the transcription factor TAF15 participates in interactions with a subset of the spliceosomal U1 snRNP complex. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-PROTEINS AND PROTEOMICS 2011; 1814:1812-24. [PMID: 22019700 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbapap.2011.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2011] [Revised: 09/23/2011] [Accepted: 09/26/2011] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
RNA/ssDNA-binding proteins comprise an emerging class of multifunctional proteins with an anticipated role in coupling transcription with RNA processing. We focused here on the highly related transcription factors of the TET sub-class: TLS/FUS, EWS and in particular the least studied member TAF15. An extensive array of immunoprecipitation studies on differentially extracted HeLa nuclei revealed the specific association of TAF15 with the spliceosomal U1 snRNP complex, as deduced by the co-precipitating U1 snRNA, U1-70K and Sm proteins. Additionally, application of anti-U1 RNP autoantibodies identified TAF15 in the immunoprecipitates. Minor fractions of nuclear TAF15 and U1 snRNP were involved in this association. Pull-down assays using recombinant TAF15 and U1 snRNP-specific proteins (U1-70K, U1A and U1C) provided in vitro evidence for a direct protein-protein interaction between TAF15 and U1C, which required the N-terminal domain of TAF15. The ability of TAF15 to directly contact RNA, most likely RNA pol II transcripts, was supported by in vivo UV cross-linking studies in the presence of α-amanitin. By all findings, the existence of a functionally discrete subset of U1 snRNP in association with TAF15 was suggested and provided further support for the involvement of U1 snRNP components in early steps of coordinated gene expression.
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Erkizan HV, Scher LJ, Gamble SE, Barber-Rotenberg JS, Sajwan KP, Üren A, Toretsky JA. Novel peptide binds EWS-FLI1 and reduces the oncogenic potential in Ewing tumors. Cell Cycle 2011; 10:3397-408. [PMID: 21926473 DOI: 10.4161/cc.10.19.17734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Ewing tumor is driven by the oncogenic EWS-FLI1 fusion protein that functions as an aberrant transcription factor. The identification of EWS-FLI1 protein partners is essential to enhance its vulnerability as a therapeutic target. We utilized phage display library screening against recombinant EWS-FLI1 protein. We identified 27 unique Ewing sarcoma binding peptides. The cytotoxicity evaluation of these peptides with in EWS-FLI1 containing cell lines yielded one potent peptide called ESAP1 (TMRGKKKRTRAN). ESAP1 binds EWS-FLI1 with 0.202 micromolar affinity as measured in surface plasmon resonance. The minimal interaction region of ESAP1 is characterized and found that the lysine residues are critical for cellular cytotoxicity. ESAP1 reduces the transcriptional activity of EWS-FLI1 as well as disrupts cell cycle kinetics in Ewing Tumor cells. These findings provide both a novel experimental probe and a potential therapeutic scaffold for Ewing Tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayriye V Erkizan
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
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Huang G, Zhou Z, Wang H, Kleinerman ES. CAPER-α alternative splicing regulates the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor₁₆₅ in Ewing sarcoma cells. Cancer 2011; 118:2106-16. [PMID: 22009261 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.26488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2011] [Revised: 06/29/2011] [Accepted: 07/14/2011] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND TC-71 Ewing sarcoma cells overexpress vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) with a shift from the 189 to the 165 isoform. METHODS The effect of CAPER-α on the expression of the VEGF isoforms, tumor growth, and vessel density was analyzed after transfection of TC-71 cells with CAPER-α cDNA or siRNA. RESULTS CAPER-α correlated inversely with the VEGF(165) /VEGF(189) mRNA ratio. Up-regulation of CAPER-α resulted in decreased tumor growth, tumor vessel density, and chemotactic activity of the cell's supernatant. CAPER-α expression was regulated by EWS/FLI-1 through a protein-protein interaction. CONCLUSIONS Increased VEGF(165) expression is secondary to the down-regulation of CAPER-α by EWS/FLI-1. CAPER-α mediates alternative splicing and controls the shift from VEGF(189) to VEGF(165) .
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Affiliation(s)
- Gangxiong Huang
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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Paronetto M, Miñana B, Valcárcel J. The Ewing Sarcoma Protein Regulates DNA Damage-Induced Alternative Splicing. Mol Cell 2011; 43:353-68. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2011.05.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2010] [Revised: 04/14/2011] [Accepted: 05/25/2011] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde: The Two Faces of the FUS/EWS/TAF15 Protein Family. Sarcoma 2010; 2011:837474. [PMID: 21197473 PMCID: PMC3005952 DOI: 10.1155/2011/837474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2010] [Revised: 10/20/2010] [Accepted: 11/01/2010] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
FUS, EWS, and TAF15 form the FET family of RNA-binding proteins whose genes are found rearranged with various transcription factor genes predominantly in sarcomas and in rare hematopoietic and epithelial cancers. The resulting fusion gene products have attracted considerable interest as diagnostic and promising therapeutic targets. So far, oncogenic FET fusion proteins have been regarded as strong transcription factors that aberrantly activate or repress target genes of their DNA-binding fusion partners. However, the role of the transactivating domain in the context of the normal FET proteins is poorly defined, and, therefore, our knowledge on how FET aberrations impact on tumor biology is incomplete. Since we believe that a full understanding of aberrant FET protein function can only arise from looking at both sides of the coin, the good and the evil, this paper summarizes evidence for the central function of FET proteins in bridging RNA transcription, processing, transport, and DNA repair.
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