Interleukin-1 (IL-1)-induced TAK1-dependent Versus MEKK3-dependent NFkappaB activation pathways bifurcate at IL-1 receptor-associated kinase modification

Sodium Danshensu Inhibits Macrophage Inflammation in Atherosclerosis via the miR-200a-3p/MEKK3/NF-κB Signaling Pathway

Macrophages are fundamental cellular components of atherosclerotic plaques, and inhibition of macrophage inflammation can delay the development of atherosclerotic plaques. Sodium danshensu (SDSS) can inhibit inflammatory responses and thus delay atherosclerosis, but the specific mechanism remains unclear. The effect of SDSS in inhibiting atherosclerosis was confirmed by observing and detecting atherosclerotic plaque area, morphology and lipid levels in the aorta. The mechanism by which SDSS attenuated atherosclerotic plaques was elucidated by in vivo and in vitro detection of inflammation-related mRNA and protein expression. In addition, bioinformatics analysis, RT-qPCR and dual-luciferase assays were used to predict and validate the potential miRNAs of SDSS to attenuate atherosclerosis. miR-200a-2p mimic and inhibitor were then compared for their effects on the efficacy of SDSS. SDSS inhibited atherosclerotic plaque formation and suppressed the expression of MEKK3, TNF-α, and IL-1β as well as nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) phosphorylation and nuclear translocation to attenuate inflammatory responses. Bioinformatic predictions combined with RT-qPCR results and dual-luciferase assays indicated that miR-200a-3p negatively regulated MEKK3 expression by directly targeting the 3'UTR region of MEKK3, thereby blocking MEKK3. Further studies showed that miR-200a-3p inhibitor, but not miR-200a-3p mimic, reversed the beneficial effects of SDSS on inflammation. SDSS inhibited macrophage inflammation by modulating the miR-200a-3p/MEKK3/NF-κB signaling pathway.

IL-1β stimulates a novel axis within the NFκB pathway in endothelial cells regulated by IKKα and TAK-1

In this study we examined the activation of the non-canonical NFκB signalling pathway in endothelial cells. In HUVECs, LIGHT stimulated a delayed induction of serine 866/870 p100 phosphorylation linked to p52 NFκB formation. Surprisingly, the canonical ligand, IL-1β, stimulated a rapid phosphorylation or p100 which was not associated with p52 formation. Inhibition of IKKα activity, using DN-IKKα adenovirus, IKKα siRNA or a novel first-in-class selective IKKα inhibitor, SU1261, revealed IL-1β induced p100 phosphorylation to be dependent on IKKα. In contrast, IKKβ inhibition was found to be without effect. The NIK inhibitor, CW15337, did not affect IL-1β induced p100 phosphorylation however, both p100 and pIKKα/β phosphorylation was substantially reduced by inhibition of the upstream kinase TAK-1, suggesting phosphorylation of p100 is mediated by IKKα from within the canonical NEMO/IKKβ /IKKα complex. IL-1β also stimulated a rapid increase in nuclear translocation of p52, which was not affected by NIK inhibition, suggesting a source of p52 independent of p100 processing. Inhibition of TAK-1 abolished p52 and p65 nuclear translocation in response to IL-1β. SiRNA deletion or inhibition with dominant-negative virus of IKKα activity partially reduced p52 translocation, however pharmacological inhibition of IKKα was without effect. Inhibition of IKKβ abolished both p52 and p65 translocation. Taken together these results show that IL-1β stimulates a novel IKKα -dependent axis within the non-canonical NFκB pathway in endothelial cells which is NIK-independent and regulated by TAK-1. However, this pathway is not primarily responsible for the early nuclear translocation of p52, which is dependent on IKKβ. Elucidation of both these new pathways may be significant for NFκB biology within the endothelium.

Overcoming BRAF and CDK4/6 inhibitor resistance by inhibiting MAP3K3-dependent protection against YAP lysosomal degradation

Transcriptional programs governed by YAP play key roles in conferring resistance to various molecular-targeted anticancer agents. Strategies aimed at inhibiting YAP activity have garnered substantial interest as a means to overcome drug resistance. However, despite extensive research into the canonical Hippo-YAP pathway, few clinical agents are currently available to counteract YAP-associated drug resistance. Here, we present a novel mechanism of YAP stability regulation by MAP3K3 that is independent of Hippo kinases. Furthermore, we identified MAP3K3 as a target for overcoming anticancer drug resistance. Depletion of MAP3K3 led to a substantial reduction in the YAP protein level in melanoma and breast cancer cells. Mass spectrometry analysis revealed that MAP3K3 phosphorylates YAP at serine 405. This MAP3K3-mediated phosphorylation event hindered the binding of the E3 ubiquitin ligase FBXW7 to YAP, thereby preventing its p62-mediated lysosomal degradation. Robust YAP activation was observed in CDK4/6 inhibitor-resistant luminal breast cancer cells. Knockdown or pharmacological inhibition of MAP3K3 effectively suppressed YAP activity and restored CDK4/6 inhibitor sensitivity. Similarly, elevated MAP3K3 expression supported the prosurvival activity of YAP in BRAF inhibitor-resistant melanoma cells. Inhibition of MAP3K3 decreased YAP-dependent cell proliferation and successfully restored BRAF inhibitor sensitivity. In conclusion, our study reveals a previously unrecognized mechanism for the regulation of YAP stability, suggesting MAP3K3 inhibition as a promising strategy for overcoming resistance to CDK4/6 and BRAF inhibitors in cancer treatment.

Fusarium Mycotoxins Zearalenone and Deoxynivalenol Reduce Hepatocyte Innate Immune Response after the Listeria monocytogenes Infection by Inhibiting the TLR2/NFκB Signaling Pathway

Zearalenone (ZEA) and deoxynivalenol (DON) are two common mycotoxins produced by the genus Fusarium and have potential immunotoxic effects that may lead to a weak immune response against bacterial infections. Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes), a food-borne pathogenic microorganism ubiquitous in the environment, actively multiplies in the liver, where hepatocytes are capable of resistance through mediated innate immune responses. At present, it is not clear if ZEA and DON affect hepatocyte immune responses to L. monocytogenes infection or the mechanisms involved. Therefore, in this study, in vivo and in vitro models were used to investigate the effects of ZEA and DON on the innate immune responses of hepatocytes and related molecules after L. monocytogenes infection. In vivo studies revealed that ZEA and DON inhibited the toll-like receptors 2 (TLR2)/nuclear factor kappa-B (NFκB) pathway in the liver tissue of L. monocytogenes-infected mice, downregulating the expression levels of Nitric oxide (NO), in the liver and repressing the immune response. In addition, ZEA and DON inhibited Lipoteichoic acid (LTA)-induced expression of TLR2 and myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) in Buffalo Rat Liver (BRL 3A) cells in vitro, downregulating the TLR2/NFκB signaling pathway and resulting in the decreased expression levels of NO, causing immunosuppressive effects. In summary, ZEA and DON can negatively regulate NO levels through TLR2/NFκB, inhibiting the innate immune responses of the liver, and aggravate L. monocytogenes infections in mouse livers.

Mutations in the Vicinity of the IRAK3 Guanylate Cyclase Center Impact Its Subcellular Localization and Ability to Modulate Inflammatory Signaling in Immortalized Cell Lines

Interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 3 (IRAK3) modulates the magnitude of cellular responses to ligands perceived by interleukin-1 receptors (IL-1Rs) and Toll-like receptors (TLRs), leading to decreases in pro-inflammatory cytokines and suppressed inflammation. The molecular mechanism of IRAK3's action remains unknown. IRAK3 functions as a guanylate cyclase, and its cGMP product suppresses lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cell (NFκB) activity. To understand the implications of this phenomenon, we expanded the structure-function analyses of IRAK3 through site-directed mutagenesis of amino acids known or predicted to impact different activities of IRAK3. We verified the capacity of the mutated IRAK3 variants to generate cGMP in vitro and revealed residues in and in the vicinity of its GC catalytic center that impact the LPS-induced NFκB activity in immortalized cell lines in the absence or presence of an exogenous membrane-permeable cGMP analog. Mutant IRAK3 variants with reduced cGMP generating capacity and differential regulation of NFκB activity influence subcellular localization of IRAK3 in HEK293T cells and fail to rescue IRAK3 function in IRAK3 knock-out THP-1 monocytes stimulated with LPS unless the cGMP analog is present. Together, our results shed new light on the mechanism by which IRAK3 and its enzymatic product control the downstream signaling, affecting inflammatory responses in immortalized cell lines.

Bone Morphogenetic Proteins Shape Treg Cells

The transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) family includes cytokines controlling cell behavior, differentiation and homeostasis of various tissues including components of the immune system. Despite well recognized importance of TGF-β in controlling T cell functions, the immunomodulatory roles of many other members of the TGF-β cytokine family, especially bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), start to emerge. Bone Morphogenic Protein Receptor 1α (BMPR1α) is upregulated by activated effector and Foxp3+ regulatory CD4+ T cells (Treg cells) and modulates functions of both of these cell types. BMPR1α inhibits generation of proinflammatory Th17 cells and sustains peripheral Treg cells. This finding underscores the importance of the BMPs in controlling Treg cell plasticity and transition between Treg and Th cells. BMPR1α deficiency in in vitro induced and peripheral Treg cells led to upregulation of Kdm6b (Jmjd3) demethylase, an antagonist of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), and cell cycle inhibitor Cdkn1a (p21Cip1) promoting cell senescence. This indicates that BMPs and BMPR1α may represent regulatory modules shaping epigenetic landscape and controlling proinflammatory reprogramming of Th and Treg cells. Revealing functions of other BMP receptors and their crosstalk with receptors for TGF-β will contribute to our understanding of peripheral immunoregulation.

Acetic acid triggers cytochrome c release in yeast heterologously expressing human Bax

Proteins of the Bcl-2 protein family, including pro-apoptotic Bax and anti-apoptotic Bcl-xL, are critical for mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis regulation. Since yeast lacks obvious orthologs of Bcl-2 family members, heterologous expression of these proteins has been used to investigate their molecular and functional aspects. Active Bax is involved in the formation of mitochondrial outer membrane pores, through which cytochrome c (cyt c) is released, triggering a cascade of downstream apoptotic events. However, when in its inactive form, Bax is largely cytosolic or weakly bound to mitochondria. Given the central role of Bax in apoptosis, studies aiming to understand its regulation are of paramount importance towards its exploitation as a therapeutic target. So far, studies taking advantage of heterologous expression of human Bax in yeast to unveil regulation of Bax activation have relied on the use of artificial mutated or mitochondrial tagged Bax for its activation, rather than the wild type Bax (Bax α). Here, we found that cell death could be triggered in yeast cells heterologoulsy expressing Bax α with concentrations of acetic acid that are not lethal to wild type cells. This was associated with Bax mitochondrial translocation and cyt c release, closely resembling the natural Bax function in the cellular context. This regulated cell death process was reverted by co-expression with Bcl-xL, but not with Bcl-xLΔC, and in the absence of Rim11p, the yeast ortholog of mammalian GSK3β. This novel system mimics human Bax α regulation by GSK3β and can therefore be used as a platform to uncover novel Bax regulators and explore its therapeutic modulation.

USP13-mediated IRAK4 deubiquitination disrupts the pathological symptoms of lipopolysaccharides-induced sepsis

Ubiquitin-specific peptidase 13 (USP13) has been reported to participate in tumorigenesis, cell cycle arrest, endoplasmic reticulum-associated degradation, and immune responses. Here, we explored the function of USP13 in pro-inflammatory cytokine production of macrophages and its role in mouse sepsis model. Primary bone-marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) isolated from wild type (WT) and USP13^MKO mice were treated by lipopolysaccharides (LPS), IL-4, toll-like receptors (TLRs) agonists, and IRAK4 inhibitor to profile the inflammatory responses with different genotypes. Mouse sepsis model (WT and USP13^MKO) created by intraperitoneal injection with LPS plus D-galactosamine was used to assess septic shock-induced survival and lung inflammation. Flow cytometry, qRT-PCT, Western blot, and ELISA were performed to detect pro-inflammatory production and macrophage polarization. USP13 was a key regulator of IRAK4 deubiquitination in BMDMs and its myeloid specific deficiency contributed to LPS-induced pro-inflammatory response and septic symptoms. IRAK4 inhibitor co-administration improved in LPS-induced inflammatory responses in both BMDMs and septic mice. USP13 negatively regulates LPS-induced sepsis shock by targeting IRAK4. In summary, targeting USP13-IRAK4 axis might be a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of inflammation in sepsis shock.

Bone Morphogenic Protein Signaling and Melanoma

OPINION STATEMENT

Malignant melanoma is a deadly form of skin cancer caused by neoplastic transformation of melanocytic cells. Despite recent progress in melanoma therapy, by inhibition of activated oncogenes or immunotherapy, survival rate for metastatic melanoma patients remains low. The remarkable phenotypic plasticity of melanoma cells allows for rapid development of invasive properties and metastatic tumors, the main cause of mortality in melanoma patients. Phenotypic and molecular analyses of developing tumors revealed that epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a cellular and molecular mechanism, controls transition from mature melanocyte to less differentiated melanocyte lineage progenitor cells forming melanoma tumors. This transition is facilitated by persistence of transcriptional regulatory circuit characteristic of embryonic stage in mature melanocytes. Switching of the developmental program of mature melanocyte to EMT is induced by accumulated mutations, especially targeting BRAF, N-RAS, or MEK1/2 signaling pathways, and further promoted by dynamic stimuli from local environment including hypoxia, interactions with extracellular matrix and growth factors or cytokines. Recent reports demonstrate that signaling mediated by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and bone morphogenic proteins (BMPs) play critical roles in inducing EMT by controlling expression of critical transcription factors. BMPs are essential modulators of differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis, invasiveness, and metastases in developing melanoma tumors. They control transcription and epigenetic landscape of melanoma cells. Better understanding of the role of BMPs may lead to new strategies to control EMT processes in melanocyte cell lineage and to achieve clinical benefits for the patients.

Involvement of Interleukin-1 Receptor-Associated Kinase 4 and Interferon Regulatory Factor 5 in the Immunopathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Implications for the Treatment of COVID-19

Interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 4 (IRAK4) and interferon regulatory factor 5 (IRF5) lie sequentially on a signaling pathway activated by ligands of the IL-1 receptor and/or multiple TLRs located either on plasma or endosomal membranes. Activated IRF5, in conjunction with other synergistic transcription factors, notably NF-κB, is crucially required for the production of proinflammatory cytokines in the innate immune response to microbial infection. The IRAK4-IRF5 axis could therefore have a major role in the induction of the signature cytokines and chemokines of the hyperinflammatory state associated with severe morbidity and mortality in COVID-19. Here a case is made for considering IRAK4 or IRF5 inhibitors as potential therapies for the "cytokine storm" of COVID-19.

The Roles of Inflammasomes in Host Defense against Mycobacterium tuberculosis

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) infection is characterized by granulomatous lung lesions and systemic inflammatory responses during active disease. Inflammasome activation is involved in regulation of inflammation. Inflammasomes are multiprotein complexes serving a platform for activation of caspase-1, which cleaves the proinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and IL-18 into their active forms. These cytokines play an essential role in MTB control. MTB infection triggers activation of the nucleotide-binding domain, leucine-rich-repeat containing family, pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) and absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2) inflammasomes in vitro, but only AIM2 and apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase-activation recruitment domain (ASC), rather than NLRP3 or caspase-1, favor host survival and restriction of mycobacterial replication in vivo. Interferons (IFNs) inhibits MTB-induced inflammasome activation and IL-1 signaling. In this review, we focus on activation and regulation of the NLRP3 and AIM2 inflammasomes after exposure to MTB, as well as the effect of inflammasome activation on host defense against the infection.

Protein Kinase-Mediated Decision Between the Life and Death

Protein kinases are intracellular signaling enzymes that catalyze the phosphorylation of specific residues in their target substrate proteins. They play important role for regulation of life and death decisions. The complexity of the relationship between death receptors and protein kinases' cell death decision-making mechanisms create many difficulties in the treatment of various diseases. The most of fifteen different cell death pathways, which are reported by Nomenclature Committee on Cell Death (NCCD) are protein kinase signal transduction-mediated negative or positive selections. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) as a main player of death pathways is a dual-functioning molecule in that it can promote both cell survival or cell death. All apoptotic and necrotic signal transductions are conveyed through death domain-containing death receptors, which are expressed on the surface of nearly all human cells. In humans, eight members of the death receptor family have been identified. While the interaction of TNF with TNF Receptor 1 (TNFR1) activates various signal transduction pathways, different death receptors activate three main signal transduction pathways: nuclear factor kappa B (NF-ĸB)-mediated differentiation or pro-inflammatory cytokine synthesis, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-mediated stress response and caspase-mediated apoptosis. The link between the NF-ĸB and the c-Jun NH₂-terminal kinase (JNK) pathways comprise another check-point to regulate cell death. TNF-α also promotes the "receptor-interacting serine/threonine protein kinase 1" (RIPK1)/RIPK3/ mixed lineage kinase domain-like pseudokinase (MLKL)-dependent necrosis. Thus, necrosome is mainly comprised of MLKL, RIPK3 and, in some cases, RIPK1. In fact, RIPK1 is at the crossroad between life and death, downstream of various receptors as a regulator of endoplasmic reticulum stress-induced death. TNFR1 signaling complex (TNF-RSC), which contains multiple kinase activities, promotes phosphorylation of transforming growth factor β-activated kinase 1 (TAK1), inhibitor of nuclear transcription factor κB (IκB) kinase (IKK) α/IKKβ, IκBα, and NF-κB. IKKs affect cell-survival pathways in NF-κB-independent manner. Toll-like receptor (TLR) stimulation triggers various signaling pathways dependent on myeloid differentiation factor-88 (MyD88), Interleukin-1 receptor (IL-1R)-associated kinase (IRAK1), IRAK2 and IRAK4, lead to post-translational activation of nucleotide and oligomerization domain (NLRP3). Thereby, cell fate decisions following TLR signaling is parallel with death receptor signaling. Inhibition of IKKα/IKKβ or its upstream activators sensitize cells to death by inducing RIPK1-dependent apoptosis or necroptosis. During apoptosis, several kinases of the NF-κB pathway, including IKK1 and NF-κB essential modulator (NEMO), are cleaved by cellular caspases. This event can terminate the NF-κB-derived survival signals. In both canonical and non-canonical pathways, IKK is key to NF-κB activation. Whereas, the activation process of IKK, the functions of NEMO ubiquitination, IKK-related non-canonical pathway and the nuclear transportation of NEMO and functions of IKKα are still debated in cell death. In addition, cluster of differentiation 95 (CD95)-mediated non-apoptotic signaling and CD95- death-inducing signaling complex (DISC) interactions are waiting for clarification.

IL-1 induces mitochondrial translocation of IRAK2 to suppress oxidative metabolism in adipocytes

Chronic inflammation is a common feature of obesity with elevated cytokines such as Interleukin-1 (IL-1) in circulation and tissues. Here, we report an unconventional IL-1R-MyD88-IRAK2-PHB/OPA1 signaling axis that reprograms mitochondrial metabolism in adipocytes to exacerbate obesity. IL-1 induced recruitment of IRAK2-Myddosome to mitochondria outer membrane via recognition by TOM20, followed by TIMM50-guided translocation of IRAK2 into mitochondria inner membrane to suppress oxidative phosphorylation and fatty acid oxidation, thereby, attenuating energy expenditure. Adipocyte-specific MyD88 or IRAK2 deficiency reduced high fat diet (HFD)-induced weight gain, increased energy expenditure and ameliorated insulin resistance, associated with a smaller adipocyte size and increased cristae formation. IRAK2 kinase inactivation also reduced HFD-induced metabolic diseases. Mechanistically, IRAK2 suppressed respiratory super-complex formation via interaction with PHB1 and OPA1 upon stimulation of IL-1. Taken together, our results suggest that IRAK2 Myddosome functions as a critical link between inflammation and metabolism, representing a novel therapeutic target for patients with obesity.

An IRAK1-PIN1 signalling axis drives intrinsic tumour resistance to radiation therapy

Drug-based strategies to overcome tumour resistance to radiotherapy (R-RT) remain limited by the single-agent toxicity of traditional radiosensitizers (e.g., platinums) and a lack of targeted alternatives. In a screen for compounds that restore radiosensitivity in p53 mutant zebrafish while tolerated in non-irradiated wild-type animals, we identified the benzimidazole anthelmintic, oxfendazole. Surprisingly, oxfendazole acts via inhibition of IRAK1, a kinase otherwise involved in Interleukin-1 and Toll-like receptor (IL-1R/TLR) immune responses. IRAK1 drives R-RT in a pathway involving IRAK4 and TRAF6 but not the IL-1R/TLR—IRAK adaptor MyD88. Rather than stimulating NF-κB, radiation-activated IRAK1 acts to prevent apoptosis mediated by the PIDDosome complex (PIDD/RAIDD/caspase-2). Countering this pathway with IRAK1 inhibitors suppresses R-RT in tumour models derived from cancers in which TP53 mutations predict R-RT. Lastly, IRAK1 inhibitors synergize with inhibitors of PIN1, a prolyl isomerase essential for IRAK1 activation in response to pathogens and, as shown here, ionizing radiation. These data identify an IRAK1 radiation-response pathway as a rational chemo-RT target.

Understanding early TLR signaling through the Myddosome

TLRs are expressed on the plasma and endosomal membranes of innate immune cells acting as sensors of foreign and inherent danger signals that threaten the host. Upon activation, TLRs facilitate the assembly of large intracellular oligomeric signaling complexes, termed Myddosomes, which initiate key signal transduction pathways to elicit critical inflammatory immune responses. The formation of the Myddosome is integral for TLR signaling; however, the molecular mechanisms controlling its formation, disassembly, and the subsequent proximal signaling events remain to be clearly defined. In this review, we present a brief overview of TLR signal transduction pathways, summarize the current understanding of the Myddosome and the proteins that comprise its structure, including MyD88 and members of the IL-1 receptor-associated kinase (IRAK) family. Finally, we will discuss recent advances and open questions regarding early TLR signaling in the context of the Myddosome complex.

Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor-Associated Factor Regulation of Nuclear Factor κB and Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Pathways

Tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR)-associated factors (TRAFs) are a family of structurally related proteins that transduces signals from members of TNFR superfamily and various other immune receptors. Major downstream signaling events mediated by the TRAF molecules include activation of the transcription factor nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) and the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). In addition, some TRAF family members, particularly TRAF2 and TRAF3, serve as negative regulators of specific signaling pathways, such as the noncanonical NF-κB and proinflammatory toll-like receptor pathways. Thus, TRAFs possess important and complex signaling functions in the immune system and play an important role in regulating immune and inflammatory responses. This review will focus on the role of TRAF proteins in the regulation of NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways.

IRAK4 activity controls immune responses to intracellular bacteria Listeria monocytogenes and Mycobacterium smegmatis

IL-1 receptor-associated kinase (IRAK) 4 is a central enzyme of the TLR pathways. This study tested the hypothesis that IRAK4 kinase activity is prerequisite for regulating innate immunity during infections with intracellular bacteria. To this end, we analyzed responses of macrophages obtained from mice expressing wild-type (WT) IRAK4 or its kinase-inactive K213M mutant (IRAK4^KI ) upon infection with intracellular bacteria Listeria monocytogenes or Mycobacterium smegmatis. In contrast to robust induction of cytokines by macrophages expressing kinase-sufficient IRAK4, IRAK4^KI macrophages expressed decreased TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and C-C motif chemokine ligand 5 upon infection with L. monocytogenes or M. smegmatis. Bacterial infection of IRAK4^KI macrophages led to attenuated activation of IRAK1, MAPKs and NF-κB, impaired induction of inducible NO synthase mRNA and secretion of NO, but resulted in elevated microbial burdens. Compared with WT animals, systemic infection of IRAK4^KI mice with M. smegmatis or L. monocytogenes resulted in decreased levels of serum IL-6 and CXCL-1 but increased bacterial burdens in the spleen and liver. Thus, a loss of IRAK4 kinase activity underlies deficient cytokine and microbicidal responses during infection with intracellular bacteria L. monocytogenes or M. smegmatis via impaired activation of IRAK1, MAPKs, and NF-κB but increases bacterial burdens, correlating with decreased induction of NO.

The Many Roles of Ubiquitin in NF-κB Signaling

The nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway ubiquitously controls cell growth and survival in basic conditions as well as rapid resetting of cellular functions following environment changes or pathogenic insults. Moreover, its deregulation is frequently observed during cell transformation, chronic inflammation or autoimmunity. Understanding how it is properly regulated therefore is a prerequisite to managing these adverse situations. Over the last years evidence has accumulated showing that ubiquitination is a key process in NF-κB activation and its resolution. Here, we examine the various functions of ubiquitin in NF-κB signaling and more specifically, how it controls signal transduction at the molecular level and impacts in vivo on NF-κB regulated cellular processes.

TLR4 acts as a death receptor for ultraviolet radiation (UVR) through IRAK-independent and FADD-dependent pathway in macrophages

UVR-induced apoptosis in cutaneous antigen presenting cells (APC) causes systemic immune suppression and is dependent on TLR4/MyD88 signalling, but the apoptotic signalling pathways have not been defined. Macrophages pretreated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were unresponsive to subsequent LPS treatment, however, but were susceptible to UVR-induced apoptosis. Macrophage survival and apoptotic events after UVR were also unaffected by treatment with TLR4 antagonists, a blocking IgG or a TLR4 analog antagonist, suggesting that UVR cell death is independent of a soluble ligand. After UVR, IRAK4^KDKI (catalytically inactive IRAK4) and wild-type (WT) macrophages show equivalent levels of survival, as measured by MTT assay, and apoptosis, as measured by cleaved caspase-3. Furthermore, in macrophages from both mice, UVR activated caspase-8 and PARP, while inactivating Rip3. This finding is supported by a lack of IRAK1 degradation after UVR, compared to treatment with TLR2 or TLR4 agonists. UVR induced association of MyD88 with FADD, an extrinsic apoptotic pathway protein, but not IRAK4. UVR-induced migration of FADD to the cell membrane of WT macrophages, but not MyD88^-/- macrophages, was observed (confocal microscopy). Co-immunoprecipitation using an epitope-tagged MyD88 revealed that FADD, but not TRADD, was recruited to MyD88 within 30 minutes of UVR exposure. UVR engages TLR4/MyD88 as a death signalling complex, rather than the classical inflammatory signalling pathway triggered by PAMP recognition of TLR4. These studies provide the rationale for the future development of topical TLR4 modulating therapies to interfere with this UVB-mediated apoptosis and the associated negative consequences of immune suppression.

A model of the onset of the senescence associated secretory phenotype after DNA damage induced senescence

Cells and tissues are exposed to stress from numerous sources. Senescence is a protective mechanism that prevents malignant tissue changes and constitutes a fundamental mechanism of aging. It can be accompanied by a senescence associated secretory phenotype (SASP) that causes chronic inflammation. We present a Boolean network model-based gene regulatory network of the SASP, incorporating published gene interaction data. The simulation results describe current biological knowledge. The model predicts different in-silico knockouts that prevent key SASP-mediators, IL-6 and IL-8, from getting activated upon DNA damage. The NF-κB Essential Modulator (NEMO) was the most promising in-silico knockout candidate and we were able to show its importance in the inhibition of IL-6 and IL-8 following DNA-damage in murine dermal fibroblasts in-vitro. We strengthen the speculated regulator function of the NF-κB signaling pathway in the onset and maintenance of the SASP using in-silico and in-vitro approaches. We were able to mechanistically show, that DNA damage mediated SASP triggering of IL-6 and IL-8 is mainly relayed through NF-κB, giving access to possible therapy targets for SASP-accompanied diseases.

Inhibition of IRAK1 Ubiquitination Determines Glucocorticoid Sensitivity for TLR9-Induced Inflammation in Macrophages

Inflammatory responses are controlled by signaling mediators that are regulated by various posttranslational modifications. Recently, transcription-independent functions for glucocorticoids (GC) in restraining inflammation have emerged, but the underlying mechanisms are unknown. In this study, we report that GC receptor (GR)-mediated actions of GC acutely suppress TLR9-induced inflammation via inhibition of IL-1R-associated kinase 1 (IRAK1) ubiquitination. β-TrCP-IRAK1 interaction is required for K48-linked ubiquitination of IRAK1 at Lys¹³⁴ and subsequent membrane-to-cytoplasm trafficking of IRAK1 interacting partners TNFR-associated factor 6 and TAK1 that facilitates NF-κB and MAPK activation. Upon costimulation of macrophages with GC and TLR9-engaging ligand, GR physically interacts with IRAK1 and interferes with protein-protein interactions between β-TrCP and IRAK1. Ablation of GR in macrophages prevents GC-dependent suppression of β-TrCP-IRAK1 interactions. This GC-mediated suppression of IRAK1 activation is unique to TLR9, as GC treatment impairs TLR9 but not TLR4 ligand-induced K48-linked IRAK1 ubiquitination and trafficking of IRAK1 interacting partners. Furthermore, mutations in IRAK1 at Lys¹³⁴ prevent TLR9 ligand-induced activation of inflammatory signaling mediators and synthesis of proinflammatory cytokines to an extent comparable to GC-mediated inhibition. Collectively, these findings identify a transcription-independent, rapid, and nongenomic GC suppression of TLR9 ligand-mediated IRAK1 ubiquitination as a novel mechanism for restraining acute inflammatory reactions.

IRAK2 directs stimulus-dependent nuclear export of inflammatory mRNAs

Expression of inflammatory genes is determined in part by post-transcriptional regulation of mRNA metabolism but how stimulus- and transcript-dependent nuclear export influence is poorly understood. Here, we report a novel pathway in which LPS/TLR4 engagement promotes nuclear localization of IRAK2 to facilitate nuclear export of a specific subset of inflammation-related mRNAs for translation in murine macrophages. IRAK2 kinase activity is required for LPS-induced RanBP2-mediated IRAK2 sumoylation and subsequent nuclear translocation. Array analysis showed that an SRSF1-binding motif is enriched in mRNAs dependent on IRAK2 for nuclear export. Nuclear IRAK2 phosphorylates SRSF1 to reduce its binding to target mRNAs, which promotes the RNA binding of the nuclear export adaptor ALYREF and nuclear export receptor Nxf1 loading for the export of the mRNAs. In summary, LPS activates a nuclear function of IRAK2 that facilitates the assembly of nuclear export machinery to export selected inflammatory mRNAs to the cytoplasm for translation.

The innate immune system is the body’s first line of defense against invading microbes. Some immune cells carry specific receptor proteins called Toll-like receptors that can identify microbes and the signals they emit. As soon as the receptors have detected a threat – for example through sensing oily molecules that make up the cell membranes of microbes – they produce signaling proteins called cytokines and chemokines to alert other immune cells.

The DNA in the cell’s nucleus carries the instructions needed to make proteins. To produce proteins, including cytokines and chemokines, the information first has to be transferred into mRNA templates, which carry the instructions to the sites in the cell where the proteins are made. Cytokine and chemokine mRNAs are generally short-lived, but previous studies in 2009 and 2011 have shown that an enzyme called IRAK2 can stabilize them to make them last longer. IRAK enzymes are activated by the Toll-like receptors after a threat has been detected. However, until now it was not known whether IRAK2 also helps to transport the mRNAs of cytokines and chemokines out of the cell nucleus.

Using immune cells of mice, Zhou et al. – including some of the researchers involved in the previous studies – discovered that IRAK2 helped to export the mRNAs of cytokines and chemokines from the immune cell nucleus into the surrounding cell fluid. The Toll-like receptors recognized the oily molecules of the microbes and consequently activated IRAK2, which lead to IRAK2 being moved into the cell nucleus.

Once activated, IRAK2 helped to assemble the export machinery that moved selected mRNAs out of the nucleus to build the proteins. To do so, IRAK2 stopped a destabilizing protein from binding to the mRNA, so that instead the export machinery could transport the mRNA of the cytokines and chemokines out of the cell nucleus.

A next step will be to test whether IRAK2 is required to guide exported mRNA tothe sites in the cell where the proteins are made. This new insight could help to develop new treatments for various diseases. For example, diseases in which the immune system attacks the cells of the body, rather than invaders, can be caused by too many cytokines and chemokines. Since IRAK2 helps to control the availability of cytokines and chemokines it may in future be used as a new drug target.

IRAK4 kinase activity controls Toll-like receptor-induced inflammation through the transcription factor IRF5 in primary human monocytes

Interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 4 (IRAK4) plays a critical role in innate immune signaling by Toll-like receptors (TLRs), and loss of IRAK4 activity in mice and humans increases susceptibility to bacterial infections and causes defects in TLR and IL1 ligand sensing. However, the mechanism by which IRAK4 activity regulates the production of downstream inflammatory cytokines is unclear. Using transcriptomic and biochemical analyses of human monocytes treated with a highly potent and selective inhibitor of IRAK4, we show that IRAK4 kinase activity controls the activation of interferon regulatory factor 5 (IRF5), a transcription factor implicated in the pathogenesis of multiple autoimmune diseases. Following TLR7/8 stimulation by its agonist R848, chemical inhibition of IRAK4 abolished IRF5 translocation to the nucleus and thus prevented IRF5 binding to and activation of the promoters of inflammatory cytokines in human monocytes. We also found that IKKβ, an upstream IRF5 activator, is phosphorylated in response to the agonist-induced TLR signaling. Of note, IRAK4 inhibition blocked IKKβ phosphorylation but did not block the nuclear translocation of NFκB, which was surprising, given the canonical role of IKKβ in phosphorylating IκB to allow NFκB activation. Moreover, pharmacological inhibition of either IKKβ or the serine/threonine protein kinase TAK1 in monocytes blocked TLR-induced cytokine production and IRF5 translocation to the nucleus, but not nuclear translocation of NFκB. Taken together, our data suggest a mechanism by which IRAK4 activity regulates TAK1 and IKKβ activation, leading to the nuclear translocation of IRF5 and induction of inflammatory cytokines in human monocytes.

Differences of immune disorders between Alzheimer's disease and breast cancer based on transcriptional regulation

Although chronic inflammation and immune disorders are of great importance to the pathogenesis of both dementia and cancer, the pathophysiological mechanisms are not clearly understood. In recent years, growing epidemiological evidence and meta-analysis data suggest an inverse association between Alzheimer's disease (AD), which is the most common form of dementia, and cancer. It has been revealed that some common genes and biological processes play opposite roles in AD and cancer; however, the biological immune mechanism for the inverse association is not clearly defined. An unsupervised matrix decomposition two-stage bioinformatics procedure was adopted to investigate the opposite behaviors of the immune response in AD and breast cancer (BC) and to discover the underlying transcriptional regulatory mechanisms. Fast independent component analysis (FastICA) was applied to extract significant genes from AD and BC microarray gene expression data. Based on the extracted data, the shared transcription factors (TFs) from AD and BC were captured. Second, the network component analysis (NCA) algorithm in this study was presented to quantitatively deduce the TF activities and regulatory influences because quantitative dynamic regulatory information for TFs is not available via microarray techniques. Based on the NCA results and reconstructed transcriptional regulatory networks, inverse regulatory processes and some known innate immune responses were described in detail. Many of the shared TFs and their regulatory processes were found to be closely related to the adaptive immune response from dramatically different directions and to play crucial roles in both AD and BC pathogenesis. From the above findings, the opposing cellular behaviors demonstrate an invaluable opportunity to gain insights into the pathogenesis of these two types of diseases and to aid in developing new treatments.

Key Events Participating in the Pathogenesis of Alcoholic Liver Disease

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. It ranges from fatty liver to steatohepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The most prevalent forms of ALD are alcoholic fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis (AH) and alcoholic cirrhosis, which frequently progress as people continue drinking. ALD refers to a number of symptoms/deficits that contribute to liver injury. These include steatosis, inflammation, fibrosis and cirrhosis, which, when taken together, sequentially or simultaneously lead to significant disease progression. The pathogenesis of ALD, influenced by host and environmental factors, is currently only partially understood. To date, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) translocation from the gut to the portal blood, aging, gender, increased infiltration and activation of neutrophils and bone marrow-derived macrophages along with alcohol plus iron metabolism, with its associated increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS), are all key events contributing to the pathogenesis of ALD. This review aims to introduce the reader to the concept of alcohol-mediated liver damage and the mechanisms driving injury.

IRAKM-Mincle axis links cell death to inflammation: Pathophysiological implications for chronic alcoholic liver disease

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-mediated activation of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) in hepatic macrophages and injury to hepatocytes are major contributors to the pathogenesis of alcoholic liver disease. However, the mechanisms by which TLR-dependent inflammatory responses and alcohol-induced hepatocellular damage coordinately lead to alcoholic liver disease are not completely understood. In this study, we found that mice deficient in interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase M (IRAKM), a proximal TLR pathway molecule typically associated with inhibition of TLR signaling, were actually protected from chronic ethanol-induced liver injury. In bone marrow-derived macrophages challenged with low concentrations of LPS, which reflect the relevant pathophysiological levels of LPS in both alcoholic patients and ethanol-fed mice, the IRAKM Myddosome was preferentially formed. Further, the IRAKM Myddosome mediated the up-regulation of Mincle, a sensor for cell death. Mincle-deficient mice were also protected from ethanol-induced liver injury. The endogenous Mincle ligand spliceosome-associated protein 130 (SAP130) is a danger signal released by damaged cells; culture of hepatocytes with ethanol increased the release of SAP130. Ex vivo studies in bone marrow-derived macrophages suggested that SAP130 and LPS synergistically activated inflammatory responses, including inflammasome activation.

CONCLUSION

This study reveals a novel IRAKM-Mincle axis that contributes to the pathogenesis of ethanol-induced liver injury. (Hepatology 2016;64:1978-1993).

Apoptosis signaling pathways in osteoarthritis and possible protective role of melatonin

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease characterized by progressive erosion of articular cartilage. As chondrocytes are the only cell type forming the articular cartilage, their gradual loss is the main cause of OA. There is a substantial body of published research that suggests reactive oxygen species (ROS) are major causative factors for chondrocyte damage and OA development. Oxidative stress elicited by ROS is capable of oxidizing and subsequently disrupting cartilage homeostasis, promoting catabolism via induction of cell death and damaging numerous components of the joint. IL-1β and TNF-α are crucial inflammatory factors that play pivotal roles in the pathogenesis of OA. In this process, the mitochondria are the major source of ROS production in cells, suggesting a role of mitochondrial dysfunction in this type of arthritis. This may also be promoted by inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β and TNF-α which contribute to chondrocyte death. In patients with OA, the expression of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-associated molecules is positively correlated with cartilage degeneration. Melatonin and its metabolites are broad-spectrum antioxidants and free radical scavengers which regulate a variety of molecular pathways such as inflammation, proliferation, apoptosis, and metastasis in different pathophysiological situations. Herein, we review the effects of melatonin on OA, focusing on its ability to regulate apoptotic processes and ER and mitochondrial activity. We also evaluate likely protective effects of melatonin on OA pathogenesis.

Receptor proximal kinases in NF-κB signaling as potential therapeutic targets in cancer and inflammation

Many signaling pathways leading to activation of transcription factors and gene expression are characterized by phosphorylation events mediated by specific kinases. The transcription factor NF-κB plays a key role in multiple cellular processes, including immune signaling, inflammation, development, proliferation and survival. Dysregulated NF-κB activation is associated with autoimmunity, chronic inflammation and cancer. Activation of NF-κB requires IκB kinase (IKK)α or β, the activity of which is regulated via phosphorylation by specific IKK kinases and by autophosphorylation. Receptor specificity is further obtained by the use of multiple upstream receptor proximal kinases. We review the identities of several IKK regulatory kinases as well as the proposed molecular mechanisms. In addition, we discuss the potential for therapeutic targeting of some of these kinases in the context of inflammatory diseases and cancer.

IRAK4 dimerization and trans-autophosphorylation are induced by Myddosome assembly

Trans-autophosphorylation is among the most prevalent means of protein kinase activation, yet its molecular basis is poorly defined. In Toll-like receptor and interleukin-1 receptor signaling pathways, the kinase IRAK4 is recruited to the membrane-proximal adaptor MyD88 through death domain (DD) interactions, forming the oligomeric Myddosome and mediating NF-κB activation. Here we show that unphosphorylated IRAK4 dimerizes in solution with a KD of 2.5 μM and that Myddosome assembly greatly enhances IRAK4 kinase domain (KD) autophosphorylation at sub-KD concentrations. The crystal structure of the unphosphorylated IRAK4(KD) dimer captures a conformation that appears to represent the actual trans-autophosphorylation reaction, with the activation loop phosphosite of one IRAK4 monomer precisely positioned for phosphotransfer by its partner. We show that dimerization is crucial for IRAK4 autophosphorylation in vitro and ligand-dependent signaling in cells. These studies identify a mechanism for oligomerization-driven allosteric autoactivation of IRAK4 that may be general to other kinases activated by autophosphorylation.

The pellino e3 ubiquitin ligases recognize specific phosphothreonine motifs and have distinct substrate specificities

The four mammalian Pellinos (Pellinos 1, 2, 3a, and 3b) are E3 ubiquitin ligases that are emerging as critical mediators for a variety of immune signaling pathways, including those activated by Toll-like receptors, the T-cell receptor, and NOD2. It is becoming increasingly clear that each Pellino has a distinct role in facilitating immune receptor signaling. However, the underlying mechanisms by which these highly homologous proteins act selectively in these signaling pathways are not clear. In this study, we investigate whether Pellino substrate recognition contributes to the divergent functions of Pellinos. Substrate recognition of each Pellino is mediated by its noncanonical forkhead-associated (FHA) domain, a well-characterized phosphothreonine-binding module. Pellino FHA domains share very high sequence identity, so a molecular basis for differences in substrate recognition is not immediately apparent. To explore Pellino substrate specificity, we first identify a high-affinity Pellino2 FHA domain-binding motif in the Pellino substrate, interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 1 (IRAK1). Analysis of binding of the different Pellinos to a panel of phosphothreonine-containing peptides derived from the IRAK1-binding motif reveals that each Pellino has a distinct phosphothreonine peptide binding preference. We observe a similar binding specificity in the interaction of Pellinos with a number of known Pellino substrates. These results argue that the nonredundant roles that Pellinos play in immune signaling are in part due to their divergent substrate specificities. This new insight into Pellino substrate recognition could be exploited for pharmacological advantage in treating inflammatory diseases that have been linked to the aberrant regulation of Pellinos.

Role of p38 MAP Kinase Signal Transduction in Solid Tumors

Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) mediate a wide variety of cellular behaviors in response to extracellular stimuli. One of the main subgroups, the p38 MAP kinases, has been implicated in a wide range of complex biologic processes, such as cell proliferation, cell differentiation, cell death, cell migration, and invasion. Dysregulation of p38 MAPK levels in patients are associated with advanced stages and short survival in cancer patients (e.g., prostate, breast, bladder, liver, and lung cancer). p38 MAPK plays a dual role as a regulator of cell death, and it can either mediate cell survival or cell death depending not only on the type of stimulus but also in a cell type specific manner. In addition to modulating cell survival, an essential role of p38 MAPK in modulation of cell migration and invasion offers a distinct opportunity to target this pathway with respect to tumor metastasis. The specific function of p38 MAPK appears to depend not only on the cell type but also on the stimuli and/or the isoform that is activated. p38 MAPK signaling pathway is activated in response to diverse stimuli and mediates its function by components downstream of p38. Extrapolation of the knowledge gained from laboratory findings is essential to address the clinical significance of p38 MAPK signaling pathways. The goal of this review is to provide an overview on recent progress made in defining the functions of p38 MAPK pathways with respect to solid tumor biology and generate testable hypothesis with respect to the role of p38 MAPK as an attractive target for intervention of solid tumors.

MyD88-dependent interplay between myeloid and endothelial cells in the initiation and progression of obesity-associated inflammatory diseases

MyD88-dependent GM-CSF production by endothelial cells plays a role in the initiation of obesity-associated inflammation by promoting adipose macrophage recruitment and M1-like polarization.

Low-grade systemic inflammation is often associated with metabolic syndrome, which plays a critical role in the development of the obesity-associated inflammatory diseases, including insulin resistance and atherosclerosis. Here, we investigate how Toll-like receptor–MyD88 signaling in myeloid and endothelial cells coordinately participates in the initiation and progression of high fat diet–induced systemic inflammation and metabolic inflammatory diseases. MyD88 deficiency in myeloid cells inhibits macrophage recruitment to adipose tissue and their switch to an M1-like phenotype. This is accompanied by substantially reduced diet-induced systemic inflammation, insulin resistance, and atherosclerosis. MyD88 deficiency in endothelial cells results in a moderate reduction in diet-induced adipose macrophage infiltration and M1 polarization, selective insulin sensitivity in adipose tissue, and amelioration of spontaneous atherosclerosis. Both in vivo and ex vivo studies suggest that MyD88-dependent GM-CSF production from the endothelial cells might play a critical role in the initiation of obesity-associated inflammation and development of atherosclerosis by priming the monocytes in the adipose and arterial tissues to differentiate into M1-like inflammatory macrophages. Collectively, these results implicate a critical MyD88-dependent interplay between myeloid and endothelial cells in the initiation and progression of obesity-associated inflammatory diseases.

Integrating gene expression and protein interaction data for signaling pathway prediction of Alzheimer's disease

Discovering the signaling pathway and regulatory network would provide significant advance in genome-wide understanding of pathogenesis of human diseases. Despite the rich transcriptome data, the limitation for microarray data is unable to detect changes beyond transcriptional level and insufficient in reconstructing pathways and regulatory networks. In our study, protein-protein interaction (PPI) data is introduced to add molecular biological information for predicting signaling pathway of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Combining PPI with gene expression data, significant genes are selected by modified linear regression model firstly. Then, according to the biological researches that inflammation reaction plays an important role in the generation and deterioration of AD, NF-κB (nuclear factor-kappa B), as a significant inflammatory factor, has been selected as the beginning gene of the predicting signaling pathway. Based on that, integer linear programming (ILP) model is proposed to reconstruct the signaling pathway between NF-κB and AD virulence gene APP (amyloid precursor protein). The results identify 6 AD virulence genes included in the predicted inflammatory signaling pathway, and a large amount of molecular biological analysis shows the great understanding of the underlying biological process of AD.

MEKK3 and TAK1 synergize to activate IKK complex in Helicobacter pylori infection

Helicobacter pylori colonises the gastric epithelial cells of half of the world's population and represents a risk factor for gastric adenocarcinoma. In gastric epithelial cells H. pylori induces the immediate early response transcription factor nuclear factor of kappa light polypeptide gene enhancer in B-cells (NF-κB) and the innate immune response. We show that H. pylori induces in a type IV secretion system-dependent (T4SS) and cytotoxin associated gene A protein (CagA)-independent manner a transient activation of the inhibitor of NF-κB (IκBα) kinase (IKK)-complex. IKKα and IKKβ expression stabilises the regulatory IKK complex subunit NF-κB essential modulator (NEMO). We provide evidence for an intimate mutual control of the IKK complex by mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase 3 (MEKK3) and transforming growth factor β activated kinase 1 (TAK1). TAK1 interacts transiently with the E3 ubiquitin ligase tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6). Protein modifications in the TAK1 molecule, e.g. TAK1 autophosphorylation and K63-linked ubiquitinylation, administer NF-κB signalling including transient recruitment of the IKK-complex. Overall, our data uncover H. pylori-induced interactions and protein modifications of the IKK complex, and its upstream regulatory factors involved in NF-κB activation.

The IκB kinase complex in NF-κB regulation and beyond

The IκB kinase (IKK) complex is the signal integration hub for NF-κB activation. Composed of two serine-threonine kinases (IKKα and IKKβ) and the regulatory subunit NEMO (also known as IKKγ), the IKK complex integrates signals from all NF-κB activating stimuli to catalyze the phosphorylation of various IκB and NF-κB proteins, as well as of other substrates. Since the discovery of the IKK complex components about 15 years ago, tremendous progress has been made in the understanding of the IKK architecture and its integration into signaling networks. In addition to the control of NF-κB, IKK subunits mediate the crosstalk with other pathways, thereby extending the complexity of their biological function. This review summarizes recent advances in IKK biology and focuses on emerging aspects of IKK structure, regulation and function.

Regulation of angiogenesis via Notch signaling in breast cancer and cancer stem cells

Breast cancer angiogenesis is elicited and regulated by a number of factors including the Notch signaling. Notch receptors and ligands are expressed in breast cancer cells as well as in the stromal compartment and have been implicated in carcinogenesis. Signals exchanged between neighboring cells through the Notch pathway can amplify and consolidate molecular differences, which eventually dictate cell fates. Notch signaling and its crosstalk with many signaling pathways play an important role in breast cancer cell growth, migration, invasion, metastasis and angiogenesis, as well as cancer stem cell (CSC) self-renewal. Therefore, significant attention has been paid in recent years toward the development of clinically useful antagonists of Notch signaling. Better understanding of the structure, function and regulation of Notch intracellular signaling pathways, as well as its complex crosstalk with other oncogenic signals in breast cancer cells will be essential to ensure rational design and application of new combinatory therapeutic strategies. Novel opportunities have emerged from the discovery of Notch crosstalk with inflammatory and angiogenic cytokines and their links to CSCs. Combinatory treatments with drugs designed to prevent Notch oncogenic signal crosstalk may be advantageous over λ secretase inhibitors (GSIs) alone. In this review, we focus on the more recent advancements in our knowledge of aberrant Notch signaling contributing to breast cancer angiogenesis, as well as its crosstalk with other factors contributing to angiogenesis and CSCs.

Molecular biology of atherosclerosis

At least 468 individual genes have been manipulated by molecular methods to study their effects on the initiation, promotion, and progression of atherosclerosis. Most clinicians and many investigators, even in related disciplines, find many of these genes and the related pathways entirely foreign. Medical schools generally do not attempt to incorporate the relevant molecular biology into their curriculum. A number of key signaling pathways are highly relevant to atherogenesis and are presented to provide a context for the gene manipulations summarized herein. The pathways include the following: the insulin receptor (and other receptor tyrosine kinases); Ras and MAPK activation; TNF-α and related family members leading to activation of NF-κB; effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS) on signaling; endothelial adaptations to flow including G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) and integrin-related signaling; activation of endothelial and other cells by modified lipoproteins; purinergic signaling; control of leukocyte adhesion to endothelium, migration, and further activation; foam cell formation; and macrophage and vascular smooth muscle cell signaling related to proliferation, efferocytosis, and apoptosis. This review is intended primarily as an introduction to these key signaling pathways. They have become the focus of modern atherosclerosis research and will undoubtedly provide a rich resource for future innovation toward intervention and prevention of the number one cause of death in the modern world.

IRAK4 kinase activity is not required for induction of endotoxin tolerance but contributes to TLR2-mediated tolerance

Prior exposure to LPS induces "endotoxin tolerance" that reprograms TLR4 responses to subsequent LPS challenge by altering expression of inflammatory mediators. Endotoxin tolerance is thought to limit the excessive cytokine storm and prevent tissue damage during sepsis but renders the host immunocompromised and susceptible to secondary infections. Tolerance initiated via one TLR can affect cellular responses to challenge via the same TLR ("homotolerance") or through different TLRs ("heterotolerance"). IRAK4, an essential component of the MyD88-dependent pathway, functions as a kinase and an adapter, activating subsets of divergent signaling pathways. In this study, we addressed mechanistically the role of IRAK4 kinase activity in TLR4- and TLR2-induced tolerance using macrophages from WT versus IRAK4(KDKI) mice. Whereas IRAK4 kinase deficiency decreased LPS signaling, it did not prevent endotoxin tolerance, as endotoxin pretreatment of WT and IRAK4(KDKI) macrophages inhibited LPS-induced MAPK phosphorylation, degradation of IκB-α and recruitment of p65 to the TNF-α promoter, expression of proinflammatory cytokines, and increased levels of A20 and IRAK-M. Pretreatment of WT macrophages with Pam3Cys, a TLR2-TLR1 agonist, ablated p-p38 and p-JNK in response to challenge with Pam3Cys and LPS, whereas IRAK4(KDKI) macrophages exhibited attenuated TLR2-elicited homo- and heterotolerance at the level of MAPK activation. Thus, IRAK4 kinase activity is not required for the induction of endotoxin tolerance but contributes significantly to TLR2-elicited homo- and heterotolerance.

Cell type-specific function of TAK1 in innate immune signaling

Transforming growth factor β-activated kinase 1 (TAK1 or MAP3K7) is a key signaling component of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways. Activation of TAK1 is tightly regulated through its binding partners and protein modifications. Although TAK1 functions as an essential and positive regulator of innate immune signaling and apoptosis in mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs), T cells, and other cells, it negatively regulates cell development and activation of proinflammatory signaling pathways in neutrophils. However, the molecular mechanisms responsible for the opposite roles of TAK1 in different cell types remain to be addressed. In this article, we discuss the latest progresses in our understanding of TAK1 regulation, function, and mechanisms in a cell-type specific manner.

IRAK-M mediates Toll-like receptor/IL-1R-induced NFκB activation and cytokine production

Toll-like receptors transduce their signals through the adaptor molecule MyD88 and members of the IL-1R-associated kinase family (IRAK-1, 2, M and 4). IRAK-1 and IRAK-2, known to form Myddosomes with MyD88-IRAK-4, mediate TLR7-induced TAK1-dependent NFκB activation. IRAK-M was previously known to function as a negative regulator that prevents the dissociation of IRAKs from MyD88, thereby inhibiting downstream signalling. However, we now found that IRAK-M was also able to interact with MyD88-IRAK-4 to form IRAK-M Myddosome to mediate TLR7-induced MEKK3-dependent second wave NFκB activation, which is uncoupled from post-transcriptional regulation. As a result, the IRAK-M-dependent pathway only induced expression of genes that are not regulated at the post-transcriptional levels (including inhibitory molecules SOCS1, SHIP1, A20 and IκBα), exerting an overall inhibitory effect on inflammatory response. On the other hand, through interaction with IRAK-2, IRAK-M inhibited TLR7-mediated production of cytokines and chemokines at translational levels. Taken together, IRAK-M mediates TLR7-induced MEKK3-dependent second wave NFκB activation to produce inhibitory molecules as a negative feedback for the pathway, while exerting inhibitory effect on translational control of cytokines and chemokines.

LPS-mediated endothelial activation in pulmonary endothelial cells: role of Nox2-dependent IKK-β phosphorylation

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-mediated endothelial activation contributes to lung inflammation and alveolar remodeling seen in premature infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). The mechanisms underlying LPS-mediated oxidative stress and proinflammatory signaling in human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (HPMEC) remain unclear. We hypothesized that NADPH oxidase (Nox) mediates LPS-induced endothelial activation in HPMEC by regulating phosphorylation of Toll-like receptor (TLR) pathway proteins. LPS-induced expression of intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) was associated with increased 2-OH-E(+) (marker for superoxide formation) levels and was attenuated by apocynin and the Nox inhibitor, VAS2870. LPS triggered membrane translocation of p67phox, suggesting activation of Nox2. Silencing Nox2, but not Nox4, suppressed LPS-induced ICAM-1 expression in HPMEC. Immunoprecipitation studies showed that inhibitor of κ-B kinase-β (IKK-β) serine phosphorylation induced by LPS was inhibited by Nox2 silencing. We examined whether Nox2-dependent, LPS-mediated IKK-β phosphorylation was regulated by protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) or TGF-β associated kinase-1 (TAK1) in HPMEC. LPS increased PP2A activity in HPMEC, and inhibition of PP2A did not alter LPS-mediated ICAM-1 expression but attenuated IKK-β phosphorylation. TAK1 inhibition decreased LPS-induced ICAM-1 expression in HPMEC, and Nox2 silencing attenuated LPS-mediated TAK1 phosphorylation (Thr184/187). We demonstrate that Nox2 regulates LPS-mediated endothelial activation in pulmonary endothelial cells by modulating phosphorylation of key kinases in the TLR signaling cascade. Our data support a novel mechanism by which Nox-dependent signaling regulates proinflammatory signaling in pulmonary endothelial cells. Inhibition of vascular Nox may potentially limit lung injury and alveolar remodeling caused by infections in BPD.

Inactivation of the enzyme GSK3α by the kinase IKKi promotes AKT-mTOR signaling pathway that mediates interleukin-1-induced Th17 cell maintenance

Interleukin-1 (IL-1)-induced activation of the mTOR kinase pathway has major influences on Th17 cell survival, proliferation, and effector function. Via biochemical and genetic approaches, the kinases IKKi and GSK3α were identified as the critical intermediate signaling components for IL-1-induced AKT activation, which in turn activated mTOR. Although insulin-induced AKT activation is known to phosphorylate and inactivate GSK3α and GSK3β, we found that GSK3α but not GSK3β formed a constitutive complex to phosphorylate and suppress AKT activation, showing that a reverse action from GSK to AKT can take place. Upon IL-1 stimulation, IKKi was activated to mediate GSK3α phosphorylation at S21, thereby inactivating GSK3α to promote IL-1-induced AKT-mTOR activation. Thus, IKKi has a critical role in Th17 cell maintenance and/or proliferation through the GSK-AKT-mTOR pathway, implicating the potential of IKKi as a therapeutic target.

Molecular mechanisms responsible for the reduced expression of cholesterol transporters from macrophages by low-dose endotoxin

OBJECTIVE

Atherosclerosis is characterized as a chronic inflammatory condition that involves cholesterol deposition in arteries. Together with scavenger receptor B1 (SR-B1), the ATP-binding cassette transporters ABCA1 and ABCG1 are the major components of macrophage cholesterol efflux. Recent studies have shown that low-grade inflammation plays a distinct regulatory role in the expression of SR-B1 and ABCA1/ABCG1. However, the mechanisms linking low-grade inflammation and cholesterol accumulation are poorly understood.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Using primary bone-marrow-derived macrophages, we demonstrate that subclinical low-dose lipopolysaccharide potently reduces the expression of SR-B1 and ABCA1/ABCG1, as well as cholesterol efflux from macrophages through interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 1 and Toll-interacting-protein. Low-dose lipopolysaccharide downregulates the nuclear levels of retinoic acid receptor-α, leading to their reduced binding to the promoters of SR-B1 and ABCA1/ABCG1. We observe that glycogen synthase kinase 3β activation by low-dose lipopolysaccharide through interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 1 and Toll-interacting-protein is responsible for reduced levels of retinoic acid receptor-α, and reduced expression of SR-B1 and ABCA1/ABCG1. Interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase M, however, counteracts the function of interleukin-1 receptor associated kinase 1.

CONCLUSIONS

Collectively, our data reveal a novel intracellular network regulated by low-dose endotoxemia that disrupts cholesterol efflux from macrophages and leads to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis.

β-TrCP-mediated IRAK1 degradation releases TAK1-TRAF6 from the membrane to the cytosol for TAK1-dependent NF-κB activation

Interleukin-1 (IL-1) receptor-associated kinase (IRAK1) is phosphorylated, ubiquitinated, and degraded upon IL-1 stimulation. IRAK1 can be ubiquitinated through both K48- and K63-linked polyubiquitin chains upon IL-1 stimulation. While the Pellino proteins have been shown to meditate K63-linked polyubiquitination on IRAK1, the E3 ligase for K48-linked ubiquitination of IRAK1 has not been identified. In this study, we report that the SCF (Skp1-Cullin1-F-box)-β-TrCP complex functions as the K48-linked ubiquitination E3 ligase for IRAK1. IL-1 stimulation induced the interaction of IRAK1 with Cullin1 and β-TrCP. Knockdown of β-TrCP1 and β-TrCP2 attenuated the K48-linked ubiquitination and degradation of IRAK1. Importantly, β-TrCP deficiency abolished the translocation TAK1-TRAF6 complex from the membrane to the cytosol, resulting in a diminishment of the IL-1-induced TAK1-dependent pathway. Taken together, these results implicate a positive role of β-TrCP-mediated IRAK1 degradation in IL-1-induced TAK1 activation.

Pellino 2 is critical for Toll-like receptor/interleukin-1 receptor (TLR/IL-1R)-mediated post-transcriptional control

Interleukin 1 receptor-associated kinase 1(IRAK1), a key molecule in TLR/IL-1R-mediated signaling, is phosphorylated, ubiquitinated, and degraded upon ligand stimulation. We and others have recently identified Pellino proteins as novel RING E3 ubiquitin ligases involved in IRAK1 polyubiquitination and degradation. However, it remains unclear how each Pellino member distinctly regulates TLR/IL-1R signaling by modulating IRAK1 ubiquitination. In this study we examined the role of Pellino 2 in IL-1- and LPS-mediated signaling and gene expression by knocking down Pellino 2 in human 293-IL-1R cells and primary bone marrow macrophages. Pellino 2 (but not Pellino 1) knockdown abolished IL-1- and LPS-induced Lys-63-linked IRAK1 ubiquitination with reduced Lys-48-linked IRAK1 ubiquitination. Furthermore, Pellino 2 is required for TAK1-dependent NFκB activation. However, because of the retained TAK1-independent NFκB activation, the levels of IL-1- and LPS-induced NFκB activation were not substantially affected in Pellino 2 knockdown 293-IL-1R cells and primary macrophages, respectively. On the other hand, Pellino 2 knockdown reduced the IL-1- and LPS-induced inflammatory gene expression at late time points, which was accompanied by increased decay rates of the mRNAs of the inflammatory genes. Importantly, IL-1- and LPS-mediated JNK and ERK activation were substantially attenuated in Pellino 2 knock-down cells, implicating MAPK activation in TLR/IL-1R-induced mRNA stabilization. Taken together, this study demonstrated that Pellino 2 plays a critical role for TLR/IL-1R-mediated post-transcriptional control.

SIGIRR, a negative regulator of colon tumorigenesis

Inappropriate activation of the Toll-IL-1R (TL-IL-1) signaling by commensal bacteria contributes to the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel diseases and colitis-associated cancer. Recent studies have identified SIGIRR as a negative regulator of TL-IL-1 signaling. It dampens intestinal inflammation and tumorigenesis in the colon. In this review, we will discuss the role of SIGIRR in different cell types and the mechanisms underlying its tumor suppressor function.