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Tátrai E, Ranđelović I, Surguta SE, Tóvári J. Role of Hypoxia and Rac1 Inhibition in the Metastatic Cascade. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1872. [PMID: 38791951 PMCID: PMC11120288 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16101872] [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: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The hypoxic condition has a pivotal role in solid tumors and was shown to correlate with the poor outcome of anticancer treatments. Hypoxia contributes to tumor progression and leads to therapy resistance. Two forms of a hypoxic environment might have relevance in tumor mass formation: chronic and cyclic hypoxia. The main regulators of hypoxia are hypoxia-inducible factors, which regulate the cell survival, proliferation, motility, metabolism, pH, extracellular matrix function, inflammatory cells recruitment and angiogenesis. The metastatic process consists of different steps in which hypoxia-inducible factors can play an important role. Rac1, belonging to small G-proteins, is involved in the metastasis process as one of the key molecules of migration, especially in a hypoxic environment. The effect of hypoxia on the tumor phenotype and the signaling pathways which may interfere with tumor progression are already quite well known. Although the role of Rac1, one of the small G-proteins, in hypoxia remains unclear, predominantly, in vitro studies performed so far confirm that Rac1 inhibition may represent a viable direction for tumor therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enikő Tátrai
- The National Tumor Biology Laboratory, Department of Experimental Pharmacology, National Institute of Oncology, H-1122 Budapest, Hungary; (I.R.); (S.E.S.); (J.T.)
| | - Ivan Ranđelović
- The National Tumor Biology Laboratory, Department of Experimental Pharmacology, National Institute of Oncology, H-1122 Budapest, Hungary; (I.R.); (S.E.S.); (J.T.)
| | - Sára Eszter Surguta
- The National Tumor Biology Laboratory, Department of Experimental Pharmacology, National Institute of Oncology, H-1122 Budapest, Hungary; (I.R.); (S.E.S.); (J.T.)
- School of Ph. D. Studies, Semmelweis University, H-1085 Budapest, Hungary
| | - József Tóvári
- The National Tumor Biology Laboratory, Department of Experimental Pharmacology, National Institute of Oncology, H-1122 Budapest, Hungary; (I.R.); (S.E.S.); (J.T.)
- School of Ph. D. Studies, Semmelweis University, H-1085 Budapest, Hungary
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2
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Chen XY, Cheng AY, Wang ZY, Jin JM, Lin JY, Wang B, Guan YY, Zhang H, Jiang YX, Luan X, Zhang LJ. Dbl family RhoGEFs in cancer: different roles and targeting strategies. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 223:116141. [PMID: 38499108 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Small Ras homologous guanosine triphosphatase (Rho GTPase) family proteins are highly associated with tumorigenesis and development. As intrinsic exchange activity regulators of Rho GTPases, Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factors (RhoGEFs) have been demonstrated to be closely involved in tumor development and received increasing attention. They mainly contain two families: the diffuse B-cell lymphoma (Dbl) family and the dedicator of cytokinesis (Dock) family. More and more emphasis has been paid to the Dbl family members for their abnormally high expression in various cancers and their correlation to poor prognosis. In this review, the common and distinctive structures of Dbl family members are discussed, and their roles in cancer are summarized with a focus on Ect2, Tiam1/2, P-Rex1/2, Vav1/2/3, Trio, KALRN, and LARG. Significantly, the strategies targeting Dbl family RhoGEFs are highlighted as novel therapeutic opportunities for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Yi Chen
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Ao-Yu Cheng
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Zi-Ying Wang
- School of Biological Engineering, Tianjin University of Science&Technology, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Jin-Mei Jin
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jia-Yi Lin
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Bei Wang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Ying-Yun Guan
- Department of Pharmacy, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yi-Xin Jiang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Xin Luan
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Li-Jun Zhang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
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3
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Pantoja CJ, Li H, Rodante J, Keel A, Sorokin AV, Svedbom A, Teague HL, Stahle M, Mehta NN, Playford MP. Serum Beta-Defensin-2 is a biomarker for psoriasis but not subclinical atherosclerosis: Role of IL17a, PI-3 kinase and Rac1. JEADV CLINICAL PRACTICE 2024; 3:150-159. [PMID: 38646149 PMCID: PMC11031204 DOI: 10.1002/jvc2.278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Background Beta-defensins (BDs) are antimicrobial peptides secreted upon epithelial injury. Both chemotactic and antimicrobial properties of BDs function as initial steps in host defense and prime the adaptive immune system in the body. Psoriasis, a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory disease, has both visible cutaneous manifestations as well as known associations with higher incidence of cardiometabolic complications and vascular inflammation. Objectives We aimed to investigate the circulating expression of beta-defensin-2 (BD2) in psoriasis at baseline compared to control subjects, along with changes in BD2 levels following biologic treatment at one-year. The contribution of BD2 to subclinical atherosclerosis is also assessed. In addition, we have sought to unravel signaling mechanisms linking inflammation with BD2 expression. Methods Multimodality imaging as well inflammatory biomarker assays were performed in biologic naïve psoriasis (n=71) and non-psoriasis (n=53) subjects. A subset of psoriasis patients were followed for one-year after biological intervention (anti-Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNFα), n=30; anti-Interleukin17A (IL17A), n=21). Measurements of circulating BD2 were completed by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Using HaCaT transformed keratinocytes, expression of BD2 upon cytokine treatment was assessed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and ELISA. Results Herein, we confirm that human circulating BD2 levels associate with psoriasis, which attenuate upon biologic interventions (anti-TNFα, anti-IL-17A). A link between circulating BD2 and sub-clinical atherosclerosis markers was not observed. Furthermore, we demonstrate that IL-17A-driven BD2 expression occurs in a Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3-kinase) and Rac1 GTPase-dependent manner. Conclusions Our findings expand on the potential role of BD2 as a tractable biomarker in psoriasis patients and describes the role of an IL-17A-PI3-kinase/Rac signaling axis in regulating BD2 levels in keratinocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- CJ. Pantoja
- Section of Inflammation and Cardiometabolic Diseases, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - H. Li
- Section of Inflammation and Cardiometabolic Diseases, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - J. Rodante
- Section of Inflammation and Cardiometabolic Diseases, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - A. Keel
- Section of Inflammation and Cardiometabolic Diseases, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - AV. Sorokin
- Section of Inflammation and Cardiometabolic Diseases, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - A. Svedbom
- Division of Dermatology and Venerology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - HL. Teague
- Section of Inflammation and Cardiometabolic Diseases, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - M. Stahle
- Division of Dermatology and Venerology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - NN. Mehta
- Section of Inflammation and Cardiometabolic Diseases, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - MP. Playford
- Section of Inflammation and Cardiometabolic Diseases, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
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Fernández-Parejo N, Lorenzo-Martín LF, García-Pedrero JM, Rodrigo JP, Dosil M, Bustelo XR. VAV2 orchestrates the interplay between regenerative proliferation and ribogenesis in both keratinocytes and oral squamous cell carcinoma. Sci Rep 2024; 14:4060. [PMID: 38374399 PMCID: PMC10876654 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-54808-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
VAV2 is an activator of RHO GTPases that promotes and maintains regenerative proliferation-like states in normal keratinocytes and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells. Here, we demonstrate that VAV2 also regulates ribosome biogenesis in those cells, a program associated with poor prognosis of human papilloma virus-negative (HPV-) OSCC patients. Mechanistically, VAV2 regulates this process in a catalysis-dependent manner using a conserved pathway comprising the RAC1 and RHOA GTPases, the PAK and ROCK family kinases, and the c-MYC and YAP/TAZ transcription factors. This pathway directly promotes RNA polymerase I activity and synthesis of 47S pre-rRNA precursors. This process is further consolidated by the upregulation of ribosome biogenesis factors and the acquisition of the YAP/TAZ-dependent undifferentiated cell state. Finally, we show that RNA polymerase I is a therapeutic Achilles' heel for both keratinocytes and OSCC patient-derived cells endowed with high VAV2 catalytic activity. Collectively, these findings highlight the therapeutic potential of modulating VAV2 and the ribosome biogenesis pathways in both preneoplastic and late progression stages of OSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Fernández-Parejo
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer and Instituto de Biología Molecular del Cáncer, CSIC and Universidad de Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - L Francisco Lorenzo-Martín
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer and Instituto de Biología Molecular del Cáncer, CSIC and Universidad de Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer, 28029, Madrid, Spain
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Bioengineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Juana M García-Pedrero
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer, 28029, Madrid, Spain
- Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), Instituto Universitario de Oncología del Principado de Asturias, University of Oviedo, 33011, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Juan P Rodrigo
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer, 28029, Madrid, Spain
- Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), Instituto Universitario de Oncología del Principado de Asturias, University of Oviedo, 33011, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Mercedes Dosil
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer and Instituto de Biología Molecular del Cáncer, CSIC and Universidad de Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer, 28029, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Xosé R Bustelo
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer and Instituto de Biología Molecular del Cáncer, CSIC and Universidad de Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer, 28029, Madrid, Spain.
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5
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Gomes AR, Varela CL, Pires AS, Tavares-da-Silva EJ, Roleira FMF. Synthetic and natural guanidine derivatives as antitumor and antimicrobial agents: A review. Bioorg Chem 2023; 138:106600. [PMID: 37209561 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Guanidines are fascinating small nitrogen-rich organic compounds, which have been frequently associated with a wide range of biological activities. This is mainly due to their interesting chemical features. For these reasons, for the past decades, researchers have been synthesizing and evaluating guanidine derivatives. In fact, there are currently on the market several guanidine-bearing drugs. Given the broad panoply of pharmacological activities displayed by guanidine compounds, in this review, we chose to focus on antitumor, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and antiprotozoal activities presented by several natural and synthetic guanidine derivatives, which are undergoing preclinical and clinical studies from January 2010 to January 2023. Moreover, we also present guanidine-containing drugs currently in the market for the treatment of cancer and several infectious diseases. In the preclinical and clinical setting, most of the synthesized and natural guanidine derivatives are being evaluated as antitumor and antibacterial agents. Even though DNA is the most known target of this type of compounds, their cytotoxicity also involves several other different mechanisms, such as interference with bacterial cell membranes, reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis, mediated-Rac1 inhibition, among others. As for the compounds already used as pharmacological drugs, their main application is in the treatment of different types of cancer, such as breast, lung, prostate, and leukemia. Guanidine-containing drugs are also being used for the treatment of bacterial, antiprotozoal, antiviral infections and, recently, have been proposed for the treatment of COVID-19. To conclude, the guanidine group is a privileged scaffold in drug design. Its remarkable cytotoxic activities, especially in the field of oncology, still make it suitable for a deeper investigation to afford more efficient and target-specific drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana R Gomes
- Univ Coimbra, CIEPQPF, Faculty of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Pólo III - Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Univ Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR) area of Environment Genetics and Oncobiology (CIMAGO), Institute of Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Pólo III - Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Carla L Varela
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), Praceta Professor Mota Pinto, 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal; Univ Coimbra, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; Univ Coimbra, CIEPQPF, Faculty of Medicine, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Pólo III - Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana S Pires
- Univ Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR) area of Environment Genetics and Oncobiology (CIMAGO), Institute of Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Pólo III - Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), Praceta Professor Mota Pinto, 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal; Univ Coimbra, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Elisiário J Tavares-da-Silva
- Univ Coimbra, CIEPQPF, Faculty of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Pólo III - Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Fernanda M F Roleira
- Univ Coimbra, CIEPQPF, Faculty of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Pólo III - Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal.
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6
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Zhang Y, Li G, Zhao Y. Advances in the development of Rho GTPase inhibitors. Bioorg Med Chem 2023; 90:117337. [PMID: 37253305 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2023.117337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Rho guanosine triphosphatases (Rho GTPases), as members of the Ras superfamily, are GDP/GTP binding proteins that behave as molecular switches for the transduction of signals from external stimuli. Rho GTPases play essential roles in a number of cellular processes including cell cycle, cell polarity as well as cell migration. The dysregulations of Rho GTPases are related with various diseases, especially with cancers. Accumulating evidence supports that Rho GTPases play important roles in cancer development and progression. Rho GTPases become potential therapeutic targets for cancer therapy. And a number of inhibitors targeting Rho GTPases have been developed. In this review, we discuss their structural features, summarize their roles in cancer, and focus on the recent progress of their inhibitors, which are beneficial for the drug discovery targeting Rho GTPases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yijing Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Guanyi Li
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Yaxue Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China.
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7
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Soltan MA, Eldeen MA, Sajer BH, Abdelhameed RFA, Al-Salmi FA, Fayad E, Jafri I, Ahmed HEM, Eid RA, Hassan HM, Al-Shraim M, Negm A, Noreldin AE, Darwish KM. Integration of Chemoinformatics and Multi-Omics Analysis Defines ECT2 as a Potential Target for Cancer Drug Therapy. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12040613. [PMID: 37106813 PMCID: PMC10135641 DOI: 10.3390/biology12040613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Epithelial cell transforming 2 (ECT2) is a potential oncogene and a number of recent studies have correlated it with the progression of several human cancers. Despite this elevated attention for ECT2 in oncology-related reports, there is no collective study to combine and integrate the expression and oncogenic behavior of ECT2 in a panel of human cancers. The current study started with a differential expression analysis of ECT2 in cancerous versus normal tissue. Following that, the study asked for the correlation between ECT2 upregulation and tumor stage, grade, and metastasis, along with its effect on patient survival. Moreover, the methylation and phosphorylation status of ECT2 in tumor versus normal tissue was assessed, in addition to the investigation of the ECT2 effect on the immune cell infiltration in the tumor microenvironment. The current study revealed that ECT2 was upregulated as mRNA and protein levels in a list of human tumors, a feature that allowed for the increased filtration of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) and decreased the level of natural killer T (NKT) cells, which ultimately led to a poor prognosis survival. Lastly, we screened for several drugs that could inhibit ECT2 and act as antitumor agents. Collectively, this study nominated ECT2 as a prognostic and immunological biomarker, with reported inhibitors that represent potential antitumor drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed A Soltan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Sinai University, Ismailia 41611, Egypt
| | - Muhammad Alaa Eldeen
- Cell Biology, Histology & Genetics Division, Biology Department, Faculty of Science, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
| | - Bayan H Sajer
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 80200, Saudi Arabia
| | - Reda F A Abdelhameed
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Galala University, New Galala 43713, Egypt
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt
| | - Fawziah A Al-Salmi
- Biology Department, College of Sciences, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Eman Fayad
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Sciences, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ibrahim Jafri
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Sciences, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Refaat A Eid
- Pathology Department, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, P.O. Box 62529, Abha 61421, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hesham M Hassan
- Pathology Department, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, P.O. Box 62529, Abha 61421, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut 71515, Egypt
| | - Mubarak Al-Shraim
- Pathology Department, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, P.O. Box 62529, Abha 61421, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amr Negm
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Ahmed E Noreldin
- Department of Histology and Cytology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour 22516, Egypt
| | - Khaled M Darwish
- Medicinal Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt
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8
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Martínez-Sánchez LDC, Ngo PA, Pradhan R, Becker LS, Boehringer D, Soteriou D, Kubankova M, Schweitzer C, Koch T, Thonn V, Erkert L, Stolzer I, Günther C, Becker C, Weigmann B, Klewer M, Daniel C, Amann K, Tenzer S, Atreya R, Bergo M, Brakebusch C, Watson AJM, Guck J, Fabry B, Atreya I, Neurath MF, López-Posadas R. Epithelial RAC1-dependent cytoskeleton dynamics controls cell mechanics, cell shedding and barrier integrity in intestinal inflammation. Gut 2023; 72:275-294. [PMID: 35241625 PMCID: PMC9872254 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2021-325520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Increased apoptotic shedding has been linked to intestinal barrier dysfunction and development of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). In contrast, physiological cell shedding allows the renewal of the epithelial monolayer without compromising the barrier function. Here, we investigated the role of live cell extrusion in epithelial barrier alterations in IBD. DESIGN Taking advantage of conditional GGTase and RAC1 knockout mice in intestinal epithelial cells (Pggt1b iΔIEC and Rac1 iΔIEC mice), intravital microscopy, immunostaining, mechanobiology, organoid techniques and RNA sequencing, we analysed cell shedding alterations within the intestinal epithelium. Moreover, we examined human gut tissue and intestinal organoids from patients with IBD for cell shedding alterations and RAC1 function. RESULTS Epithelial Pggt1b deletion led to cytoskeleton rearrangement and tight junction redistribution, causing cell overcrowding due to arresting of cell shedding that finally resulted in epithelial leakage and spontaneous mucosal inflammation in the small and to a lesser extent in the large intestine. Both in vivo and in vitro studies (knockout mice, organoids) identified RAC1 as a GGTase target critically involved in prenylation-dependent cytoskeleton dynamics, cell mechanics and epithelial cell shedding. Moreover, inflamed areas of gut tissue from patients with IBD exhibited funnel-like structures, signs of arrested cell shedding and impaired RAC1 function. RAC1 inhibition in human intestinal organoids caused actin alterations compatible with arresting of cell shedding. CONCLUSION Impaired epithelial RAC1 function causes cell overcrowding and epithelial leakage thus inducing chronic intestinal inflammation. Epithelial RAC1 emerges as key regulator of cytoskeletal dynamics, cell mechanics and intestinal cell shedding. Modulation of RAC1 might be exploited for restoration of epithelial integrity in the gut of patients with IBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luz del Carmen Martínez-Sánchez
- Department of Medicine 1, Friedrich-Alexander-Universitat Erlangen-Nurnberg, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany,Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Phuong Anh Ngo
- Department of Medicine 1, Friedrich-Alexander-Universitat Erlangen-Nurnberg, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany,Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Rashmita Pradhan
- Department of Medicine 1, Friedrich-Alexander-Universitat Erlangen-Nurnberg, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany,Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Lukas-Sebastian Becker
- Department of Medicine 1, Friedrich-Alexander-Universitat Erlangen-Nurnberg, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany,Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), Erlangen, Germany
| | - David Boehringer
- Department of Physics, University of Erlangen Nuremberg, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Despina Soteriou
- Max-Planck Zentrum für Physik und Medizin, Erlangen, Germany,Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Marketa Kubankova
- Max-Planck Zentrum für Physik und Medizin, Erlangen, Germany,Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Christine Schweitzer
- Max-Planck Zentrum für Physik und Medizin, Erlangen, Germany,Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Tatyana Koch
- Department of Medicine 1, Friedrich-Alexander-Universitat Erlangen-Nurnberg, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Veronika Thonn
- Department of Medicine 1, Friedrich-Alexander-Universitat Erlangen-Nurnberg, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany,Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Lena Erkert
- Department of Medicine 1, Friedrich-Alexander-Universitat Erlangen-Nurnberg, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany,Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Iris Stolzer
- Department of Medicine 1, Friedrich-Alexander-Universitat Erlangen-Nurnberg, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany,Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Claudia Günther
- Department of Medicine 1, Friedrich-Alexander-Universitat Erlangen-Nurnberg, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany,Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christoph Becker
- Department of Medicine 1, Friedrich-Alexander-Universitat Erlangen-Nurnberg, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany,Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Benno Weigmann
- Department of Medicine 1, Friedrich-Alexander-Universitat Erlangen-Nurnberg, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany,Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Monika Klewer
- Department of Nephropathology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Christoph Daniel
- Department of Nephropathology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Kerstin Amann
- Department of Nephropathology, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Stefan Tenzer
- University Medical Center Mainz, University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Rheinland-Pfalz, Germany
| | - Raja Atreya
- Department of Medicine 1, Friedrich-Alexander-Universitat Erlangen-Nurnberg, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany,Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Martin Bergo
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Cord Brakebusch
- Biotech Research & Innovation Centre, University of Copenhagen, Kobenhavn, Hovedstaden, Denmark
| | | | - Jochen Guck
- Department of Physics, University of Erlangen Nuremberg, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany,Max-Planck Zentrum für Physik und Medizin, Erlangen, Germany,Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Ben Fabry
- Department of Physics, University of Erlangen Nuremberg, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany
| | - Imke Atreya
- Department of Medicine 1, Friedrich-Alexander-Universitat Erlangen-Nurnberg, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany,Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Markus F Neurath
- Department of Medicine 1, Friedrich-Alexander-Universitat Erlangen-Nurnberg, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany,Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Rocío López-Posadas
- Department of Medicine 1, Friedrich-Alexander-Universitat Erlangen-Nurnberg, Erlangen, Bayern, Germany .,Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), Erlangen, Germany
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9
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Preclinical Efficacy and Toxicology Evaluation of RAC1 Inhibitor 1A-116 in Human Glioblastoma Models. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14194810. [PMID: 36230732 PMCID: PMC9562863 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14194810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Malignant gliomas are the most common primary central nervous system tumors in adults. Currently, this disease is associated with poor prognosis and is virtually incurable. There is a need to find novel targets and treatments to improve patient survival. This study shows the preclinical evaluation of 1A-116, a Rac1 inhibitor that showed in vitro antitumor activity on glioma cells. We also evaluated 1A-116 in vivo, showing a favorable toxicological profile and antitumor efficacy in an intracranial mouse tumor model. Altogether, our study provides important evidence of 1A-116 as a signal transduction-based precision therapy for glioma and also increases the evidence of Rac1 as a key molecular target in cancer. Abstract Malignant gliomas are the most common primary central nervous system tumor in adults. Despite current therapeutics, these tumors are associated with poor prognosis and a median survival of 16 to 19 months. This highlights the need for innovative treatments for this incurable disease. Rac1 has long been associated with tumor progression and plays a key role in glioma’s infiltrative and invasive nature. The aim of this study is to evaluate the 1A-116 molecule, a Rac1 inhibitor, as targeted therapy for this aggressive disease. We found that targeting Rac1 inhibits cell proliferation and cell cycle progression using different in vitro human glioblastoma models. Additionally, we evaluated 1A-116 in vivo, showing a favorable toxicological profile. Using in silico tools, 1A-116 is also predicted to penetrate the blood–brain barrier and present a favorable metabolic fate. In line with these results, 1A-116 i.p daily treatment resulted in a dose-dependent antitumor effect in an orthotopic IDH-wt glioma model. Altogether, our study provides a strong potential for clinical translation of 1A-116 as a signal transduction-based precision therapy for glioma and also increases the evidence of Rac1 as a key molecular target.
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10
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Hemsing AL, Rye KP, Hatfield KJ, Reikvam H. NPM1-Mutated Patient-Derived AML Cells Are More Vulnerable to Rac1 Inhibition. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10081881. [PMID: 36009428 PMCID: PMC9405324 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10081881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The prognosis of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is poor, especially for the elderly population. Targeted therapy with small molecules may be a potential strategy to overcome chemoresistance and improve survival in AML. We investigated the inhibition of the signaling molecule ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 (Rac1) in leukemia cells derived from 79 consecutive AML patients, using five Rac1 inhibitors: ZINC69391, ITX3, EHOP-016, 1A-116, and NSC23766. In vitro cell proliferation and apoptosis assays and the assessment of cytokine profiles in culture media were conducted. All five inhibitors had an antiproliferative effect; IC50 ranged from 3−24 µM. They induced significant apoptosis and necrosis compared to the untreated controls (p < 0.0001) at concentrations around IC40 and IC80. A high versus an intermediate or low antiproliferative effect was more common in NPM1-mutated (p = 0.002) and CD34-negative (p = 0.008) samples, and when NPM1 and FLT3 (p = 0.027) were combined. Presence of NPM1 mutation was associated with reduced viability after treatment with EHOP-016 (p = 0.014), ITX3 (p = 0.047), and NSC23766 (p = 0.003). Several cytokines crucial for leukemogenesis were reduced after culture, with the strongest effects observed for 1A-116 and NSC23766. Our findings suggest potent effects of Rac1 inhibition in primary AML cells and, interestingly, samples harboring NPM1 mutation seem more vulnerable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anette Lodvir Hemsing
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, 5021 Bergen, Norway
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, 5020 Bergen, Norway
| | | | - Kimberley Joanne Hatfield
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, 5020 Bergen, Norway
- Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, 5021 Bergen, Norway
| | - Håkon Reikvam
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, 5021 Bergen, Norway
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, 5020 Bergen, Norway
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +47-55975000
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11
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Role of Host Small GTPases in Apicomplexan Parasite Infection. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10071370. [PMID: 35889089 PMCID: PMC9319929 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10071370] [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: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The Apicomplexa are obligate intracellular parasites responsible for several important human diseases. These protozoan organisms have evolved several strategies to modify the host cell environment to create a favorable niche for their survival. The host cytoskeleton is widely manipulated during all phases of apicomplexan intracellular infection. Moreover, the localization and organization of host organelles are altered in order to scavenge nutrients from the host. Small GTPases are a class of proteins widely involved in intracellular pathways governing different processes, from cytoskeletal and organelle organization to gene transcription and intracellular trafficking. These proteins are already known to be involved in infection by several intracellular pathogens, including viruses, bacteria and protozoan parasites. In this review, we recapitulate the mechanisms by which apicomplexan parasites manipulate the host cell during infection, focusing on the role of host small GTPases. We also discuss the possibility of considering small GTPases as potential targets for the development of novel host-targeted therapies against apicomplexan infections.
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12
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Parapini S, Paone S, Erba E, Cavicchini L, Pourshaban M, Celani F, Contini A, D’Alessandro S, Olivieri A. In Vitro Antimalarial Activity of Inhibitors of the Human GTPase Rac1. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2022; 66:e0149821. [PMID: 34723630 PMCID: PMC8765435 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01498-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria accounts for millions of cases and thousands of deaths every year. In the absence of an effective vaccine, drugs are still the most important tool in the fight against the disease. Plasmodium parasites developed resistance to all classes of known antimalarial drugs. Thus, the search for antimalarial drugs with novel mechanisms of action is compelling. The human GTPase Rac1 plays a role in parasite invasion of the host cell in many intracellular pathogens. Also, in Plasmodium falciparum, the involvement of Rac1 during both the invasion process and parasite intracellular development was suggested. The aim of this work is to test a panel of Rac1 inhibitors as potential antimalarial drugs. Fourteen commercially available or newly synthesized inhibitors of Rac1 were tested for antimalarial activity. Among these, EHop-016 was the most effective against P. falciparum in vitro, with nanomolar 50% inhibitory concentrations (IC50s) (138.8 ± 16.0 nM on the chloroquine-sensitive D10 strain and 321.5 ± 28.5 nM on the chloroquine-resistant W2 strain) and a selectivity index of 37.8. EHop-016 did not inhibit parasite invasion of red blood cells but affected parasite growth inside them. Among the tested Rac1 inhibitors, EHop-016 showed promising activity that raises attention to this class of molecules as potential antimalarials and deserves further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Parapini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche per la Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvio Paone
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica e Malattie Infettive, Sapienza Università di Roma, Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento di Malattie Infettive, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Emanuela Erba
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Loredana Cavicchini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Chirurgiche e Odontoiatriche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Celani
- Dipartimento di Malattie Infettive, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Contini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Sarah D’Alessandro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Olivieri
- Dipartimento di Malattie Infettive, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
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13
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Colón-Bolea P, García-Gómez R, Casar B. RAC1 Activation as a Potential Therapeutic Option in Metastatic Cutaneous Melanoma. Biomolecules 2021; 11:1554. [PMID: 34827551 PMCID: PMC8615836 DOI: 10.3390/biom11111554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastasis is a complex process by which cancer cells escape from the primary tumor to colonize distant organs. RAC1 is a member of the RHO family of small guanosine triphosphatases that plays an important role in cancer migration, invasion, angiogenesis and metastasis. RAC1 activation has been related to most cancers, such as cutaneous melanoma, breast, lung, and pancreatic cancer. RAC1P29S driver mutation appears in a significant number of cutaneous melanoma cases. Likewise, RAC1 is overexpressed or hyperactivated via signaling through oncogenic cell surface receptors. Thus, targeting RAC1 represents a promising strategy for cutaneous melanoma therapy, as well as for inhibition of other signaling activation that promotes resistance to targeted therapies. In this review, we focus on the role of RAC1 in metastatic cutaneous melanoma emphasizing the anti-metastatic potential of RAC1- targeting drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Colón-Bolea
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Biotecnología de Cantabria, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas—Universidad de Cantabria, 39011 Santander, Spain; (P.C.-B.); (R.G.-G.)
| | - Rocío García-Gómez
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Biotecnología de Cantabria, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas—Universidad de Cantabria, 39011 Santander, Spain; (P.C.-B.); (R.G.-G.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Berta Casar
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Biotecnología de Cantabria, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas—Universidad de Cantabria, 39011 Santander, Spain; (P.C.-B.); (R.G.-G.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
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14
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Crosas-Molist E, Samain R, Kohlhammer L, Orgaz J, George S, Maiques O, Barcelo J, Sanz-Moreno V. RhoGTPase Signalling in Cancer Progression and Dissemination. Physiol Rev 2021; 102:455-510. [PMID: 34541899 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00045.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Rho GTPases are a family of small G proteins that regulate a wide array of cellular processes related to their key roles controlling the cytoskeleton. On the other hand, cancer is a multi-step disease caused by the accumulation of genetic mutations and epigenetic alterations, from the initial stages of cancer development when cells in normal tissues undergo transformation, to the acquisition of invasive and metastatic traits, responsible for a large number of cancer related deaths. In this review, we discuss the role of Rho GTPase signalling in cancer in every step of disease progression. Rho GTPases contribute to tumour initiation and progression, by regulating proliferation and apoptosis, but also metabolism, senescence and cell stemness. Rho GTPases play a major role in cell migration, and in the metastatic process. They are also involved in interactions with the tumour microenvironment and regulate inflammation, contributing to cancer progression. After years of intensive research, we highlight the importance of relevant models in the Rho GTPase field, and we reflect on the therapeutic opportunities arising for cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Crosas-Molist
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Remi Samain
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Leonie Kohlhammer
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jose Orgaz
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom.,Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas 'Alberto Sols', CSIC-UAM, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Samantha George
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Oscar Maiques
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jaume Barcelo
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
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15
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Floerchinger A, Murphy KJ, Latham SL, Warren SC, McCulloch AT, Lee YK, Stoehr J, Mélénec P, Guaman CS, Metcalf XL, Lee V, Zaratzian A, Da Silva A, Tayao M, Rolo S, Phimmachanh M, Sultani G, McDonald L, Mason SM, Ferrari N, Ooms LM, Johnsson AKE, Spence HJ, Olson MF, Machesky LM, Sansom OJ, Morton JP, Mitchell CA, Samuel MS, Croucher DR, Welch HCE, Blyth K, Caldon CE, Herrmann D, Anderson KI, Timpson P, Nobis M. Optimizing metastatic-cascade-dependent Rac1 targeting in breast cancer: Guidance using optical window intravital FRET imaging. Cell Rep 2021; 36:109689. [PMID: 34525350 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Assessing drug response within live native tissue provides increased fidelity with regards to optimizing efficacy while minimizing off-target effects. Here, using longitudinal intravital imaging of a Rac1-Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) biosensor mouse coupled with in vivo photoswitching to track intratumoral movement, we help guide treatment scheduling in a live breast cancer setting to impair metastatic progression. We uncover altered Rac1 activity at the center versus invasive border of tumors and demonstrate enhanced Rac1 activity of cells in close proximity to live tumor vasculature using optical window imaging. We further reveal that Rac1 inhibition can enhance tumor cell vulnerability to fluid-flow-induced shear stress and therefore improves overall anti-metastatic response to therapy during transit to secondary sites such as the lung. Collectively, this study demonstrates the utility of single-cell intravital imaging in vivo to demonstrate that Rac1 inhibition can reduce tumor progression and metastases in an autochthonous setting to improve overall survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Floerchinger
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Kendelle J Murphy
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Sharissa L Latham
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Sean C Warren
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Andrew T McCulloch
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Young-Kyung Lee
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Janett Stoehr
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Pauline Mélénec
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Cris S Guaman
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Xanthe L Metcalf
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Victoria Lee
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Anaiis Zaratzian
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Andrew Da Silva
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Michael Tayao
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Sonia Rolo
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G611BD, UK
| | - Monica Phimmachanh
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Ghazal Sultani
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Laura McDonald
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G611BD, UK
| | - Susan M Mason
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G611BD, UK
| | - Nicola Ferrari
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G611BD, UK; Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Switchback Road, Glasgow G111QH, UK
| | - Lisa M Ooms
- Cancer Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, VIC 3800, Australia
| | | | - Heather J Spence
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Michael F Olson
- Department of Chemistry and Biology, Ryerson University, Toronto ON, M5B 2K3, Canada
| | - Laura M Machesky
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Owen J Sansom
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G611BD, UK; Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Switchback Road, Glasgow G111QH, UK
| | - Jennifer P Morton
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G611BD, UK; Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Switchback Road, Glasgow G111QH, UK
| | - Christina A Mitchell
- Cancer Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Michael S Samuel
- Centre for Cancer Biology, SA Pathology and University of South Australia; and the School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - David R Croucher
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Heidi C E Welch
- Signalling Programme, Babraham Institute, Cambridge CB223AT, UK
| | - Karen Blyth
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G611BD, UK; Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Switchback Road, Glasgow G111QH, UK
| | - C Elizabeth Caldon
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - David Herrmann
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Kurt I Anderson
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G611BD, UK; Francis Crick Institute, London NW11AT, UK
| | - Paul Timpson
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia.
| | - Max Nobis
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia.
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16
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Gendaszewska-Darmach E, Garstka MA, Błażewska KM. Targeting Small GTPases and Their Prenylation in Diabetes Mellitus. J Med Chem 2021; 64:9677-9710. [PMID: 34236862 PMCID: PMC8389838 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
![]()
A fundamental role
of pancreatic β-cells to maintain proper
blood glucose level is controlled by the Ras superfamily of small
GTPases that undergo post-translational modifications, including prenylation.
This covalent attachment with either a farnesyl or a geranylgeranyl
group controls their localization, activity, and protein–protein
interactions. Small GTPases are critical in maintaining glucose homeostasis
acting in the pancreas and metabolically active tissues such as skeletal
muscles, liver, or adipocytes. Hyperglycemia-induced upregulation
of small GTPases suggests that inhibition of these pathways deserves
to be considered as a potential therapeutic approach in treating T2D.
This Perspective presents how inhibition of various points in the
mevalonate pathway might affect protein prenylation and functioning
of diabetes-affected tissues and contribute to chronic inflammation
involved in diabetes mellitus (T2D) development. We also demonstrate
the currently available molecular tools to decipher the mechanisms
linking the mevalonate pathway’s enzymes and GTPases with diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edyta Gendaszewska-Darmach
- Institute of Molecular and Industrial Biotechnology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Lodz University of Technology, Stefanowskiego Street 4/10, 90-924 Łódź, Poland
| | - Malgorzata A Garstka
- Core Research Laboratory, Department of Endocrinology, Department of Tumor and Immunology, Precision Medical Institute, Western China Science and Technology Innovation Port, School of Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, DaMingGong, Jian Qiang Road, Wei Yang district, Xi'an 710016, China
| | - Katarzyna M Błażewska
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Lodz University of Technology, Żeromskiego Street 116, 90-924 Łódź, Poland
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17
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Liang J, Oyang L, Rao S, Han Y, Luo X, Yi P, Lin J, Xia L, Hu J, Tan S, Tang L, Pan Q, Tang Y, Zhou Y, Liao Q. Rac1, A Potential Target for Tumor Therapy. Front Oncol 2021; 11:674426. [PMID: 34079763 PMCID: PMC8165220 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.674426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
RAS-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 (Rac.1) is one of the important members of Rho GTPases. It is well known that Rac1 is a cytoskeleton regulation protein that regulates cell adhesion, morphology, and movement. Rac1 is highly expressed in different types of tumors, which is related to poor prognosis. Studies have shown that Rac1 not only participates in the tumor cell cycle, apoptosis, proliferation, invasion, migration and angiogenesis, but also participates in the regulation of tumor stem cell, thus promoting the occurrence of tumors. Rac1 also plays a key role in anti-tumor therapy and participates in immune escape mediated by the tumor microenvironment. In addition, the good prospects of Rac1 inhibitors in cancer prevention and treatment are exciting. Therefore, Rac1 is considered as a potential target for the prevention and treatment of cancer. The necessity and importance of Rac1 are obvious, but it still needs further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxin Liang
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Linda Oyang
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Shan Rao
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yaqian Han
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xia Luo
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Pin Yi
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jinguan Lin
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Longzheng Xia
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jiaqi Hu
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Shiming Tan
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lu Tang
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China.,University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Qing Pan
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China.,University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Yanyan Tang
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Clinical Research Center for Wound Healing in Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Yujuan Zhou
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qianjin Liao
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Clinical Research Center for Wound Healing in Hunan Province, Changsha, China
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18
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Guiler W, Koehler A, Boykin C, Lu Q. Pharmacological Modulators of Small GTPases of Rho Family in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:661612. [PMID: 34054432 PMCID: PMC8149604 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.661612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Classical Rho GTPases, including RhoA, Rac1, and Cdc42, are members of the Ras small GTPase superfamily and play essential roles in a variety of cellular functions. Rho GTPase signaling can be turned on and off by specific GEFs and GAPs, respectively. These features empower Rho GTPases and their upstream and downstream modulators as targets for scientific research and therapeutic intervention. Specifically, significant therapeutic potential exists for targeting Rho GTPases in neurodegenerative diseases due to their widespread cellular activity and alterations in neural tissues. This study will explore the roles of Rho GTPases in neurodegenerative diseases with focus on the applications of pharmacological modulators in recent discoveries. There have been exciting developments of small molecules, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and natural products and toxins for each classical Rho GTPase category. A brief overview of each category followed by examples in their applications will be provided. The literature on their roles in various diseases [e.g., Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Frontotemporal dementia (FTD), and Multiple sclerosis (MS)] highlights the unique and broad implications targeting Rho GTPases for potential therapeutic intervention. Clearly, there is increasing knowledge of therapeutic promise from the discovery of pharmacological modulators of Rho GTPases for managing and treating these conditions. The progress is also accompanied by the recognition of complex Rho GTPase modulation where targeting its signaling can improve some aspects of pathogenesis while exacerbating others in the same disease model. Future directions should emphasize the importance of elucidating how different Rho GTPases work in concert and how they produce such widespread yet different cellular responses during neurodegenerative disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Qun Lu
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, The Harriet and John Wooten Laboratory for Alzheimer’s and Neurogenerative Diseases Research, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States
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19
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Ciarlantini MS, Barquero A, Bayo J, Wetzler D, Dodes Traian MM, Bucci HA, Fiore EJ, Gandolfi Donadío L, Defelipe L, Turjanski A, Ramírez JA, Mazzolini G, Comin MJ. Development of an Improved Guanidine-Based Rac1 Inhibitor with in vivo Activity against Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. ChemMedChem 2021; 16:1011-1021. [PMID: 33284505 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202000763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The Rho GTPase Rac1 is involved in the control of cytoskeleton reorganization and other fundamental cellular functions. Aberrant activity of Rac1 and its regulators is common in human cancer. In particular, deregulated expression/activity of Rac GEFs, responsible for Rac1 activation, has been associated to a metastatic phenotype and drug resistance. Thus, the development of novel Rac1-GEF interaction inhibitors is a promising strategy for finding new preclinical candidates. Here, we studied structure-activity relationships within a new family of N,N'-disubstituted guanidine as Rac1 inhibitors. We found that compound 1D-142, presents superior antiproliferative activity in human cancer cell lines and higher potency as Rac1-GEF interaction inhibitor in vitro than parental compounds. In addition, 1D-142 reduces Rac1-mediated TNFα-induced NF-κB nuclear translocation during cell proliferation and migration in NSCLC. Notably, 1D-142 allowed us to show for the first time the application of a Rac1 inhibitor in a lung cancer animal model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matías S Ciarlantini
- Departamento de Ingredientes Activos y Biorrefinerías, Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Industrial, Av. General Paz 5445, B1650WAB, San Martin Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Andrea Barquero
- Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Universitaria, C1428EGA, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET)- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN)., Ciudad Universitaria, C1428EGA, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan Bayo
- Gene Therapy Laboratory, Instituto de Investigaciones en Medicina Traslacional, Facultad de Ciencias Biomédicas, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Austral, B1630FHB, Derqui-Pilar, Argentina
| | - Diana Wetzler
- Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Universitaria, C1428EGA, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET)- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN)., Ciudad Universitaria, C1428EGA, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Martín M Dodes Traian
- Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Universitaria, C1428EGA, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET)- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN)., Ciudad Universitaria, C1428EGA, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Hernán A Bucci
- Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Universitaria, C1428EGA, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET)- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN)., Ciudad Universitaria, C1428EGA, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Esteban J Fiore
- Gene Therapy Laboratory, Instituto de Investigaciones en Medicina Traslacional, Facultad de Ciencias Biomédicas, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Austral, B1630FHB, Derqui-Pilar, Argentina
| | - Lucía Gandolfi Donadío
- Departamento de Ingredientes Activos y Biorrefinerías, Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Industrial, Av. General Paz 5445, B1650WAB, San Martin Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Av. General Paz 5445, B1650WAB, San Martin, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Lucas Defelipe
- Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Universitaria, C1428EGA, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET)- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN)., Ciudad Universitaria, C1428EGA, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Adrián Turjanski
- Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Universitaria, C1428EGA, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET)- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN)., Ciudad Universitaria, C1428EGA, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Javier A Ramírez
- Departamento de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Universitaria, C1428EGA, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Unidad de Microanálisis y Métodos Físicos Aplicados a Química Orgánica (UMYMFOR), Ciudad Universitaria, C1428EGA, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Guillermo Mazzolini
- Gene Therapy Laboratory, Instituto de Investigaciones en Medicina Traslacional, Facultad de Ciencias Biomédicas, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Austral, B1630FHB, Derqui-Pilar, Argentina.,Liver Unit, Hospital Universitario Austral, B1629AHJ, Derqui-Pilar, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Maria J Comin
- Departamento de Ingredientes Activos y Biorrefinerías, Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Industrial, Av. General Paz 5445, B1650WAB, San Martin Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Av. General Paz 5445, B1650WAB, San Martin, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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20
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Targeting the cytoskeleton against metastatic dissemination. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2021; 40:89-140. [PMID: 33471283 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-020-09936-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is a pathology characterized by a loss or a perturbation of a number of typical features of normal cell behaviour. Indeed, the acquisition of an inappropriate migratory and invasive phenotype has been reported to be one of the hallmarks of cancer. The cytoskeleton is a complex dynamic network of highly ordered interlinking filaments playing a key role in the control of fundamental cellular processes, like cell shape maintenance, motility, division and intracellular transport. Moreover, deregulation of this complex machinery contributes to cancer progression and malignancy, enabling cells to acquire an invasive and metastatic phenotype. Metastasis accounts for 90% of death from patients affected by solid tumours, while an efficient prevention and suppression of metastatic disease still remains elusive. This results in the lack of effective therapeutic options currently available for patients with advanced disease. In this context, the cytoskeleton with its regulatory and structural proteins emerges as a novel and highly effective target to be exploited for a substantial therapeutic effort toward the development of specific anti-metastatic drugs. Here we provide an overview of the role of cytoskeleton components and interacting proteins in cancer metastasis with a special focus on small molecule compounds interfering with the actin cytoskeleton organization and function. The emerging involvement of microtubules and intermediate filaments in cancer metastasis is also reviewed.
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21
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Paone S, D'Alessandro S, Parapini S, Celani F, Tirelli V, Pourshaban M, Olivieri A. Characterization of the erythrocyte GTPase Rac1 in relation to Plasmodium falciparum invasion. Sci Rep 2020; 10:22054. [PMID: 33328606 PMCID: PMC7744522 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-79052-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria is still a devastating disease with 228 million cases globally and 405,000 lethal outcomes in 2018, mainly in children under five years of age. The threat of emerging malaria strains resistant to currently available drugs has made the search for novel drug targets compelling. The process by which Plasmodium falciparum parasites invade the host cell has been widely studied, but only a few erythrocyte proteins involved in this process have been identified so far. The erythrocyte protein Rac1 is a GTPase that plays an important role in host cell invasion by many intracellular pathogens. Here we show that Rac1 is recruited in proximity to the site of parasite entry during P. falciparum invasion process and that subsequently localizes to the parasitophorous vacuole membrane. We also suggest that this GTPase may be involved in erythrocyte invasion by P. falciparum, by testing the effect of specific Rac1 inhibitory compounds. Finally, we suggest a secondary role of the erythrocyte GTPase also in parasite intracellular development. We here characterize a new erythrocyte protein potentially involved in P. falciparum invasion of the host cell and propose the human GTPase Rac1 as a novel and promising antimalarial drug target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvio Paone
- Dipartimento di Malattie Infettive, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.,Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica e Malattie Infettive, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Sarah D'Alessandro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Chirurgiche e Odontoiatriche, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Parapini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche Per La Salute, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Celani
- Dipartimento di Malattie Infettive, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Tirelli
- Dipartimento di Malattie Infettive, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Anna Olivieri
- Dipartimento di Malattie Infettive, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
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22
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Stress-Sensitive Protein Rac1 and Its Involvement in Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Neural Plast 2020; 2020:8894372. [PMID: 33299404 PMCID: PMC7707960 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8894372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Revised: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 (Rac1) is a small GTPase that is well known for its sensitivity to the environmental stress of a cell or an organism. It senses the external signals which are transmitted from membrane-bound receptors and induces downstream signaling cascades to exert its physiological functions. Rac1 is an important regulator of a variety of cellular processes, such as cytoskeletal organization, generation of oxidative products, and gene expression. In particular, Rac1 has a significant influence on certain brain functions like neuronal migration, synaptic plasticity, and memory formation via regulation of actin dynamics in neurons. Abnormal Rac1 expression and activity have been observed in multiple neurological diseases. Here, we review recent findings to delineate the role of Rac1 signaling in neurodevelopmental disorders associated with abnormal spine morphology, synaptogenesis, and synaptic plasticity. Moreover, certain novel inhibitors of Rac1 and related pathways are discussed as potential avenues toward future treatment for these diseases.
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23
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Vav2 catalysis-dependent pathways contribute to skeletal muscle growth and metabolic homeostasis. Nat Commun 2020; 11:5808. [PMID: 33199701 PMCID: PMC7669868 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-19489-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Skeletal muscle promotes metabolic balance by regulating glucose uptake and the stimulation of multiple interorgan crosstalk. We show here that the catalytic activity of Vav2, a Rho GTPase activator, modulates the signaling output of the IGF1- and insulin-stimulated phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase pathway in that tissue. Consistent with this, mice bearing a Vav2 protein with decreased catalytic activity exhibit reduced muscle mass, lack of proper insulin responsiveness and, at much later times, a metabolic syndrome-like condition. Conversely, mice expressing a catalytically hyperactive Vav2 develop muscle hypertrophy and increased insulin responsiveness. Of note, while hypoactive Vav2 predisposes to, hyperactive Vav2 protects against high fat diet-induced metabolic imbalance. These data unveil a regulatory layer affecting the signaling output of insulin family factors in muscle. Skeletal muscle plays a key role in regulating systemic glucose and metabolic homeostasis. Here, the authors show that the catalytic activity of Vav2, an activator of Rho GTPases, modulates those processes by favoring the responsiveness of this tissue to insulin and related factors.
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24
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Rho GTPases: Big Players in Breast Cancer Initiation, Metastasis and Therapeutic Responses. Cells 2020; 9:cells9102167. [PMID: 32992837 PMCID: PMC7600866 DOI: 10.3390/cells9102167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Rho GTPases, a family of the Ras GTPase superfamily, are key regulators of the actin cytoskeleton. They were originally thought to primarily affect cell migration and invasion; however, recent advances in our understanding of the biology and function of Rho GTPases have demonstrated their diverse roles within the cell, including membrane trafficking, gene transcription, migration, invasion, adhesion, survival and growth. As these processes are critically involved in cancer initiation, metastasis and therapeutic responses, it is not surprising that studies have demonstrated important roles of Rho GTPases in cancer. Although the majority of data indicates an oncogenic role of Rho GTPases, tumor suppressor functions of Rho GTPases have also been revealed, suggesting a context and cell-type specific function for Rho GTPases in cancer. This review aims to summarize recent progresses in our understanding of the regulation and functions of Rho GTPases, specifically in the context of breast cancer. The potential of Rho GTPases as therapeutic targets and prognostic tools for breast cancer patients are also discussed.
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25
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Lorenzo-Martín LF, Fernández-Parejo N, Menacho-Márquez M, Rodríguez-Fdez S, Robles-Valero J, Zumalave S, Fabbiano S, Pascual G, García-Pedrero JM, Abad A, García-Macías MC, González N, Lorenzano-Menna P, Pavón MA, González-Sarmiento R, Segrelles C, Paramio JM, Tubío JMC, Rodrigo JP, Benitah SA, Cuadrado M, Bustelo XR. VAV2 signaling promotes regenerative proliferation in both cutaneous and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Nat Commun 2020; 11:4788. [PMID: 32963234 PMCID: PMC7508832 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-18524-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Regenerative proliferation capacity and poor differentiation are histological features usually linked to poor prognosis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (hnSCC). However, the pathways that regulate them remain ill-characterized. Here, we show that those traits can be triggered by the RHO GTPase activator VAV2 in keratinocytes present in the skin and oral mucosa. VAV2 is also required to maintain those traits in hnSCC patient-derived cells. This function, which is both catalysis- and RHO GTPase-dependent, is mediated by c-Myc- and YAP/TAZ-dependent transcriptomal programs associated with regenerative proliferation and cell undifferentiation, respectively. High levels of VAV2 transcripts and VAV2-regulated gene signatures are both associated with poor hnSCC patient prognosis. These results unveil a druggable pathway linked to the malignancy of specific SCC subtypes. The Rho signalling pathway is frequently activated in squamous carcinomas. Here, the authors find that the Rho GEF VAV2 is over expressed in both cutaneous and head and neck squamous cell carcinomas and that at the molecular level VAV2 promotes a pro-tumorigenic stem cell-like signalling programme.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Francisco Lorenzo-Martín
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.,Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Natalia Fernández-Parejo
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.,Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Mauricio Menacho-Márquez
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.,Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.,Instituto de Inmunología Clínica y Experimental de Rosario (IDICER, CONICET-UNR). Facultad de Ciencias Médicas Universidad Nacional de Rosario (M.M.-M.) and CellPress editorial office (S.F.), S2000LRJ, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Sonia Rodríguez-Fdez
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.,Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Javier Robles-Valero
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.,Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Sonia Zumalave
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CiMUS), University of Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Salvatore Fabbiano
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.,Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.,Instituto de Inmunología Clínica y Experimental de Rosario (IDICER, CONICET-UNR). Facultad de Ciencias Médicas Universidad Nacional de Rosario (M.M.-M.) and CellPress editorial office (S.F.), S2000LRJ, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Gloria Pascual
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine, 33011, Barcelona, Spain.,The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, 33011, Spain
| | - Juana M García-Pedrero
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.,Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Oviedo University, 33011, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Antonio Abad
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.,Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
| | - María C García-Macías
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.,Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Nazareno González
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.,Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Pablo Lorenzano-Menna
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and National University of Quilmes, Buenos Aires, B1876BXD, Argentina.,National Council of Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET), National University of Quilmes, Buenos Aires, B1876BXD, Argentina
| | - Miguel A Pavón
- Institut Català d'Oncologia, 08908, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain.,Centro Biomédica de Investigación en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERESP), 08908, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Rogelio González-Sarmiento
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.,Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Carmen Segrelles
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.,Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas, Medioambientales y Tecnológicas, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesús M Paramio
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.,Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas, Medioambientales y Tecnológicas, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - José M C Tubío
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CiMUS), University of Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Juan P Rodrigo
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.,Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Oviedo University, 33011, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Salvador A Benitah
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine, 33011, Barcelona, Spain.,The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, 33011, Spain.,Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), 33011, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Myriam Cuadrado
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.,Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Xosé R Bustelo
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain. .,Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain. .,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), CSIC-University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain.
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26
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Preclinical efficacy of CIGB-300, an anti-CK2 peptide, on breast cancer metastasic colonization. Sci Rep 2020; 10:14689. [PMID: 32895446 PMCID: PMC7477577 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-71854-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
CK2 is a serine/threonine kinase that is overexpressed in breast cancer and its inhibition is associated to reduced tumor growth and disease progression. CIGB-300 is an antitumor peptide with a novel mechanism of action, since it binds to protein kinase CK2 catalytic subunit alpha and to CK2 substrates thus preventing the enzyme activity. Our aim was to evaluate the potential therapeutic benefits of CIGB-300 on breast cancer disease using experimental models with translational relevance. We demonstrated that CIGB-300 reduces breast cancer cell growth in MDA-MB-231, MCF-7 and F3II cells, exerting a pro-apoptotic action and cell cycle arrest. We also found that CIGB-300 decreased cell adhesion, migration and clonogenic capacity of malignant cells. Effect on experimental breast cancer lung metastasis was evaluated after surgical removal of primary F3II tumors or after tail vein injection of tumor cells, also we evaluated CIGB-300 effect on spontaneous lung metastasis in an orthotopic model. Systemic CIGB-300 treatment inhibited breast cancer colonization of the lung, reducing the size and number of metastatic lesions. The present preclinical study establishes for the first time the efficacy of CIGB-300 on breast cancer. These encouraging results suggest that CIGB-300 could be used for the management of breast cancer as an adjuvant therapy after surgery, limiting tumor metastatic spread and thus protecting the patient from distant recurrence.
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27
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Melittin from Apis florea Venom as a Promising Therapeutic Agent for Skin Cancer Treatment. Antibiotics (Basel) 2020; 9:antibiotics9080517. [PMID: 32823904 PMCID: PMC7460526 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics9080517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Melittin, a major component found in bee venom, is produced by the Apis species of the honey bee. In this study, the effect of melittin derived from Apis florea (Mel-AF), which is a wild honey bee species that is indigenous to Thailand, was investigated against human malignant melanoma (A375) cells. In this study, Mel-AF exhibited considerable potential in the anti-proliferative action of A375 cells. Subsequently, the cellular mechanism of Mel-AF that induced cell death was investigated in terms of apoptosis. As a result, gene and protein expression levels, which indicated the activation of cytochrome-c release and caspase-9 expression, eventually triggered the release of the caspase-3 executioner upon Mel-AF. We then determined that apoptosis-mediated cell death was carried out through the intrinsic mitochondrial pathway. Moreover, advanced abilities, including cell motility and invasion, were significantly suppressed. Mel-AF manipulated the actin arrangement via the trapping of stress fibers that were found underneath the membrane, which resulted in the defective actin cytoskeleton organization. Consequently, the expression of EGFR, a binding protein to F-actin, was also found to be suppressed. This outcome strongly supports the effects of Mel-AF in the inhibition of progressive malignant activity through the disruption of actin cytoskeleton-EGFR interaction and the EGFR signaling system. Thus, the findings of our current study indicate the potential usefulness of Mel-AF in cancer treatments as an apoptosis inducer and a potential actin-targeting agent.
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Gray JL, von Delft F, Brennan PE. Targeting the Small GTPase Superfamily through Their Regulatory Proteins. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020; 59:6342-6366. [PMID: 30869179 PMCID: PMC7204875 DOI: 10.1002/anie.201900585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Revised: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The Ras superfamily of small GTPases are guanine-nucleotide-dependent switches essential for numerous cellular processes. Mutations or dysregulation of these proteins are associated with many diseases, but unsuccessful attempts to target the small GTPases directly have resulted in them being classed as "undruggable". The GTP-dependent signaling of these proteins is controlled by their regulators; guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs), GTPase activating proteins (GAPs), and in the Rho and Rab subfamilies, guanine nucleotide dissociation inhibitors (GDIs). This review covers the recent small molecule and biologics strategies to target the small GTPases through their regulators. It seeks to critically re-evaluate recent chemical biology practice, such as the presence of PAINs motifs and the cell-based readout using compounds that are weakly potent or of unknown specificity. It highlights the vast scope of potential approaches for targeting the small GTPases in the future through their regulatory proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janine L. Gray
- Structural Genomics ConsortiumUniversity of Oxford, NDMRBOld Road CampusOxfordOX3 7DQUK
- Target Discovery InstituteNuffield Department of MedicineUniversity of OxfordOld Road CampusOxfordOX3 7FZUK
- Diamond Light SourceHarwell Science and Innovation CampusDidcotOX11 0QXUK
| | - Frank von Delft
- Structural Genomics ConsortiumUniversity of Oxford, NDMRBOld Road CampusOxfordOX3 7DQUK
- Diamond Light SourceHarwell Science and Innovation CampusDidcotOX11 0QXUK
- Department of BiochemistryUniversity of JohannesburgAuckland Park2006South Africa
| | - Paul E. Brennan
- Structural Genomics ConsortiumUniversity of Oxford, NDMRBOld Road CampusOxfordOX3 7DQUK
- Target Discovery InstituteNuffield Department of MedicineUniversity of OxfordOld Road CampusOxfordOX3 7FZUK
- Alzheimer's Research (UK) Oxford Drug Discovery InstituteNuffield Department of MedicineUniversity of OxfordOxfordOX3 7FZUK
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González N, Cardama GA, Chinestrad P, Robles-Valero J, Rodríguez-Fdez S, Lorenzo-Martín LF, Bustelo XR, Lorenzano Menna P, Gomez DE. Computational and in vitro Pharmacodynamics Characterization of 1A-116 Rac1 Inhibitor: Relevance of Trp56 in Its Biological Activity. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:240. [PMID: 32351958 PMCID: PMC7174510 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last years, the development of new drugs in oncology has evolved notably. In particular, drug development has shifted from empirical screening of active cytotoxic compounds to molecularly targeted drugs blocking specific biologic pathways that drive cancer progression and metastasis. Using a rational design approach, our group has developed 1A-116 as a promising Rac1 inhibitor, with antitumoral and antimetastatic effects in several types of cancer. Rac1 is over activated in a wide range of tumor types and and it is one of the most studied proteins of the Rho GTPase family. Its role in actin cytoskeleton reorganization has effects on endocytosis, vesicular trafficking, cell cycle progression and cellular migration. In this context, the regulatory activity of Rac1 affects several key processes in the course of the cancer including invasion and metastasis. The purpose of this preclinical study was to focus on the mode of action of 1A-116, conducting an interdisciplinary approach with in silico bioinformatics tools and in vitro assays. Here, we demonstrate that the tryptophan 56 residue is necessary for the inhibitory effects of 1A-116 since this compound interferes with protein-protein interactions (PPI) of Rac1GTPase involving several GEF activators. 1A-116 is also able to inhibit the oncogenic Rac1P29S mutant protein, one of the oncogenic drivers found in sun-exposed melanoma. It also inhibits numerous Rac1-regulated cellular processes such as membrane ruffling and lamellipodia formation. These results deepen our knowledge of 1A-116 inhibition of Rac1 and its biological impact on cancer progression. They also represent a good example of how in silico analyses represent a valuable approach for drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazareno González
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National University of Quilmes, Bernal, Argentina
| | - Georgina A Cardama
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National University of Quilmes, Bernal, Argentina.,National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Patricio Chinestrad
- Molecular Pharmacology Laboratory, National University of Quilmes, Bernal, Argentina
| | - Javier Robles-Valero
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.,Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), CSIC-University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Sonia Rodríguez-Fdez
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.,Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), CSIC-University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - L Francisco Lorenzo-Martín
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.,Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), CSIC-University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Xosé R Bustelo
- Centro de Investigación del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.,Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, CSIC-University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), CSIC-University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Pablo Lorenzano Menna
- National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Molecular Pharmacology Laboratory, National University of Quilmes, Bernal, Argentina
| | - Daniel E Gomez
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National University of Quilmes, Bernal, Argentina.,National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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30
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Zheng CW, Zeng RJ, Xu LY, Li EM. Rho GTPases: Promising candidates for overcoming chemotherapeutic resistance. Cancer Lett 2020; 475:65-78. [PMID: 31981606 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2020.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2019] [Revised: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Despite therapeutic advances, resistance to chemotherapy remains a major challenge to patients with malignancies. Rho GTPases are essential for the development and progression of various diseases including cancer, and a vast number of studies have linked Rho GTPases to chemoresistance. Therefore, understanding the underlying mechanisms can expound the effects of Rho GTPases towards chemotherapeutic agents, and targeting Rho GTPases is a promising strategy to downregulate the chemo-protective pathways and overcome chemoresistance. Importantly, exceptions in certain biological conditions and interactions among the members of Rho GTPases should be noted. In this review, we focus on the role of Rho GTPases, particularly Rac1, in regulating chemoresistance and provide an overview of their related mechanisms and available inhibitors, which may offer novel options for future targeted cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Wen Zheng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, China; The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for High Cancer Incidence Coastal Chaoshan Area, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, China
| | - Rui-Jie Zeng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, China; The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for High Cancer Incidence Coastal Chaoshan Area, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, China
| | - Li-Yan Xu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, China; Institute of Oncologic Pathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, China.
| | - En-Min Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, China; The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for High Cancer Incidence Coastal Chaoshan Area, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, China.
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31
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Maldonado MDM, Medina JI, Velazquez L, Dharmawardhane S. Targeting Rac and Cdc42 GEFs in Metastatic Cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:201. [PMID: 32322580 PMCID: PMC7156542 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The Rho family GTPases Rho, Rac, and Cdc42 have emerged as key players in cancer metastasis, due to their essential roles in regulating cell division and actin cytoskeletal rearrangements; and thus, cell growth, migration/invasion, polarity, and adhesion. This review will focus on the close homologs Rac and Cdc42, which have been established as drivers of metastasis and therapy resistance in multiple cancer types. Rac and Cdc42 are often dysregulated in cancer due to hyperactivation by guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs), belonging to both the diffuse B-cell lymphoma (Dbl) and dedicator of cytokinesis (DOCK) families. Rac/Cdc42 GEFs are activated by a myriad of oncogenic cell surface receptors, such as growth factor receptors, G-protein coupled receptors, cytokine receptors, and integrins; consequently, a number of Rac/Cdc42 GEFs have been implicated in metastatic cancer. Hence, inhibiting GEF-mediated Rac/Cdc42 activation represents a promising strategy for targeted metastatic cancer therapy. Herein, we focus on the role of oncogenic Rac/Cdc42 GEFs and discuss the recent advancements in the development of Rac and Cdc42 GEF-interacting inhibitors as targeted therapy for metastatic cancer, as well as their potential for overcoming cancer therapy resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Del Mar Maldonado
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Julia Isabel Medina
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Luis Velazquez
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Suranganie Dharmawardhane
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
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32
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RAC1 as a Therapeutic Target in Malignant Melanoma. Trends Cancer 2020; 6:478-488. [PMID: 32460002 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2020.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Small GTPases of the RAS and RHO families are related signaling proteins that, when activated by growth factors or by mutation, drive oncogenic processes. While activating mutations in KRAS, NRAS, and HRAS genes have long been recognized and occur in many types of cancer, similar mutations in RHO family genes, such as RAC1 and RHOA, have only recently been detected as the result of extensive cancer genome-sequencing efforts and are linked to a restricted set of malignancies. In this review, we focus on the role of RAC1 signaling in malignant melanoma, emphasizing recent advances that describe how this oncoprotein alters melanocyte proliferation and motility and how these findings might lead to new therapeutics in RAC1-mutant tumors.
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33
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The Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factor P-Rex1 as a potential drug target for cancer metastasis and inflammatory diseases. Pharmacol Res 2020; 153:104676. [PMID: 32006571 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.104676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2019] [Revised: 01/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate (PIP3)-dependent Rac exchanger 1 (P-Rex1) is a guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) for Rac small GTPases and the Rac-related GTPase RhoG. P-Rex1 plays an important role in cell migration and relays intracellular signals generated through activation of G protein-coupled receptors and receptor tyrosine kinases. Studies of mouse models have found that P-Rex1 expression and activation is associated with tumor cell migration, brain development and pathological changes such as lung edema. Since its initial discovery, P-Rex1 has been known for its large size and multiple activation mechanisms that involve not only PIP3 but also the βγ subunits of heterotrimeric G proteins and a regulatory subunit of cyclic AMP-dependent kinase, PKA RIα. At the core of the GEF activity is the tandem Dbl homology domain and the pleckstrin homology domain (DH/PH domains) that are masked until activation signals unwind the P-Rex1 structure. Understanding the activation mechanisms will help designing therapeutics that target P-Rex1 for cancer and other diseases.
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34
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Gray JL, Delft F, Brennan PE. Targeting der kleinen GTPasen über ihre regulatorischen Proteine. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201900585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Janine L. Gray
- Structural Genomics ConsortiumUniversity of Oxford, NDMRB Old Road Campus Oxford OX3 7DQ Großbritannien
- Target Discovery InstituteNuffield Department of MedicineUniversity of Oxford Old Road Campus Oxford OX3 7FZ Großbritannien
- Diamond Light Source Harwell Science and Innovation Campus Didcot OX11 0QX Großbritannien
| | - Frank Delft
- Structural Genomics ConsortiumUniversity of Oxford, NDMRB Old Road Campus Oxford OX3 7DQ Großbritannien
- Diamond Light Source Harwell Science and Innovation Campus Didcot OX11 0QX Großbritannien
- Department of BiochemistryUniversity of Johannesburg Auckland Park 2006 Südafrika
| | - Paul E. Brennan
- Structural Genomics ConsortiumUniversity of Oxford, NDMRB Old Road Campus Oxford OX3 7DQ Großbritannien
- Target Discovery InstituteNuffield Department of MedicineUniversity of Oxford Old Road Campus Oxford OX3 7FZ Großbritannien
- Alzheimer's Research (UK) Oxford Drug Discovery InstituteNuffield Department of MedicineUniversity of Oxford Oxford OX3 7FZ Großbritannien
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35
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Vucicevic J, Nikolic K, Mitchell JB. Rational Drug Design of Antineoplastic Agents Using 3D-QSAR, Cheminformatic, and Virtual Screening Approaches. Curr Med Chem 2019; 26:3874-3889. [DOI: 10.2174/0929867324666170712115411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2017] [Revised: 06/06/2017] [Accepted: 06/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Background:Computer-Aided Drug Design has strongly accelerated the development of novel antineoplastic agents by helping in the hit identification, optimization, and evaluation.Results:Computational approaches such as cheminformatic search, virtual screening, pharmacophore modeling, molecular docking and dynamics have been developed and applied to explain the activity of bioactive molecules, design novel agents, increase the success rate of drug research, and decrease the total costs of drug discovery. Similarity, searches and virtual screening are used to identify molecules with an increased probability to interact with drug targets of interest, while the other computational approaches are applied for the design and evaluation of molecules with enhanced activity and improved safety profile.Conclusion:In this review are described the main in silico techniques used in rational drug design of antineoplastic agents and presented optimal combinations of computational methods for design of more efficient antineoplastic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelica Vucicevic
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 450, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Katarina Nikolic
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 450, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - John B.O. Mitchell
- EaStCHEM School of Chemistry and Biomedical Sciences Research Complex, University of St Andrews, St Andrews KY16 9ST, United Kingdom
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36
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Zeng R, Zheng C, Gu J, Zhang H, Xie L, Xu L, Li E. RAC1 inhibition reverses cisplatin resistance in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and induces downregulation of glycolytic enzymes. Mol Oncol 2019; 13:2010-2030. [PMID: 31314174 PMCID: PMC6717762 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.12548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Development of chemoresistance remains a major challenge in treating esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) patients despite treatment advances. However, the role of RAC1 in chemoresistance of ESCC and the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. In this study, we found that higher levels of RAC1 expression were associated with poorer prognosis in ESCC patients. Enhanced RAC1 expression increased cell proliferation, migration, and chemoresistance in vitro. Combination therapy using RAC1 inhibitor EHop-016 and cisplatin significantly promoted cell viability inhibition, G2/M phase cycle arrest, and apoptosis when compared to each monotherapy. Mechanistically, glycolysis was significantly downregulated in the RAC1 inhibitor monotherapy group and the combination group via inhibiting AKT/FOXO3a signaling when compared to the control group. Moreover, the silencing of RAC1 inhibited AKT/FOXO3a signaling and cell glycolysis while the upregulation of RAC1 produced an opposite effect. In murine xenograft models, the tumor volume and the expression of glycolytic enzymes were significantly reduced in combination therapy when compared to each monotherapy group. Overall, our study demonstrates that targeting RAC1 with an inhibitor overcomes cisplatin resistance in ESCC by suppressing glycolytic enzymes, which provides a promising strategy for treatment of ESCC in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui‐Jie Zeng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyShantou University Medical CollegeChina
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for High Cancer Incidence Coastal Chaoshan AreaShantou University Medical CollegeChina
| | - Chun‐Wen Zheng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyShantou University Medical CollegeChina
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for High Cancer Incidence Coastal Chaoshan AreaShantou University Medical CollegeChina
| | - Jing‐E Gu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyShantou University Medical CollegeChina
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for High Cancer Incidence Coastal Chaoshan AreaShantou University Medical CollegeChina
| | - Hai‐Xia Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyShantou University Medical CollegeChina
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for High Cancer Incidence Coastal Chaoshan AreaShantou University Medical CollegeChina
| | - Lei Xie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyShantou University Medical CollegeChina
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for High Cancer Incidence Coastal Chaoshan AreaShantou University Medical CollegeChina
| | - Li‐Yan Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for High Cancer Incidence Coastal Chaoshan AreaShantou University Medical CollegeChina
- Institute of Oncologic PathologyShantou University Medical CollegeChina
| | - En‐Min Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyShantou University Medical CollegeChina
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for High Cancer Incidence Coastal Chaoshan AreaShantou University Medical CollegeChina
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37
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Lorimer IA. Aberrant Rac pathway signalling in glioblastoma. Small GTPases 2019; 12:81-95. [PMID: 31032735 DOI: 10.1080/21541248.2019.1612694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma is an aggressive and incurable form of brain cancer. Both mutation analysis in human glioblastoma and mouse modelling studies have shown that aberrant activation of the PI 3-kinase pathway is a central driver of glioblastoma malignancy. The small GTPase Rac is activated downstream of this pathway, mediating a subset of the effects of aberrant PI 3-kinase pathway activation. Here I discuss the current state of our knowledge on Rac activation mechanisms in glioblastoma. Current knowledge on roles for specific PI 3-kinase pathway responsive Rac guanine nucleotide exchange factors in glioblastoma is reviewed. Rac is best known for its role in promoting cell motility and invasion, but there is also evidence for roles in multiple other cellular processes with cancer relevance, including proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, DNA damage responses, metabolism, angiogenesis and immunosuppression. I review what is known about the role of Rac in these processes in glioblastoma. Finally, I assess possible strategies to inhibit this pathway in glioblastoma through either direct inhibition of Rac or inhibition of upstream activators or downstream mediators of Rac signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Aj Lorimer
- Cancer Therapeutics Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute , Ottawa, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa , Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa , Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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38
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Homology Model and Docking-Based Virtual Screening for Ligands of Human Dyskerin as New Inhibitors of Telomerase for Cancer Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19103216. [PMID: 30340325 PMCID: PMC6214037 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19103216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Revised: 10/06/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Immortality is one of the main features of cancer cells. Tumor cells have an unlimited replicative potential, principally due to the holoenzyme telomerase. Telomerase is composed mainly by dyskerin (DKC1), a catalytic retrotranscriptase (hTERT) and an RNA template (hTR). The aim of this work is to develop new inhibitors of telomerase, selecting the interaction between hTR⁻DKC1 as a target. We designed two models of the human protein DKC1: homology and ab initio. These models were evaluated by different procedures, revealing that the homology model parameters were the most accurate. We selected two hydrophobic pockets contained in the PUA (pseudouridine synthase and archaeosine transglycosylase) domain, using structural and stability analysis. We carried out a docking-based virtual screen on these pockets, using the reported mutation K314 as the center of the docking. The hDKC1 model was tested against a library of 450,000 drug-like molecules. We selected the first 10 molecules that showed the highest affinity values to test their inhibitory activity on the cell line MDA MB 231 (Monroe Dunaway Anderson Metastasis Breast cancer 231), obtaining three compounds that showed inhibitory effect. These results allowed us to validate our design and set the basis to continue with the study of telomerase inhibitors for cancer treatment.
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Maldonado MDM, Dharmawardhane S. Targeting Rac and Cdc42 GTPases in Cancer. Cancer Res 2018; 78:3101-3111. [PMID: 29858187 PMCID: PMC6004249 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-18-0619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Revised: 03/20/2018] [Accepted: 04/06/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Rac and Cdc42 are small GTPases that have been linked to multiple human cancers and are implicated in epithelial to mesenchymal transition, cell-cycle progression, migration/invasion, tumor growth, angiogenesis, and oncogenic transformation. With the exception of the P29S driver mutation in melanoma, Rac and Cdc42 are not generally mutated in cancer, but are overexpressed (gene amplification and mRNA upregulation) or hyperactivated. Rac and Cdc42 are hyperactivated via signaling through oncogenic cell surface receptors, such as growth factor receptors, which converge on the guanine nucleotide exchange factors that regulate their GDP/GTP exchange. Hence, targeting Rac and Cdc42 represents a promising strategy for precise cancer therapy, as well as for inhibition of bypass signaling that promotes resistance to cell surface receptor-targeted therapies. Therefore, an understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of these pivotal signaling intermediates is key for the development of effective inhibitors. In this review, we focus on the role of Rac and Cdc42 in cancer and summarize the regulatory mechanisms, inhibitory efficacy, and the anticancer potential of Rac- and Cdc42-targeting agents. Cancer Res; 78(12); 3101-11. ©2018 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Del Mar Maldonado
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Suranganie Dharmawardhane
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico.
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40
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Kumar AP, Lukman S. Allosteric binding sites in Rab11 for potential drug candidates. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0198632. [PMID: 29874286 PMCID: PMC5991966 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0198632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Rab11 is an important protein subfamily in the RabGTPase family. These proteins physiologically function as key regulators of intracellular membrane trafficking processes. Pathologically, Rab11 proteins are implicated in many diseases including cancers, neurodegenerative diseases and type 2 diabetes. Although they are medically important, no previous study has found Rab11 allosteric binding sites where potential drug candidates can bind to. In this study, by employing multiple clustering approaches integrating principal component analysis, independent component analysis and locally linear embedding, we performed structural analyses of Rab11 and identified eight representative structures. Using these representatives to perform binding site mapping and virtual screening, we identified two novel binding sites in Rab11 and small molecules that can preferentially bind to different conformations of these sites with high affinities. After identifying the binding sites and the residue interaction networks in the representatives, we computationally showed that these binding sites may allosterically regulate Rab11, as these sites communicate with switch 2 region that binds to GTP/GDP. These two allosteric binding sites in Rab11 are also similar to two allosteric pockets in Ras that we discovered previously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ammu Prasanna Kumar
- Department of Chemistry, College of Arts and Sciences, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Suryani Lukman
- Department of Chemistry, College of Arts and Sciences, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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41
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Cardama GA, Alonso DF, Gonzalez N, Maggio J, Gomez DE, Rolfo C, Menna PL. Relevance of small GTPase Rac1 pathway in drug and radio-resistance mechanisms: Opportunities in cancer therapeutics. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2018; 124:29-36. [PMID: 29548483 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2018.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2017] [Revised: 11/21/2017] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Rac1 GTPase signaling pathway has a critical role in the regulation of a plethora of cellular functions governing cancer cell behavior. Recently, it has been shown a critical role of Rac1 in the emergence of resistance mechanisms to cancer therapy. This review describes the current knowledge regarding Rac1 pathway deregulation and its association with chemoresistance, radioresistance, resistance to targeted therapies and immune evasion. This supports the idea that interfering Rac1 signaling pathway could be an interesting approach to tackle cancer resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- G A Cardama
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National University of Quilmes, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - D F Alonso
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National University of Quilmes, Buenos Aires, Argentina; National Council of Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - N Gonzalez
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National University of Quilmes, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - J Maggio
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National University of Quilmes, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - D E Gomez
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National University of Quilmes, Buenos Aires, Argentina; National Council of Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - C Rolfo
- Phase I-Early Clinical trials Unit, Oncology Department Antwerp University Hospital & Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Antwerp University, Belgium.
| | - P L Menna
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National University of Quilmes, Buenos Aires, Argentina; National Council of Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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42
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Contini A, Ferri N, Bucci R, Lupo MG, Erba E, Gelmi ML, Pellegrino S. Peptide modulators of Rac1/Tiam1 protein-protein interaction: An alternative approach for cardiovascular diseases. Biopolymers 2017; 110. [PMID: 29178143 DOI: 10.1002/bip.23089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2017] [Revised: 10/25/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Rac1 GTPase interaction with guanine nucleotide exchange factor Tiam1 is involved in several cancer types and cardiovascular diseases. Although small molecules interfering with their protein-protein interaction (PPI) were identified and studied, the ability of small peptides and peptide mimics acting as Rac1/Tiam1 PPI inhibitors has not been yet explored. Using computational alanine scanning (CAS), the "hot" interfacial residues have been determined allowing the design of a small library of putative PPI inhibitors. In particular, the insertion of an unnatural alpha, alpha disubstituted amino acid, that is norbornane amino acid, and the side chain stapling have been evaluated regarding both conformational stability and biological activity. REMD calculations and CD studies have indicated that one single norbornane amino acid at the N-terminus is not sufficient to stabilize the helix structure, while the side-chain stapling is a more efficient strategy. Furthermore, both engineered peptides have been found able to reduce Rac1-GTP levels in cultured human smooth muscle cells, while wild type sequence is not active.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Contini
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Nicola Ferri
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Raffaella Bucci
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Maria Giovanna Lupo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Emanuela Erba
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Gelmi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Sara Pellegrino
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milano, Milano, Italy
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43
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Peretti AS, Dominguez D, Grimes MM, Hathaway HJ, Prossnitz ER, Rivera MR, Wandinger-Ness A, Kusewitt DF, Hudson LG. The R-Enantiomer of Ketorolac Delays Mammary Tumor Development in Mouse Mammary Tumor Virus-Polyoma Middle T Antigen (MMTV-PyMT) Mice. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2017; 188:515-524. [PMID: 29169987 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2017.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2017] [Revised: 10/03/2017] [Accepted: 10/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Epidemiologic studies report improved breast cancer survival in women who receive ketorolac (Toradol) for postoperative pain relief compared with other analgesic agents. Ketorolac is a racemic drug. The S-enantiomer inhibits cyclooxygenases; R-ketorolac is a selective inhibitor of the small GTPases Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 (Rac1) and cell division control protein 42 (Cdc42), which are signaling molecules up-regulated during breast cancer progression and metastasis. The goal of this study was to determine whether R-ketorolac altered breast cancer development in the mouse mammary tumor virus-polyoma middle T-antigen model. Mice were administered ketorolac orally at 1 mg/kg twice daily to approximate the typical human dose. Mammary glands were analyzed for tumor number and immunohistochemical markers of proliferation and differentiation. R-ketorolac treatment significantly reduced mammary epithelial proliferation, based on Ki67 staining, and suppressed tumor development. Proliferative mammary epithelium from R-ketorolac-treated mice displayed greater differentiation, based on significantly higher total E-cadherin and decreased keratin 5 staining than epithelium of placebo-treated mice. No differences were detected in estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, β-catenin, or vimentin expression between placebo and R-ketorolac treatment groups. These findings indicate that R-ketorolac treatment slows tumor progression in an aggressive model of breast cancer. R-ketorolac may thus represent a novel therapeutic approach for breast cancer prevention or treatment based on its pharmacologic activity as a Rac1 and Cdc42 inhibitor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda S Peretti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Dayna Dominguez
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Martha M Grimes
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Helen J Hathaway
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Eric R Prossnitz
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Melanie R Rivera
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Angela Wandinger-Ness
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Donna F Kusewitt
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Laurie G Hudson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico.
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Cabrera M, Echeverria E, Lenicov FR, Cardama G, Gonzalez N, Davio C, Fernández N, Menna PL. Pharmacological Rac1 inhibitors with selective apoptotic activity in human acute leukemic cell lines. Oncotarget 2017; 8:98509-98523. [PMID: 29228706 PMCID: PMC5716746 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.21533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2016] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Rac1 GTPase has long been recognized as a critical regulatory protein in different cellular and molecular processes involved in cancer progression, including acute myeloid leukemia. Here we show the antitumoral activity of ZINC69391 and 1A-116, two chemically-related Rac1 pharmacological inhibitors, on a panel of four leukemic cell lines representing different levels of maturation. Importantly, we show that the main mechanism involved in the antitumoral effect triggered by the Rac1 inhibitors comprises the induction of the mitochondrial or intrinsic apoptotic pathway. Interestingly, Rac1 inhibition selectively induced apoptosis on patient-derived leukemia cells but not on normal mononuclear cells. These results show the potential therapeutic benefits of targeting Rac1 pathway in hematopoietic malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maia Cabrera
- Instituto de Investigaciones Farmacológicas, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica (ININFA-UBA CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Emiliana Echeverria
- Instituto de Investigaciones Farmacológicas, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica (ININFA-UBA CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Federico Remes Lenicov
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus y SIDA, Facultad de Medicina, (INBIRS-UBA-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Georgina Cardama
- Laboratorio de Oncología Molecular, Universidad Nacional de Quilmes, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Nazareno Gonzalez
- Laboratorio de Oncología Molecular, Universidad Nacional de Quilmes, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carlos Davio
- Instituto de Investigaciones Farmacológicas, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica (ININFA-UBA CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Natalia Fernández
- Instituto de Investigaciones Farmacológicas, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica (ININFA-UBA CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Pablo Lorenzano Menna
- Laboratorio de Oncología Molecular, Universidad Nacional de Quilmes, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Cardama GA, Gonzalez N, Maggio J, Menna PL, Gomez DE. Rho GTPases as therapeutic targets in cancer (Review). Int J Oncol 2017; 51:1025-1034. [PMID: 28848995 PMCID: PMC5592879 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2017.4093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Rho GTPases are key molecular switches controlling the transduction of external signals to cytoplasmic and nuclear effectors. In the last few years, the development of genetic and pharmacological tools has allowed a more precise definition of the specific roles of Rho GTPases in cancer. The aim of the present review is to describe the cellular functions regulated by these proteins with focus in deregulated signals present in malignant tumors. Finally, we describe the state of the art in search of different experimental therapeutic strategies with Rho GTPases as molecular targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- G A Cardama
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Department of Science and Technology, Quilmes National University, Bernal B1876BXD, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - N Gonzalez
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Department of Science and Technology, Quilmes National University, Bernal B1876BXD, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - J Maggio
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Department of Science and Technology, Quilmes National University, Bernal B1876BXD, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - P Lorenzano Menna
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Department of Science and Technology, Quilmes National University, Bernal B1876BXD, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - D E Gomez
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Department of Science and Technology, Quilmes National University, Bernal B1876BXD, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Marei H, Malliri A. Rac1 in human diseases: The therapeutic potential of targeting Rac1 signaling regulatory mechanisms. Small GTPases 2017; 8:139-163. [PMID: 27442895 PMCID: PMC5584733 DOI: 10.1080/21541248.2016.1211398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2016] [Revised: 07/05/2016] [Accepted: 07/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Abnormal Rac1 signaling is linked to a number of debilitating human diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases and neurodegenerative disorders. As such, Rac1 represents an attractive therapeutic target, yet the search for effective Rac1 inhibitors is still underway. Given the adverse effects associated with Rac1 signaling perturbation, cells have evolved several mechanisms to ensure the tight regulation of Rac1 signaling. Thus, characterizing these mechanisms can provide invaluable information regarding major cellular events that lead to aberrant Rac1 signaling. Importantly, this information can be utilized to further facilitate the development of effective pharmacological modulators that can restore normal Rac1 signaling. In this review, we focus on the pathological role of Rac1 signaling, highlighting the benefits and potential drawbacks of targeting Rac1 in a clinical setting. Additionally, we provide an overview of available compounds that target key Rac1 regulatory mechanisms and discuss future therapeutic avenues arising from our understanding of these mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadir Marei
- Cell Signaling Group, Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Angeliki Malliri
- Cell Signaling Group, Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Ungefroren H, Witte D, Lehnert H. The role of small GTPases of the Rho/Rac family in TGF-β-induced EMT and cell motility in cancer. Dev Dyn 2017; 247:451-461. [DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.24505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Revised: 03/30/2017] [Accepted: 04/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hendrik Ungefroren
- First Department of Medicine; University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH), Campus Lübeck, and University of Lübeck; Lübeck Germany
- Department of General and Thoracic Surgery; UKSH, Campus Kiel; Kiel Germany
| | - David Witte
- First Department of Medicine; University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH), Campus Lübeck, and University of Lübeck; Lübeck Germany
| | - Hendrik Lehnert
- First Department of Medicine; University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH), Campus Lübeck, and University of Lübeck; Lübeck Germany
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Melzer C, Hass R, von der Ohe J, Lehnert H, Ungefroren H. The role of TGF-β and its crosstalk with RAC1/RAC1b signaling in breast and pancreas carcinoma. Cell Commun Signal 2017; 15:19. [PMID: 28499439 PMCID: PMC5429551 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-017-0175-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 05/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
This article focusses on the role of TGF-β and its signaling crosstalk with the RHO family GTPases RAC1 and RAC1b in the progression of breast and pancreatic carcinoma. The aggressive nature of these tumor types is mainly due to metastatic dissemination. Metastasis is facilitated by desmoplasia, a peculiar tumor microenvironment and the ability of the tumor cells to undergo epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and to adopt a motile and invasive phenotype. These processes are controlled entirely or in part by TGF-β and the small RHO GTPase RAC1 with both proteins acting as tumor promoters in late-stage cancers. Data from our and other studies point to signaling crosstalk between TGF-β and RAC1 and the related isoform, RAC1b, in pancreatic and mammary carcinoma cells. Based on the exciting observation that RAC1b functions as an endogenous inhibitor of RAC1, we propose a model on how the relative abundance or activity of RAC1 and RAC1b in the tumor cells may determine their responses to TGF-β and, ultimately, the metastatic capacity of the tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catharina Melzer
- Biochemistry and Tumor Biology Lab, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Ralf Hass
- Biochemistry and Tumor Biology Lab, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Juliane von der Ohe
- Biochemistry and Tumor Biology Lab, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Hendrik Lehnert
- Center of Brain, Behavior and Metabolism (CBBM), University of Lübeck, Campus Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538, Lübeck, Germany.,First Department of Medicine, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH), Campus Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Hendrik Ungefroren
- Center of Brain, Behavior and Metabolism (CBBM), University of Lübeck, Campus Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538, Lübeck, Germany. .,First Department of Medicine, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH), Campus Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538, Lübeck, Germany. .,Department of General and Thoracic Surgery, UKSH, Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany.
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Marei H, Malliri A. GEFs: Dual regulation of Rac1 signaling. Small GTPases 2017; 8:90-99. [PMID: 27314616 PMCID: PMC5464116 DOI: 10.1080/21541248.2016.1202635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2016] [Revised: 06/10/2016] [Accepted: 06/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
GEFs play a critical role in regulating Rac1 signaling. They serve as signaling nodes converting upstream signals into downstream Rac1-driven cellular responses. Through associating with membrane-bound Rac1, GEFs facilitate the exchange of GDP for GTP, thereby activating Rac1. As a result, Rac1 undergoes conformational changes that mediate its interaction with downstream effectors, linking Rac1 to a multitude of physiological and pathological processes. Interestingly, there are at least 20 GEFs involved in Rac1 activation, suggesting a more complex role of GEFs in regulating Rac1 signaling apart from promoting the exchange of GDP for GTP. Indeed, accumulating evidence implicates GEFs in directing the specificity of Rac1-driven signaling cascades, although the underlying mechanisms were poorly defined. Recently, through conducting a comparative study, we highlighted the role of 2 Rac-specific GEFs, Tiam1 and P-Rex1, in dictating the biological outcome downstream of Rac1. Importantly, further proteomic analysis uncovered a GEF activity-independent function for both GEFs in modulating the Rac1 interactome, which results in the stimulation of GEF-specific signaling cascades. Here, we provide an overview of our recent findings and discuss the role of GEFs as master regulators of Rac1 signaling with a particular focus on GEF-mediated modulation of cell migration following Rac1 activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadir Marei
- Cell Signaling Group, Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Angeliki Malliri
- Cell Signaling Group, Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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50
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Pharmacological inhibition of Rac1-PAK1 axis restores tamoxifen sensitivity in human resistant breast cancer cells. Cell Signal 2017; 30:154-161. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2016.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2016] [Revised: 12/05/2016] [Accepted: 12/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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