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Ren X, Wang L, Liu L, Liu J. PTMs of PD-1/PD-L1 and PROTACs application for improving cancer immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1392546. [PMID: 38638430 PMCID: PMC11024247 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1392546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has been developed, which harnesses and enhances the innate powers of the immune system to fight disease, particularly cancer. PD-1 (programmed death-1) and PD-L1 (programmed death ligand-1) are key components in the regulation of the immune system, particularly in the context of cancer immunotherapy. PD-1 and PD-L1 are regulated by PTMs, including phosphorylation, ubiquitination, deubiquitination, acetylation, palmitoylation and glycosylation. PROTACs (Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras) are a type of new drug design technology. They are specifically engineered molecules that target specific proteins within a cell for degradation. PROTACs have been designed and demonstrated their inhibitory activity against the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway, and showed their ability to degrade PD-1/PD-L1 proteins. In this review, we describe how PROTACs target PD-1 and PD-L1 proteins to improve the efficacy of immunotherapy. PROTACs could be a novel strategy to combine with radiotherapy, chemotherapy and immunotherapy for cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohui Ren
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital/Shanxi Hospital Affiliated to Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Lijuan Wang
- Department of Hospice Care, Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital/Shanxi Hospital Affiliated to Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Likun Liu
- Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital/Shanxi Hospital Affiliated to Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Juan Liu
- Department of Special Needs Medicine, Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital/Shanxi Hospital Affiliated to Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
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2
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Wang Q, Wang L, Botchway BOA, Zhang Y, Huang M, Liu X. OTULIN Can Improve Spinal Cord Injury by the NF-κB and Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathways. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04134-3. [PMID: 38561559 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04134-3] [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: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a significant health concern, as it presently has no effective treatment in the clinical setting. Inflammation is a key player in the pathophysiological process of SCI, with a number of studies evidencing that the inhibition of the NF-κB signaling pathway may impede the inflammatory response and improve SCI. OTULIN, as a de-ubiquitination enzyme, the most notable is its anti-inflammatory effect. OTULIN can inhibit the NF-κB signaling pathway to suppress the inflammatory reaction via de-ubiquitination. In addition, OTULIN may promote vascular regeneration through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in the wake of SCI. In this review, we analyze the structure and physiological function of OTULIN, along with both NF-κB and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways. Furthermore, we examine the significant role of OTULIN in SCI through its impairment of the NF-κB signaling pathway, which could open the possibility of it being a novel interventional target for the condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianhui Wang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, 312000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Lvxia Wang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, 312000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Benson O A Botchway
- Bupa Cromwell Hospital, London, SW5 0TU, UK
- Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences, University of Nicosia Medical School, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, 312000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Min Huang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, 312000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xuehong Liu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, 312000, Zhejiang Province, China.
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3
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Zheng LL, Wang LT, Pang YW, Sun LP, Shi L. Recent advances in the development of deubiquitinases inhibitors as antitumor agents. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 266:116161. [PMID: 38262120 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116161] [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: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Ubiquitination is a type of post-translational modification that covalently links ubiquitin to a target protein, which plays a critical role in modulating protein activity, stability, and localization. In contrast, this process is reversed by deubiquitinases (DUBs), which remove ubiquitin from ubiquitinated substrates. Dysregulation of DUBs is associated with several human diseases, such as cancer, inflammation, neurodegenerative disorders, and autoimmune diseases. Thus, DUBs have become promising targets for drug development. Although the physiological and pathological effects of DUBs are increasingly well understood, the clinical drug discovery of selective DUB inhibitors has been challenging. Herein, we summarize the structures and functions of main classes of DUBs and discuss the recent progress in developing selective small-molecule DUB inhibitors as antitumor agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Li Zheng
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Li-Ting Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Ye-Wei Pang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Li-Ping Sun
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China.
| | - Lei Shi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China.
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4
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Kim MS, Baek JH, Lee J, Sivaraman A, Lee K, Chun KH. Deubiquitinase USP1 enhances CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein beta (C/EBPβ) stability and accelerates adipogenesis and lipid accumulation. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:776. [PMID: 38012162 PMCID: PMC10681981 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06317-7] [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: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Dysregulation of the ubiquitin-proteasome system has been implicated in the pathogenesis of several metabolic disorders, including obesity, diabetes, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease; however, the mechanisms controlling pathogenic metabolic disorders remain unclear. Transcription factor CCAAT/enhancer binding protein beta (C/EBPβ) regulates adipogenic genes. The study showed that the expression level of C/EBPβ is post-translationally regulated by the deubiquitinase ubiquitin-specific protease 1 (USP1) and that USP1 expression is remarkably upregulated during adipocyte differentiation and in the adipose tissue of mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD). We found that USP1 directly interacts with C/EBPβ. Knock-down of USP1 decreased C/EBPβ protein stability and increased its ubiquitination. Overexpression of USP1 regulates its protein stability and ubiquitination, whereas catalytic mutant of USP1 had no effect on them. It suggests that USP1 directly deubiquitinases C/EBPβ and increases the protein expression, leading to adipogenesis and lipid accumulation. Notably, the USP1-specific inhibitor ML323-originally developed to sensitize cancer cells to DNA-damaging agents-decreased adipocyte differentiation and lipid accumulation in 3T3-L1 cells without cytotoxicity. Oral gavage of ML323 was administered to HFD-fed mice, which showed weight loss and improvement in insulin and glucose sensitivity. Both fat mass and adipocyte size in white adipose tissues were significantly reduced by ML323 treatment, which also reduced the expression of genes involved in adipogenesis and inflammatory responses. ML323 also reduced lipid accumulation, hepatic triglycerides, free fatty acids, and macrophage infiltration in the livers of HFD-fed mice. Taken together, we suggest that USP1 plays an important role in adipogenesis by regulating C/EBPβ ubiquitination, and USP1-specific inhibitor ML323 is a potential treatment option and further study by ML323 is needed for clinical application for metabolic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myung Sup Kim
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Genetic Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Hwan Baek
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Genetic Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - JinAh Lee
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Aneesh Sivaraman
- College of Pharmacy, Dongguk University-Seoul, Goyang, 10326, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyeong Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Dongguk University-Seoul, Goyang, 10326, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-Hee Chun
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Institute of Genetic Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea.
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5
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Wang J, He Y, Zhou D. The role of ubiquitination in microbial infection induced endothelial dysfunction: potential therapeutic targets for sepsis. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2023; 27:827-839. [PMID: 37688775 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2023.2257888] [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: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The ubiquitin system is an evolutionarily conserved and universal means of protein modification that regulates many essential cellular processes. Endothelial dysfunction plays a critical role in the pathophysiology of sepsis and organ failure. However, the mechanisms underlying the ubiquitination-mediated regulation on endothelial dysfunction are not fully understood. AREAS COVERED Here we review the advances in basic and clinical research for relevant papers in PubMed database. We attempt to provide an updated overview of diverse ubiquitination events in endothelial cells, discussing the fundamental role of ubiquitination mediated regulations involving in endothelial dysfunction to provide potential therapeutic targets for sepsis. EXPERT OPINION The central event underlying sepsis syndrome is the overwhelming host inflammatory response to the pathogen infection, leading to endothelial dysfunction. As the key components of the ubiquitin system, E3 ligases are at the center stage of the battle between host and microbial pathogens. Such a variety of ubiquitination regulates a multitude of cellular regulatory processes, including signal transduction, autophagy, inflammasome activation, redox reaction and immune response and so forth. In this review, we discuss the many mechanisms of ubiquitination-mediated regulation with a focus on those that modulate endothelial function to provide potential therapeutic targets for the management of sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junshuai Wang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Yang He
- Department of Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Daixing Zhou
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
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Cucci MA, Grattarola M, Monge C, Roetto A, Barrera G, Caputo E, Dianzani C, Pizzimenti S. Nrf2 as a Therapeutic Target in the Resistance to Targeted Therapies in Melanoma. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1313. [PMID: 37372043 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12061313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of specific inhibitors towards mutant BRAF (BRAFi) and MEK (MEKi) in BRAF-mutated patients has significantly improved progression-free and overall survival of metastatic melanoma patients. Nevertheless, half of the patients still develop resistance within the first year of therapy. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms of BRAFi/MEKi-acquired resistance has become a priority for researchers. Among others, oxidative stress-related mechanisms have emerged as a major force. The aim of this study was to evaluate the contribution of Nrf2, the master regulator of the cytoprotective and antioxidant response, in the BRAFi/MEKi acquired resistance of melanoma. Moreover, we investigated the mechanisms of its activity regulation and the possible cooperation with the oncogene YAP, which is also involved in chemoresistance. Taking advantage of established in vitro melanoma models resistant to BRAFi, MEKi, or dual resistance to BRAFi/MEKi, we demonstrated that Nrf2 was upregulated in melanoma cells resistant to targeted therapy at the post-translational level and that the deubiquitinase DUB3 participated in the control of the Nrf2 protein stability. Furthermore, we found that Nrf2 controlled the expression of YAP. Importantly, the inhibition of Nrf2, directly or through inhibition of DUB3, reverted the resistance to targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Angèle Cucci
- Department of Clinical and Biological Science, University of Turin, Corso Raffaello 30, 10125 Turin, Italy
| | - Margherita Grattarola
- Department of Clinical and Biological Science, University of Turin, Corso Raffaello 30, 10125 Turin, Italy
| | - Chiara Monge
- Department of Scienza e Tecnologia del Farmaco, University of Turin, Via Pietro Giuria 9, 10125 Turin, Italy
| | - Antonella Roetto
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences-San Luigi Gonzaga Hospital, University of Turin, Regione Gonzole 10, 10043 Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Barrera
- Department of Clinical and Biological Science, University of Turin, Corso Raffaello 30, 10125 Turin, Italy
| | - Emilia Caputo
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics-IGB-CNR, "A. Buzzati-Traverso", Via Pietro Castellino 111, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Dianzani
- Department of Scienza e Tecnologia del Farmaco, University of Turin, Via Pietro Giuria 9, 10125 Turin, Italy
| | - Stefania Pizzimenti
- Department of Clinical and Biological Science, University of Turin, Corso Raffaello 30, 10125 Turin, Italy
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7
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Abstract
Our understanding of the ubiquitin code has greatly evolved from conventional E1, E2 and E3 enzymes that modify Lys residues on specific substrates with a single type of ubiquitin chain to more complex processes that regulate and mediate ubiquitylation. In this Review, we discuss recently discovered endogenous mechanisms and unprecedented pathways by which pathogens rewrite the ubiquitin code to promote infection. These processes include unconventional ubiquitin modifications involving ester linkages with proteins, lipids and sugars, or ubiquitylation through a phosphoribosyl bridge involving Arg42 of ubiquitin. We also introduce the enzymatic pathways that write and reverse these modifications, such as the papain-like proteases of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) and SARS-CoV-2. Furthermore, structural studies have revealed that the ultimate functions of ubiquitin are mediated not simply by straightforward recognition by ubiquitin-binding domains. Instead, elaborate multivalent interactions between ubiquitylated targets or ubiquitin chains and their readers (for example, the proteasome, the MLL1 complex or DOT1L) can elicit conformational changes that regulate protein degradation or transcription. The newly discovered mechanisms provide opportunities for innovative therapeutic interventions for diseases such as cancer and infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Dikic
- Institute of Biochemistry II, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany.
- Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany.
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8
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Yang YC, Zhao CJ, Jin ZF, Zheng J, Ma LT. Targeted therapy based on ubiquitin-specific proteases, signalling pathways and E3 ligases in non-small-cell lung cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1120828. [PMID: 36969062 PMCID: PMC10036052 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1120828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is one of the most common malignant tumours worldwide, with the highest mortality rate. Approximately 1.6 million deaths owing to lung cancer are reported annually; of which, 85% of deaths occur owing to non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). At present, the conventional treatment methods for NSCLC include radiotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy and surgery. However, drug resistance and tumour invasion or metastasis often lead to treatment failure. The ubiquitin–proteasome pathway (UPP) plays an important role in the occurrence and development of tumours. Upregulation or inhibition of proteins or enzymes involved in UPP can promote or inhibit the occurrence and development of tumours, respectively. As regulators of UPP, ubiquitin-specific proteases (USPs) primarily inhibit the degradation of target proteins by proteasomes through deubiquitination and hence play a carcinogenic or anticancer role. This review focuses on the role of USPs in the occurrence and development of NSCLC and the potential of corresponding targeted drugs, PROTACs and small-molecule inhibitors in the treatment of NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Chen Yang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Can-Jun Zhao
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Zhao-Feng Jin
- School of Psychology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Jin Zheng
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Li-Tian Ma, ; Jin Zheng,
| | - Li-Tian Ma
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Li-Tian Ma, ; Jin Zheng,
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Shen J, Lin X, Dai F, Chen G, Lin H, Fang B, Liu H. Ubiquitin-specific peptidases: Players in bone metabolism. Cell Prolif 2023:e13444. [PMID: 36883930 PMCID: PMC10392067 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Osteoporosis is an ageing-related disease, that has become a major public health problem and its pathogenesis has not yet been fully elucidated. Substantial evidence suggests a strong link between overall age-related disease progression and epigenetic modifications throughout the life cycle. As an important epigenetic modification, ubiquitination is extensively involved in various physiological processes, and its role in bone metabolism has attracted increasing attention. Ubiquitination can be reversed by deubiquitinases, which counteract protein ubiquitination degradation. As the largest and most structurally diverse cysteinase family of deubiquitinating enzymes, ubiquitin-specific proteases (USPs), comprising the largest and most structurally diverse cysteine kinase family of deubiquitinating enzymes, have been found to be important players in maintaining the balance between bone formation and resorption. The aim of this review is to explore recent findings highlighting the regulatory functions of USPs in bone metabolism and provide insight into the molecular mechanisms governing their actions during bone loss. An in-deep understanding of USPs-mediated regulation of bone formation and bone resorption will provide a scientific rationale for the discovery and development of novel USP-targeted therapeutic strategies for osteoporosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianlin Shen
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Hospital of Putian University, Putian, China
| | - Xiaoning Lin
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Hospital of Putian University, Putian, China
| | - Feifei Dai
- School of Medicine, Putian Universtiy, Putian, China
| | - Guoli Chen
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Hospital of Putian University, Putian, China
| | - Haibin Lin
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Hospital of Putian University, Putian, China
| | - Bangjiang Fang
- Department of Emergency, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Institute of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Huan Liu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Hospital of Putian University, Putian, China
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10
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Fang YZ, Jiang L, He Q, Cao J, Yang B. Commentary: Deubiquitination complex platform: a plausible mechanism for regulating the substrate specificity of deubiquitinating enzymes. Acta Pharm Sin B 2023. [PMID: 37521861 PMCID: PMC10372820 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) or deubiquitinases facilitate the escape of multiple proteins from ubiquitin‒proteasome degradation and are critical for regulating protein expression levels in vivo. Therefore, dissecting the underlying mechanism of DUB recognition is needed to advance the development of drugs related to DUB signaling pathways. To data, extensive studies on the ubiquitin chain specificity of DUBs have been reported, but substrate protein recognition is still not clearly understood. As a breakthrough, the scaffolding role may be significant to substrate protein selectivity. From this perspective, we systematically characterized the scaffolding proteins and complexes contributing to DUB substrate selectivity. Furthermore, we proposed a deubiquitination complex platform (DCP) as a potentially generic mechanism for DUB substrate recognition based on known examples, which might fill the gaps in the understanding of DUB substrate specificity.
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11
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Deubiquitinating Enzyme Inhibitors Block Chikungunya Virus Replication. Viruses 2023; 15:v15020481. [PMID: 36851696 PMCID: PMC9966916 DOI: 10.3390/v15020481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Ubiquitination and deubiquitination processes are widely involved in modulating the function, activity, localization, and stability of multiple cellular proteins regulating almost every aspect of cellular function. Several virus families have been shown to exploit the cellular ubiquitin-conjugating system to achieve a productive infection: enter the cell, promote genome replication, or assemble and release viral progeny. In this study, we analyzed the role of deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) during chikungunya virus (CHIKV) infection. HEK293T, Vero-E6, and Huh-7 cells were treated with two DUB inhibitors (PR619 or WP1130). Then, infected cells were evaluated by flow cytometry, and viral progeny was quantified using the plaque assay method. The changes in viral proteins and viral RNA were analyzed using Western blotting and RT-qPCR, respectively. Results indicate that treatment with DUB inhibitors impairs CHIKV replication due to significant protein and viral RNA synthesis deregulation. Therefore, DUB activity may be a pharmacological target for blocking CHIKV infection.
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12
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Gorka M, Magnussen HM, Kulathu Y. Chemical biology tools to study Deubiquitinases and Ubl proteases. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2022; 132:86-96. [PMID: 35216867 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2022.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The reversible attachment of ubiquitin (Ub) and ubiquitin like modifiers (Ubls) to proteins are crucial post-translational modifications (PTMs) for many cellular processes. Not only do cells possess hundreds of ligases to mediate substrate specific modification with Ub and Ubls, but they also have a repertoire of more than 100 dedicated enzymes for the specific removal of ubiquitin (Deubiquitinases or DUBs) and Ubl modifications (Ubl-specific proteases or ULPs). Over the past two decades, there has been significant progress in our understanding of how DUBs and ULPs function at a molecular level and many novel DUBs and ULPs, including several new DUB classes, have been identified. Here, the development of chemical tools that can bind and trap active DUBs has played a key role. Since the introduction of the first activity-based probe for DUBs in 1986, several innovations have led to the development of more sophisticated tools to study DUBs and ULPs. In this review we discuss how chemical biology has led to the development of activity-based probes and substrates that have been invaluable to the study of DUBs and ULPs. We summarise our currently available toolbox, highlight the main achievements and give an outlook of how these tools may be applied to gain a better understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of DUBs and ULPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Gorka
- Medical Research Council Protein Phosphorylation & Ubiquitylation Unit (MRC-PPU), School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Helge Magnus Magnussen
- Medical Research Council Protein Phosphorylation & Ubiquitylation Unit (MRC-PPU), School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Yogesh Kulathu
- Medical Research Council Protein Phosphorylation & Ubiquitylation Unit (MRC-PPU), School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK.
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13
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Liu J, Jin J, Liang T, Feng XH. To Ub or not to Ub: a regulatory question in TGF-β signaling. Trends Biochem Sci 2022; 47:1059-1072. [PMID: 35810076 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2022.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) superfamily controls a wide spectrum of biological processes in metazoans, including cell proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation, cell-fate determination, and embryonic development. Deregulation of TGF-β-Smad signaling contributes to developmental anomalies and a variety of disorders and diseases such as tumorigenesis, fibrotic disorders, and immune diseases. In cancer, TGF-β has dual effects through its antiproliferative and prometastatic actions. At the cellular level, TGF-β functions mainly through the canonical Smad-dependent pathway in a cell type-specific and context-dependent manner. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that ubiquitination plays a vital role in regulating TGF-β-Smad signaling. We summarize current progress on ubiquitination (Ub) and the ubiquitin ligases that regulate TGF-β-Smad signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinquan Liu
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Jianping Jin
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Drug Evaluation and Clinical Research, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Tingbo Liang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Xin-Hua Feng
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, China.
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14
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Meszka I, Polanowska J, Xirodimas DP. Mixed in chains: NEDD8 polymers in the Protein Quality Control system. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2022; 132:27-37. [PMID: 35078718 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2022.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Post-translational modification of proteins with the Ubiquitin-like molecule NEDD8 is a critical regulatory mechanism for several biological processes and a potential target for therapeutic intervention. The role of NEDD8 has been mainly characterised through its modification as single moiety on the cullin family of proteins and control of Cullin-Ring-Ligases, but also on non-cullin substrates. In addition to monoNEDDylation, recent studies have now revealed that NEDD8 can also generate diverse polymers. This is either through modification of the 9 available lysines in NEDD8 and the formation of polyNEDD8 chains, or NEDDylation of Ubiquitin and SUMO-2 for the generation of hybrid NEDD8 chains. Here, we review recent findings that characterise the formation of NEDD8 polymers under distinct modes of protein NEDDylation (canonical/atypical) and their potential role as regulatory signals of the proteotoxic stress response and the Protein Quality Control system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Meszka
- CRBM, Univ. Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
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15
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The deubiquitinating enzyme STAMBP is a newly discovered driver of triple-negative breast cancer progression that maintains RAI14 protein stability. Exp Mol Med 2022; 54:2047-2059. [PMID: 36434041 PMCID: PMC9723177 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-022-00890-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a heterogeneous malignancy in women. It is associated with poor prognosis, aggressive malignant behavior, and limited treatment options. In the ubiquitin‒proteasome system (UPS), deubiquitinases (DUBs) are potential therapeutic targets for various tumors. In this study, by performing unbiased siRNA screening, we identified STAMBP, a JAMM metalloprotease in the DUB family, as a driver of human TNBC tumor growth. Functionally, the knockdown of STAMBP inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of multiple TNBC cell lines. Immunoprecipitation-mass spectrometry combined with functional and morphological analysis verified the interaction between STAMBP and the actin-binding protein RAI14. Mechanistically, STAMBP stabilized the RAI14 protein by suppressing the K48-linked ubiquitination of RAI14 and thus prevented its proteasomal degradation. Therefore, knocking down STAMBP resulted in the reduction in RAI14 protein levels and suppression of tumor growth in vitro and in vivo. Importantly, high levels of STAMBP were correlated with poor prognosis in TNBC patients. In summary, we reveal a previously unrecognized DUB pathway that promotes TNBC progression and provides a rationale for potential therapeutic interventions for the treatment of TNBC.
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16
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A Regulatory Network Analysis of the Importance of USP15 in Breast Cancer Metastasis and Prognosis. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2022; 2022:1427726. [PMID: 36213818 PMCID: PMC9536986 DOI: 10.1155/2022/1427726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background Ubiquitin-specific protease15(USP15), is the 16th identified protease in the USP family and is a key protein in tumorigenesis. However, the predictive value and regulatory mechanism of USP15 in breast cancer are unclear. Methods The GEPIA, UALCAN, GeneMANIA, and STRING databases were applied to explore the expression of USP15 in breast cancer and associated proteins. In addition, the TIMER database was evaluated for immune infiltration patterns. Moreover, protein immunoblotting assay, cell scratching assay, small compartment invasion assay, 3D stromal gel assay, immunoprecipitation assay, and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were used to USP15 regulatory mechanisms in breast cancer. Results In BRCA, several databases, including GEPIA and UALCAN, describe the upregulation of total protein levels and USP15 phosphorylation. In addition, the expression of USP15 was significantly correlated with gender and clinical stage. Overall survival (OS) was lower in patients with high USP15 expression. Functional network analysis showed that USP15 is involved in tumor-associated pathways, DNA replication, and cell cycle signaling through TGFβRI. In addition, USP15 expression was positively correlated with immune infiltration, including immune score, mesenchymal score, and several tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL). In addition, IHC results further confirmed the high expression of USP15 in breast cancer and its prognostic potential. Conclusions These findings demonstrate that high USP15 expression indicates poor prognosis in BRCA and reveal potential regulatory networks and the positive relationship with immune infiltration. Thus, USP15 may be an attractive predictor for BRCA.
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17
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Targeting the USP7/RRM2 axis drives senescence and sensitizes melanoma cells to HDAC/LSD1 inhibitors. Cell Rep 2022; 40:111396. [PMID: 36130505 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Deubiquitinating enzymes are key regulators of the ubiquitin-proteasome system and cell cycle, and their dysfunction leads to tumorigenesis. Our in vivo drop-out screens in patient-derived xenograft models identify USP7 as a regulator of melanoma. We show that USP7 downregulation induces cellular senescence, arresting melanoma growth in vivo and proliferation in vitro in BRAF- and NRAS-mutant melanoma. We provide a comprehensive understanding of targets and networks affected by USP7 depletion by performing a global transcriptomic and proteomics analysis. We show that RRM2 is a USP7 target and is regulated by USP7 during S phase of the cell cycle. Ectopic expression of RRM2 in USP7-depleted cells rescues the senescent phenotype. Pharmacological inhibition of USP7 by P5091 phenocopies the shUSP7-induced senescent phenotype. We show that the bifunctional histone deacetylase (HDAC)/LSD1 inhibitor domatinostat has an additive antitumor effect, eliminating P5091-induced senescent cells, paving the way to a therapeutic combination for individuals with melanoma.
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18
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Liu Q, Luo Q, Feng J, Zhao Y, Ma B, Cheng H, Zhao T, Lei H, Mu C, Chen L, Meng Y, Zhang J, Long Y, Su J, Chen G, Li Y, Hu G, Liao X, Chen Q, Zhu Y. Hypoxia-induced proteasomal degradation of DBC1 by SIAH2 in breast cancer progression. eLife 2022; 11:81247. [PMID: 35913115 PMCID: PMC9377797 DOI: 10.7554/elife.81247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
DBC1 has been characterized as a key regulator of physiological and pathophysiological activities, such as DNA damage, senescence, and tumorigenesis. However, the mechanism by which the functional stability of DBC1 is regulated has yet to be elucidated. Here, we report that the ubiquitination-mediated degradation of DBC1 is regulated by the E3 ubiquitin ligase SIAH2 and deubiquitinase OTUD5 under hypoxic stress. Mechanistically, hypoxia promoted DBC1 to interact with SIAH2 but not OTUD5, resulting in the ubiquitination and subsequent degradation of DBC1 through the ubiquitin–proteasome pathway. SIAH2 knockout inhibited tumor cell proliferation and migration, which could be rescued by double knockout of SIAH2/CCAR2. Human tissue microarray analysis further revealed that the SIAH2/DBC1 axis was responsible for tumor progression under hypoxic stress. These findings define a key role of the hypoxia-mediated SIAH2-DBC1 pathway in the progression of human breast cancer and provide novel insights into the metastatic mechanism of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiangqiang Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Qian Luo
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jianyu Feng
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yanping Zhao
- School of Statistics and Data Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Biao Ma
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | | | - Tian Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Hong Lei
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Chenglong Mu
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Linbo Chen
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yuanyuan Meng
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jiaojiao Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yijia Long
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jingyi Su
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Guo Chen
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yanjun Li
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Gang Hu
- School of Statistics and Data Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xudong Liao
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Quan Chen
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yushan Zhu
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
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19
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Li K, Wang Q, Bian H, Chen Z, He H, Zhao X, Gong P. Comprehensive Analysis Reveals USP45 as a Novel Putative Oncogene in Pan-Cancer. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:886904. [PMID: 35836933 PMCID: PMC9273912 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.886904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Deubiquitinating enzymes specifically removes ubiquitin molecules from ubiquitin-tagged target proteins, thereby inhibiting the degradation of target proteins and playing an important role in tumor. However, the mechanism of deubiquitinating enzyme USP45 in tumors remains unclear. Methods: Based on the RNA-seq data of tissues and cell lines in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, GTEx and CCLE database, the pan-cancer analysis of USP45 expression and survival outcome were performed using R software and Kaplan-Meier Plotter. The structural variants, gene mutations and gene copy number alteration of USP45 were analyzed using the TCGA Pan-Cancer Atlas Studies dataset in the cBioPortal database. The relationships between USP45 and mRNA methylation, tumor heterogeneity, tumor stemness, and tumor immunity were performed by Sangerbox platform and TIMER2.0 using Pearson correlation analysis. Through the ENCORI database and string database, we constructed the ceRNA regulatory mechanism and protein-protein interaction network for USP45. Based on the RNA-seq data in TCGA and GTEx databases, we also constructed the downstream regulatory network for USP45 using the Limma and ClusterProfiler packages of R software. At last, the protein expression levels of USP45 were detected by immunohistochemistry in tumor tissue microarrays. Results: USP45 is upregulated in most types of tumors and negatively correlated with the overall survival and recurrence-free survival of patient. Furthermore, the structural variation, gene mutations and gene copy number variation of USP45 were identified in different types of tumors. The pan-cancer analysis showed that USP45 was closely related to mRNA methylation, tumor heterogeneity and tumor stemness. In most types of tumors, the expression of USP45 was positively correlated with many immune checkpoint molecules and immune regulators such as PD-L1, while negatively correlated with the infiltration levels of NK cells, Th1 cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells in the tumor microenvironment. Finally, we constructed the ceRNA regulatory network, protein-protein interaction network and downstream regulatory network for USP45 in different types of tumors. Conclusion: Our study firstly explored the putative oncogenic role of USP45 in pan-cancer, and provided insights for further investigation of USP45.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Li
- Zhang Zhongjing College of Chinese Medicine, Nanyang Institute of Technology, Nanyang, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Zhang Zhongjing Formulae and Herbs for Immunoregulation, Nanyang Institute of Technology, Nanyang, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Zhang Zhongjing College of Chinese Medicine, Nanyang Institute of Technology, Nanyang, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Zhang Zhongjing Formulae and Herbs for Immunoregulation, Nanyang Institute of Technology, Nanyang, China
| | - Hua Bian
- Zhang Zhongjing College of Chinese Medicine, Nanyang Institute of Technology, Nanyang, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Zhang Zhongjing Formulae and Herbs for Immunoregulation, Nanyang Institute of Technology, Nanyang, China
| | - Zhiguo Chen
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Haifa He
- Department of Pathology, Central Hospital of Nanyang City, Nanyang, China
| | - Xulin Zhao
- Department of Oncology, The First People’s Hospital of Nanyang, Nanyang, China
| | - Pengju Gong
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UThealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, United States
- *Correspondence: Pengju Gong,
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20
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Structural basis for the SUMO protease activity of the atypical ubiquitin-specific protease USPL1. Nat Commun 2022; 13:1819. [PMID: 35383180 PMCID: PMC8983731 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-29485-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-translational protein modifications by ubiquitin and ubiquitin-like modifiers regulate many major pathways in the cell. These modifications can be reversed by de-ubiquitinating enzymes such as ubiquitin-specific proteases (USPs). Proteolytic activity towards ubiquitin-modified substrates is common to all USP family members except for USPL1, which shows a unique preference for the ubiquitin-like modifier SUMO. Here, we present the crystal structure of USPL1 bound to SUMO2, defining the key structural elements for the unusual deSUMOylase activity of USPL1. We identify specific contacts between SUMO2 and the USPL1 subdomains, including a unique hydrogen bond network of the SUMO2 C-terminal tail. In addition, we find that USPL1 lacks major structural elements present in all canonical USPs members such as the so-called blocking loops, which facilitates SUMO binding. Our data give insight into how a structural protein scaffold designed to bind ubiquitin has evolved to bind SUMO, providing an example of divergent evolution in the USP family. USPL1 is a non-canonical member of the ubiquitin-specific protease (USP) family with activity toward SUMO instead of ubiquitin. Here, the authors present a crystal structure of USPL1 bound to SUMO2, revealing how this enzyme has evolved to bind SUMO as an example of divergent evolution in the USP family.
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21
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High Ubiquitin-Specific Protease 2a Expression Level Predicts Poor Prognosis in Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma. Appl Immunohistochem Mol Morphol 2022; 30:304-310. [PMID: 35384881 DOI: 10.1097/pai.0000000000001014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ubiquitin-mediated protein degradation has been reported to be involved in regulating the activity of oncoproteins and tumor suppressors. Dysfunction or dysregulation of the ubiquitin-proteasome system may induce tumorigenesis. Deubiquitinase ubiquitin-specific protease 2a (USP2a) has been reported to regulate cell growth or death and is involved in the pathogenesis of various diseases, including cancers. However, the role of USP2a in upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) has not been investigated yet. The goal of this study was to evaluate the clinical significance of USP2a expression in UTUC. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 110 UTUC cases were included in this study. USP2a expression level was evaluated through immunohistochemistry staining, and the correlation of USP2a expression level with both clinical and pathologic variables was analyzed. RESULTS High USP2a expression level was observed in 48 (43.6%) cancer specimens. USP2a expression level was significantly correlated with tumor stage (P=0.001), grade (P=0.033), and tumor recurrence (P=0.008). High USP2a expression level was correlated with poor disease-free survival (P=0.005) and cancer-specific survival (P<0.001). In addition, high USP2a expression level was an independent predictor of poor disease-free survival (hazard ratio=2.31; P=0.007) and cancer-specific survival (hazard ratio=5.49; P=0.009). CONCLUSIONS This study indicated that USP2a protein expression level may be a potential biomarker for predicting UTUC patient survival. Further prospective studies are needed to investigate the role of USP2a in UTUC progression.
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22
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Chen R, Pang X, Li L, Zeng Z, Chen M, Zhang S. Ubiquitin-specific proteases in inflammatory bowel disease-related signalling pathway regulation. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:139. [PMID: 35145062 PMCID: PMC8831562 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04566-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The exact pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a chronic gastrointestinal inflammatory disease comprising Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, remains unclear. Studies on ubiquitination, which regulates the degradation of inflammation signalling pathway molecules, and deubiquitination have provided novel insights. Targeting the ubiquitin-specific protease (USP) family of deubiquitinases elucidates IBD signalling pathway mechanisms and possibly, IBD therapeutic solutions. Here, we characterised USPs as chief regulators of pro-inflammatory signalling pathways, including nuclear factor-κB and transforming growth factor-β; analysed the relationship between USPs and IBD pathogenesis in terms of genetic susceptibility, intestinal epithelial barrier, immunity, and gut microbiota; and discussed future research prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rirong Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaobai Pang
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhirong Zeng
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Minhu Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shenghong Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
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23
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Liu JP, Yang AP, Lei G, Yu M, Peng Y, Le AP. Prevalence and clinical characteristics of T2DM patients with OTUD3 gene rs78466831 SNP at a single academic center in China. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1059641. [PMID: 36531510 PMCID: PMC9755877 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1059641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A novel, rare OTUD3 c.863G>A (rs78466831) in humans has been reported associated with diabetes, but the prevalence and clinical characteristics of T2DM patients with rs78466831 have not been reported before. OBJECTIVE To investigate the prevalence and clinical characteristics of T2DM patients with rs78466831 and provide a basis for clinical diagnosis and treatment. METHODS OTUD3 gene rs78466831 SNP was detected by Sanger sequencing in all the collected specimens of laboratory-confirmed T2DM patients and healthy people. Clinical characteristics indexes inconsisting of fasting blood glucose (FBG), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG) and a body mass index (BMI), T2DM-associated chronic complications (myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular disease, retinopathy, arterial plaque, peripheral neuropathy and nephropathy) were obtained from the clinical laboratory information systems and electronic medical record system. Clinical characteristic indicators were compared between the wild-type and variant (rs78466831) patients with T2DM. RESULTS The prevalence of rs78466831 in the T2DM patients group was significantly higher than the healthy control in our academic center. The general characteristic indicators were not significantly different between the wild-type and rs78466831 patients with T2DM, except the family history of diabetes. Clinical laboratory indicators including HbA1c, FBG, OGTT, TC, HDL-C, LDL-C and CP had no significant difference between the two groups. The therapeutic drug and target achievement rates were not significantly different between the two groups. The incidence of diabetic retinopathy in the variant group was significantly higher than the wild-type group. CONCLUSIONS The OTUD3 gene rs78466831 was associated with T2DM and may be a biological risk factor of diabetes retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Ping Liu
- Department of Clinical laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Ai-Ping Yang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Songjiang Jiuting Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Gang Lei
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, People’s Hospital of Zhangshu, Zhangshu, Jiangxi, China
| | - Man Yu
- Department of Clinical laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Hubei Cancer Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yu Peng
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Ai-ping Le
- Department of Transfusion, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Blood Transfusion Medicine of Jiangxi Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
- *Correspondence: Ai-ping Le,
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24
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Soh SM, Kim YJ, Kim HH, Lee HR. Modulation of Ubiquitin Signaling in Innate Immune Response by Herpesviruses. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23010492. [PMID: 35008917 PMCID: PMC8745310 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS) is a protein degradation machinery that is crucial for cellular homeostasis in eukaryotes. Therefore, it is not surprising that the UPS coordinates almost all host cellular processes, including host-pathogen interactions. This protein degradation machinery acts predominantly by tagging substrate proteins designated for degradation with a ubiquitin molecule. These ubiquitin tags have been involved at various steps of the innate immune response. Hence, herpesviruses have evolved ways to antagonize the host defense mechanisms by targeting UPS components such as ubiquitin E3 ligases and deubiquitinases (DUBs) that establish a productive infection. This review delineates how herpesviruses usurp the critical roles of ubiquitin E3 ligases and DUBs in innate immune response to escape host-antiviral immune response, with particular focus on retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I)-like receptors (RLR), cyclic-GMP-AMP (cGAMP) synthase (cGAS), stimulator of interferon (IFN) genes (STING) pathways, and inflammasome signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandrine-M. Soh
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, College of Science and Technology, Korea University, Sejong 30019, Korea; (S.-M.S.); (Y.-J.K.); (H.-H.K.)
| | - Yeong-Jun Kim
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, College of Science and Technology, Korea University, Sejong 30019, Korea; (S.-M.S.); (Y.-J.K.); (H.-H.K.)
| | - Hong-Hee Kim
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, College of Science and Technology, Korea University, Sejong 30019, Korea; (S.-M.S.); (Y.-J.K.); (H.-H.K.)
| | - Hye-Ra Lee
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, College of Science and Technology, Korea University, Sejong 30019, Korea; (S.-M.S.); (Y.-J.K.); (H.-H.K.)
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul 136-701, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-44-860-1831
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25
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Zou M, Zeng QS, Nie J, Yang JH, Luo ZY, Gan HT. The Role of E3 Ubiquitin Ligases and Deubiquitinases in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Friend or Foe? Front Immunol 2021; 12:769167. [PMID: 34956195 PMCID: PMC8692584 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.769167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which include Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), exhibits a complex multifactorial pathogenesis involving genetic susceptibility, imbalance of gut microbiota, mucosal immune disorder and environmental factors. Recent studies reported associations between ubiquitination and deubiquitination and the occurrence and development of inflammatory bowel disease. Ubiquitination modification, one of the most important types of post-translational modifications, is a multi-step enzymatic process involved in the regulation of various physiological processes of cells, including cell cycle progression, cell differentiation, apoptosis, and innate and adaptive immune responses. Alterations in ubiquitination and deubiquitination can lead to various diseases, including IBD. Here, we review the role of E3 ubiquitin ligases and deubiquitinases (DUBs) and their mediated ubiquitination and deubiquitination modifications in the pathogenesis of IBD. We highlight the importance of this type of posttranslational modification in the development of inflammation, and provide guidance for the future development of targeted therapeutics in IBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Zou
- Department of Gastroenterology and the Center of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Lab of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Clinical Institute of Inflammation and Immunology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qi-Shan Zeng
- Department of Gastroenterology and the Center of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Lab of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Clinical Institute of Inflammation and Immunology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiao Nie
- Lab of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Clinical Institute of Inflammation and Immunology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Geriatrics and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jia-Hui Yang
- Lab of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Clinical Institute of Inflammation and Immunology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Geriatrics and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhen-Yi Luo
- Lab of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Clinical Institute of Inflammation and Immunology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Geriatrics and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hua-Tian Gan
- Department of Gastroenterology and the Center of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Lab of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Clinical Institute of Inflammation and Immunology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Geriatrics and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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26
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HAUSP Is a Key Epigenetic Regulator of the Chromatin Effector Proteins. Genes (Basel) 2021; 13:genes13010042. [PMID: 35052383 PMCID: PMC8774506 DOI: 10.3390/genes13010042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
HAUSP (herpes virus-associated ubiquitin-specific protease), also known as Ubiquitin Specific Protease 7, plays critical roles in cellular processes, such as chromatin biology and epigenetics, through the regulation of different signaling pathways. HAUSP is a main partner of the “Epigenetic Code Replication Machinery,” ECREM, a large protein complex that includes several epigenetic players, such as the ubiquitin-like containing plant homeodomain (PHD) and an interesting new gene (RING), finger domains 1 (UHRF1), as well as DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1), histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1), histone methyltransferase G9a, and histone acetyltransferase TIP60. Due to its deubiquitinase activity and its ability to team up through direct interactions with several epigenetic regulators, mainly UHRF1, DNMT1, TIP60, the histone lysine methyltransferase EZH2, and the lysine-specific histone demethylase LSD1, HAUSP positions itself at the top of the regulatory hierarchies involved in epigenetic silencing of tumor suppressor genes in cancer. This review highlights the increasing role of HAUSP as an epigenetic master regulator that governs a set of epigenetic players involved in both the maintenance of DNA methylation and histone post-translational modifications.
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Grattarola M, Cucci MA, Roetto A, Dianzani C, Barrera G, Pizzimenti S. Post-translational down-regulation of Nrf2 and YAP proteins, by targeting deubiquitinases, reduces growth and chemoresistance in pancreatic cancer cells. Free Radic Biol Med 2021; 174:202-210. [PMID: 34364982 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2021.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The intrinsic chemoresistance of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) represents the main obstacle in treating this aggressive malignancy. It has been observed that high antioxidant levels and upregulated Nrf2 and the YAP protein expression can be involved in PDAC chemoresistance. The mechanisms of Nrf2 and YAP increase need to be clarified. We chose a panel of PDAC cell lines with diverse sensitivity to cisplatin and gemcitabine. In PANC-1 chemoresistant cells, we found a low level of oxidative stress and high levels of Nrf2 and YAP protein expressions and their respective targets. On the contrary, in CFPAC-1 chemosensitive cells, we found high levels of oxidative stress and low level of these two proteins, as well as their respective targets. In MiaPaCa-2 cells with a middle chemoresistance, we observed intermediate features. When Nrf2 and YAP were inhibited in PANC-1 cells by Ailanthone, a plant extract, we observed a reduction of viability, thus sustaining the role of these two proteins in maintaining the PDAC chemoresistance. We then delved into the mechanisms of the Nrf2 and YAP protein upregulation in chemoresistance, discovering that it was at a post-translational level since the mRNA expressions did not match the protein levels. Treatments of PANC-1 cells with the proteasome inhibitor MG-132 and the protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide further confirmed this observation. The expression of DUB3 and OTUD1 deubiquitinases, involved in the control of Nrf2 and YAP protein level, respectively, was also investigated. Both protein expressions were higher in PANC-1 cells, intermediate in MiaPaCa-2 cells, and lower in CFPAC-1 cells. When DUB3 or OTUD1 were silenced, both Nrf2 and YAP expressions were downregulated. Importantly, in deubiquitinase-silenced cells, we observed a great reduction of proliferation and a higher sensitivity to gemcitabine treatment, suggesting that DUB3 and OTUD1 can represent a suitable target to overcome chemoresistance in PDAC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margherita Grattarola
- Department of Clinical and Biological Science, University of Turin, Corso Raffaello 30, 10125, Torino, Italy
| | - Marie Angèle Cucci
- Department of Clinical and Biological Science, University of Turin, Corso Raffaello 30, 10125, Torino, Italy
| | - Antonella Roetto
- Department of Clinical and Biological Science, University of Turin, Corso Raffaello 30, 10125, Torino, Italy
| | - Chiara Dianzani
- Department of Scienza e Tecnologia del Farmaco, University of Turin, Via Pietro Giuria 9, 10125, Turin, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Barrera
- Department of Clinical and Biological Science, University of Turin, Corso Raffaello 30, 10125, Torino, Italy
| | - Stefania Pizzimenti
- Department of Clinical and Biological Science, University of Turin, Corso Raffaello 30, 10125, Torino, Italy.
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Snyder NA, Silva GM. Deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs): Regulation, homeostasis, and oxidative stress response. J Biol Chem 2021; 297:101077. [PMID: 34391779 PMCID: PMC8424594 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.101077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Ubiquitin signaling is a conserved, widespread, and dynamic process in which protein substrates are rapidly modified by ubiquitin to impact protein activity, localization, or stability. To regulate this process, deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) counter the signal induced by ubiquitin conjugases and ligases by removing ubiquitin from these substrates. Many DUBs selectively regulate physiological pathways employing conserved mechanisms of ubiquitin bond cleavage. DUB activity is highly regulated in dynamic environments through protein-protein interaction, posttranslational modification, and relocalization. The largest family of DUBs, cysteine proteases, are also sensitive to regulation by oxidative stress, as reactive oxygen species (ROS) directly modify the catalytic cysteine required for their enzymatic activity. Current research has implicated DUB activity in human diseases, including various cancers and neurodegenerative disorders. Due to their selectivity and functional roles, DUBs have become important targets for therapeutic development to treat these conditions. This review will discuss the main classes of DUBs and their regulatory mechanisms with a particular focus on DUB redox regulation and its physiological impact during oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan A Snyder
- Department of Biology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Gustavo M Silva
- Department of Biology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA.
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Wang Y, Wang F. Post-Translational Modifications of Deubiquitinating Enzymes: Expanding the Ubiquitin Code. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:685011. [PMID: 34177595 PMCID: PMC8224227 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.685011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-translational modifications such as ubiquitination play important regulatory roles in several biological processes in eukaryotes. This process could be reversed by deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs), which remove conjugated ubiquitin molecules from target substrates. Owing to their role as essential enzymes in regulating all ubiquitin-related processes, the abundance, localization, and catalytic activity of DUBs are tightly regulated. Dysregulation of DUBs can cause dramatic physiological consequences and a variety of disorders such as cancer, and neurodegenerative and inflammatory diseases. Multiple factors, such as transcription and translation of associated genes, and the presence of accessory domains, binding proteins, and inhibitors have been implicated in several aspects of DUB regulation. Beyond this level of regulation, emerging studies show that the function of DUBs can be regulated by a variety of post-translational modifications, which significantly affect the abundance, localization, and catalytic activity of DUBs. The most extensively studied post-translational modification of DUBs is phosphorylation. Besides phosphorylation, ubiquitination, SUMOylation, acetylation, oxidation, and hydroxylation are also reported in DUBs. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the regulatory effects of post-translational modifications of DUBs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanfeng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
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Ubiquitin Specific Protease 29 Functions as an Oncogene Promoting Tumorigenesis in Colorectal Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13112706. [PMID: 34072621 PMCID: PMC8197902 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13112706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Among other cancers, colorectal carcinoma (CRC) is one of the foremost causes of death worldwide. The mortality rate of those having CRC has increased dramatically in the past few years. Identification of novel regulatory molecules contributing to the progression of CRC remains a focus of significant interest. The oncogenic role of USP29 has recently been explored in a few cancer types. However, evidence concerning the expression of USP29 in other cancers is currently lacking. We identified that USP29 is highly expressed in CRC and may contribute to the progression of CRC. Depletion of USP29 in HCT116 by CRISPR-Cas9 system reduced the growth of cancer cells. Furthermore, our data suggests that USP29 knockdown reduced the tumor volume of mouse xenograft models. Future investigations are required to validate the outcome of USP29-targted therapy in patients having CRC. Abstract Colorectal carcinoma is the third foremost cause of cancer-related deaths and accounts for 5.8% of all deaths globally. The molecular mechanisms of colon cancer progression and metastasis control are not well studied. Ubiquitin-specific protease 29 (USP29), a deubiquitinating enzyme, is involved in the occurrence and development of wide variety of cancers. However, its clinical significance and biological roles in colorectal carcinoma (CRC) remain unexplored. In this research, we observed that the rate of USP29 overexpression was higher in colon cancer patient tissues relative to its corresponding normal tissues. CRISPR-Cas9-mediated depletion of USP29 triggered DNA double strand breaks and delayed cell-cycle progression in HCT116 cells. We also demonstrated that USP29 depletion hampers the colony formation and increases apoptosis of HCT116 cells. USP29 knockdown significantly decreased CRC cell proliferation in vitro. Depletion of USP29 in HCT116 cells substantially reduced the tumor volume of mouse xenografts. In conclusion, our study shows that elevated expression of USP29 promotes malignancy in CRC, suggesting that USP29 could be a promising target for colon cancer therapy.
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