Interaction mapping of endoplasmic reticulum ubiquitin ligases identifies modulators of innate immune signalling

Structure-guided design of a truncated heterobivalent chemical probe degrader of IRE1α

IRE1α is an ER protein involved in the unfolded protein response (UPR) and dysregulation of the ER stress pathway has been implicated in several diseases. Inhibitors of the cytoplasmic endonuclease or kinase domains of the enzyme have limited utility and targeted degradation would address additional scaffolding functions of the protein. Here, we describe the design and development of IRE1α proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) based on a lysine-reactive salicylaldehyde RNase inhibitor, and present the structure-activity relationships (SARs) that delivered the first highly selective degraders of a native ER-membrane associated protein. Medicinal chemistry optimization exploited ternary complex computational modelling to inform design, HiBiT-SpyTag IRE1α degradation and NanoBRET cereblon occupancy cell-based assays to generate SARs, and mass spectrometry-based proteomics to assess broad selectivity in an unbiased manner. Merging IRE1α and CRBN ligand chemotypes provided the truncated chimera CPD-2828 with physicochemical properties more akin to an oral molecular glue degrader than a traditional PROTAC.

A tetracycline-inducible Split TurboID system for specific biotinylation and identification of nuclear proteins from HEK293T cells

Background/aim

To overcome the limitations of conventional organelle isolation methods including low purity, low yield, sample degradation, scalability and the need for multiple centrifugation steps, an improved nuclear protein enrichment approach was developed using the modified Split TurboID biotin ligase enzyme.

Materials and methods

A construct was created in which the N-terminal domain of TurboID, fused to the FK506-binding protein (FKBP) was targeted to the nucleus. This construct was incorporated into a tetracycline-inducible gene expression vector. Similarly, the C-terminal domain of TurboID was fused to the rapamycin-binding domain of mTOR (FRB) and directed to the nucleus. This construct was introduced into a constitutive expression vector. A HEK-293T-TetR+ cell line, stably expressing both fusion proteins, was created. Activation of the N-terminal domain was achieved by tetracycline induction while an active Split-TurboID was formed within the nucleus only after the introduction of rapamycin into the culture medium which facilitated the formation of the FKBP-Rapamycin-FRB complex.

Results

The cells expressed N- and C-termini of Split-TurboID and produced an active biotin ligase enzyme in the nucleus, as demonstrated by Western blot and immunofluorescence microscopy analyses. The active enzyme biotinylated both residential nuclear proteins and the proteins that transiently interact with the nucleus. Enrichment and identification of the biotinylated proteins showed that 1518 proteins were identified, of which 78.4% were localized to or colocalized with the nucleus. Comparison with unenriched samples confirmed higher confidence in identification of resident nuclear proteins. Cross-referencing with the Human Protein Atlas highlighted the limitations of current databases, 820 proteins match known nuclear proteins and 698 have not been previously annotated.

Conclusion

Split-TurboID-based approach effectively minimized background noise arising from nonspecific labeling or imperfect localization and provided an appreciable level of specificity resulting identification of both residential and transiently interacting nuclear proteins.

Unravelling turbot (Scophthalmus maximus) resistance to Aeromonas salmonicida: transcriptomic insights from two full-sibling families with divergent susceptibility

Introduction

Furunculosis, caused by the gram-negative bacterium Aeromonas salmonicida subsp. salmonicida, remains a significant threat to turbot (Scophthalmus maximus) aquaculture. Identifying genetic backgrounds with enhanced disease resistance is critical for improving aquaculture health management, reducing antibiotic dependency, and mitigating economic losses.

Methods

In this study, five full-sibling turbot families were challenged with A. salmonicida, which revealed one family with significantly greater resistance. Transcriptomic analyses (RNA-Seq) were performed on resistant and susceptible families, examining both naïve and 24-h postinfection (hpi) samples from head kidney and liver tissues.

Results

In the absence of infection, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified predominantly in the liver. Following infection, a marked increase in DEGs was observed in the head kidney, with many genes linked to immune functions. Interestingly, the resistant family displayed a more controlled inflammatory response and upregulation of genes related to antigen presentation and T-cell activity in the head kidney at early infection stages, which may have contributed to its increased survival rate. In the liver, transcriptomic differences between the families were associated mainly with cytoskeletal organization, cell cycle regulation, and metabolic processes, including insulin signalling and lipid metabolism, regardless of infection status. Additionally, many DEGs overlapped with previously identified quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with resistance to A. salmonicida, providing further insights into the genetic basis of disease resistance.

Discussion

This study represents the first RNA-Seq analysis comparing resistant and susceptible turbot families and contributes valuable knowledge for the development of selective breeding programs targeting disease resistance in turbot and other aquaculture species susceptible to A. salmonicida.

PTPRZ1 dephosphorylates and stabilizes RNF26 to reduce the efficacy of TKIs and PD-1 blockade in ccRCC

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), the most common subtype of renal cell carcinoma, often exhibits resistance to tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) when used as monotherapy. However, the integration of PD-1 blockade with TKIs has significantly improved patient survival, making it a leading therapeutic strategy for ccRCC. Despite these advancements, the efficacy of this combined therapy remains suboptimal, necessitating a deeper understanding of the underlying regulatory mechanisms. Through comprehensive analyses, including mass spectrometry, RNA sequencing, lipidomic profiling, immunohistochemical staining, and ex vivo experiments, we explored the interaction between PTPRZ1 and RNF26 and its impact on ccRCC cell behavior. Our results revealed a unique interaction where PTPRZ1 stabilized RNF26 protein expression by dephosphorylating it at the Y432 site. The modulation of RNF26 levels by PTPRZ1 was found to be mediated through the proteasome pathway. Additionally, PTPRZ1, via its interaction with RNF26, activated the TNF/NF-κB signaling pathway, thereby promoting cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and lipid metabolism in ccRCC cells. Importantly, inhibiting PTPRZ1 enhanced the sensitivity of ccRCC to TKIs and PD-1 blockade, an effect that was attenuated when RNF26 was simultaneously knocked down. These findings highlight the critical role of the PTPRZ1-RNF26 axis in ccRCC and suggest that combining PTPRZ1 inhibitors with current TKIs and PD-1 blockade therapies could significantly improve treatment outcomes for ccRCC patients.

Degradation of PARP1 by MARCHF3 in tumor cells triggers cCAS-STING activation in dendritic cells to regulate antitumor immunity in hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) significantly limits the efficacy of immunotherapy in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the mechanisms underlying immunotherapy resistance remain poorly understood. Our aim was to clarify the role of membrane-associated ring-CH-type finger 3 (MARCHF3) in HCC within the framework of anti-programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) therapy.

METHODS

MARCHF3 was identified in the transcriptomic profiles of HCC tumors exhibiting different responses to ICIs. In humans, the correlation between MARCHF3 expression and the tumor microenvironment (TME) was assessed via multiplex immunohistochemistry. In addition, MARCHF3 expression in tumor cells and immune cell infiltration were assessed by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

MARCHF3 was significantly upregulated in tumors from patients who responded to ICIs. Increased MARCHF3 expression in HCC cells promoted dendritic cell (DC) maturation and stimulated CD8+ T-cell activation, thereby augmenting tumor control. Mechanistically, we identified MARCHF3 as a pivotal regulator of the DNA damage response. It directly interacted with Poly(ADP-Ribose) Polymerase 1 (PARP1) via K48-linked ubiquitination, leading to PARP1 degradation. This process promoted the release of double-strand DNA and activated cCAS-STING in DCs, thereby initiating DC-mediated antigen cross-presentation and CD8+ T-cell activation. Additionally, ATF4 transcriptionally regulated MARCHF3 expression. Notably, the PARP1 inhibitor olaparib augmented the efficacy of anti-PD-1 immunotherapy in both subcutaneous and orthotopic HCC mouse models.

CONCLUSIONS

MARCHF3 has emerged as a pivotal regulator of the immune landscape in the HCC TME and is a potent predictive biomarker for HCC. Combining interventions targeting the DNA damage response with ICIs is a promising treatment strategy for HCC.

TNFα prevents FGF4-mediated rescue of astrocyte dysfunction and reactivity in human ALS models

Astrocytes play a crucial role in the onset and progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a fatal disorder marked by the degeneration of motor neurons (MNs) in the central nervous system. Although astrocytes in ALS are known to be toxic to MNs, the pathological changes leading to their neurotoxic phenotype remain poorly understood. In this study, we generated human astrocytes from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) carrying the ALS-associated A4V mutation in superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) to examine early cellular pathways and network changes. Proteomic analysis revealed that ALS astrocytes are both dysfunctional and reactive compared to control astrocytes. We identified significant alterations in the levels of proteins linked to ALS pathology and the innate immune cGAS-STING pathway. Furthermore, we found that ALS astrocyte reactivity differs from that of control astrocytes treated with tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), a key cytokine in inflammatory reactions. We then evaluated the potential of fibroblast growth factor (FGF) 2, 4, 16, and 18 to reverse ALS astrocyte phenotype. Among these, FGF4 successfully reversed ALS astrocyte dysfunction and reactivity in vitro. When delivered to the spinal cord of the SOD1G93A mouse model of ALS, FGF4 lowered astrocyte reactivity. However, this was not sufficient to protect MNs from cell death. Further analysis indicated that TNFα abrogated the reactivity reduction achieved by FGF4, suggesting that complete rescue of the ALS phenotype by FGF4 is hindered by ongoing complex neuroinflammatory processes in vivo. In summary, our data demonstrate that astrocytes generated from ALS iPSCs are inherently dysfunctional and exhibit an immune reactive phenotype. Effectively targeting astrocyte dysfunction and reactivity in vivo may help mitigate ALS and prevent MN death.

Exploring the role of endoplasmic reticulum stress in recurrent spontaneous abortion: Identification of diagnostic biomarkers and immune cell interactions

Dysregulated endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) is associated with recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) and is involved in the mechanisms that govern immune balance and vascular regulation at the maternal-fetal interface. The molecular intricacies of these mechanisms remain elusive. This study employed microarray and bioinformatics techniques to examine genetic abnormalities in endometrial tissues from RSA patients, with the objective of identifying potential ERS-related biomarkers. By integrating two publicly available microarray datasets, consisting of 88 RSA and 42 control samples, we conducted an extensive analysis, including differential expression, functional annotation, molecular interactions, and immune cell infiltration. Analysis of immune cell characteristics suggests an inflammatory immune imbalance as a potential contributor to RSA progression. Both innate and adaptive immunity were found to play roles in RSA development, with M1 macrophages constituting a significant proportion of immune infiltration. We identified five key ERS-associated genes (TMEM33, QRICH1, MBTPS2, ERN1, and BAK1) linked to immune-related mechanisms, with RT-qPCR results aligning with bioinformatics findings. Our research findings offer a fresh and comprehensive perspective on the ERS-related genes' pathways and interaction networks, offering significant insights for the advancement of innovative therapy techniques for RSA.

Tapasin assembly surveillance by the RNF185/Membralin ubiquitin ligase complex regulates MHC-I surface expression

Immune surveillance by cytotoxic T cells eliminates tumor cells and cells infected by intracellular pathogens. This process relies on the presentation of antigenic peptides by Major Histocompatibility Complex class I (MHC-I) at the cell surface. The loading of these peptides onto MHC-I depends on the peptide loading complex (PLC) at the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Here, we uncovered that MHC-I antigen presentation is regulated by ER-associated degradation (ERAD), a protein quality control process essential to clear misfolded and unassembled proteins. An unbiased proteomics screen identified the PLC component Tapasin, essential for peptide loading onto MHC-I, as a substrate of the RNF185/Membralin ERAD complex. Loss of RNF185/Membralin resulted in elevated Tapasin steady state levels and increased MHC-I at the surface of professional antigen presenting cells. We further show that RNF185/Membralin ERAD complex recognizes unassembled Tapasin and limits its incorporation into PLC. These findings establish a novel mechanism controlling antigen presentation and suggest RNF185/Membralin as a potential therapeutic target to modulate immune surveillance.

ERLIN1/2 scaffolds bridge TMUB1 and RNF170 and restrict cholesterol esterification to regulate the secretory pathway

Complexes of ERLIN1 and ERLIN2 (ER lipid raft-associated 1 and 2) form large ring-like cup-shaped structures on the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane and serve as platforms to bind cholesterol and E3 ubiquitin ligases, potentially defining functional nanodomains. Here, we show that ERLIN scaffolds mediate the interaction between the full-length isoform of TMUB1 (transmembrane and ubiquitin-like domain-containing 1) and RNF170 (RING finger protein 170). We identify a luminal N-terminal conserved region in TMUB1 and RNF170, which is required for this interaction. Three-dimensional modelling shows that this conserved motif binds the stomatin/prohibitin/flotillin/HflKC domain of two adjacent ERLIN subunits at different interfaces. Protein variants that preclude these interactions have been previously linked to hereditary spastic paraplegia. Using omics-based approaches in combination with phenotypic characterization of HeLa cells lacking both ERLINs, we demonstrate a role of ERLIN scaffolds in limiting cholesterol esterification, thereby favouring cholesterol transport from the ER to the Golgi apparatus and regulating Golgi morphology and the secretory pathway.

Newsights of endoplasmic reticulum in hypoxia

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is important to cells because of its essential functions, including synthesizing three major nutrients and ion transport. When cellular homeostasis is disrupted, ER quality control (ERQC) system is activated effectively to remove misfolded and unfolded proteins through ER-phagy, ER-related degradation (ERAD), and molecular chaperones. When unfolded protein response (UPR) and ER stress are activated, the cell may be suffering a huge blow, and the most probable consequence is apoptosis. The membrane contact points between the ER and sub-organelles contribute to communication between the organelles. The decrease in oxygen concentration affects the morphology and structure of the ER, thereby affecting its function and further disrupting the stable state of cells, leading to the occurrence of disease. In this study, we describe the functions of ER-, ERQC-, and ER-related membrane contact points and their changes under hypoxia, which will help us further understand ER and treat ER-related diseases.

NSP6 inhibits the production of ACE2-containing exosomes to promote SARS-CoV-2 infectivity

The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has triggered a global pandemic, which severely endangers public health. Our and others' works have shown that the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2)-containing exosomes (ACE2-exos) have superior antiviral efficacies, especially in response to emerging variants. However, the mechanisms of how the virus counteracts the host and regulates ACE2-exos remain unclear. Here, we identified that SARS-CoV-2 nonstructural protein 6 (NSP6) inhibits the production of ACE2-exos by affecting the protein level of ACE2 as well as tetraspanin-CD63 which is a key factor for exosome biogenesis. We further found that the protein stability of CD63 and ACE2 is maintained by the deubiquitination of proteasome 26S subunit, non-ATPase 12 (PSMD12). NSP6 interacts with PSMD12 and counteracts its function, consequently promoting the degradation of CD63 and ACE2. As a result, NSP6 diminishes the antiviral efficacy of ACE2-exos and facilitates the virus to infect healthy bystander cells. Overall, our study provides a valuable target for the discovery of promising drugs for the treatment of coronavirus disease 2019.

IMPORTANCE

The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) severely endangers global public health. The efficacy of vaccines and antibodies declined with the rapid emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) mutants. Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2-containing exosomes (ACE2-exos) therapy exhibits a broad neutralizing activity, which could be used against various viral mutations. Our study here revealed that SARS-CoV-2 nonstructural protein 6 inhibited the production of ACE2-exos, thereby promoting viral infection to the adjacent bystander cells. The identification of a new target for blocking SARS-CoV-2 depends on fully understanding the virus-host interaction networks. Our study sheds light on the mechanism by which the virus resists the host exosome defenses, which would facilitate the study and design of ACE2-exos-based therapeutics for COVID-19.

Integrative Multi-Omics Analysis Identifies Transmembrane p24 Trafficking Protein 1 (TMED1) as a Potential Prognostic Marker in Colorectal Cancer

Several TMED protein family members are overexpressed in malignant tumors and associated with tumor progression. TMED1 belongs to the TMED protein family and is involved in protein vesicular trafficking. However, the expression level and biological role of TMED1 in colorectal cancer (CRC) have yet to be fully elucidated. In this study, the integration of patient survival and multi-omics data (immunohistochemical staining, transcriptomics, and proteomics) revealed that the highly expressed TMED1 was related to the poor prognosis in CRC. Crystal violet staining indicated the cell growth was reduced after knocking down TMED1. Moreover, the flow cytometry results showed that TMED1 knockdown could increase cell apoptosis. The expression of TMED1 was positively correlated with other TMED family members (TMED2, TMED4, TMED9, and TMED10) in CRC, and the protein-protein interaction network suggested its potential impact on immune regulation. Furthermore, TMED1 expression was positively associated with the infiltration levels of regulatory T cells (Tregs), cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and endothelial cells and negatively correlated with the infiltration levels of CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, and B cells. At last, the CTRP and GDSC datasets on the GSCA platform were used to analyze the relationship between TMED1 expression and drug sensitivity (IC50). The result found that the elevation of TMED1 was positively correlated with IC50 and implied it could increase the drug resistance of cancer cells. This research revealed that TMED1 is a novel prognostic biomarker in CRC and provided a valuable strategy for analyzing potential therapeutic targets of malignant tumors.

Proteomic screens of SEL1L-HRD1 ER-associated degradation substrates reveal its role in glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored protein biogenesis

Endoplasmic reticulum-associated degradation (ERAD) plays indispensable roles in many physiological processes; however, the nature of endogenous substrates remains largely elusive. Here we report a proteomics strategy based on the intrinsic property of the SEL1L-HRD1 ERAD complex to identify endogenous ERAD substrates both in vitro and in vivo. Following stringent filtering using a machine learning algorithm, over 100 high-confidence potential substrates are identified in human HEK293T and mouse brown adipose tissue, among which ~88% are cell type-specific. One of the top shared hits is the catalytic subunit of the glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-transamidase complex, PIGK. Indeed, SEL1L-HRD1 ERAD attenuates the biogenesis of GPI-anchored proteins by specifically targeting PIGK for proteasomal degradation. Lastly, several PIGK disease variants in inherited GPI deficiency disorders are also SEL1L-HRD1 ERAD substrates. This study provides a platform and resources for future effort to identify proteome-wide endogenous substrates in vivo, and implicates SEL1L-HRD1 ERAD in many cellular processes including the biogenesis of GPI-anchored proteins.

Doa10/MARCH6 architecture interconnects E3 ligase activity with lipid-binding transmembrane channel to regulate SQLE

Transmembrane E3 ligases play crucial roles in homeostasis. Much protein and organelle quality control, and metabolic regulation, are determined by ER-resident MARCH6 E3 ligases, including Doa10 in yeast. Here, we present Doa10/MARCH6 structural analysis by cryo-EM and AlphaFold predictions, and a structure-based mutagenesis campaign. The majority of Doa10/MARCH6 adopts a unique circular structure within the membrane. This channel is established by a lipid-binding scaffold, and gated by a flexible helical bundle. The ubiquitylation active site is positioned over the channel by connections between the cytosolic E3 ligase RING domain and the membrane-spanning scaffold and gate. Here, by assaying 95 MARCH6 variants for effects on stability of the well-characterized substrate SQLE, which regulates cholesterol levels, we reveal crucial roles of the gated channel and RING domain consistent with AlphaFold-models of substrate-engaged and ubiquitylation complexes. SQLE degradation further depends on connections between the channel and RING domain, and lipid binding sites, revealing how interconnected Doa10/MARCH6 elements could orchestrate metabolic signals, substrate binding, and E3 ligase activity.

Mechanisms of substrate processing during ER-associated protein degradation

Maintaining proteome integrity is essential for long-term viability of all organisms and is overseen by intrinsic quality control mechanisms. The secretory pathway of eukaryotes poses a challenge for such quality assurance as proteins destined for secretion enter the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and become spatially segregated from the cytosolic machinery responsible for disposal of aberrant (misfolded or otherwise damaged) or superfluous polypeptides. The elegant solution provided by evolution is ER-membrane-bound ubiquitylation machinery that recognizes misfolded or surplus proteins or by-products of protein biosynthesis in the ER and delivers them to 26S proteasomes for degradation. ER-associated protein degradation (ERAD) collectively describes this specialized arm of protein quality control via the ubiquitin-proteasome system. But, instead of providing a single strategy to remove defective or unwanted proteins, ERAD represents a collection of independent processes that exhibit distinct yet overlapping selectivity for a wide range of substrates. Not surprisingly, ER-membrane-embedded ubiquitin ligases (ER-E3s) act as central hubs for each of these separate ERAD disposal routes. In these processes, ER-E3s cooperate with a plethora of specialized factors, coordinating recognition, transport and ubiquitylation of undesirable secretory, membrane and cytoplasmic proteins. In this Review, we focus on substrate processing during ERAD, highlighting common threads as well as differences between the many routes via ERAD.

RNF26 binds perinuclear vimentin filaments to integrate ER and endolysosomal responses to proteotoxic stress

Proteotoxic stress causes profound endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane remodeling into a perinuclear quality control compartment (ERQC) for the degradation of misfolded proteins. Subsequent return to homeostasis involves clearance of the ERQC by endolysosomes. However, the factors that control perinuclear ER integrity and dynamics remain unclear. Here, we identify vimentin intermediate filaments as perinuclear anchors for the ER and endolysosomes. We show that perinuclear vimentin filaments engage the ER-embedded RING finger protein 26 (RNF26) at the C-terminus of its RING domain. This restricts RNF26 to perinuclear ER subdomains and enables the corresponding spatial retention of endolysosomes through RNF26-mediated membrane contact sites (MCS). We find that both RNF26 and vimentin are required for the perinuclear coalescence of the ERQC and its juxtaposition with proteolytic compartments, which facilitates efficient recovery from ER stress via the Sec62-mediated ER-phagy pathway. Collectively, our findings reveal a scaffolding mechanism that underpins the spatiotemporal integration of organelles during cellular proteostasis.

The Endoplasmic Reticulum and the Fidelity of Nascent Protein Localization

High-fidelity protein localization is essential to define the identities and functions of different organelles and to maintain cellular homeostasis. Accurate localization of nascent proteins requires specific protein targeting pathways as well as quality control (QC) mechanisms to remove mislocalized proteins. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is the first destination for approximately one-third of the eukaryotic proteome and a major site of protein biosynthesis and QC. In mammalian cells, trafficking from the ER provides nascent proteins access to the extracellular space and essentially every cellular membrane and organelle except for mitochondria and possibly peroxisomes. Here, we discuss the biosynthetic mechanisms that deliver nascent proteins to the ER and the QC mechanisms that interface with the ER to correct or degrade mislocalized proteins.

The role of Evi/Wntless in exporting Wnt proteins

Intercellular communication by Wnt proteins governs many essential processes during development, tissue homeostasis and disease in all metazoans. Many context-dependent effects are initiated in the Wnt-producing cells and depend on the export of lipidated Wnt proteins. Although much focus has been on understanding intracellular Wnt signal transduction, the cellular machinery responsible for Wnt secretion became better understood only recently. After lipid modification by the acyl-transferase Porcupine, Wnt proteins bind their dedicated cargo protein Evi/Wntless for transport and secretion. Evi/Wntless and Porcupine are conserved transmembrane proteins, and their 3D structures were recently determined. In this Review, we summarise studies and structural data highlighting how Wnts are transported from the ER to the plasma membrane, and the role of SNX3-retromer during the recycling of its cargo receptor Evi/Wntless. We also describe the regulation of Wnt export through a post-translational mechanism and review the importance of Wnt secretion for organ development and cancer, and as a future biomarker.

Ubiquitin and its relatives as wizards of the endolysosomal system

The endolysosomal system comprises a dynamic constellation of vesicles working together to sense and interpret environmental cues and facilitate homeostasis. Integrating extracellular information with the internal affairs of the cell requires endosomes and lysosomes to be proficient in decision-making: fusion or fission; recycling or degradation; fast transport or contacts with other organelles. To effectively discriminate between these options, the endolysosomal system employs complex regulatory strategies that crucially rely on reversible post-translational modifications (PTMs) with ubiquitin (Ub) and ubiquitin-like (Ubl) proteins. The cycle of conjugation, recognition and removal of different Ub- and Ubl-modified states informs cellular protein stability and behavior at spatial and temporal resolution and is thus well suited to finetune macromolecular complex assembly and function on endolysosomal membranes. Here, we discuss how ubiquitylation (also known as ubiquitination) and its biochemical relatives orchestrate endocytic traffic and designate cargo fate, influence membrane identity transitions and support formation of membrane contact sites (MCSs). Finally, we explore the opportunistic hijacking of Ub and Ubl modification cascades by intracellular bacteria that remodel host trafficking pathways to invade and prosper inside cells.

An ERAD-independent role for rhomboid pseudoprotease Dfm1 in mediating sphingolipid homeostasis

Nearly one-third of nascent proteins are initially targeted to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), where they are correctly folded and assembled before being delivered to their final cellular destinations. To prevent the accumulation of misfolded membrane proteins, ER-associated degradation (ERAD) removes these client proteins from the ER membrane to the cytosol in a process known as retrotranslocation. Our previous work demonstrated that rhomboid pseudoprotease Dfm1 is involved in the retrotranslocation of ubiquitinated membrane integral ERAD substrates. Herein, we found that Dfm1 associates with the SPOTS complex, which is composed of serine palmitoyltransferase (SPT) enzymes and accessory components that are critical for catalyzing the first rate-limiting step of the sphingolipid biosynthesis pathway. Furthermore, Dfm1 employs an ERAD-independent role for facilitating the ER export and endosome- and Golgi-associated degradation (EGAD) of Orm2, which is a major antagonist of SPT activity. Given that the accumulation of human Orm2 homologs, ORMDLs, is associated with various pathologies, our study serves as a molecular foothold for understanding how dysregulation of sphingolipid metabolism leads to various diseases.

Scalable Inhibitors of the Nsp3-Nsp4 Coupling in SARS-CoV-2

The human Betacoronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is a novel pathogen claiming millions of lives and causing a global pandemic that has disrupted international healthcare systems, economies, and communities. The virus is fast mutating and presenting more infectious but less lethal versions. Currently, some small-molecule therapeutics have received FDA emergency use authorization for the treatment of COVID-19, including Lagevrio (molnupiravir) and Paxlovid (nirmaltrevir/ritonavir), which target the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase and the 3CLpro main protease, respectively. Proteins downstream in the viral replication process, specifically the nonstructural proteins (Nsps1-16), are potential drug targets due to their crucial functions. Of these Nsps, Nsp4 is a particularly promising drug target due to its involvement in the SARS-CoV viral replication and double-membrane vesicle formation (mediated via interaction with Nsp3). Given the degree of sequence conservation of these two Nsps across the Betacoronavirus clade, their protein-protein interactions and functions are likely to be conserved as well in SARS-CoV-2. Through AlphaFold2 and its recent advancements, protein structures were generated of Nsp3 and 4 lumenal loops of interest. Then, using a combination of molecular docking suites and an existing library of lead-like compounds, we virtually screened 7 million ligands to identify five putative ligand inhibitors of Nsp4, which could present an alternative pharmaceutical approach against SARS-CoV-2. These ligands exhibit promising lead-like properties (ideal molecular weight and log P profiles), maintain fixed-Nsp4-ligand complexes in molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, and tightly associate with Nsp4 via hydrophobic interactions. Additionally, alternative peptide inhibitors based on Nsp3 were designed and shown in MD simulations to provide a highly stable binding to the Nsp4 protein. Finally, these therapeutics were attached to dendrimer structures to promote their multivalent binding with Nsp4, especially its large flexible luminal loop (Nsp4LLL). The therapeutics tested in this study represent many different approaches for targeting large flexible protein structures, especially those localized to the ER. This study is the first work targeting the membrane rearrangement system of viruses and will serve as a potential avenue for treating viruses with similar replicative function.

An integrated strategy to identify COVID-19 causal genes and characteristics represented by LRRC37A2

Genome-wide association study (GWAS) could identify host genetic factors associated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The genes or functional DNA elements through which genetic factors affect COVID-19 remain uncharted. The expression quantitative trait locus (eQTL) provides a path to assess the correlation between genetic variations and gene expression. Here, we firstly annotated GWAS data to describe genetic effects, obtaining genome-wide mapped genes. Subsequently, the genetic mechanisms and characteristics of COVID-19 were investigated by an integrated strategy that included three GWAS-eQTL analysis approaches. It was found that 20 genes were significantly associated with immunity and neurological disorders, including prior and novel genes such as OAS3 and LRRC37A2. The findings were then replicated in single-cell datasets to explore the cell-specific expression of causal genes. Furthermore, associations between COVID-19 and neurological disorders were assessed as a causal relationship. Finally, the effects of causal protein-coding genes of COVID-19 were discussed using cell experiments. The results revealed some novel COVID-19-related genes to emphasize disease characteristics, offering a broader insight into the genetic architecture underlying the pathophysiology of COVID-19.

Enhancer RNA-based modeling of adverse events and objective responses of cancer immunotherapy reveals associated key enhancers and target genes

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) targeting PD-1/PD-L1 or CTLA-4 are emerging and effective immunotherapy strategies. However, ICI-treated patients present heterogeneous responses and adverse events, thus demanding effective ways to assess benefit over risk before treatment. Here, by integrating pan-cancer clinical and molecular data, we tried to predict immune-related adverse events (irAEs, risk) and objective response rates (ORRs, benefit) based on enhancer RNAs (eRNAs) expression among patients receiving anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapies. We built two tri-variate (eRNAs) regression models, one (with ENSR00000326714, ENSR00000148786, and ENSR00000005553) explaining 71% variance (R=0.84) of irAEs and the other (with ENSR00000164478, ENSR00000035913, and ENSR00000167231) explaining 79% (R=0.89) of ORRs. Interestingly, target genes of irAE-related enhancers, including upstream regulators of MYC, were involved in metabolism, inflammation, and immune activation, while ORR-related enhancers target PAK2 and DLG1 which participate in T cell activation. More importantly, we found that ENSR00000148786 probably enhanced TMEM43/LUMA expression mainly in B cells to induce irAEs in ICI-treated patients. Our study provides references for the identification of immunotherapy-related biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets during immunotherapy.

Multifaceted functions of STING in human health and disease: from molecular mechanism to targeted strategy

Since the discovery of Stimulator of Interferon Genes (STING) as an important pivot for cytosolic DNA sensation and interferon (IFN) induction, intensive efforts have been endeavored to clarify the molecular mechanism of its activation, its physiological function as a ubiquitously expressed protein, and to explore its potential as a therapeutic target in a wide range of immune-related diseases. With its orthodox ligand 2'3'-cyclic GMP-AMP (2'3'-cGAMP) and the upstream sensor 2'3'-cGAMP synthase (cGAS) to be found, STING acquires its central functionality in the best-studied signaling cascade, namely the cGAS-STING-IFN pathway. However, recently updated research through structural research, genetic screening, and biochemical assay greatly extends the current knowledge of STING biology. A second ligand pocket was recently discovered in the transmembrane domain for a synthetic agonist. On its downstream outputs, accumulating studies sketch primordial and multifaceted roles of STING beyond its cytokine-inducing function, such as autophagy, cell death, metabolic modulation, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and RNA virus restriction. Furthermore, with the expansion of the STING interactome, the details of STING trafficking also get clearer. After retrospecting the brief history of viral interference and the milestone events since the discovery of STING, we present a vivid panorama of STING biology taking into account the details of the biochemical assay and structural information, especially its versatile outputs and functions beyond IFN induction. We also summarize the roles of STING in the pathogenesis of various diseases and highlight the development of small-molecular compounds targeting STING for disease treatment in combination with the latest research. Finally, we discuss the open questions imperative to answer.

The human signal peptidase complex acts as a quality control enzyme for membrane proteins

Cells need to detect and degrade faulty membrane proteins to maintain homeostasis. In this study, we identify a previously unknown function of the human signal peptidase complex (SPC)—the enzyme that removes endoplasmic reticulum (ER) signal peptides—as a membrane protein quality control factor. We show that the SPC cleaves membrane proteins that fail to correctly fold or assemble into their native complexes at otherwise hidden cleavage sites, which our study reveals to be abundant in the human membrane proteome. This posttranslocational cleavage synergizes with ER-associated degradation to sustain membrane protein homeostasis and contributes to cellular fitness. Cryptic SPC cleavage sites thus serve as predetermined breaking points that, when exposed, help to target misfolded or surplus proteins for degradation, thereby maintaining a healthy membrane proteome.

Membrane compartmentalisation of the ubiquitin system

We now have a comprehensive inventory of ubiquitin system components. Understanding of any system also needs an appreciation of how components are organised together. Quantitative proteomics has provided us with a census of their relative populations in several model cell types. Here, by examining large scale unbiased data sets, we seek to identify and map those components, which principally reside on the major organelles of the endomembrane system. We present the consensus distribution of > 50 ubiquitin modifying enzymes, E2s, E3s and DUBs, that possess transmembrane domains. This analysis reveals that the ER and endosomal compartments have a diverse cast of resident E3s, whilst the Golgi and mitochondria operate with a more restricted palette. We describe key functions of ubiquitylation that are specific to each compartment and relate this to their signature complement of ubiquitin modifying components.

Dynamic quality control machinery that operates across compartmental borders mediates the degradation of mammalian nuclear membrane proteins

Many human diseases are caused by mutations in nuclear envelope (NE) proteins. How protein homeostasis and disease etiology are interconnected at the NE is poorly understood. Specifically, the identity of local ubiquitin ligases that facilitate ubiquitin-proteasome-dependent NE protein turnover is presently unknown. Here, we employ a short-lived, Lamin B receptor disease variant as a model substrate in a genetic screen to uncover key elements of NE protein turnover. We identify the ubiquitin-conjugating enzymes (E2s) Ube2G2 and Ube2D3, the membrane-resident ubiquitin ligases (E3s) RNF5 and HRD1, and the poorly understood protein TMEM33. RNF5, but not HRD1, requires TMEM33 both for efficient biosynthesis and function. Once synthesized, RNF5 responds dynamically to increased substrate levels at the NE by departing from the endoplasmic reticulum, where HRD1 remains confined. Thus, mammalian protein quality control machinery partitions between distinct cellular compartments to address locally changing substrate loads, establishing a robust cellular quality control system.

A small-molecule inhibitor and degrader of the RNF5 ubiquitin ligase

RNF5 E3 ubiquitin ligase has multiple biological roles and has been linked to the development of severe diseases such as cystic fibrosis, acute myeloid leukemia, and certain viral infections, emphasizing the importance of discovering small-molecule RNF5 modulators for research and drug development. The present study describes the synthesis of a new benzo[b]thiophene derivative, FX12, that acts as a selective small-molecule inhibitor and degrader of RNF5. We initially identified the previously reported STAT3 inhibitor, Stattic, as an inhibitor of dislocation of misfolded proteins from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) lumen to the cytosol in ER-associated degradation. A concise structure-activity relationship campaign (SAR) around the Stattic chemotype led to the synthesis of FX12, which has diminished activity in inhibition of STAT3 activation and retains dislocation inhibitory activity. FX12 binds to RNF5 and inhibits its E3 activity in vitro as well as promoting proteasomal degradation of RNF5 in cells. RNF5 as a molecular target for FX12 was supported by the facts that FX12 requires RNF5 to inhibit dislocation and negatively regulates RNF5 function. Thus, this study developed a small-molecule inhibitor and degrader of the RNF5 ubiquitin ligase, providing a chemical biology tool for RNF5 research and therapeutic development.

RNF185 regulates proteostasis in Ebolavirus infection by crosstalk between the calnexin cycle, ERAD, and reticulophagy

Virus infection affects cellular proteostasis and provides an opportunity to study this cellular process under perturbation. The proteostasis network in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is composed of the calnexin cycle, and the two protein degradation pathways ER-associated protein degradation (ERAD) and ER-to-lysosome-associated degradation (ERLAD/ER-phagy/reticulophagy). Here we show that calnexin and calreticulin trigger Zaire Ebolavirus (EBOV) glycoprotein GP_1,2 misfolding. Misfolded EBOV-GP_1,2 is targeted by ERAD machinery, but this results in lysosomal instead of proteasomal degradation. Moreover, the ER Ub ligase RNF185, usually associated with ERAD, polyubiquitinates EBOV-GP_1,2 on lysine 673 via ubiquitin K27-linkage. Polyubiquinated GP_1,2 is subsequently recruited into autophagosomes by the soluble autophagy receptor sequestosome 1 (SQSTM1/p62), in an ATG3- and ATG5-dependent manner. We conclude that EBOV hijacks all three proteostasis mechanisms in the ER to downregulate GP_1,2 via polyubiquitination and show that this increases viral fitness. This study identifies linkages among proteostasis network components previously thought to function independently.

Little is known about how proteostasis is maintained during viral infection. Here, the authors identify unexpected crosstalk between the calnexin cycle, ERAD, and reticulophagy, resulting in suppression of ebolavirus glycoprotein expression.

Shared and Distinctive Neighborhoods of Emerin and Lamin B Receptor Revealed by Proximity Labeling and Quantitative Proteomics

Emerin and lamin B receptor (LBR) are abundant transmembrane proteins of the nuclear envelope that are concentrated at the inner nuclear membrane (INM). Although both proteins interact with chromatin and nuclear lamins, they have distinctive biochemical and functional properties. Here, we have deployed proximity labeling using the engineered biotin ligase TurboID (TbID) and quantitative proteomics to compare the neighborhoods of emerin and LBR in cultured mouse embryonic fibroblasts. Our analysis revealed 232 high confidence proximity partners that interact selectively with emerin and/or LBR, 49 of which are shared by both. These included previously characterized NE-concentrated proteins, as well as a host of additional proteins not previously linked to emerin or LBR functions. Many of these are TM proteins of the ER, including two E3 ubiquitin ligases. Supporting these results, we found that 11/12 representative proximity relationships identified by TbID also were detected at the NE with the proximity ligation assay. Overall, this work presents methodology that may be used for large-scale mapping of the landscape of the INM and reveals a group of new proteins with potential functional connections to emerin and LBR.

Arih2 regulates Hedgehog signaling through smoothened ubiquitylation and ER-associated degradation

During Hedgehog signaling, the ciliary levels of Ptch1 and Smo are regulated by the pathway. At the basal state, Ptch1 localizes to cilia and prevents the ciliary accumulation and activation of Smo. Upon binding a Hedgehog ligand, Ptch1 exits cilia, relieving inhibition of Smo. Smo then concentrates in cilia, becomes activated and activates downstream signaling. Loss of the ubiquitin E3 ligase Arih2 elevates basal Hedgehog signaling, elevates the cellular level of Smo and increases basal levels of ciliary Smo. Mice express two isoforms of Arih2 with Arih2α found primarily in the nucleus and Arih2β found on the cytoplasmic face of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Re-expression of ER-localized Arih2β but not nuclear-localized Arih2α rescues the Arih2 mutant phenotypes. When Arih2 is defective, protein aggregates accumulate in the ER and the unfolded protein response is activated. Arih2β appears to regulate the ER-associated degradation (ERAD) of Smo preventing excess and potentially misfolded Smo from reaching the cilium and interfering with pathway regulation.

USP22 controls type III interferon signaling and SARS-CoV-2 infection through activation of STING

Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) and interferons (IFNs) serve as essential antiviral defense against SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of the COVID-19 pandemic. Type III IFNs (IFN-λ) exhibit cell-type specific and long-lasting functions in auto-inflammation, tumorigenesis, and antiviral defense. Here, we identify the deubiquitinating enzyme USP22 as central regulator of basal IFN-λ secretion and SARS-CoV-2 infections in human intestinal epithelial cells (hIECs). USP22-deficient hIECs strongly upregulate genes involved in IFN signaling and viral defense, including numerous IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs), with increased secretion of IFN-λ and enhanced STAT1 signaling, even in the absence of exogenous IFNs or viral infection. Interestingly, USP22 controls basal and 2'3'-cGAMP-induced STING activation and loss of STING reversed STAT activation and ISG and IFN-λ expression. Intriguingly, USP22-deficient hIECs are protected against SARS-CoV-2 infection, viral replication, and the formation of de novo infectious particles, in a STING-dependent manner. These findings reveal USP22 as central host regulator of STING and type III IFN signaling, with important implications for SARS-CoV-2 infection and antiviral defense.

The testis-specific E3 ubiquitin ligase RNF133 is required for fecundity in mice

BACKGROUND

Ubiquitination is a post-translational modification required for a number of physiological functions regulating protein homeostasis, such as protein degradation. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) quality control system recognizes and degrades proteins no longer needed in the ER through the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. E2 and E3 enzymes containing a transmembrane domain have been shown to function in ER quality control. The ER transmembrane protein UBE2J1 is a E2 ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme reported to be essential for spermiogenesis at the elongating spermatid stage. Spermatids from Ube2j1 KO male mice are believed to have defects in the dislocation step of ER quality control. However, associated E3 ubiquitin-protein ligases that function during spermatogenesis remain unknown.

RESULTS

We identified four evolutionarily conserved testis-specific E3 ubiquitin-protein ligases [RING finger protein 133 (Rnf133); RING finger protein 148 (Rnf148); RING finger protein 151 (Rnf151); and Zinc finger SWIM-type containing 2 (Zswim2)]. Using the CRISPR/Cas9 system, we generated and analyzed the fertility of mutant mice with null alleles for each of these E3-encoding genes, as well as double and triple knockout (KO) mice. Male fertility, male reproductive organ, and sperm-associated parameters were analyzed in detail. Fecundity remained largely unaffected in Rnf148, Rnf151, and Zswim2 KO males; however, Rnf133 KO males displayed severe subfertility. Additionally, Rnf133 KO sperm exhibited abnormal morphology and reduced motility. Ultrastructural analysis demonstrated that cytoplasmic droplets were retained in Rnf133 KO spermatozoa. Although Rnf133 and Rnf148 encode paralogous genes that are chromosomally linked and encode putative ER transmembrane E3 ubiquitin-protein ligases based on their protein structures, there was limited functional redundancy of these proteins. In addition, we identified UBE2J1 as an E2 ubiquitin-conjugating protein that interacts with RNF133.

CONCLUSIONS

Our studies reveal that RNF133 is a testis-expressed E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase that plays a critical role for sperm function during spermiogenesis. Based on the presence of a transmembrane domain in RNF133 and its interaction with the ER containing E2 protein UBE2J1, we hypothesize that these ubiquitin-regulatory proteins function together in ER quality control during spermatogenesis.

High Expression of TMEM33 Predicts Poor Prognosis and Promotes Cell Proliferation in Cervical Cancer

Background: The prognosis of patients with advanced cervical cancer remains unsatisfactory. A study indicated that transmembrane protein 33 (TMEM33) was implicated in tumor recurrence, while its role in cervical cancer has not been elucidated.

Methods: TMEM33 expression in cervical squamous cell carcinoma and endocervical adenocarcinoma (CESC) was primarily screened in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), and further validated in Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The Kaplan–Meier plotter analysis and Cox regression were constructed to evaluate the prognostic value of TMEM33 in CESC. Functional enrichment analysis was performed with GO, KEGG and GSEA tools. CCK-8 assay and colony formation assay were performed to investigate the carcinogenesis role of TMEM33 in cervical cancer cell proliferation.

Results: TMEM33 expression was significantly elevated in CESC compared with normal tissues. High expression of TMEM33 was associated with poor prognostic clinical characteristics in CESC patients. KM-plotter analysis revealed that patients with increased TMEM33 had shorter overall survival (OS), progress free interval (PFI), and disease specific survival (DSS). Moreover, Multivariate Cox analysis confirmed that high TMEM33 expression was an independent risk factor for OS in patients with CESC. TMEM33 was associated with immune infiltrates, and its expression was correlated with tumorigenesis-related genes RNF4, OCIAD1, TMED5, DHX15, MED28 and LETM1. More importantly, knockdown of TMEM33 in cervical cancer cells decreased the expression of those genes and inhibited cell proliferation.

Conclusion: Increased TMEM33 in cervical cancer can serve as an independent prognostic marker and might play a role in tumorigenesis by promoting cell proliferation.

Synthetic lethality between TP53 and ENDOD1

The atypical nuclease ENDOD1 functions with cGAS-STING in innate immunity. Here we identify a previously uncharacterized ENDOD1 function in DNA repair. ENDOD1 is enriched in the nucleus following H2O2 treatment and ENDOD1-/- cells show increased PARP chromatin-association. Loss of ENDOD1 function is synthetic lethal with homologous recombination defects, with affected cells accumulating DNA double strand breaks. Remarkably, we also uncover an additional synthetic lethality between ENDOD1 and p53. ENDOD1 depletion in TP53 mutated tumour cells, or p53 depletion in ENDOD1-/- cells, results in rapid single stranded DNA accumulation and cell death. Because TP53 is mutated in ~50% of tumours, ENDOD1 has potential as a wide-spectrum target for synthetic lethal treatments. To support this we demonstrate that systemic knockdown of mouse EndoD1 is well tolerated and whole-animal siRNA against human ENDOD1 restrains TP53 mutated tumour progression in xenograft models. These data identify ENDOD1 as a potential cancer-specific target for SL drug discovery.

Three-dimensional feature matching improves coverage for single-cell proteomics based on ion mobility filtering

Single-cell proteomics (scProteomics) promises to advance our understanding of cell functions within complex biological systems. However, a major challenge of current methods is their inability to identify and provide accurate quantitative information for low-abundance proteins. Herein, we describe an ion-mobility-enhanced mass spectrometry acquisition and peptide identification method, transferring identification based on FAIMS filtering (TIFF), to improve the sensitivity and accuracy of label-free scProteomics. TIFF extends the ion accumulation times for peptide ions by filtering out singly charged ions. The peptide identities are assigned by a three-dimensional MS1 feature matching approach (retention time, accurate mass, and FAIMS compensation voltage). The TIFF method enabled unbiased proteome analysis to a depth of >1,700 proteins in single HeLa cells, with >1,100 proteins consistently identified. As a demonstration, we applied the TIFF method to obtain temporal proteome profiles of >150 single murine macrophage cells during lipopolysaccharide stimulation and identified time-dependent proteome changes. A record of this paper's transparent peer review process is included in the supplemental information.

Identification of intrinsically disorder regions in non-structural proteins of SARS-CoV-2: New insights into drug and vaccine resistance

The outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) emerged in December 2019 and caused coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which causes pneumonia and severe acute respiratory distress syndrome. It is a highly infectious pathogen that promptly spread. Like other beta coronaviruses, SARS-CoV-2 encodes some non-structural proteins (NSPs), playing crucial roles in viral transcription and replication. NSPs likely have essential roles in viral pathogenesis by manipulating many cellular processes. We performed a sequence-based analysis of NSPs to get insights into their intrinsic disorders, and their functions in viral replication were annotated and discussed in detail. Here, we provide newer insights into the structurally disordered regions of SARS-CoV-2 NSPs. Our analysis reveals that the SARS-CoV-2 proteome has a chunk of the disordered region that might be responsible for increasing its virulence. In addition, mutations in these regions are presumably responsible for drug and vaccine resistance. These findings suggested that the structurally disordered regions of SARS-CoV-2 NSPs might be invulnerable in COVID-19.

Effects of Epigenetic Modification of PGC-1α by a Chemical Chaperon on Mitochondria Biogenesis and Visual Function in Retinitis Pigmentosa

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a hereditary blinding disease characterized by gradual photoreceptor death, which lacks a definitive treatment. Here, we demonstrated the effect of 4-phenylbutyric acid (PBA), a chemical chaperon that can suppress endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, in P23H mutant rhodopsin knock-in RP models. In the RP models, constant PBA treatment led to the retention of a greater number of photoreceptors, preserving the inner segment (IS), a mitochondrial- and ER-rich part of the photoreceptors. Electroretinography showed that PBA treatment preserved photoreceptor function. At the early point, ER-associated degradation markers, xbp1s, vcp, and derl1, mitochondrial kinetic-related markers, fis1, lc3, and mfn1 and mfn2, as well as key mitochondrial regulators, pgc-1α and tfam, were upregulated in the retina of the models treated with PBA. In vitro analyses showed that PBA upregulated pgc-1α and tfam transcription, leading to an increase in the mitochondrial membrane potential, cytochrome c oxidase activity, and ATP levels. Histone acetylation of the PGC-1α promoter was increased by PBA, indicating that PBA affected the mitochondrial condition through epigenetic changes. Our findings constituted proof of concept for the treatment of ER stress-related RP using PBA and revealed PBA’s neuroprotective effects, paving the way for its future clinical application.

USP17 is required for peripheral trafficking of lysosomes

Expression of the deubiquitinase USP17 is induced by multiple stimuli, including cytokines (IL‐4/6), chemokines (IL‐8, SDF1), and growth factors (EGF), and several studies indicate it is required for cell proliferation and migration. However, the mechanisms via which USP17 impacts upon these cellular functions are unclear. Here, we demonstrate that USP17 depletion prevents peripheral lysosome positioning, as well as trafficking of lysosomes to the cell periphery in response to EGF stimulation. Overexpression of USP17 also increases secretion of the lysosomal protease cathepsin D. In addition, USP17 depletion impairs plasma membrane repair in cells treated with the pore‐forming toxin streptolysin O, further indicating that USP17 is required for lysosome trafficking to the plasma membrane. Finally, we demonstrate that USP17 can deubiquitinate p62, and we propose that USP17 can facilitate peripheral lysosome trafficking by opposing the E3 ligase RNF26 to untether lysosomes from the ER and facilitate lysosome peripheral trafficking, lysosome protease secretion, and plasma membrane repair.

Order through destruction: how ER-associated protein degradation contributes to organelle homeostasis

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a large, dynamic, and multifunctional organelle. ER protein homeostasis is essential for the coordination of its diverse functions and depends on ER-associated protein degradation (ERAD). The latter process selects target proteins in the lumen and membrane of the ER, promotes their ubiquitination, and facilitates their delivery into the cytosol for degradation by the proteasome. Originally characterized for a role in the degradation of misfolded proteins and rate-limiting enzymes of sterol biosynthesis, the many branches of ERAD now appear to control the levels of a wider range of substrates and influence more broadly the organization and functions of the ER, as well as its interactions with adjacent organelles. Here, we discuss recent mechanistic advances in our understanding of ERAD and of its consequences for the regulation of ER functions.

Metformin Combining PD-1 Inhibitor Enhanced Anti-Tumor Efficacy in STK11 Mutant Lung Cancer Through AXIN-1-Dependent Inhibition of STING Ubiquitination

Background: Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with STK11 mutation showed primary resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). The glucose-lowering drug metformin exerted anti-cancer effect and enhanced efficacy of chemotherapy in NSCLC with KRAS/STK11 co-mutation, yet it is unknown whether metformin may enhance ICI efficacy in STK11 mutant NSCLC.

Methods: We studied the impact of metformin on ICI efficacy in STK11 mutant NSCLC in vitro and in vivo using colony formation assay, cell viability assay, Ki67 staining, ELISA, CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout, and animal experiments.

Results: Through colony formation assay, Ki67 incorporation assay, and CCK-8 assay, we found that metformin significantly enhanced the killing of H460 cells and A549 cells by T cells. In NOD-SCID xenografts, metformin in combination with PD-1 inhibitor pembrolizumab effectively decreased tumor growth and increased infiltration of CD8+ T cells. Metformin enhanced stabilization of STING and activation of its downstream signaling pathway. siRNA-mediated knockdown of STING abolished the effect of metformin on T cell-mediated killing of tumor cells. Next, we found that CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout of the scaffold protein AXIN-1 abolished the effect of metformin on T cell-mediated killing and STING stabilization. Immunoprecipitation and confocal macroscopy revealed that metformin enhanced the interaction and colocalization between AXIN-1 and STING. Protein-protein interaction modeling indicated that AXIN-1 may directly bind to STING at its K150 site. Next, we found that metformin decreased K48-linked ubiquitination of STING and inhibited the interaction of E3-ligand RNF5 and STING. Moreover, in AXIN-1−/− H460 cells, metformin failed to alter the interaction of RNF5 and STING.

Conclusion: Metformin combining PD-1 inhibitor enhanced anti-tumor efficacy in STK11 mutant lung cancer through inhibition of RNF5-mediated K48-linked ubiquitination of STING, which was dependent on AXIN-1.

Downregulation of Three Novel miRNAs in the Lymph Nodes of Sheep Immunized With the Brucella suis Strain 2 Vaccine

Ovine and caprine brucellosis, both caused by Brucella melitensis, lead to substantial economic losses in the animal industry and health problems in human populations. Brucella suis strain 2 (B.suis S2), as a live attenuated vaccine, is used extensively in China to prevent brucellosis. It has been proven that microRNA (miRNAs) are involved in the immunopathogenesis of brucellosis; however, the miRNA-driven mechanism of immune response to B.suis S2 in vivo remains unknown. To determine which new miRNAs are involved in the host immune response to B.suis S2 and elucidate the function of these miRNAs, we performed a comprehensive analysis of miRNA expression profiles in sheep immunized with B.suis S2 using the high-throughput sequencing approach. The submandibular lymphatic nodes from sheep seropositive for Brucella were collected at 7, 14, 21, 30, 60 and 90 days post-immunization. MiRNA sequencing analysis revealed that 282 differentially expressed miRNAs (|log₂ fold-change |>0.5 and p < 0.05) were significantly enriched in the immune pathways, including the NF-kappa B signaling pathway, B cell receptor signaling pathway, p53 signaling pathway and complement and coagulation cascades. Increasing the threshold to |log₂ fold change|>1 and p < 0.01 revealed 48 differentially expressed miRNAs, 31 of which were novel miRNAs. Thirteen of these novel miRNAs, which were differentially expressed for at least two time points, were detected via RT-qPCR assays. The novel_229, novel_609, novel_973 and oar-miR-181a assessed by RT-qPCR were detectable and consistent with the expression patterns obtained by miRNA sequencing. Functional analyses of these miRNAs demonstrated that their target genes participated in the immune response pathways, including the innate and adaptive immunity pathways. The immune-related target genes of novel_229 included ENSOARG00000000649 and TMED1, as well as LCN2, PDPK1 and LPO were novel_609 target genes. The immune-related target genes of novel_973 included C6orf58, SPPL3, BPIFB1, ENSOARG00000021083, MPTX1, CCL28, FGB, IDO1, OLR1 and ENSOARG00000020393. The immune-related target genes of oar-miR-181a included ENSOARG00000002722, ARHGEF2, MFAP4 and DOK2. These results will deepen our understanding of the host miRNA-driven defense mechanism in sheep immunized with B.suis S2 vaccine, and provide the valuable information for optimizing vaccines and developing molecular diagnostic targets.

From Drosophila to Human: Biological Function of E3 Ligase Godzilla and Its Role in Disease

The ubiquitin–proteasome system is of fundamental importance in all fields of biology due to its impact on proteostasis and in regulating cellular processes. Ubiquitination, a type of protein post-translational modification, involves complex enzymatic machinery, such as E3 ubiquitin ligases. The E3 ligases regulate the covalent attachment of ubiquitin to a target protein and are involved in various cellular mechanisms, including the cell cycle, cell division, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and neurotransmission. Because the E3 ligases regulate so many physiological events, they are also associated with pathologic conditions, such as cancer, neurological disorders, and immune-related diseases. This review focuses specifically on the protease-associated transmembrane-containing the Really Interesting New Gene (RING) subset of E3 ligases. We describe the structure, partners, and physiological functions of the Drosophila Godzilla E3 ligase and its human homologues, RNF13, RNF167, and ZNRF4. Also, we summarize the information that has emerged during the last decade regarding the association of these E3 ligases with pathophysiological conditions, such as cancer, asthma, and rare genetic disorders. We conclude by highlighting the limitations of the current knowledge and pinpointing the unresolved questions relevant to RNF13, RNF167, and ZNRF4 ubiquitin ligases.

Receptor control by membrane-tethered ubiquitin ligases in development and tissue homeostasis

Paracrine cell-cell communication is central to all developmental processes, ranging from cell diversification to patterning and morphogenesis. Precise calibration of signaling strength is essential for the fidelity of tissue formation during embryogenesis and tissue maintenance in adults. Membrane-tethered ubiquitin ligases can control the sensitivity of target cells to secreted ligands by regulating the abundance of signaling receptors at the cell surface. We discuss two examples of this emerging concept in signaling: (1) the transmembrane ubiquitin ligases ZNRF3 and RNF43 that regulate WNT and bone morphogenetic protein receptor abundance in response to R-spondin ligands and (2) the membrane-recruited ubiquitin ligase MGRN1 that controls Hedgehog and melanocortin receptor abundance. We focus on the mechanistic logic of these systems, illustrated by structural and protein interaction models enabled by AlphaFold. We suggest that membrane-tethered ubiquitin ligases play a widespread role in remodeling the cell surface proteome to control responses to extracellular ligands in diverse biological processes.

Systems genetics analysis defines importance of TMEM43/LUMA for cardiac- and metabolic-related pathways

Broad cellular functions and diseases including muscular dystrophy, arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC5) and cancer are associated with transmembrane protein43 (TMEM43/LUMA). The study aimed to investigate biological roles of TMEM43 through genetic regulation, gene pathways and gene networks, candidate interacting genes, and up- or downstream regulators. Cardiac transcriptomes from 40 strains of recombinant inbred BXD mice and two parental strains representing murine genetic reference population (GRP) were applied for genetic correlation, functional enrichment, and coexpression network analysis using systems genetics approach. The results were validated in a newly created knock-in Tmem43-S358L mutation mouse model (Tmem43S358L) that displayed signs of cardiac dysfunction, resembling ARVC5 phenotype seen in humans. We found high Tmem43 levels among BXDs with broad variability in expression. Expression of Tmem43 highly negatively correlated with heart mass and heart rate among BXDs, whereas levels of Tmem43 highly positively correlated with plasma high-density lipoproteins (HDL). Through finding differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between Tmem43S358L mutant and wild-type (Tmem43WT) lines, 18 pathways (out of 42 found in BXDs GRP) that are involved in ARVC, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, dilated cardiomyopathy, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease were verified. We further constructed Tmem43-mediated gene network, in which Ctnna1, Adcy6, Gnas, Ndufs6, and Uqcrc2 were significantly altered in Tmem43S358L mice versus Tmem43WT controls. Our study defined the importance of Tmem43 for cardiac- and metabolism-related pathways, suggesting that cardiovascular disease-relevant risk factors may also increase risk of metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases via TMEM43-mediated pathways.

A proteome-wide map of 20(S)-hydroxycholesterol interactors in cell membranes

Oxysterols (OHCs) are hydroxylated cholesterol metabolites that play ubiquitous roles in health and disease. Due to the non-covalent nature of their interactions and their unique partitioning in membranes, the analysis of live-cell, proteome-wide interactions of OHCs remains an unmet challenge. Here, we present a structurally precise chemoproteomics probe for the biologically active molecule 20(S)-hydroxycholesterol (20(S)-OHC) and provide a map of its proteome-wide targets in the membranes of living cells. Our target catalog consolidates diverse OHC ontologies and demonstrates that OHC-interacting proteins cluster with specific processes in immune response and cancer. Competition experiments reveal that 20(S)-OHC is a chemo-, regio- and stereoselective ligand for the protein transmembrane protein 97 (Tmem97/the σ2 receptor), enabling us to reconstruct the 20(S)-OHC-Tmem97 binding site. Our results demonstrate that multiplexed, quantitative analysis of cellular target engagement can expose new dimensions of metabolite activity and identify actionable targets for molecular therapy.

Chitosan nanoparticle formulation attenuates poly (I:C) induced innate immune responses against inactivated virus vaccine in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar)

Many vaccine formulations, in particular vaccines based on inactivated virus, needs adjuvants to boost immunogenicity. In aquaculture, mineral and plant oil are used as adjuvant in commercial vaccines, and the advent of oil-adjuvanted vaccines was crucial to aquaculture development. Nevertheless, some of these approved vaccines display suboptimal performance in the field compared to experimental conditions. Therefore, there is a need to improve adjuvants and delivery methods for fish vaccines against viruses. We used RNA sequencing of Atlantic salmon head kidney to analyse the difference in gene expression 24 h after injection of different experimental vaccine formulations. We compared five different formulations in addition to a PBS control: inactivated virus alone (group V), soluble poly (I:C) (group P), nanoparticles containing poly (I:C) (group N), soluble poly (I:C) + inactivated virus (group PV) and finally nanoparticles containing poly (I:C) + inactivated virus (group NV). Our results showed poly (I:C)'s ability as adjuvant and its capacity influence innate immune genes expression in Atlantic salmon. Soluble poly (I:C) upregulated multiple immune related genes and was more effective compared to poly (I:C) formulated into chitosan nanoparticles (more than 10 fold increase in differentially expressed genes, DEGs). However, inclusion of inactivated ISA virus in the nanoparticle vaccine, increased the number of DEGs fivefold suggesting a synergistic effect of adjuvant and antigen. Our results indicate that the way poly (I:C) is formulated and the presence of antigen is important for the magnitude of the innate immune response in Atlantic salmon.

The FOXM1/RNF26/p57 axis regulates the cell cycle to promote the aggressiveness of bladder cancer

Bladder cancer is one of the most lethal cancers in the world. Despite the continuous development of medical technologies and therapeutic strategies, the overall survival rate of bladder cancer has not changed significantly. Targeted therapy is a new promising method for bladder cancer treatment. Thus, an in-depth study of the molecular mechanism of the occurrence and development of bladder cancer is urgently needed to identify novel therapeutic candidates for bladder cancer. Here, bioinformatics analysis demonstrated that RNF26 was one of the risk factors for bladder cancer. Then, we showed that RNF26 is abnormally upregulated in bladder cancer cells and tissues and that higher RNF26 expression is an unfavorable prognostic factor for bladder cancer. Moreover, we found that RNF26 promotes bladder cancer progression. In addition, we showed that RNF26 expression is promoted by FOXM1 at the transcriptional level through MuvB complex. The upregulated RNF26 in turn degrades p57 (CDKN1C) to regulate the cell cycle process. Collectively, we uncovered a novel FOXM1/RNF26/p57 axis that modulates the cell cycle process and enhances the progression of bladder cancer. Thus, the FOXM1/RNF26/p57 signaling axis could be a candidate target for the treatment of bladder cancer.

High expression of transmembrane P24 trafficking protein 9 predicts poor prognosis in breast carcinoma

Over the years, molecular subtypes based on estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER-2) status have been observed to effectively guide decision-making for the optimal treatment of patients with breast carcinoma (BRCA). However, despite this progress, there are still more than 41,000 BRCA-related fatalities each year in the United States. Moreover, effective drug targets for triple-negative breast carcinoma (TNBC) are still lacking. Given its high mortality rate, it is necessary to investigate more biomarkers with prognostic and pathological relevance in BRCA. In our study, we examined the expression patterns and prognostic implications of transmembrane P24 trafficking protein 9 (TMED9) in BRCA using multiple public cohorts and BRCA specimens collected from Shanghai General Hospital. In addition to this, in vitro experiments were also performed to evaluate the effects of TMED9 expression in BRCA cell proliferation and migration. Our results have demonstrated that a high expression of TMED9 promoted BRCA cell proliferation and migration and predicted poor prognosis in patients with BRCA. In conclusion, TMED9 is a potential prognostic indicator and a possible drug target of BRCA.