The serine proteases of Mycobacteria tuberculosis(Mtb)are important contributors to the process of bacterial invasion and its pathogenesis.In the present study,we systematically characterized the role of the Rv1043c p...The serine proteases of Mycobacteria tuberculosis(Mtb)are important contributors to the process of bacterial invasion and its pathogenesis.In the present study,we systematically characterized the role of the Rv1043c protein in Mycobacterium infection by purifying the Rv1043c protein in Escherichia coli and constructing a Mycobacterium smegmatis(Msg)strain overexpressing Rv1043c(Msg_Rv1043c).We found that Rv1043c had serine protease activity and localized to the surface of Mtb.We determined that the optimal pH and temperature for the Rv1043c serine protease were 9.0 and 45°C,respectively.Moreover,the serine protease activity of Rv1043c was enhanced by divalent metal ions of Ca^(2+)and Mg^(2+).Site-directed mutagenesis studies demonstrated that the serine 279 residue in Rv1043c plays a catalytic role.Additionally,mouse model studies confirmed that Rv1043c significantly enhanced the survival of Msg in vivo,induced pulmonary injury and lung cell apoptosis,and promoted the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1βand interleukin-6 in mice.This study presents novel insights into the relationship between mycobacterial serine protease and the pathogenesis of the disease.展开更多
Female adults of the migratory locust,Locusta migratoria manilensis(Meyen),can sense seasonal photoperiod changes,which induces embryonic diapause as a key strategy to overwinter.Serine protease inhibitor genes(SPNs)w...Female adults of the migratory locust,Locusta migratoria manilensis(Meyen),can sense seasonal photoperiod changes,which induces embryonic diapause as a key strategy to overwinter.Serine protease inhibitor genes(SPNs)were thought to play key roles during diapause,while few SPNs were functionally characterized.LmSPN2 was one of those genes differentially expressed between diapause and non-diapause eggs;however,its biological function remained to be explored.So,we conducted RNAi knockdown of LmSPN2,resulting in a significant decrease of the egg diapause rate by 29.7%.Using yeast two-hybrid assays,co-immunoprecipitation,and pull-down methods,we found an interaction between LmSPN2 and LmSPN3,which was proved to be mediated by a glutamate(E331)binding site of LmSPN2.RNAi knockdown of LmSPN3 resulted in a significant increase in diapause rate by 14.6%,indicating an inverse function of LmSPN2 and LmSPN3 on diapause regulation.Double knockdown of two SPN genes resulted in a 26.4%reduction in diapause rate,indicating that LmSPN2 was the dominant regulatory signal.Moreover,we found four Toll pathway genes(easter,spätzle,pelle,and dorsal)upregulated significantly after the knockdown of LmSPN2 while downregulated after the knockdown of LmSPN3.Therefore,we speculate that two SPNs regulate diapause through the Toll pathway.Our results indicated that LmSPN2 positively regulates locust egg entry into diapause,while LmSPN3 is a negative regulator of embryonic commitment to diapause.Their interaction is mediated by the binding site of E331 and influences egg diapause through the Toll pathway.This mechanistic understanding of diapause regulation expands our understanding of insect developmental regulation and provides functional targets for developing locust management strategies.展开更多
BACKGROUND Ameloblastomas are common benign epithelial odontogenic neoplasms that present an aggressive and unpredictable behavior that may modify treatment strategies.Different signaling pathways that participate in ...BACKGROUND Ameloblastomas are common benign epithelial odontogenic neoplasms that present an aggressive and unpredictable behavior that may modify treatment strategies.Different signaling pathways that participate in the progression of these tumors have been identified.B-raf proto-oncogene serine/threonine kinase(BRAF)is a protein involved in the behavior of ameloblastomas,and it is related to many cell mechanisms.BRAF gene mutations have been identified in ameloblastomas,of which the BRAF V600E(valine substituted by glutamic acid at amino acid 600)mutation has been the most common and can be present concomitantly with other mutations that may be involved in its behavior.Targeted therapies have been used as an alternative in the case of resistance or contraindications to conventional treatments.AIM To document the presence of BRAF V600E and additional mutations,their behavior,and targeted therapies in these tumors.METHODS An electronic literature search was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines in PubMed/MEDLINE,Cochrane,EMBASE,and SpringerLink using the terms“ameloblastomas”,“BRAF V600E”,“additional mutations”,and“targeted therapies”.Ameloblastomas were classified according to WHO guidelines.Inclusion criteria were articles in English,published not more than 10 years ago,and studies with laboratory works related to BRAF V600E.Articles were evaluated by two independent reviewers and retrieved for full-text evaluation.The EBLIP Critical Appraisal Checklist was used to evaluate the quality of the eligible studies.Descriptive statistical analysis was performed.RESULTS Two independent reviewers,with a substantial concordance indicated by a kappa coefficient of k=0.76,evaluated a total of 19 articles that were included in this study.The analysis registered 521 conventional ameloblastomas(AM),81 unicystic ameloblastomas(UA),13 ameloblastic carcinomas(AC),three metastatic ameloblastomas(MA),and six peripheral ameloblastomas(PA),of which the histopathological type,anatomic location,laboratory tests,expression of BRAF mutation,and additional mutations were registered.The BRAF V600E mutation was found in 297 AM(57%),63 UA(77.7%),3 AC(23%),1 MA(50%),and 5 PA(83.3%).Follicular type predominated with a total of 116 cases(40%),followed by plexiform type with 63 cases(22.1%).Furthermore,both types presented additional mutations,in which alterations in JAK3 P132T,SMARCB1,PIK3CA,CTNNB1,SMO,and BRAF G606E genes were found.Four case reports were found with targeted therapy to BRAF V600E.CONCLUSION The identification of BRAF V600E and additional mutations as an aid in targeted therapies has been a breakthrough in alternative treatments of ameloblastomas where surgical treatments are contraindicated.展开更多
Aims More and more advances show that hydrogen sulfide （H2S） sulfhydrates functional proteins and regulates their actions. However, much less is known about the endogenous sulfhydration of key proteins under physiol...Aims More and more advances show that hydrogen sulfide （H2S） sulfhydrates functional proteins and regulates their actions. However, much less is known about the endogenous sulfhydration of key proteins under physiological conditions. Methods Biotin-switch assay, electrophysiological recording, RNA interference, full ESI-MS scan et al. Results Herein, we found that the protein sulfhydration was dynamically regulated by neuro- nal activity. H2S sulfhydrated and activated serine racemase （SR） in the hippocampus, resuhantly increased D- serine level. Notably, sulfhydration of SR was markedly promoted by neuronal stimulation and underlay activity-de- pendent changes of D-serine availability. Both genetic knockdown and pharmacological inhibition of cystathionine β-synthase （CBS）, the key H2S-producing enzyme in brain, attenuated hippoeampal long-term potentiation （LTP） , which can be reversed by exogenous supplement of H2S or D-serine. We also observed that the increase in LTP induced by H2S is dependent on D-serine and polysulfides. In aged rats, sulfhydration of SR was significantly decreased. Furthermore, exogenous supplement of H2S restored the level of sulfhydration and reversed the age-re- lated deficits in hippocampal LTP. Conclusion Our data provide direct evidence for the biological significance of endogenous sulfhydration in physiological conditions and demonstrate a pivotal role of activity-dependent sulfhydra- tion in synaptic plasticity.展开更多
Objective:To isolate,partially purify and evaluate the cytotoxic and antitumor activity of a serine protease from the chosen Indian earthworm Pheretima posthuma.Methods:Whole animal extract was prepared and purified i...Objective:To isolate,partially purify and evaluate the cytotoxic and antitumor activity of a serine protease from the chosen Indian earthworm Pheretima posthuma.Methods:Whole animal extract was prepared and purified its protein constituents by size and charge based chromatographic separation techniques using Sephadex G-50 and DEAE-Cellulose resin respectively.Average molecular weight of the protein isolate was determined and analyzed for its cytotoxic property against Vero cells in different dilutions(1:20 and 1:40)and anti-tumor activity by MTT assay(a colorimetric assay)using breast cancer cell line MCF-7,with tamoxifen as standard.Results:One of the protein constituents after purification was characterized as serine protease by Caseinolytic plate diffusion assay.Average molecular weight of this purified isolate was determined,by SDS-PAGE analysis with standard protein ladder,as of 15 kDa.The performed tests suggested that the 15kDa fraction has potent cytotoxic activity and satisfactory antitumor activity as well in vitro.Conclusions:Exact molecular mechanism of the cytotoxic and antitumor activities is yet to be explored and currently we are working on ultra-purification and biophysical characterization of this fraction.Further investigation into the mechanism(s)of cytotoxic and antitumor activities at molecular level would be useful in treatment of various classes of cancer and viral infections in future.展开更多
BACKGROUND:HtrA1,a serine protease,is down-regulated in various human solid tumors.Overexpression of HtrA1 in human cancer cells inhibits cell growth and proliferation in vitro and in vivo,suggesting its possible role...BACKGROUND:HtrA1,a serine protease,is down-regulated in various human solid tumors.Overexpression of HtrA1 in human cancer cells inhibits cell growth and proliferation in vitro and in vivo,suggesting its possible role as a tumor suppressor.METHODS:Immunohistochemistry was used to determine the expression of HtrA1 in 50 hepatocellular carcinoma specimens and adjacent liver tissues.The correlation between the expression of HtrA1 and the clinico-pathologic data were analyzed.RESULTS:The levels of HtrA1 were lower in tumor tissues than in their adjacent liver tissues.Moreover,an inverse relationship was found between HtrA1 expression and the differentiation of hepatocellular carcinoma.Loss of HtrA1 was more frequently found in tumors in Edmondson grade III-IV,especially in those with venous invasion,compared to tumors in Edmondson grade I-II.Most importantly,patients with higher HtrA1 expression had a better survival rate.CONCLUSION:All these data suggest an important role of HtrA1 in hepatocellular carcinoma development and progression,which may be a new target for its treatment.展开更多
AIM:To explore mutations in serine/threonine kinase 11(STK11) gene in Peutz-Jeghers syndrome(PJS) with gastrointestinal(GI) hamartomatous polyps.METHODS:Six Japanese PJS patients in 3 families were enrolled in this st...AIM:To explore mutations in serine/threonine kinase 11(STK11) gene in Peutz-Jeghers syndrome(PJS) with gastrointestinal(GI) hamartomatous polyps.METHODS:Six Japanese PJS patients in 3 families were enrolled in this study.Each of the cases had hamartomatous polyposis in the gastrointestinal tract,including the small intestine,along with mucocutaneous hyperpigmentation.Narrow-band imaging(NBI)-magnification endoscopy was employed to detect microvascular and microsurface irregularities in the GI lesions.NBI magnification findings could be classified into three groups(type A,type B,or type C).Endoscopic polypectomy was performed using double-balloon enteroscopy or colonoscopy.Genomic DNA was extracted from a whole blood sample from each subject.All of the coding exons of STK11 gene,its boundary regions,and the promoter region containing the polymorphic regions were amplified by polymerase chain reaction,and direct sequencing was performed to assess the germline mutations.RESULTS:NBI-magnification endoscopic observation could detect the abnormalities in microvessels and microsurface structures of GI polyps.Overall,we found 5 cases of type A and one case without the examination for the gastric polyps,while there were 4 cases of type B and 2 case of type A for the colorectal polyps.Seventy-nine small-bowel and 115 colorectal polyps over 27 sessions for each were resected endoscopically without significant complications.The only delayed complication included the occurrence of bleeding in a case,and this was successfully managed with hemoclips.Resected polyps contained no malignant components.Based on mutation analysis,all 3 cases in Family I exhibited the +658C>T nonsense mutation in exon 5,which resulted in the production of a truncated protein(Q220X).In Family II,a case had-252C>A and-193C>A in the promoter region.In Family III,a case was found to have the +1062C>G(F342L) mutation in exon 8.CONCLUSION:We found two novel mutations of STK11 in association with PJS.Endoscopic polypectomy of GI polyps in PJS patients appears to be useful to prevent emergency laparotomies and reduce the cancer risk.展开更多
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2(SARS-CoV-2)seems to employ two routes of entrance to the host cell;via membrane fusion(with the cells expressing both angiotensin converting enzyme 2(ACE2)and transmembr...Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2(SARS-CoV-2)seems to employ two routes of entrance to the host cell;via membrane fusion(with the cells expressing both angiotensin converting enzyme 2(ACE2)and transmembrane peptidase/serine subfamily member 2/4(TMPRSS2/4))or via receptor-mediated endocytosis(to the target cells expressing only ACE2).The second mode is associated with cysteine cathepsins(probably cathepsin L)involvement in the virus spike protein(S protein)proteolytic activation.Also furin might activate the virus S protein enabling it to enter cells.Gastrointestinal tract(GIT)involvement in SARS-CoV-2 infection is evident in a subset of coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)patients exhibiting GIT symptoms,such as diarrhea,and presenting viral-shedding in feces.Considering the abundance and co-localization of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in the lower GIT(especially brush-border enterocytes),these two receptors seem to be mainly involved in SARS-CoV-2 invasion of the digestive tract.Additionally,in vitro studies have demonstrated the virions capability of infection and replication in the human epithelial cells lining GIT.However,also furin and cysteine cathepsins(cathepsin L)might participate in the activation of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein contributing to the virus invasiveness within GIT.Moreover,cathepsin L(due to its involvement in extracellular matrix components degradation and remodeling,the processes enhanced during SARS-CoV-2-induced inflammation)might be responsible for the dysregulation of absorption/digestion functions of GIT,thus adding to the observed in some COVID-19 patients symptoms such as diarrhea.展开更多
Emiliania huxleyi is the most prominent modern coccolithophore,a group of marine unicellular eukaryotes that play a critical role in ocean biogeochemistry.Coccolithoviruses are large double stranded DNA viruses,which ...Emiliania huxleyi is the most prominent modern coccolithophore,a group of marine unicellular eukaryotes that play a critical role in ocean biogeochemistry.Coccolithoviruses are large double stranded DNA viruses,which is responsible for the demise of large oceanic blooms formed by E.huxleyi.E.huxleyi virus(EhVs)acquired a series of enzyme-coding genes predicted to be involved in the sphingolipid biosynthesis by horizontal gene transfer between virus-host.Currently,there is limited experimental validation identifying the functions of these genes in EhV.Genetic transformation of eukaryotic cells is a powerful tool to get an insight into gene functions of the studied organisms.Serine palmitoyltransferase(SPT)catalyzes the first committed step in de novo sphingolipid biosynthetic pathway.Here,a novel vector system for the transformation of E.huxleyi was designed.It contained fragments of promoter and terminator sequences of E.huxleyi endogenic fucoxanthin chlorophyll a/c-binding protein gene“fcp”and harbored EhV-99B1 spt gene.The resultant recombinant transformation vectors pEhux-I-spt and pEhux-II were co-transferred into E.huxleyi BOF92 by electroporation.Transformants were obtained upon glufosinate-ammonium selection,and confirmed by Southern hybridization,genome PCR,qRT-PCR and Western blot screening of spt gene,which indicated that spt gene was integrated into the nuclear genome and was expressed at the mRNA and protein levels.The expression of the viral spt gene led to differences in lipid compositions analyzed using thin-layer chromatography(TLC).The results present the genetic transformation system for E.huxleyi,providing additional genetic resource with potential for exploring basic biological questions such as the virus-host interactions.展开更多
long-term,and relapsing inflammatory disorders.IBD may spontaneously grow in the colon,and in severe cases may result in tumor lesions such as invasive carcinoma in inflamed regions of the intestine.Recent epidemiolog...long-term,and relapsing inflammatory disorders.IBD may spontaneously grow in the colon,and in severe cases may result in tumor lesions such as invasive carcinoma in inflamed regions of the intestine.Recent epidemiological reports indicate that old age and underlying diseases such as IBD contribute to severity and mortality in patients with coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19).Currently,the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic caused serious morbidity and mortality worldwide.It has also been shown that the transmembrane serine protease 2 is an essential factor for viral activation and viral engulfment.Generally,viral entry causes a'cytokine storm'that induces excessive generation of proinflammatory cytokines/chemokines including interleukin(IL)-6,IL-2,IL-7,tumor necrosis factor-α,and interferon-γ.Future research could concentrate on developing inflammatory immunological responses that are efficient to encounter COVID-19.Current analysis elucidates the role of inflammation and immune responses during IBD infection with COVID-19 and provides a list of possible targets for IBD-regulated therapies in particular.Data from clinical,in vitro,and in vivo studies were collected in English from PubMed,Google Scholar,Scopus,and the Cochrane library until May 2021.展开更多
Microtubule-associated serine/threonine kinase(MASTL)functions to regulate chromosome condensation and mitotic progression.Therefore,aberrant MASTL expression is commonly implicated in various human cancers.This study...Microtubule-associated serine/threonine kinase(MASTL)functions to regulate chromosome condensation and mitotic progression.Therefore,aberrant MASTL expression is commonly implicated in various human cancers.This study analyzed MASTL expression in gastric cancer vs.adjacent normal tissue for elucidating the association with clinicopathological data from patients.This work was then extended to investigate the effects of MASTL knockdown on tumor cells in vitro.The level of MASTL expression in gastric cancer tissue was assessed from the UALCAN,GEPIA,and Oncomine online databases.Lentivirus carrying MASTL or negative control shRNA was infected into gastric cancer cells.RT-qPCR,Western blotting,cell viability,cell counting,flow cytometric apoptosis and cell cycle,and colony formation assays were performed.MASTL was upregulated in gastric cancer tissue compared to the adjacent normal tissue,and the MASTL expression was associated with advanced tumor stage,Helicobacter pylori infection and histological subtypes.On the other hand,knockdown of MASTL expression significantly reduced tumor cell viability and proliferation,and arrested cell cycle at G2/M stage but promoted tumor cells to undergo apoptosis.At protein level,knockdown of MASTL expression enhanced levels of cleaved PARP1,cleaved caspase-3,Bax and p-ERK1/2 expression,but downregulated expression levels of BCL-2 and p-NF-κB-p65 protein in AGS and MGC-803 cells.MASTL overexpression in gastric cancer tissue may be associated with gastric cancer development and progression,whereas knockdown of MASTL expression reduces tumor cell proliferation and induces apoptosis.Further study will evaluate MASTL as a potential target of gastric cancer therapeutic strategy.展开更多
In the presence of histidine N -(O, O-diisopropyl)phosphoryl serine could catalyze the cleavage of RNA in aqueous solution at neutral pH. The results were detected by sub-marine agarose gel electrophoresis and capilla...In the presence of histidine N -(O, O-diisopropyl)phosphoryl serine could catalyze the cleavage of RNA in aqueous solution at neutral pH. The results were detected by sub-marine agarose gel electrophoresis and capillary zone electrophoresis. It uas found that at high concentration histidine could cleave the RNA slightly. While the participation of DIPP-Ser could significantly accelerate the cleavage reaction. N-phosphodipeptidede ---N -(O. O-diisopropyl)phosphoryl Ser-His are proposed to be involved in the mechanism.展开更多
Serine/arginine-rich splicing factor 1(SRSF1), as a prototype member of the highly conserved serine/arginine family of RNA binding proteins, plays an important role in mRNA alternative splicing, stabilization, nuclear...Serine/arginine-rich splicing factor 1(SRSF1), as a prototype member of the highly conserved serine/arginine family of RNA binding proteins, plays an important role in mRNA alternative splicing, stabilization, nuclear export, and translation. Here, the expression system was established to purify full-length human SRSF1 from Escherichia coli(E. coli). The SRSF1 coding sequence was amplified by polymerase chain reaction(PCR) and inserted into the pET-28 a-ppSUMO vector with His-tag to construct a recombinant plasmid His-SUMO-SRSF1. Then the plasmid was transformed into BL21(DE3) competent cells for expression. After purification by affinity chromatography and cleavage of His-SUMO moiety, a highly purified SRSF1 with a molecular weight of around 28 kg/mol was obtained. The protein was analyzed by sizing chromatography and it was found that SRSF1 would form a polymer structure in the solution. According to Expasy bioinformatics analysis, SRSF1 is extremely unstable. Purification of full-length SRSF1 protein provides an opportunity to study mRNA splicing in vitro.展开更多
Background: The human serine palmitoyltransferase-1, SPTLC1, subunit is emerging as a stress responsive protein with putative role in modulating cellular stress response behavior. When compared to the parental cell li...Background: The human serine palmitoyltransferase-1, SPTLC1, subunit is emerging as a stress responsive protein with putative role in modulating cellular stress response behavior. When compared to the parental cell line, recombinant Glioma cells expressing C-terminal modified SPTLC1 are found to show resistance to the cytotoxic effect of polycyclic hydrocarbons, PHs, including the environmental contaminant 3-methylcholanthrene. This novel functional association of SPTLC1 expression with proliferative capacity is thought to be due, in part, to its ability for crosstalk with protein regulators of different biological processes. Whether the effect of SPTLC1 on sensitivity to PHs extends to therapeutic drugs and the progression of the malignant phenotype is of research interest. Methods: In the current study, sub-cellular localization was by immunostaining for SPTLC1 in untreated and chemical treated cells and detection with confocal microscopy. The effect expressing C-terminal modified SPTLC1, in cancer cell lines of the inflammation-associated type, has on chemosensitivity and gene expression was also assessed. Parent Glioma LN18 and SKN-SH cells and their SPTLC1 recombinants were each treated with Glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter that can participate in both neuronal and excitotoxic signaling. In addition to the Glioma and SKN-SH cells, the PC3 prostate cancer and 647V bladder cancer cell lines were also treated with Celecoxib, a potent inhibitor of cyclooxygenase 2, COX-2, and an anti-inflammatory drug recently found to have anti-neoplastic activity against several malignancies. Results: Confocal microscopy revealed that Celecoxib mediates both rapid and enhanced redistribution of SPTLC1 and COX-2, to focal adhesion sites. In cell viability assay, SPTLC1 recombinant cells exhibited differential but dose-dependent resistance to excitotoxic levels of Glutamate. Drug co-treatment with a non-lethal dose of the potent kinase inhibitor, Sulfasalazine, increased the anti-proliferation effect of Celecoxib in a dose-dependent manner for all the cell lines tested. Conclusions: The effect of SPTLC1 expression on cellular chemosensitivity seen in the present study further highlights possible role of a C-terminal modified SPTLC1 variant in the biologic modulation of cellular behavior in response to therapeutic anticancer drugs.展开更多
Background: Over 1100 genes have been annotated for human chromosome 9, including disease genes implicated in inflammation, atherosclerosis, cancer and neurodegeneration. The serine palmitoyltransferase-1, SPTLC1, gen...Background: Over 1100 genes have been annotated for human chromosome 9, including disease genes implicated in inflammation, atherosclerosis, cancer and neurodegeneration. The serine palmitoyltransferase-1, SPTLC1, gene is at the 9q22.2 cytogenetic band, a high G+C content region with common genetic alterations sufficient to modify cellular behavior. The sequence is highly conserved among diverse species from bacteria to humans, including a recently discovered 126 nucleotide alternate open reading frame, AltORF. The protein encoded by the reading frames has domains of biological interest and considerable overlapping molecular functions associated with cellular behavior and cancer progression. Methods: Here we examined molecular features of SPTLC1 in a group of inflammation associated cancer cell lines SKN-SH, MDA-PCa, Glioma LN18, PC3 and 647V. Subcellular localization of SPTLC1 was assessed by immunofluorescence microscopy and recombinant green fluorescent protein expression. In addition, PCR, DNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis were used for molecular profiling of the SPTLC1 genomic and reverse transcribed cDNA fragments. Results: SPTLC1 is detected in all cell lines examined, with intense peri-nuclear staining, consistent with localization in the cytoplasm. Genomic DNA sample, but not the cD NA of SKN cells could be amplified with an AltORF primer set. The PC3 and MDA-PCa cancer cell lines which are both of prostate origin, show differences in SPTLC1 PCR amplification. Similar levels of SPTLC1 AltORF transcripts were detected by quantitative RT-PCR in all cell lines, except the PC3 cell line with low transcript level whose cDNA did not generate nucleotide base sequence information. Conclusions: This is the first reported transcriptional expression of the SPTLC1 AltORF for the inflammation associated human cancer cell lines. Interestingly, it is proximate of oncogenic cancer susceptibility genes and distal of tumor suppressor genes, the high content of short nucleotide repeats in the SPTLC1 AltORF sequence suggesting the region may be genetically unstable. This nominal functional genomics report on the human SPTLC1 AltORF will contribute to compiling a more detailed SPTLC1 gene ontology and is expected to help shed more insight into unique molecular attributes of SPTLC1 in the context of cancer cell behavior, malignant progression and the design of treatment for inflammation associated cancers.展开更多
Metyrapone (2-methyl-1,2-di-3-pyridyl-1-propanone) is a drug largely used as inhibitor of glucocorticoid synthesis. Although its binding to various proteins has been well indentified, its accurate molecular mechanism ...Metyrapone (2-methyl-1,2-di-3-pyridyl-1-propanone) is a drug largely used as inhibitor of glucocorticoid synthesis. Although its binding to various proteins has been well indentified, its accurate molecular mechanism of action remains unknown. Therefore, the interactions of metyrapone (MET) with various membrane components such as phospholipids, cholesterol, their corresponding polar heads and a model serine containing peptide have been investigated by NMR and ESR methods. It was found that neither cholesterol nor most of the phospholipids tested, nor dimyristin exhibit any interaction with MET, except phosphatidylserine (DMPS). Furthermore, only serine bearing polar head (O-phosphoserine) showed an association with MET (stoechiometry 1:1, Kd = 3200M-1). As similar observations were also performed on serine alone and in the presence of the serine containing model peptide, (NASDSDGQDL), a possible implication of these interactions in the binding recognition of MET on serine-containing active site was finally tested and discussed.展开更多
Serine metabolism is becoming more and more important in a variety of cancers.This paper reviews the discovery of serine synthesis pathway and its imbalance in cancer,and the recent research results on serine metaboli...Serine metabolism is becoming more and more important in a variety of cancers.This paper reviews the discovery of serine synthesis pathway and its imbalance in cancer,and the recent research results on serine metabolism in cancer,and also discuss on how serine metabolism plays a role in cancer.展开更多
Serine metabolism is reportedly involved in immune cell functions, but whether and how serine metabolism regulates macrophage polarization remain largely unknown. Here, we show that suppressing serine metabolism, eith...Serine metabolism is reportedly involved in immune cell functions, but whether and how serine metabolism regulates macrophage polarization remain largely unknown. Here, we show that suppressing serine metabolism, either by inhibiting the activity of the key enzyme phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase in the serine biosynthesis pathway or by exogenous serine and glycine restriction, robustly enhances the polarization of interferon-γ-activated macrophages (M(IFN-γ)) but suppresses that of interleukin-4-activated macrophages (M(IL-4)) both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, serine metabolism deficiency increases the expression of IGF1 by reducing the promoter abundance of S-adenosyl methionine-dependent histone H3 lysine 27 trimethylation. IGF1 then activates the p38-dependent JAK–STAT1 axis to promote M(IFN-γ) polarization and suppress STAT6-mediated M(IL-4) activation. This study reveals a new mechanism by which serine metabolism orchestrates macrophage polarization and suggests the manipulation of serine metabolism as a therapeutic strategy for macrophage-mediated immune diseases.展开更多
Serine hydroxymethyltransferase(SHMT) is important for one carbon metabolism and photorespiration in higher plants for its participation in plant growth and development,and resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. A...Serine hydroxymethyltransferase(SHMT) is important for one carbon metabolism and photorespiration in higher plants for its participation in plant growth and development,and resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. A rice serine hydroxymethyltransferase gene, Os SHM1, an ortholog of Arabidopsis SHM1, was isolated using map-based cloning. The osshm1 mutant had chlorotic lesions and a considerably smaller,lethal phenotype under natural ambient CO2 concentrations,but could be restored to wild type with normal growth under elevated CO2levels(0.5% CO2), showing a typical photorespiratory phenotype. The data from antioxidant enzymes activity measurement suggested that osshm1 was subjected to signi fi cant oxidative stress. Also, Os SHM1 was expressed in allorgans tested(root, culm, leaf, and young panicle) but predominantly in leaves. Os SHM1 protein is localized to the mitochondria. Our study suggested that molecular function of the Os SHM1 gene is conserved in rice and Arabidopsis.展开更多
基金This research was supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2021YFD1800403)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32273005 and 32002256).
文摘The serine proteases of Mycobacteria tuberculosis(Mtb)are important contributors to the process of bacterial invasion and its pathogenesis.In the present study,we systematically characterized the role of the Rv1043c protein in Mycobacterium infection by purifying the Rv1043c protein in Escherichia coli and constructing a Mycobacterium smegmatis(Msg)strain overexpressing Rv1043c(Msg_Rv1043c).We found that Rv1043c had serine protease activity and localized to the surface of Mtb.We determined that the optimal pH and temperature for the Rv1043c serine protease were 9.0 and 45°C,respectively.Moreover,the serine protease activity of Rv1043c was enhanced by divalent metal ions of Ca^(2+)and Mg^(2+).Site-directed mutagenesis studies demonstrated that the serine 279 residue in Rv1043c plays a catalytic role.Additionally,mouse model studies confirmed that Rv1043c significantly enhanced the survival of Msg in vivo,induced pulmonary injury and lung cell apoptosis,and promoted the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1βand interleukin-6 in mice.This study presents novel insights into the relationship between mycobacterial serine protease and the pathogenesis of the disease.
基金This work was supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(2022YFD1400500)the China Agriculture Research System of MOF and MARA(CARS-34-07)+1 种基金the Publicinterest Scientific Institution Basal Research Fund,China(Y2022GH12)the Central Public-interest Scientific Institution Basal Research Fund,China(S2021XM22 and S2022XM21)。
文摘Female adults of the migratory locust,Locusta migratoria manilensis(Meyen),can sense seasonal photoperiod changes,which induces embryonic diapause as a key strategy to overwinter.Serine protease inhibitor genes(SPNs)were thought to play key roles during diapause,while few SPNs were functionally characterized.LmSPN2 was one of those genes differentially expressed between diapause and non-diapause eggs;however,its biological function remained to be explored.So,we conducted RNAi knockdown of LmSPN2,resulting in a significant decrease of the egg diapause rate by 29.7%.Using yeast two-hybrid assays,co-immunoprecipitation,and pull-down methods,we found an interaction between LmSPN2 and LmSPN3,which was proved to be mediated by a glutamate(E331)binding site of LmSPN2.RNAi knockdown of LmSPN3 resulted in a significant increase in diapause rate by 14.6%,indicating an inverse function of LmSPN2 and LmSPN3 on diapause regulation.Double knockdown of two SPN genes resulted in a 26.4%reduction in diapause rate,indicating that LmSPN2 was the dominant regulatory signal.Moreover,we found four Toll pathway genes(easter,spätzle,pelle,and dorsal)upregulated significantly after the knockdown of LmSPN2 while downregulated after the knockdown of LmSPN3.Therefore,we speculate that two SPNs regulate diapause through the Toll pathway.Our results indicated that LmSPN2 positively regulates locust egg entry into diapause,while LmSPN3 is a negative regulator of embryonic commitment to diapause.Their interaction is mediated by the binding site of E331 and influences egg diapause through the Toll pathway.This mechanistic understanding of diapause regulation expands our understanding of insect developmental regulation and provides functional targets for developing locust management strategies.
文摘BACKGROUND Ameloblastomas are common benign epithelial odontogenic neoplasms that present an aggressive and unpredictable behavior that may modify treatment strategies.Different signaling pathways that participate in the progression of these tumors have been identified.B-raf proto-oncogene serine/threonine kinase(BRAF)is a protein involved in the behavior of ameloblastomas,and it is related to many cell mechanisms.BRAF gene mutations have been identified in ameloblastomas,of which the BRAF V600E(valine substituted by glutamic acid at amino acid 600)mutation has been the most common and can be present concomitantly with other mutations that may be involved in its behavior.Targeted therapies have been used as an alternative in the case of resistance or contraindications to conventional treatments.AIM To document the presence of BRAF V600E and additional mutations,their behavior,and targeted therapies in these tumors.METHODS An electronic literature search was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines in PubMed/MEDLINE,Cochrane,EMBASE,and SpringerLink using the terms“ameloblastomas”,“BRAF V600E”,“additional mutations”,and“targeted therapies”.Ameloblastomas were classified according to WHO guidelines.Inclusion criteria were articles in English,published not more than 10 years ago,and studies with laboratory works related to BRAF V600E.Articles were evaluated by two independent reviewers and retrieved for full-text evaluation.The EBLIP Critical Appraisal Checklist was used to evaluate the quality of the eligible studies.Descriptive statistical analysis was performed.RESULTS Two independent reviewers,with a substantial concordance indicated by a kappa coefficient of k=0.76,evaluated a total of 19 articles that were included in this study.The analysis registered 521 conventional ameloblastomas(AM),81 unicystic ameloblastomas(UA),13 ameloblastic carcinomas(AC),three metastatic ameloblastomas(MA),and six peripheral ameloblastomas(PA),of which the histopathological type,anatomic location,laboratory tests,expression of BRAF mutation,and additional mutations were registered.The BRAF V600E mutation was found in 297 AM(57%),63 UA(77.7%),3 AC(23%),1 MA(50%),and 5 PA(83.3%).Follicular type predominated with a total of 116 cases(40%),followed by plexiform type with 63 cases(22.1%).Furthermore,both types presented additional mutations,in which alterations in JAK3 P132T,SMARCB1,PIK3CA,CTNNB1,SMO,and BRAF G606E genes were found.Four case reports were found with targeted therapy to BRAF V600E.CONCLUSION The identification of BRAF V600E and additional mutations as an aid in targeted therapies has been a breakthrough in alternative treatments of ameloblastomas where surgical treatments are contraindicated.
文摘Aims More and more advances show that hydrogen sulfide （H2S） sulfhydrates functional proteins and regulates their actions. However, much less is known about the endogenous sulfhydration of key proteins under physiological conditions. Methods Biotin-switch assay, electrophysiological recording, RNA interference, full ESI-MS scan et al. Results Herein, we found that the protein sulfhydration was dynamically regulated by neuro- nal activity. H2S sulfhydrated and activated serine racemase （SR） in the hippocampus, resuhantly increased D- serine level. Notably, sulfhydration of SR was markedly promoted by neuronal stimulation and underlay activity-de- pendent changes of D-serine availability. Both genetic knockdown and pharmacological inhibition of cystathionine β-synthase （CBS）, the key H2S-producing enzyme in brain, attenuated hippoeampal long-term potentiation （LTP） , which can be reversed by exogenous supplement of H2S or D-serine. We also observed that the increase in LTP induced by H2S is dependent on D-serine and polysulfides. In aged rats, sulfhydration of SR was significantly decreased. Furthermore, exogenous supplement of H2S restored the level of sulfhydration and reversed the age-re- lated deficits in hippocampal LTP. Conclusion Our data provide direct evidence for the biological significance of endogenous sulfhydration in physiological conditions and demonstrate a pivotal role of activity-dependent sulfhydra- tion in synaptic plasticity.
基金supported by the Research Grant for Faculty(Grant No.R&J/Budget/2011-12/251)
文摘Objective:To isolate,partially purify and evaluate the cytotoxic and antitumor activity of a serine protease from the chosen Indian earthworm Pheretima posthuma.Methods:Whole animal extract was prepared and purified its protein constituents by size and charge based chromatographic separation techniques using Sephadex G-50 and DEAE-Cellulose resin respectively.Average molecular weight of the protein isolate was determined and analyzed for its cytotoxic property against Vero cells in different dilutions(1:20 and 1:40)and anti-tumor activity by MTT assay(a colorimetric assay)using breast cancer cell line MCF-7,with tamoxifen as standard.Results:One of the protein constituents after purification was characterized as serine protease by Caseinolytic plate diffusion assay.Average molecular weight of this purified isolate was determined,by SDS-PAGE analysis with standard protein ladder,as of 15 kDa.The performed tests suggested that the 15kDa fraction has potent cytotoxic activity and satisfactory antitumor activity as well in vitro.Conclusions:Exact molecular mechanism of the cytotoxic and antitumor activities is yet to be explored and currently we are working on ultra-purification and biophysical characterization of this fraction.Further investigation into the mechanism(s)of cytotoxic and antitumor activities at molecular level would be useful in treatment of various classes of cancer and viral infections in future.
文摘BACKGROUND:HtrA1,a serine protease,is down-regulated in various human solid tumors.Overexpression of HtrA1 in human cancer cells inhibits cell growth and proliferation in vitro and in vivo,suggesting its possible role as a tumor suppressor.METHODS:Immunohistochemistry was used to determine the expression of HtrA1 in 50 hepatocellular carcinoma specimens and adjacent liver tissues.The correlation between the expression of HtrA1 and the clinico-pathologic data were analyzed.RESULTS:The levels of HtrA1 were lower in tumor tissues than in their adjacent liver tissues.Moreover,an inverse relationship was found between HtrA1 expression and the differentiation of hepatocellular carcinoma.Loss of HtrA1 was more frequently found in tumors in Edmondson grade III-IV,especially in those with venous invasion,compared to tumors in Edmondson grade I-II.Most importantly,patients with higher HtrA1 expression had a better survival rate.CONCLUSION:All these data suggest an important role of HtrA1 in hepatocellular carcinoma development and progression,which may be a new target for its treatment.
文摘AIM:To explore mutations in serine/threonine kinase 11(STK11) gene in Peutz-Jeghers syndrome(PJS) with gastrointestinal(GI) hamartomatous polyps.METHODS:Six Japanese PJS patients in 3 families were enrolled in this study.Each of the cases had hamartomatous polyposis in the gastrointestinal tract,including the small intestine,along with mucocutaneous hyperpigmentation.Narrow-band imaging(NBI)-magnification endoscopy was employed to detect microvascular and microsurface irregularities in the GI lesions.NBI magnification findings could be classified into three groups(type A,type B,or type C).Endoscopic polypectomy was performed using double-balloon enteroscopy or colonoscopy.Genomic DNA was extracted from a whole blood sample from each subject.All of the coding exons of STK11 gene,its boundary regions,and the promoter region containing the polymorphic regions were amplified by polymerase chain reaction,and direct sequencing was performed to assess the germline mutations.RESULTS:NBI-magnification endoscopic observation could detect the abnormalities in microvessels and microsurface structures of GI polyps.Overall,we found 5 cases of type A and one case without the examination for the gastric polyps,while there were 4 cases of type B and 2 case of type A for the colorectal polyps.Seventy-nine small-bowel and 115 colorectal polyps over 27 sessions for each were resected endoscopically without significant complications.The only delayed complication included the occurrence of bleeding in a case,and this was successfully managed with hemoclips.Resected polyps contained no malignant components.Based on mutation analysis,all 3 cases in Family I exhibited the +658C>T nonsense mutation in exon 5,which resulted in the production of a truncated protein(Q220X).In Family II,a case had-252C>A and-193C>A in the promoter region.In Family III,a case was found to have the +1062C>G(F342L) mutation in exon 8.CONCLUSION:We found two novel mutations of STK11 in association with PJS.Endoscopic polypectomy of GI polyps in PJS patients appears to be useful to prevent emergency laparotomies and reduce the cancer risk.
文摘Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2(SARS-CoV-2)seems to employ two routes of entrance to the host cell;via membrane fusion(with the cells expressing both angiotensin converting enzyme 2(ACE2)and transmembrane peptidase/serine subfamily member 2/4(TMPRSS2/4))or via receptor-mediated endocytosis(to the target cells expressing only ACE2).The second mode is associated with cysteine cathepsins(probably cathepsin L)involvement in the virus spike protein(S protein)proteolytic activation.Also furin might activate the virus S protein enabling it to enter cells.Gastrointestinal tract(GIT)involvement in SARS-CoV-2 infection is evident in a subset of coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)patients exhibiting GIT symptoms,such as diarrhea,and presenting viral-shedding in feces.Considering the abundance and co-localization of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in the lower GIT(especially brush-border enterocytes),these two receptors seem to be mainly involved in SARS-CoV-2 invasion of the digestive tract.Additionally,in vitro studies have demonstrated the virions capability of infection and replication in the human epithelial cells lining GIT.However,also furin and cysteine cathepsins(cathepsin L)might participate in the activation of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein contributing to the virus invasiveness within GIT.Moreover,cathepsin L(due to its involvement in extracellular matrix components degradation and remodeling,the processes enhanced during SARS-CoV-2-induced inflammation)might be responsible for the dysregulation of absorption/digestion functions of GIT,thus adding to the observed in some COVID-19 patients symptoms such as diarrhea.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.41576166,21707042,31771972)the Fujian Province Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.2019J01696,2017J01447,2017J01636)。
文摘Emiliania huxleyi is the most prominent modern coccolithophore,a group of marine unicellular eukaryotes that play a critical role in ocean biogeochemistry.Coccolithoviruses are large double stranded DNA viruses,which is responsible for the demise of large oceanic blooms formed by E.huxleyi.E.huxleyi virus(EhVs)acquired a series of enzyme-coding genes predicted to be involved in the sphingolipid biosynthesis by horizontal gene transfer between virus-host.Currently,there is limited experimental validation identifying the functions of these genes in EhV.Genetic transformation of eukaryotic cells is a powerful tool to get an insight into gene functions of the studied organisms.Serine palmitoyltransferase(SPT)catalyzes the first committed step in de novo sphingolipid biosynthetic pathway.Here,a novel vector system for the transformation of E.huxleyi was designed.It contained fragments of promoter and terminator sequences of E.huxleyi endogenic fucoxanthin chlorophyll a/c-binding protein gene“fcp”and harbored EhV-99B1 spt gene.The resultant recombinant transformation vectors pEhux-I-spt and pEhux-II were co-transferred into E.huxleyi BOF92 by electroporation.Transformants were obtained upon glufosinate-ammonium selection,and confirmed by Southern hybridization,genome PCR,qRT-PCR and Western blot screening of spt gene,which indicated that spt gene was integrated into the nuclear genome and was expressed at the mRNA and protein levels.The expression of the viral spt gene led to differences in lipid compositions analyzed using thin-layer chromatography(TLC).The results present the genetic transformation system for E.huxleyi,providing additional genetic resource with potential for exploring basic biological questions such as the virus-host interactions.
文摘long-term,and relapsing inflammatory disorders.IBD may spontaneously grow in the colon,and in severe cases may result in tumor lesions such as invasive carcinoma in inflamed regions of the intestine.Recent epidemiological reports indicate that old age and underlying diseases such as IBD contribute to severity and mortality in patients with coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19).Currently,the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic caused serious morbidity and mortality worldwide.It has also been shown that the transmembrane serine protease 2 is an essential factor for viral activation and viral engulfment.Generally,viral entry causes a'cytokine storm'that induces excessive generation of proinflammatory cytokines/chemokines including interleukin(IL)-6,IL-2,IL-7,tumor necrosis factor-α,and interferon-γ.Future research could concentrate on developing inflammatory immunological responses that are efficient to encounter COVID-19.Current analysis elucidates the role of inflammation and immune responses during IBD infection with COVID-19 and provides a list of possible targets for IBD-regulated therapies in particular.Data from clinical,in vitro,and in vivo studies were collected in English from PubMed,Google Scholar,Scopus,and the Cochrane library until May 2021.
基金grants from Lanzhou Science and Technology Planning Project(No.2016-3-113)University Research Project of Gansu Province(No.2018A049)+2 种基金the Foundation of the Fundamental Scientific Research Funds for Colleges and Universities in Gansu Province[No.(2014)63-15]the China’s National Science and Technology Program for Public Wellbeing(No.2012GS620101)National Key Research and Development Planning(No.2017YFC0908302).
文摘Microtubule-associated serine/threonine kinase(MASTL)functions to regulate chromosome condensation and mitotic progression.Therefore,aberrant MASTL expression is commonly implicated in various human cancers.This study analyzed MASTL expression in gastric cancer vs.adjacent normal tissue for elucidating the association with clinicopathological data from patients.This work was then extended to investigate the effects of MASTL knockdown on tumor cells in vitro.The level of MASTL expression in gastric cancer tissue was assessed from the UALCAN,GEPIA,and Oncomine online databases.Lentivirus carrying MASTL or negative control shRNA was infected into gastric cancer cells.RT-qPCR,Western blotting,cell viability,cell counting,flow cytometric apoptosis and cell cycle,and colony formation assays were performed.MASTL was upregulated in gastric cancer tissue compared to the adjacent normal tissue,and the MASTL expression was associated with advanced tumor stage,Helicobacter pylori infection and histological subtypes.On the other hand,knockdown of MASTL expression significantly reduced tumor cell viability and proliferation,and arrested cell cycle at G2/M stage but promoted tumor cells to undergo apoptosis.At protein level,knockdown of MASTL expression enhanced levels of cleaved PARP1,cleaved caspase-3,Bax and p-ERK1/2 expression,but downregulated expression levels of BCL-2 and p-NF-κB-p65 protein in AGS and MGC-803 cells.MASTL overexpression in gastric cancer tissue may be associated with gastric cancer development and progression,whereas knockdown of MASTL expression reduces tumor cell proliferation and induces apoptosis.Further study will evaluate MASTL as a potential target of gastric cancer therapeutic strategy.
文摘In the presence of histidine N -(O, O-diisopropyl)phosphoryl serine could catalyze the cleavage of RNA in aqueous solution at neutral pH. The results were detected by sub-marine agarose gel electrophoresis and capillary zone electrophoresis. It uas found that at high concentration histidine could cleave the RNA slightly. While the participation of DIPP-Ser could significantly accelerate the cleavage reaction. N-phosphodipeptidede ---N -(O. O-diisopropyl)phosphoryl Ser-His are proposed to be involved in the mechanism.
基金Shanghai Science and Technology Commission’s “Belt and Road Initiative International Cooperation Project”,China (No.19410741800)。
文摘Serine/arginine-rich splicing factor 1(SRSF1), as a prototype member of the highly conserved serine/arginine family of RNA binding proteins, plays an important role in mRNA alternative splicing, stabilization, nuclear export, and translation. Here, the expression system was established to purify full-length human SRSF1 from Escherichia coli(E. coli). The SRSF1 coding sequence was amplified by polymerase chain reaction(PCR) and inserted into the pET-28 a-ppSUMO vector with His-tag to construct a recombinant plasmid His-SUMO-SRSF1. Then the plasmid was transformed into BL21(DE3) competent cells for expression. After purification by affinity chromatography and cleavage of His-SUMO moiety, a highly purified SRSF1 with a molecular weight of around 28 kg/mol was obtained. The protein was analyzed by sizing chromatography and it was found that SRSF1 would form a polymer structure in the solution. According to Expasy bioinformatics analysis, SRSF1 is extremely unstable. Purification of full-length SRSF1 protein provides an opportunity to study mRNA splicing in vitro.
文摘Background: The human serine palmitoyltransferase-1, SPTLC1, subunit is emerging as a stress responsive protein with putative role in modulating cellular stress response behavior. When compared to the parental cell line, recombinant Glioma cells expressing C-terminal modified SPTLC1 are found to show resistance to the cytotoxic effect of polycyclic hydrocarbons, PHs, including the environmental contaminant 3-methylcholanthrene. This novel functional association of SPTLC1 expression with proliferative capacity is thought to be due, in part, to its ability for crosstalk with protein regulators of different biological processes. Whether the effect of SPTLC1 on sensitivity to PHs extends to therapeutic drugs and the progression of the malignant phenotype is of research interest. Methods: In the current study, sub-cellular localization was by immunostaining for SPTLC1 in untreated and chemical treated cells and detection with confocal microscopy. The effect expressing C-terminal modified SPTLC1, in cancer cell lines of the inflammation-associated type, has on chemosensitivity and gene expression was also assessed. Parent Glioma LN18 and SKN-SH cells and their SPTLC1 recombinants were each treated with Glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter that can participate in both neuronal and excitotoxic signaling. In addition to the Glioma and SKN-SH cells, the PC3 prostate cancer and 647V bladder cancer cell lines were also treated with Celecoxib, a potent inhibitor of cyclooxygenase 2, COX-2, and an anti-inflammatory drug recently found to have anti-neoplastic activity against several malignancies. Results: Confocal microscopy revealed that Celecoxib mediates both rapid and enhanced redistribution of SPTLC1 and COX-2, to focal adhesion sites. In cell viability assay, SPTLC1 recombinant cells exhibited differential but dose-dependent resistance to excitotoxic levels of Glutamate. Drug co-treatment with a non-lethal dose of the potent kinase inhibitor, Sulfasalazine, increased the anti-proliferation effect of Celecoxib in a dose-dependent manner for all the cell lines tested. Conclusions: The effect of SPTLC1 expression on cellular chemosensitivity seen in the present study further highlights possible role of a C-terminal modified SPTLC1 variant in the biologic modulation of cellular behavior in response to therapeutic anticancer drugs.
文摘Background: Over 1100 genes have been annotated for human chromosome 9, including disease genes implicated in inflammation, atherosclerosis, cancer and neurodegeneration. The serine palmitoyltransferase-1, SPTLC1, gene is at the 9q22.2 cytogenetic band, a high G+C content region with common genetic alterations sufficient to modify cellular behavior. The sequence is highly conserved among diverse species from bacteria to humans, including a recently discovered 126 nucleotide alternate open reading frame, AltORF. The protein encoded by the reading frames has domains of biological interest and considerable overlapping molecular functions associated with cellular behavior and cancer progression. Methods: Here we examined molecular features of SPTLC1 in a group of inflammation associated cancer cell lines SKN-SH, MDA-PCa, Glioma LN18, PC3 and 647V. Subcellular localization of SPTLC1 was assessed by immunofluorescence microscopy and recombinant green fluorescent protein expression. In addition, PCR, DNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis were used for molecular profiling of the SPTLC1 genomic and reverse transcribed cDNA fragments. Results: SPTLC1 is detected in all cell lines examined, with intense peri-nuclear staining, consistent with localization in the cytoplasm. Genomic DNA sample, but not the cD NA of SKN cells could be amplified with an AltORF primer set. The PC3 and MDA-PCa cancer cell lines which are both of prostate origin, show differences in SPTLC1 PCR amplification. Similar levels of SPTLC1 AltORF transcripts were detected by quantitative RT-PCR in all cell lines, except the PC3 cell line with low transcript level whose cDNA did not generate nucleotide base sequence information. Conclusions: This is the first reported transcriptional expression of the SPTLC1 AltORF for the inflammation associated human cancer cell lines. Interestingly, it is proximate of oncogenic cancer susceptibility genes and distal of tumor suppressor genes, the high content of short nucleotide repeats in the SPTLC1 AltORF sequence suggesting the region may be genetically unstable. This nominal functional genomics report on the human SPTLC1 AltORF will contribute to compiling a more detailed SPTLC1 gene ontology and is expected to help shed more insight into unique molecular attributes of SPTLC1 in the context of cancer cell behavior, malignant progression and the design of treatment for inflammation associated cancers.
文摘Metyrapone (2-methyl-1,2-di-3-pyridyl-1-propanone) is a drug largely used as inhibitor of glucocorticoid synthesis. Although its binding to various proteins has been well indentified, its accurate molecular mechanism of action remains unknown. Therefore, the interactions of metyrapone (MET) with various membrane components such as phospholipids, cholesterol, their corresponding polar heads and a model serine containing peptide have been investigated by NMR and ESR methods. It was found that neither cholesterol nor most of the phospholipids tested, nor dimyristin exhibit any interaction with MET, except phosphatidylserine (DMPS). Furthermore, only serine bearing polar head (O-phosphoserine) showed an association with MET (stoechiometry 1:1, Kd = 3200M-1). As similar observations were also performed on serine alone and in the presence of the serine containing model peptide, (NASDSDGQDL), a possible implication of these interactions in the binding recognition of MET on serine-containing active site was finally tested and discussed.
基金Upregulation of Egfr Mutation in Xuanwei Lung Cancer by Nrf2 Mediated Proliferation and Drug Resistance and its Mechanism,Project No.40116008Breviscapine Aglycone and its Acetylated Derivatives Inhibiting the Proliferation and Promote Apoptosis of Tumor Cells by Regulating Pi3k/Akt/Mtor Pathway,Project No.2017fe467(-126).
文摘Serine metabolism is becoming more and more important in a variety of cancers.This paper reviews the discovery of serine synthesis pathway and its imbalance in cancer,and the recent research results on serine metabolism in cancer,and also discuss on how serine metabolism plays a role in cancer.
基金This research was supported by grants from the Tianjin Municipal Natural Science Foundation of China(20JCYBJC00220,QY)from the National Natural Science Foundation of China:81672710(QY),81872239(QY),82073051(TW),81874055(TW),and 81902900(LS).
文摘Serine metabolism is reportedly involved in immune cell functions, but whether and how serine metabolism regulates macrophage polarization remain largely unknown. Here, we show that suppressing serine metabolism, either by inhibiting the activity of the key enzyme phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase in the serine biosynthesis pathway or by exogenous serine and glycine restriction, robustly enhances the polarization of interferon-γ-activated macrophages (M(IFN-γ)) but suppresses that of interleukin-4-activated macrophages (M(IL-4)) both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, serine metabolism deficiency increases the expression of IGF1 by reducing the promoter abundance of S-adenosyl methionine-dependent histone H3 lysine 27 trimethylation. IGF1 then activates the p38-dependent JAK–STAT1 axis to promote M(IFN-γ) polarization and suppress STAT6-mediated M(IL-4) activation. This study reveals a new mechanism by which serine metabolism orchestrates macrophage polarization and suggests the manipulation of serine metabolism as a therapeutic strategy for macrophage-mediated immune diseases.
基金supported by the Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China (Z3110509)the National Hightech R&D Program of China (863 Program+2 种基金 2012AA10A302-6)the National Natural Science Foundation of China (31271800)the Transgenic Project (2011ZX08010-002)
文摘Serine hydroxymethyltransferase(SHMT) is important for one carbon metabolism and photorespiration in higher plants for its participation in plant growth and development,and resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. A rice serine hydroxymethyltransferase gene, Os SHM1, an ortholog of Arabidopsis SHM1, was isolated using map-based cloning. The osshm1 mutant had chlorotic lesions and a considerably smaller,lethal phenotype under natural ambient CO2 concentrations,but could be restored to wild type with normal growth under elevated CO2levels(0.5% CO2), showing a typical photorespiratory phenotype. The data from antioxidant enzymes activity measurement suggested that osshm1 was subjected to signi fi cant oxidative stress. Also, Os SHM1 was expressed in allorgans tested(root, culm, leaf, and young panicle) but predominantly in leaves. Os SHM1 protein is localized to the mitochondria. Our study suggested that molecular function of the Os SHM1 gene is conserved in rice and Arabidopsis.
