E1A Binding Protein P300 Research Articles

Divergent variant patterns among 19 patients with Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome uncovered by comprehensive genetic analysis including whole genome sequencing.

Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome (RSTS) is characterized by dysmorphic facial features, broad thumbs, and intellectual disability. CREB-binding protein (CREBBP) or E1A-binding protein P300 (EP300) are causative genes. To elucidate the underlying genetic and genomic architecture related to the RSTS phenotype, we performed comprehensive genetic analysis targeting CREBBP and/or EP300 in 22 clinically diagnosed patients. During the 11-year study period, we used several analysis methods including high-resolution melting, array-based comparative genomic hybridization, panel-based exome sequencing, whole exome sequencing, and whole genome sequencing (WGS). We identified the causative variants in 19 patients (86.3%), but they were variable and complex, so we must combine multiple analysis methods. Notably, we found genetic alterations in the non-coding regions of two patients (10.5%, 2/19): scattered deletions including a partial 5'-untranslated region of CREBBP in one patient (all coding exons were intact), and a deep 229-bp intronic deletion in another patient, resulting in a splicing error. Furthermore, we identified rare clinical findings: two patients with an EP300 variant showed abnormal development of the neural tube, and one patient with a CREBBP variant had anorectal atresia with a cloaca. Our findings expand the allelic heterogeneity of RSTS, underscore the utility of comprehensive genetic analysis, and suggest that WGS may be a practical diagnostic strategy.

The comparison of differentially expressed microRNAs in Bag-1 deficient and wild type MCF-7 breast cancer cells by small RNA sequencing

The multifunctional BAG-1 (Bcl-2 athanogene-1) protein promotes breast cancer survival through direct or indirect interaction partners. The number of the interacting partners determines its cellular role in different conditions. As well as interaction partner variability, the amount of BAG-1 protein in the cells could cause dramatic alterations. According to previous studies, while the transient silencing of Bag-1 enhanced drug-induced apoptosis, deletion of BAG-1 could induce stemness properties and Akt-mediated actin remodeling in MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Considering the heterogeneity of breast cancer and the variability of BAG-1 -mediated cell response, it has become essential to determine microRNA (miRNA) functions in breast cancer depending on Bag-1 expression level. This study aims to compare microRNA expression levels in wt and Bag-1 knockout (KO) MCF-7 breast cancer cells. hsa-miR-429 was selected as a potential miRNA in BAG-1KO MCF-7 cells because of the downregulation both in bioinformatics and validation qRT-PCR assay. According to predicted mRNA targets and functional enrichment analysis the ten hub proteins that are phosphatidylinositol- 4,5-biphosphate 3-kinase catalytic subunit alpha (PIK3CA), kinase insert domain receptor (KDR), GRB2 associated binding protein 1 (GAB1), Rac family small GTPase1 (RAC1), vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), Cbl proto-oncogene (CBL), syndecan 2 (SDC2), phospholipase C gamma 1 (PLCG1), E1A binding protein p300 (EP300), and CRK like proto-oncogene, adaptor protein (CRKL) were identified as targets of hsa-miR-429. The functional enrichment analysis showed that the most significant proteins were enriched in PI3K/Akt, focal adhesion, cytoskeleton regulation, proteoglycans in cancer, and Ras signaling pathways. It was determined that hsa-miR-429 targeted these pathways in Bag-1 deficient conditions and could be used as a potential therapeutic target in future studies.

RNA-binding protein p54nrb/NONO potentiates nuclear EGFR-mediated tumorigenesis of triple-negative breast cancer

Nuclear-localized epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) highly correlates with the malignant progression and may be a promising therapeutic target for breast cancer. However, molecular mechanisms of nuclear EGFR in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) have not been fully elucidated. Here, we performed gene-annotation enrichment analysis for the interactors of nuclear EGFR and found that RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) were closely associated with nuclear EGFR. We further demonstrated p54nrb/NONO, one of the RBPs, significantly interacted with nuclear EGFR. NONO was upregulated in 80 paired TNBC tissues and indicated a poor prognosis. Furthermore, NONO knockout significantly inhibited TNBC proliferation in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, NONO increased the stability of nuclear EGFR and recruited CREB binding protein (CBP) and its accompanying E1A binding protein p300, thereby enhancing the transcriptional activity of EGFR. In turn, EGFR positively regulated the affinity of NONO to mRNAs of nuclear EGFR downstream genes. Furthermore, the results indicated that the nuclear EGFR/NONO complex played a critical role in tumorigenesis and chemotherapy resistance. Taken together, our findings indicate that NONO enhances nuclear EGFR-mediated tumorigenesis and may be a potential therapeutic target for TNBC patients with nuclear EGFR expression.

CCS1477, a Novel p300/CBP Bromodomain Inhibitor, Enhances Efficacy of Azacitidine and Venetoclax in Pre-Clinical Models of Acute Myeloid Leukaemia and Lymphoma

E1A binding protein (p300) and CREB binding protein (CBP) are two closely related histone acetyl transferases that co-activate key oncogenes such as MYC and IRF4 which are relevant in a number of haematological malignancies. Here we describe the effects of CCS1477, a new orally available inhibitor of the p300/CBP bromodomains, given alone or in combination with azactidine or venetoclax in pre-clinical models of AML and B-cell lymphoma.As a monotherapy, daily oral dosing with CCS1477 (5, 10 and 20mg/kg) caused a significant dose-dependent reduction in tumour growth in a MOLM-16 xenograft model of AML, with regressions observed at the highest and well tolerated dose of 20mg/kg/qd. The inhibition of tumour growth during drug treatment was accompanied by a significant reduction in tumour expression of MYC by qPCR. In murine retroviral transduction and transplantation models of human AML initiated by either MLL-AF10 or MLL-AF9, daily monotherapy by oral gavage with CCS1477 at 30mg/kg for 42 days, caused a highly significant prolongation of survival. All seven control treated mice died of AML within 160 days whereas only one of seven CCS1477 treated mice had died in each model by 300 days.In the MOLM-16 xenograft model, a sub-maximal dose of CCS1477 (10mg/kg) demonstrated superior tumour growth inhibition by comparison with azacitidine (0.5mg/kg i.p) and with significant combination benefit when these two agents were combined. In this same model venetoclax (50 or 100 mg/kg/qd oral) had no effect on tumour growth, indicating that MOLM-16 tumours are intrinsically resistant. CCS1477 dosed daily at 10mg/kg restored sensitivity to venetoclax as evidenced by significantly greater tumour growth inhibition when compared with CCS1477 given alone. In a venetoclax-sensitive xenograft model of AML (MV-4-11), CCS1477 (10mg/kg) and venetoclax (100mg/kg) resulted in a similar and partial reduction in tumour growth over a 21 day dosing period. When venetoclax and CCS1477 were combined there was a significant combination benefit compared to either drug given alone. The DOHH-2 xenograft model of B-cell lymphoma was also sensitive to venetoclax (50mg/kg) and with a similar impact on tumour growth compared with CCS1477 (10mg/kg). In this model the combination of CCS1477 and venetoclax was more profound and caused complete tumour stasis during the dosing period.These data support the clinical testing of CCS1477 in combination with azacitidine and/or venetoclax in AML and B-cell lymphomas. CCS1477 is currently in Phase I/II clinical trials in AML, Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (including B-cell lymphoma) and multiple myeloma. (NCT04068597). DisclosuresBrooks: CellCentric Ltd: Current Employment, Current holder of individual stocks in a privately-held company. Knurowski: CellCentric Ltd: Current Employment, Current holder of individual stocks in a privately-held company, Current holder of stock options in a privately-held company. Hughes: CellCentric Ltd: Consultancy, Current holder of individual stocks in a privately-held company, Current holder of stock options in a privately-held company. Clegg: CellCentric Ltd: Current Employment, Current holder of individual stocks in a privately-held company. West: CellCentric Ltd: Current Employment, Current holder of individual stocks in a privately-held company. Pegg: CellCentric Ltd: Current Employment, Current holder of individual stocks in a privately-held company. Somervaille: Novartis: Consultancy, Honoraria.

Atomistic insights into the selective therapeutic activity of 6-(2,4-difluorophenoxy)-5-((ethylmethyl)pyridine-3-yl)-8-methylpyrrolo[1,2-a]pyrazin-1(2H)-one towards bromodomain-containing proteins

Cross-target effect has been one of the major mechanisms of drug toxicity, this has necessitated the design of inhibitors that are specifically tailored to target particular biomolecules. 6-(2,4-difluorophenoxy)-5-((ethylmethyl)pyridine-3-yl)-8-methylpyrrolo[1,2-a] pyrazin-1(2H)-one (Cpd38) is an inhibitor possessing high inhibition rate and tailored specificity towards bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4). In this research, we used an array of computational techniques to provide insight at the atomistic level the specific targeting of BRD4 by Cpd38 relative to the binding of Cpd38 with E1A binding protein P300 (EP300); another bromodomain-containing protein (BCP). Comparatively, binding of Cpd38 improved the conformational stability and compactness of BRD4 protein when compared to the Cpd38 bound EP300. Also, Cpd38 induced a conformational change in the active site of BRD4 that facilitated a complementary pose between Cpd38 and BRD4 suitable for effective atomistic interactions. Expectedly, thermodynamic calculations revealed that the Cpd38-BRD4 system had higher binding energy (−36.11 Kcal/mol) than the Cpd38-EP300 system with a free binding energy of −15.86 Kcal/mol. Noteworthy is the opposing role Trp81 (acting as hydrogen bond acceptor) and Pro1074 (acting as hydrogen bond donor) found on the WPF and LPF loops respectively play in maintaining Cpd38 stability. Furthermore, the hydrogen bond acceptor/donator ratio was approximately 4:1 in Cpd38-BRD4 system compared with 2:1 in Cpd38-EP300 system. Taken together, atomistic insights and structural perspectives detailed in this report supplements the experimental report supporting the improved selectivity of Cpd38 for BRD4 ahead of other BCPs while providing leeway for the future design of BET selective agents with better pharmacological profile.

Pan-Cancer Analysis Reveals That E1A Binding Protein p300 Mutations Increase Genome Instability and Antitumor Immunity

E1A binding protein p300 (EP300) is mutated in diverse cancers. Nevertheless, a systematic investigation into the associations of EP300 mutations with genome instability and antitumor immunity in pan-cancer remains lacking. Using the datasets from The Cancer Genome Atlas, we analyzed the correlations between EP300 mutations and genome instability and antitumor immune response in 11 cancer types. Compared to EP300-wild-type cancers, EP300-mutated cancers had significantly higher tumor mutation burden (TMB) in 10 cancer types. EP300-mutated cancers harbored a much higher fraction of microsatellite instable cancers in the colon and gastric cancers. EP300 was co-mutated with genes involved in DNA damage repair pathways in multiple cancers. Furthermore, compared to EP300-wild-type cancers, EP300-mutated cancers had significantly higher immune cytolytic activity scores and ratios of immune-stimulatory over immune-inhibitory signatures in diverse cancers. Also, EP300-mutated cancers showed significantly higher programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression levels than EP300-wild-type cancers. The increased TMB, antitumor immune activity, and PD-L1 expression indicated a favorable response to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in EP300-mutated cancers, as evident in three cancer cohorts treated with ICIs. Thus, the EP300 mutation could be a predictive biomarker for the response to immunotherapy.

Identification of de novo EP300 and PLAU variants in a patient with Rubinstein\u2013Taybi syndrome-related arterial vasculopathy and skeletal anomaly

Rubinstein–Taybi syndrome (RSTS) is a human genetic disorder characterized by distinctive craniofacial features, broad thumbs and halluces, and intellectual disability. Mutations in the CREB binding protein (CREBBP) and E1A binding protein p300 (EP300) are the known causes of RSTS disease. EP300 regulates transcription via chromatin remodeling and plays an important role in cell proliferation and differentiation. Plasminogen activator, urokinase (PLAU) encodes a serine protease that converts plasminogen to plasmin and is involved in several biological processes such as the proteolysis of extracellular matrix-remodeling proteins and the promotion of vascular permeability and angiogenesis. Recently, we discovered a patient who presented with RSTS-related skeletal anomaly and peripheral arterial vasculopathy. To investigate the genetic cause of the disease, we performed trio whole genome sequencing of the genomic DNA from the proband and the proband’s parents. We identified two de novo variants coined c.1760T>G (p.Leu587Arg) and c.664G>A (p.Ala222Thr) in EP300 and PLAU, respectively. Furthermore, functional loss of EP300a and PLAUb in zebrafish synergistically affected the intersegmental vessel formation and resulted in the vascular occlusion phenotype. Therefore, we hypothesize that the de novo EP300 variant may have caused RSTS, while both the identified EP300 and PLAU variants may have contributed to the patient’s vascular phenotype.

Abstract 1143: Evaluation of AU-18069, a novel small molecule CBP/p300 bromodomain inhibitor for the treatment of cancers

Abstract Background: E1A binding protein (p300) and its paralog CREB binding protein (CBP or CREBBP) are ubiquitously expressed acetyl transferases (HAT) that also act as co-activators for number of transcription factors including HIF1a, BRCA-1, p53, c-Myc and androgen receptor (AR). Both CBP and p300 possess bromodomain (BRD) and a lysine acetyltransferase (KAT) domain. These two closely related epigenetic modulators are known to play oncogenic roles in a variety of cancers. Functional synthetic lethal screens have identified preferential killing in CBP-deficient and MYC-dependent hematological cancer cells by suppression of the paralogue p300. CBP/p300 BRD inhibitor could also prevent its coactivator function at AR, thereby potentially inhibit growth of AR-dependent prostate cancer cells. Thus, targeting CBP/p300 represents an attractive approach for developing personalized therapies. Experimental procedures and Results: Multiple potent and selective CBP/p300 BRD inhibitors that are structurally unrelated to known inhibitors have been identified by iterative medicinal chemistry and SAR based approaches. The lead compound, AU-18069 was optimized towards attaining good potency, physicochemical properties and DMPK profile. AU-18069 potently inhibited viability and proliferation of a wide range of cell lines derived from prostate cancer, CBP mutant and MYC-dependent hematological cancers and demonstrated improved PK profile in rodent models in comparison with a compound, currently in clinical trials. Excellent efficacy with significant tumor growth inhibition (TGI) was observed in MV4-11 xenograft model at well-tolerated doses along with downregulation of cMYC in a single dose PK-PD study. AU-18069 also showed modulation of different immune phenotypes including CD4+ T cell subsets. In summary, our lead candidate AU-18069 demonstrated that selective CBP/p300 bromodomain inhibitors are potent in models of hematologic malignancies and solid tumors in vitro and in vivo. Further evaluation of immune activation potential, efficacy studies in various xenograft models, long term toxicological evaluation in different species and other IND enabling studies are in progress. Citation Format: Chandrasekhar Abbineni, Saravanan Thiyagarajan, Ramesh S Senaiar, Subhendu Mukherjee, Mahaboobi Jaleel, Sivapriya Marappan, Raghavendra N R, Girish Aggunda Renukappa, Aravind A B, Naveen Kumar R, Venkata Siva Reddy, Asha Babu, Akhila Srinivas, Prasad Yadlapalli, Suraj T Gore, Pathange Hemasankar, Mamon Dey, Samiulla D S, Chandranath D Naik, Thomas Antony, Kavitha Nellore, Shekar Chelur, Girish Daginakatte, Mikko Myllymäki, Gerd Wohlfahrt, Murali Ramachandra, Susanta Samajdar. Evaluation of AU-18069, a novel small molecule CBP/p300 bromodomain inhibitor for the treatment of cancers [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2021; 2021 Apr 10-15 and May 17-21. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(13_Suppl):Abstract nr 1143.

Epigenetic reader BRD4 supports mycobacterial pathogenesis by co-modulating host lipophagy and angiogenesis

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb)-driven lipid accumulation is intricately associated with the progression of tuberculosis (TB) disease. Although several studies elucidating the mechanisms for lipid droplet (LD) biosynthesis exist, we provide evidence for the significance of their regulated turnover via macroautophagy/autophagy during Mtb infection. We demonstrate that Mtb utilizes EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) signaling to induce the expression of the histone acetylation reader, BRD4 (bromodomain containing 4). The EGFR-BRD4 axis suppresses lipid-specific autophagy, and hence favors cellular lipid accumulation. Specifically, we found that pharmacological inhibition or knockdown of Egfr or Brd4 enhances autophagic flux and concomitantly decreases cellular LDs that is otherwise maintained at a significant level in chloroquine-treated or Atg5 knocked down autophagy-compromised host cells. In line with the enhanced lipophagy, we found that loss of EGFR or BRD4 function restricts mycobacterial burden that is rescued by external replenishment with oleic acid. We also report that the EGFR-BRD4 axis exerts additional effects by modulating pro-angiogenic gene expression and consequently aberrant angiogenesis during mycobacterial infection. This is important in the context of systemic Mtb dissemination as well as for the efficient delivery of anti-mycobacterial therapeutics to the Mtb-rich core of TB granuloma. Finally, utilizing an in vivo mouse model of TB, we show that pharmacological inhibition of EGFR and BRD4 compromises LD build-up via enhanced lipophagy and normalizes angiogenesis, thereby restricting Mtb burden and rescuing mice from severe TB-like pathology. These findings shed light on the novel roles of BRD4 during Mtb infection, and its possible implication in potentiating anti-TB responses.

Development of Dimethylisoxazole-Attached Imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines as Potent and Selective CBP/P300 Inhibitors.

The use of epigenetic bromodomain inhibitors as anticancer therapeutics has transitioned from targeting bromodomain extraterminal domain (BET) proteins into targeting non-BET bromodomains. The two most relevant non-BET bromodomain oncology targets are cyclic AMP response element-binding protein (CBP) and E1A binding protein P300 (EP300). To explore the growing CBP/EP300 interest, we developed a highly efficient two-step synthetic route for dimethylisoxazole-attached imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine scaffold-containing inhibitors. Our efficient two-step reactions enabled high-throughput synthesis of compounds designed by molecular modeling, which together with structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies facilitated an overarching understanding of selective targeting of CBP/EP300 over non-BET bromodomains. This led to the identification of a new potent and selective CBP/EP300 bromodomain inhibitor, UMB298 (compound 23, CBP IC50 72 nM and bromodomain 4, BRD4 IC50 5193 nM). The SAR we established is in good agreement with literature-reported CBP inhibitors, such as CBP30, and demonstrates the advantage of utilizing our two-step approach for inhibitor development of other bromodomains.

CREB stimulates GPX4 transcription to inhibit ferroptosis in lung adenocarcinoma.

Ferroptosis is a new form of regulated cell death and closely related to cancer. However, the mechanism underlying the regulation of ferroptosis in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remains unclear. IB, IHC and ELISA were performed to analyze protein expression. RT-qPCR was used to analyze mRNA expression. Cell viability, 3D cell growth, MDA, the generation of lipid ROS and the Fe2+ concentration were measured to evaluate the responses to the induction of ferroptosis. Measurement of luciferase activity and ChIP were used to analyze the promoter activity regulated by the transcriptional regulator. Co-IP assays were performed to identify protein-protein interactions. In the present study, it was revealed that cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) was highly expressed in LUAD, and knockdown of CREB inhibited cell viability and growth by promoting apoptosis- and ferroptosis-like cell death, concurrently. It was observed that CREB suppressed lipid peroxidation by binding the promoter region of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), and this binding could be enhanced by E1A binding protein P300 (EP300). The bZIP domain in CREB and the CBP/p300-HAT domain in EP300 were essential for CREB-EP300 binding in LUAD cells. Finally, it was revealed that CREB, GPX4, EP300 and 4-HNE were closely related to tumor size and stage, and tumors with a higher degree of malignancy were more likely to have a low degree of lipid peroxidation. Therefore, targeting this CREB/EP300/GPX4 axis may provide new strategies for treating LUAD.

Synergistic efficacy of curcumin and anti-programmed cell death-1 in hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) ranks near the top in the global list of malignancies causing cancer-related death. Recently, combination therapy has gained popularity in treating this cancer. We tried to investigate the efficacy of combined treatment with curcumin and anti-programmed cell death-1 (anti-PD-1) in HCC. Hep3B cells were treated with different concentrations of curcumin, followed by determination of Hep3B cell proliferation and programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-L1) expression. Then, Hep3B cells were co-cultured with peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), after which the Hep3B cell growth and immune activity were detected following treatment with curcumin and/or anti-PD-1. Besides, we investigated the effect of transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) on lymphocyte activation and the interaction between E1A binding protein P300 (P300), histone acetylation, TGF-β1, and thrombin. Additionally, the synergistic role of curcumin and anti-PD-1 in mouse models of HCC was studied. Curcumin retarded Hep3B cell growth and reduced surface PD-L1 expression in Hep3B cells. After co-culture of Hep3B cells and PBMCs, curcumin had a synergistic effect with anti-PD-1 to slow Hep3B cell proliferation, activate lymphocytes, inhibit immune evasion, and down-regulate TGF-β1 expression. Functionally, curcumin inhibited thrombin to reduce P300-induced histone acetylation in the TGF-β1 promoter region, and anti-PD-1 suppressed binding of PD-1 and PD-L1 to promote immune activity; the combination of the two showed better in vitro anti-cancer effects. In vivo, curcumin combined with anti-PD-1 also lowered HCC growth rate and improved the tumor microenvironment. In conclusion, the combination of curcumin and anti-PD-1 is synergistically effective in the treatment of HCC treatment.

Insights into interaction mechanism of inhibitors E3T, E3H and E3B with CREB binding protein by using molecular dynamics simulations and MM-GBSA calculations

ABSTRACT CREB binding protein (CBP) and its paralog E1A binding protein (p300) are related to the development of inflammatory diseases, cancers and other diseases, and have been potential targets for the treatment of human diseases. In this work, interaction mechanism of three small molecules E3T, E3H, and E3B with CBP was investigated by employing molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, principal component analysis (PCA), and molecular mechanics/generalized born surface area (MM-GBSA) method. The results indicate that inhibitor bindings cause the changes of movement modes and structural flexibility of CBP, and van der Waals interactions mostly drive associations of inhibitors with CBP. In the meantime, the results based on inhibitor-residue interactions not only show that eight residues of CBP can strongly interact with E3T, E3H and E3B but also verify that the CH-CH, CH-π, and π-π interactions are responsible for vital contributions in associations of E3T, E3H and E3B with CBP. In addition, the H-O radial distribution functions (RDFs) were computed to assess the stability of hydrogen bonding interactions between inhibitors and CBP, and the obtained information identifies several key hydrogen bonds playing key roles in bindings of E3T, E3H and E3B to CBP. Potential new inhibitors have been proposed.

MicroRNA-494-3p inhibits formation of fast oxidative muscle fibres by targeting E1A-binding protein p300 in human-induced pluripotent stem cells

MYOD-induced microRNA-494-3p expression inhibits fast oxidative myotube formation by downregulating myosin heavy chain 2 (MYH2) in human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) during skeletal myogenesis. However, the molecular mechanisms regulating MYH2 expression via miR-494-3p remain unknown. Here, using bioinformatic analyses, we show that miR-494-3p potentially targets the transcript of the E1A-binding protein p300 at its 3′-untranslated region (UTR). Myogenesis in hiPSCs with the Tet/ON-myogenic differentiation 1 (MYOD1) gene (MyoD-hiPSCs) was induced by culturing them in doxycycline-supplemented differentiation medium for 7 days. p300 protein expression decreased after transient induction of miR-494-3p during myogenesis. miR-494-3p mimics decreased the levels of p300 and its downstream targets MYOD and MYH2 and myotube formation efficiency. p300 knockdown decreased myotube formation efficiency, MYH2 expression, and basal oxygen consumption rate. The binding of miR-494-3p to the wild type p300 3′-UTR, but not the mutated site, was confirmed using luciferase assay. Overexpression of p300 rescued the miR-494-3p mimic-induced phenotype in MyoD-hiPSCs. Moreover, miR-494-3p mimic reduced the levels of p300, MYOD, and MYH2 in skeletal muscles in mice. Thus, miR-494-3p might modulate MYH2 expression and fast oxidative myotube formation by directly regulating p300 levels during skeletal myogenesis in MyoD-hiPSCs and murine skeletal muscle tissues.

The comparison of differentially expressed microRNAs in Bag-1 deficient and wild type MCF-7 breast cancer cells by small RNA sequencing.

The multifunctional BAG-1 (Bcl-2 athanogene-1) protein promotes breast cancer survival through direct or indirect interaction partners. The number of the interacting partners determines its cellular role in different conditions. As well as interaction partner variability, the amount of BAG-1 protein in the cells could cause dramatic alterations. According to previous studies, while the transient silencing of Bag-1 enhanced drug-induced apoptosis, deletion of BAG-1 could induce stemness properties and Akt-mediated actin remodeling in MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Considering the heterogeneity of breast cancer and the variability of BAG-1 -mediated cell response, it has become essential to determine microRNA (miRNA) functions in breast cancer depending on Bag-1 expression level. This study aims to compare microRNA expression levels in wt and Bag-1 knockout (KO) MCF-7 breast cancer cells. hsa-miR-429 was selected as a potential miRNA in BAG-1KO MCF-7 cells because of the downregulation both in bioinformatics and validation qRT-PCR assay. According to predicted mRNA targets and functional enrichment analysis the ten hub proteins that are phosphatidylinositol-4,5-biphosphate 3-kinase catalytic subunit alpha (PIK3CA), kinase insert domain receptor (KDR), GRB2 associated binding protein 1 (GAB1), Rac family small GTPase1 (RAC1), vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), Cbl proto-oncogene (CBL), syndecan 2 (SDC2), phospholipase C gamma 1 (PLCG1), E1A binding protein p300 (EP300), and CRK like proto-oncogene, adaptor protein (CRKL) were identified as targets of hsa-miR-429. The functional enrichment analysis showed that the most significant proteins were enriched in PI3K/Akt, focal adhesion, cytoskeleton regulation, proteoglycans in cancer, and Ras signaling pathways. It was determined that hsa-miR-429 targeted these pathways in Bag-1 deficient conditions and could be used as a potential therapeutic target in future studies.

EP300 knockdown reduces cancer stem cell phenotype, tumor growth and metastasis in triple negative breast cancer

BackgroundTriple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive breast cancer subtype with basal features, lacking the expression of receptors targeted successfully in other breast cancer subtypes. Treatment response to adjuvant and neoadjuvant chemotherapy is often short-lived and metastatic spread occurs at higher rates than other subtypes within the first five years after diagnosis. TNBCs exhibit stem cell features and are enriched for cancer stem cell (CSC) populations. E1A Binding Protein P300 (EP300) is a large protein with multiple cellular functions, including as an effector in stem cell biology.MethodsWe used a genetic knockdown (KD) model of EP300 in TNBC cell lines to investigate the effect on CSC phenotype, tumor growth and metastasis. Side population assay and tumorsphere suspension culture were used in vitro. Xenograft mouse models were used for in vivo studies. We performed in silico analysis of publicly available gene expression data sets to investigate CSC gene expression and molecular pathways as well as survival outcomes associated with EP300 expression in patients with TNBC and basal-like BC.ResultsEP300 KD abolished the CSC phenotype by reducing ABCG2 expression, side population cells and tumorsphere formation capacity in vitro as well as tumor formation in a xenograft mouse model in vivo. Metastatic capacity was markedly reduced in EP300 KD cells in vivo, with no detection of circulating tumor cells. TCGA data analysis demonstrated that genes positively correlated with EP300 expression in TNBC and basal-like BC were associated with CSC biology. Survival analysis demonstrated that EP300 expression predicts poor recurrence free survival in TNBC and basal BC.ConclusionWe report a novel oncogenic role for EP300 in driving CSC phenotype representing a potential target to address tumor initiation and metastatic spread in TNBC and basal-like BC. EP300 might serve as a prognostic marker and potential therapeutic target in TNBC.

A p53/lnc-Ip53 Negative Feedback Loop Regulates Tumor Growth and Chemoresistance.

Acetylation is a critical mechanism to modulate tumor‐suppressive activity of p53, but the causative roles of long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in p53 acetylation and their biological significance remain unexplored. Here, lncRNA LOC100294145 is discovered to be transactivated by p53 and is thus designated as lnc‐Ip53 for lncRNA induced by p53. Furthermore, lnc‐Ip53 impedes p53 acetylation by interacting with histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) and E1A binding protein p300 (p300) to prevent HDAC1 degradation and attenuate p300 activity, resulting in abrogation of p53 activity and subsequent cell proliferation and apoptosis resistance. Mouse xenograft models reveal that lnc‐Ip53 promotes tumor growth and chemoresistance in vivo, which is attenuated by an HDAC inhibitor. Silencing lnc‐Ip53 inhibits the growth of xenografts with wild‐type p53, but not those expressing acetylation‐resistant p53. Consistently, lnc‐Ip53 is upregulated in multiple cancer types, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). High levels of lnc‐Ip53 is associated with low levels of acetylated p53 in human HCC and mouse xenografts, and is also correlated with poor survival of HCC patients. These findings identify a novel p53/lnc‐Ip53 negative feedback loop in cells and indicate that abnormal upregulation of lnc‐Ip53 represents an important mechanism to inhibit p53 acetylation/activity and thereby promote tumor growth and chemoresistance, which may be exploited for anticancer therapy.

Vascular endothelial growth factor B promotes transendothelial fatty acid transport into skeletal muscle via histone modifications during catch-up growth.

Caloric restriction (CR) followed by refeeding, a phenomenon known as catch-up growth (CUG), results in excessive lipid deposition and insulin resistance in skeletal muscle, but the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Recent reports have suggested that vascular endothelial growth factor B (VEGF-B) controls muscle lipid accumulation by regulating endothelial fatty acid transport. Here, we found continuous activation of VEGF-B signaling and increased lipid uptake in skeletal muscle from CR to refeeding, as well as increased lipid deposition and impaired insulin sensitivity after refeeding in the skeletal muscle of CUG rodents. Inhibiting VEGF-B signaling reduced fatty acid uptake in and transport across endothelial cells. Knockdown of Vegfb in the tibialis anterior (TA) muscle of CUG mice significantly attenuated muscle lipid accumulation and ameliorated muscle insulin sensitivity by decreasing lipid uptake. Furthermore, we showed that aberrant histone methylation (H3K9me1) and acetylation (H3K14ac and H3K18ac) at the Vegfb promoter might be the main cause of persistent VEGF-B upregulation in skeletal muscle during CUG. Modifying these aberrant loci using their related enzymes [PHD finger protein 2 (PHF2) or E1A binding protein p300 (p300)] could regulate VEGF-B expression in vitro. Collectively, our findings indicate that VEGF-B can promote transendothelial lipid transport and lead to lipid overaccumulation and insulin resistance in skeletal muscle during CUG, which might be mediated by histone methylation and acetylation.

Investigating potential molecular mechanisms of serum exosomal miRNAs in colorectal cancer based on bioinformatics analysis.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the most common malignant gastrointestinal tumor worldwide. Serum exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) play a critical role in tumor progression and metastasis. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are poorly understood.The miRNAs expression profile (GSE39833) was downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. GEO2R was applied to screen the differentially expressed miRNAs (DEmiRNAs) between healthy and CRC serum exosome samples. The target genes of DEmiRNAs were predicted by starBase v3.0 online tool. The gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genomes pathway (KEGG) enrichment analysis were performed using the Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) online tool. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was established by the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING) visualized using Cytoscape software. Molecular Complex Detection (MCODE) and cytohubba plug-in were used to screen hub genes and gene modules.In total, 102 DEmiRNAs were identified including 67 upregulated and 35 downregulated DEmiRNAs, and 1437 target genes were predicted. GO analysis showed target genes of upregulated DEmiRNAs were significantly enriched in transcription regulation, protein binding, and ubiquitin protein ligase activity. While the target genes of downregulated DEmiRNAs were mainly involved in transcription from RNA polymerase II promoter, SMAD binding, and DNA binding. The KEGG pathway enrichment analyses showed target genes of upregulated DEmiRNAs were significantly enriched in proteoglycans in cancer, microRNAs in cancer, and phosphatidylinositol-3 kinases/Akt (PI3K-Akt) signaling pathway, while target genes of downregulated DEmiRNAs were mainly enriched in transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) signaling pathway and proteoglycans in cancer. The genes of the top 3 modules were mainly enriched in ubiquitin mediated proteolysis, spliceosome, and mRNA surveillance pathway. According to the cytohubba plugin, 37 hub genes were selected, and 4 hub genes including phosphoinositide-3-kinase regulatory subunit 1 (PIK3R1), SRC, cell division cycle 42 (CDC42), E1A binding protein p300 (EP300) were identified by combining 8 ranked methods of cytohubba.The study provides a comprehensive analysis of exosomal DEmiRNAs and target genes regulatory network in CRC, which can better understand the roles of exosomal miRNAs in the development of CRC. However, these findings require further experimental validation in future studies.

Gene expression meta-analysis reveals the up-regulation of CREB1 and CREBBP in Brodmann Area 10 of patients with schizophrenia

Cognitive impairments characterize individuals with schizophrenia, and are correlated to the patients’ functional outcome. The transcription factor Cyclic AMP-responsive element-binding protein-1 (CREB1) is involved in learning and memory processes. CREB1 and both CREB-binding protein (CREBBP) and E1A Binding Protein P300 (EP300), co-activators of CREB1, have been associated with schizophrenia. We performed a systematic meta-analysis of CREB1, CREBBP and EP300 differential expression in post mortem Brodmann Area 10 (BA10) samples of patients with schizophrenia vs. healthy controls, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Two microarray datasets met the inclusion criteria (overall 41 schizophrenia samples and 38 controls were analyzed). We detect up-regulation of CREB1 and CREBBP in BA10 samples of patients with schizophrenia, while EP300 wasn't differentially expressed. The integration of two independent datasets and the positive correlation between the expression patterns of CREB1 and CREBBP increase the validity of the results. The up-regulation of CREB1 and its co-activator CREBBP might relate to BA10 altered activation that has been shown in schizophrenia. As BA10 was shown to be involved in the cognitive impairments associated with schizophrenia, this suggests involvement of CREB1 and CREBBP in the cognitive symptoms that characterize the disease.