Inhibitor PD98059 Research Articles

Abstract PS18-30: Loss of NF1 leads to rho GTPase activation and sensitivity to multiple agents in breast cancer

Abstract Background: The Ras signaling pathway is a key oncogenic growth signaling pathway. The neurofibromatosis gene (NF1) is a tumor suppressor gene and negative regulator of Ras. Approximately 20% of breast cancers experience loss of active NF1 protein, leading to unabated Ras activity. Germline inactivation of NF1 leads to neurofibromatosis, which can be treated with MEK inhibitors. The functional consequences of NF1 loss have not been thoroughly explored in breast cancer. Therefore, we created a cellular model for the loss of NF1 in breast cells in order to identify novel therapies that would target NF1 null breast cells. Methods: We used CRISPR CAS9 to knock out (KO) NF1 through targeted disruption of both NF1 alleles in the human non-tumorigenic breast cell line MCF-10A. Immunoblotting confirmed loss of the protein and this cell line was used to identify changes in cellular signaling that resulted from the loss of NF1. We then used a rational approach to select drugs that may target the cellular changes in NF1 null cells. Finally, the candidate drugs were tested in a tumor xenograft model in mice. Results: Loss of NF1 endowed cells with a more transformed phenotype, including EGF growth independence and anchorage-independent growth. We observed increased activation of MAPK and activated Rho GTPase. The MEK inhibitors trametinib and PD0325901 (IC50=0.25 nM and 0.16 nM, respectively) inhibited growth of NF1-null, but not parent cells. We explored inhibitors of other proteins in the MAPK signaling pathway, including the Raf inhibitors sorafenib and vemurafenib and the dual MAP3K1/MAP2K4 inhibitor LY2228820. However, these compounds did not selectively inhibit growth of NF1-null cells, suggesting that Raf and MAP3K1/MAP2K4 are not vulnerable targets in NF1-null cells. Vincristine and zoledronic acid can indirectly affect Rho GTPase function. NF1-null cells were more sensitive to both as single agents (IC50=1.1 nM and 6.9 μM, respectively) than parental cells. We also tested multiple combinations of these drugs and observed benefits from several combinations that exceeded single agent use. Similar sensitivity was not observed to docetaxel or ixabepilone. We then tested the drugs as single agents and in combination against mouse tumor xenograft models with the human breast cancer cell lines Hs578T (NF1 null) or MCF-7 (wild type NF1). Treatment with single agent vincristine or zoledronic acid for 19 days resulted in statistically-significant decreases of 37.3% and 38.9%, respectively (p<0.05) in Hs578T tumor xenografts. The combination treatment resulted in an enhanced reduction in tumor size of 48.8% with a higher level of significance (p<0.01). Treatment of mice with MCF-7 bearing tumors with single agent vincristine resulted in a statistically significant decrease of 35.2% (p<0.05); however, this effect was not observed using the combination treatment, as the change in growth compared to saline treatment was not statistically significant. Conclusions: Our results suggest that loss of NF1 results in a transformed phenotype. Our results provide the first evidence that vincristine in combination with zoledronic acid may be efficacious in treating breast cancers. Additionally, we provide evidence that other drugs and drug combinations may be more effective at treating breast cancers with NF1 loss than MEK inhibitors, warranting further exploration. Citation Format: Melody A. Cobleigh, Matthew Najor, Satnam Brar, Sanja Turturro, Liam Portt, Timothy Yung, Abde M Abukhdeir. Loss of NF1 leads to rho GTPase activation and sensitivity to multiple agents in breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2020 San Antonio Breast Cancer Virtual Symposium; 2020 Dec 8-11; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(4 Suppl):Abstract nr PS18-30.

Human keratinocyte-derived extracellular vesicles activate the MAPKinase pathway and promote cell migration and proliferation in vitro

BackgroundWound healing is a complex biological process and complete skin regeneration is still a critical challenge. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) play essential roles in cell communication and cell regeneration, and recent studies have suggested that EVs may contribute to wound healing, though the molecular mechanisms behind this contribution remain unclear. For these reasons, we decided to use EVs isolated from human keratinocytes (HaCaT) in vitro to determine the potential mechanism of action of EV-derived wound healing.MethodScratch assays were used to determine cell migration and proliferation. Scratched cells were exposed to EVs in multiple conditions to determine how they affect wound healing. Statistical analysis between groups was carried out to using Student’s two-sided t test. A p value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.ResultWe found that proteomic analysis of purified EVs shows enrichment of proteins associated with cell communication and signal transduction, such as MAPK pathways, and keratinocyte and fibroblast cultures exposed to EVs had higher levels of proliferation, migration, and ERK1/2 and P38 activation. Moreover, we found that treatment with specific ERK1/2 and P38 signaling inhibitors PD98059 and SB239063 impaired EV-mediated cell migration, which suggests that ERK1/2 and P38 signaling is essential for EV-induced wound healing.ConclusionHaCaT cell-derived EVs accelerate the migration and proliferation of human keratinocytes and fibroblasts and may promote wound healing via the activation of MAPKinase pathways. These findings may be key in developing new methods to treat wounds and accelerate wound healing in the future.

MEK/ERK Signaling Regulates Reconstitution of the Dopaminergic Nerve Circuit in the Planarian Dugesia japonica.

Planarian Dugesia japonica is a flatworm that can autonomously regenerate its own body after an artificial amputation. A recent report showed the role of the mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (MEK/ERK) pathway in the head morphogenesis during the planarian regeneration process after amputation; however, neuron-specific regeneration mechanisms have not yet been reported. Here, whether MEK/ERK pathway was involved in the dopaminergic neuronal regeneration in planarians was investigated. Planarians regenerated their body within 14days after amputation; however, the head region morphogenesis was inhibited by MEK inhibitor U0126 (3 or 10μM). Furthermore, the number of planarian tyrosine hydroxylase (DjTH)-positive dopaminergic neurons in the regenerated head region was also decreased by U0126. The 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA), a dopaminergic neurotoxin, can decrease the number of dopaminergic neurons; however, planarians can regenerate dopaminergic neurons after injecting 6-OHDA into the intestinal tract. MEK inhibitor PD98059 (30μM) or U0126 (10μM) significantly decreased dopaminergic neurons 5days after the 6-OHDA injection. During the regeneration process of dopaminergic neurons, phosphorylated histone H3 (H3P)-positive stem cells known as "neoblasts" were increased in the head region; however, MEK inhibitors significantly decreased the number of H3P-positive neoblasts. These results suggested that dopaminergic neuronal regeneration in planarian was regulated by the MEK/ERK pathway.

Role of pERK1/2-NFκB signaling in the neuroprotective effect of thalidomide against cerebral ischemia reperfusion injury in rats

In the present investigation, we tested the hypothesis that suppression of the phospho-extracellular signal regulated kinase (pERK1/2)-nuclear factor kappa (NFκ)-B signaling, subsequent to tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) inhibition, underlies thalidomide (TLM) mediated neuroprotection. Male Wistar rats (250–280 g) were divided into five groups: (1) sham; (2) negative control receiving TLM (5μg/1μl/site) and 3 groups of ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury rats pretreated with: (3) vehicle (DMSO 100%); (4) TLM (5μg/1μl/site) or (5) PD98059 (0.16μg/1μl/site). IR rats were subjected to occlusion of both common carotid arteries for 45 min followed by reperfusion for 24 h. Drugs and/or vehicles were administered by unilateral intrahippocampal injection after removal of the carotid occlusion and at the beginning of the reperfusion period. IR rats exhibited significant infarct size, histopathological damage, memory impairment, motor incoordination and hyperactivity. Unilateral intra-hippocampal TLM ameliorated these behavioral deficits along with the following ex vivo hippocampal effects: (i) abrogation of the IR-evoked elevations in hippocampal TNF-α, pERK1/2, NFκB, BDNF, iNOS contents and (ii) partial restoration of the reduced anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 and p-nNOS S852. These neurochemical effects, which were replicated by the pERK1/2 inhibitor PD98059, likely underlie the reductions in c-Fos and caspase-3 levels as well as the anti-apoptotic effect of TLM in the IR model. These results suggest a crucial anti-inflammatory role for pERK1/2 inhibition in the salutary neuronal and behavioral effects of TLM in a model of brain IR injury.

Autologous decellularized extracellular matrix promotes adipogenic differentiation of adipose derived stem cells in low serum culture system by regulating the ERK1/2-PPARγ pathway

ABSTRACT High viability and further adipogenic differentiation of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) are fundamental for engraftment and growth of the transplanted adipose tissue. It has been demonstrated that extracellular matrix (ECM) regulates cell proliferation and differentiation by interacting with ERK1/2 signalling pathway. In this study, we prepared autologous decellularized extracellular matrix (d-ECM) and explored its effect on the proliferation and adipogenic ability of ADSCs in low serum culture. We found that 2% foetal bovine serum (FBS) in growth medium inhibited cell viability and DNA replication, and decreased mRNA and protein levels of PPARγ and C/EPBα compared with 10% FBS. Correspondingly, after 14-days adipogenic induction, cells cultured in 2% FBS possessed lower efficiency of adipogenesis and expressed less adipocyte differentiation markers ADIPOQ and aP2. On the contrary, the d-ECM-coated substrate continuously promoted the expression of PPARγ, and regulated the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 in different manners during differentiation. Pretreatment with ERK1/2 inhibitor PD98059 neutralized the effects of d-ECM, which suggested d-ECM might regulate the adipogenesis of ADSCs through ERK1/2-PPARγ pathway. In addition, d-ECM was revealed to regulate the transcription and expression of stemness-associated genes, such as OCT4, NANOG and SOX2, in the undifferentiated ADSCs, which might be related to the initiation of differentiation.

Resistin-like molecule beta augments phenotypic modulation of human aortic smooth muscle cell triggered by high glucose

Vascular muscle cells (VSMCs) participate in the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis. Resistin-like molecule beta (Relmβ) contributes to atherosclerosis development by activating macrophage. This study aims to investigate whether Relmβ regulates VSMC phenotypic modulation under high glucose environment. Human aortic vascular smooth muscle cells were cultured and treated with Relmβ in the presence or absence of high glucose. VSMC phenotypic modulation was assessed by expression of related markers. The migration of VSMCs was detected by wound healing assay and transwell assay. The proliferation of VSMCs was measured using CCK-8 assay. In this study, we observed that Relmβ modulated VSMC phenotypic modulation by down-regulating expression of smooth muscle α-actin (α-SMA), smooth muscle myosin heavy chain (SM-MHC), and calponin while up-regulating expression of osteopontin (OPN). Relmβ increased the expression of inflammatory genes in VSMCs. Relmβ also augmented VSMCs migration as well as proliferation. It is worth noting that all the effects of VSMCs were enhanced upon high glucose stimulation. The phosphorylation levels of p38MAPK and ERK1/2 were increased by co-treatment with Relmβ and high glucose. The p38 MAPK pathway inhibitor RWJ64809 and pERK1/2 inhibitor PD98059 significantly inhibited the proliferation of VSMCs induced by Relmβ and high glucose. Our results provide evidence that Relmβ augments phenotypic modulation and migration of human aortic smooth muscle cell induced by high glucose. Relmβ might be a potential target for treatment of atherosclerosis induced by hyperglycemia.

Inhibition of the Ras/ERK1/2 pathway contributes to the protective effect of ginsenoside Re against intimal hyperplasia.

Neointimal hyperplasia is the major cause of carotid stenosis after vascular injury, which restricts the long-term efficacy of endovascular treatment and endarterectomy in preventing stenosis. Ginsenoside Re (Re) is a major active ingredient of ginseng having multifaceted pharmacological effects on the cardiovascular system, and is a potential treatment for restenosis. In this study, we demonstrated that Re treatment significantly inhibited vascular injury-induced neointimal thickening, reduced the intimal area and intima/media (I/M) ratio, increased the lumen area, and inhibited pro-inflammatory cytokines. In cultured A7R5 cells, Re inhibited LPS-induced proliferation and migration as evidenced by suppressed colony formation and shortened migration distance, accompanied by the downregulated expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Re promoted VSMC apoptosis induced by balloon injury in vivo and LPS challenge in vitro. Moreover, Re inhibited autophagy in VSMCs evoked by balloon injury and LPS as supported by reduced LC3II and increased p62 expressions. Suppression of autophagy with the specific autophagy inhibitor spautin-1 efficiently inhibited LPS-induced cell proliferation and inflammation and promoted caspase-3/7 activities. Mechanistically, we found that Re attenuated Ras/ERK1/2 expression in VSMCs in vivo and in vitro. The MEK1/2 inhibitor PD98059 showed similar effects to Re on cell proliferation, migration, apoptosis, and the levels of autophagy and cytokines. In conclusion, we provided significant evidence that Re inhibited vascular injury-induced neointimal thickening probably by promoting VSMC apoptosis and inhibiting autophagy via suppression of the Ras/MEK/ERK1/2 signaling pathway.

Gene dosage manipulation alleviates manifestations of hereditary PAX6 haploinsufficiency in mice.

In autosomal dominant conditions with haploinsufficiency, a single functional allele cannot maintain sufficient dosage for normal function. We hypothesized that pharmacologic induction of the wild-type allele could lead to gene dosage compensation and mitigation of the disease manifestations. The paired box 6 (PAX6) gene is crucial in tissue development and maintenance particularly in eye, brain, and pancreas. Aniridia is a panocular condition with impaired eye development and limited vision due to PAX6 haploinsufficiency. To test our hypothesis, we performed a chemical screen and found mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) inhibitors to induce PAX6 expression in normal and mutant corneal cells. Treatment of newborn Pax6-deficient mice (Pax6Sey-Neu/+ ) with topical or systemic MEK inhibitor PD0325901 led to increased corneal PAX6 expression, improved corneal morphology, reduced corneal opacity, and enhanced ocular function. These results suggest that induction of the wild-type allele by drug repurposing is a potential therapeutic strategy for haploinsufficiencies, which is not limited to specific mutations.

Sustained ERK1/2 signaling is necessary for follicular rupture during ovulation in mice.

Abolition of the LH-induced ERK1/2 pathway leads to dramatic changes in gene expression in granulosa cells, subsequently abrogating ovulation. Here we explored whether sustained ERK1/2 signaling beyond immediate-early hours of the LH surge is important for ovulation in mice. First, we examined the effect of inhibition of ERK1/2 activity at 4 h after hCG stimulation on ovulation in superovulated immature mice. Treatment with the ERK1/2 pathway inhibitor PD0325901 at 4 h post-hCG disrupted follicular rupture without altering cumulus expansion, oocyte meiotic maturation and luteinization. Profiling the expression pattern of genes of the RSK family of ERK1/2 signal mediators revealed that RSK3, but not other isoforms, was induced by hCG treatment. Further, RSK3-knockout mice were sub-fertile with reduced ovulation rate and smaller litter size compared to WT mice. Given that PD0325901 inhibits all mediators of ERK1/2 signaling, we chose to evaluate the gene expression underlying deficient follicular rupture in ERK1/2 inhibited mice. We found that inhibition of ERK1/2 signaling at 4 h post-hCG resulted in an imbalance in the expression of genes involved in extracellular matrix degradation and leukocyte infiltration necessary for follicular rupture. In conclusion, our data demonstrate that sustained ERK1/2 signaling during ovulation is not required for cumulus expansion, oocyte meiotic maturation and luteinization, but is required for follicular rupture.

Macrophage-Stimulating Protein Enhances Osteoblastic Differentiation via the Recepteur d&apos;Origine Nantais Receptor and Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase Signaling Pathway.

BackgroundMacrophage-stimulating protein (MSP; also known as macrophage stimulating 1 and hepatocyte growth factor-like protein) has been shown to play a crucial role in calcium homeostasis and skeletal mineralization in zebrafish. However, the precise role of MSP in osteoblasts has not been elucidated. In this study, we investigated the effect of MSP on osteoblast differentiation of pre-osteoblast cells.MethodsOsteoblast differentiation upon MSP treatment was evaluated by analyzing the osteogenic gene expression, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, and mineralized nodule formation. To assess changes in the MSP-RON signaling pathway, knockdown of Ron gene was performed using siRNA and pharmacological inhibitor treatment.ResultsExpression of the tyrosine kinase receptor RON, a receptor of MSP, was found to be significantly increased during osteoblast differentiation. MSP treatment significantly upregulated the expression of osteogenic marker genes and remarkably increased ALP activity and mineralized nodule formation. Conversely, knockdown of Ron significantly attenuated the expression of osteogenic marker genes and ALP activity that were induced upon MSP treatment. Mechanistically, MSP treatment significantly enhanced the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK); however, additional treatment with the selective ERK inhibitor PD98059 attenuated the effect of MSP on osteoblast differentiation.ConclusionsAltogether, these results indicate that the MSP-RON axis is involved in promoting osteoblast differentiation via activation of the ERK signaling pathway.

Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Intermittent Hypoxia-Treated Red Blood Cells Impair Endothelial Function Through Regulating eNOS Phosphorylation and ET-1 Expression.

Intermittent hypoxia (IH), a main characteristic of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) syndrome, has been known as a dominant cause of OSA-related endothelial dysfunction and hypertension. However, the underlying mechanism still remains unclear. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), small vesicles secreted by various cells, can be absorbed by endothelial cells and then influence vascular function. The aim of this research is to clarify whether and how EVs shedding from red blood cells (RBCs) are involved in IH-induced endothelial dysfunction. EVs were extracted by ultracentrifugation. After the identification of property and purity, EVs from IH-exposed RBCs (IH REVs) and normoxia-exposed RBCs (NOR REVs) or from OSA and non-OSA patient RBCs were utilized to treat C57BL/6 mouse aortas or human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) for mechanistic exploration. Functional results demonstrated that REVs from OSA patients dramatically impaired endothelium-dependent relaxations (EDRs). Similarly, in vivo and ex vivo studies showed that IH REVs caused significant endothelial dysfunction compared to control group. Further results presented that IH REVs blocked endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) phosphorylation through inhibiting PI3K/Akt pathway and enhanced endothelin-1 (ET-1) expression through activating Erk1/2 pathway in endothelial cells. Meanwhile, endothelial dysfunction caused by IH REVs was reversed by Akt activator SC79 as well as Erk kinase inhibitor PD98059, suggesting that PI3K/Akt/eNOS and Erk1/2/ET-1 pathways were implicated in IH REV-induced impaired EDRs. This study reveals a novel role of REVs in endothelial dysfunction under IH and dissects the relevant mechanism involved in this process, which will help to establish a comprehensive understanding of OSA or IH-related endothelial dysfunction from a new scope.

Long-Lasting Activity of ERK Kinase Depends on NFATc1 Induction and Is Involved in Cell Migration-Fusion in Murine Macrophages RAW264.7.

Macrophages are mononuclear cells that become osteoclasts (OCs) in the presence of two cytokines, macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF), and receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL). RANKL binding to its specific receptor RANK leads to OCs differentiation mainly by nuclear factor of activated T-cells cytoplasmic 1 (NFATc1). In our previous study, the analysis of the protein network in NFATc1-knockdown cells, using the Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA), showed a link between NFATc1 and Mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)-extracellular receptor kinase (ERK) signaling pathway. Therefore, this study aimed to extend our knowledge of the relationship between NFATc1 and the ERK. Here, we demonstrate that delayed ERK1/2 phosphorylation in pre-OC RANKL-induced depends on NFATc1. Indeed, the knockdown of NFATc1 reduced the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 (60%) and the pharmacological inhibition of the ERK1/2 kinase activity impairs the expression of NFATc1 without preventing its translocation into the nucleus. Furthermore, silencing of NFATc1 significantly reduced RANKL-induced migration (p < 0.01), and most pre-OCs are still mononuclear after 48 h (80 ± 5%), despite the presence of actin rings. On the other hand, the inhibitors FR180204 and PD98059 significantly reduced RANKL-induced cell migration (p < 0.01), leading to a reduction in the number of multinucleated cells. Finally, we suggest that long-lasting ERK activity depends on NFATc1 induction and is likely linked to cell migration, fusion, and OC differentiation.

Septic serum mediates inflammatory injury in human umbilical vein endothelial cells via reactive oxygen species, mitogen activated protein kinases and nuclear factor‑κB.

Sepsis-induced blood vessel dysfunction is mainly caused by microvascular endothelial cell injury. However, the mechanism underlying sepsis-induced endothelial cell injury remains unclear. The present study hypothesized that sepsis-induced inflammatory injury of endothelial cells may be the first step of endothelial barrier dysfunction. Therefore, the present study aimed to uncover the mechanism underlying the inflammatory effects of sepsis. A rat model of cecal ligation and puncture-induced sepsis was established, and septic serum was collected. Subsequently, human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were treated with the isolated septic or normal serum. HUVEC viability was assessed using a Cell Count Kit-8 assay. Furthermore, transmission electron microscopy and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) analysis were carried out to observe the cell morphology and determine the mRNA expression levels in septic serum-induced HUVECs. The protein expression levels were evaluated by western blot analysis, and the secretion of the inflammatory factors interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α was determined by ELISA. Additionally, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and nuclear factor (NF)-κB nuclear translocation were observed under a fluorescence microscope. The results of the present study demonstrated that HUVEC viability was significantly decreased following 12- or 24-h treatment with septic serum. In addition, chromatin condensation, mitochondrial vacuolization and endoplasmic reticulum degranulation were observed following treatment with septic serum. Furthermore, the secretion levels of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α were increased in septic serum-stimulated HUVECs. Septic serum treatment also enhanced superoxide anion generation, promoted extra-cellular signal regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38) phosphorylation, and increased NF-κB levels in the nuclei of HUVECs. Finally, pre-treatment of HUVECs with the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine, the ERK1/2 inhibitor PD98059, the p38 inhibitor SB203580, the JNK inhibitor SP610025 or the NF-κB inhibitor pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate restored the septic serum-induced IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α expression. In conclusion, the results of the current study suggested that the septic serum-induced endothelial cell injury may be mediated by increasing ROS generation, activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases and NF-κB translocation.

Chemokine CXCL13 acts via CXCR5-ERK signaling in hippocampus to induce perioperative neurocognitive disorders in surgically treated mice

BackgroundPerioperative neurocognitive disorders (PNDs) occur frequently after surgery and worsen patient outcome. How C-X-C motif chemokine (CXCL) 13 and its sole receptor CXCR5 contribute to PNDs remains poorly understood.MethodsA PND model was created in adult male C57BL/6J and CXCR5−/− mice by exploratory laparotomy. Mice were pretreated via intracerebroventricular injection with recombinant CXCL13, short hairpin RNA against CXCL13 or a scrambled control RNA, or ERK inhibitor PD98059. Then surgery was performed to induce PNDs, and animals were assessed in the Barnes maze trial followed by a fear-conditioning test. Expression of CXCL13, CXCR5, and ERK in hippocampus was examined using Western blot, quantitative PCR, and immunohistochemistry. Levels of interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) in hippocampus were assessed by Western blot.ResultsSurgery impaired learning and memory, and it increased expression of CXCL13 and CXCR5 in the hippocampus. CXCL13 knockdown partially reversed the effects of surgery on CXCR5 and cognitive dysfunction. CXCR5 knockout led to similar cognitive outcomes as CXCL13 knockdown, and it repressed surgery-induced activation of ERK and production of IL-1β and TNF-α in hippocampus. Recombinant CXCL13 induced cognitive deficits and increased the expression of phospho-ERK as well as IL-1β and TNF-α in hippocampus of wild-type mice, but not CXCR5−/− mice. PD98059 partially blocked CXCL13-induced cognitive dysfunction as well as production of IL-1β and TNF-α.ConclusionsCXCL13-induced activation of CXCR5 may contribute to PNDs by triggering ERK-mediated production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in hippocampus.

The Role of 5-HT on Proplatelet Formation and Thrombopoietin Production

Background: Our previous work confirmed that serotonin (5-HT) promotes the proliferation of hemopoietic stem cells and megakaryocytes (Yang M et al, Stem Cells, 2007; 2014). However, the mechanisms remain indefinite. Methods: Q-PCR, Flow Cytometry, Western Blot, or Immunofluorescence microscope were used in the receptor and TPO study. MTT/CCK-8, Proplatelet assay, and Flow Cytometry were also used in cell proliferation and apoptosis study. The relationship between 5-HT and TPO was studied in a traumatic stress mice model. Results: In-vitro study, there was a stimulating effect of 5-HT on proplatelet formation in human bone marrow megakaryocytes. Human BM MK progenitors cultured in serum-free medium with either 5-HT (200nM) or TPO (100 ng/ml) had more proplatelet bearing MKs than the control group (5-HT (12.3 ± 5.0)% vs. Control (6.2 ± 3.5)%, P=0.025; TPO (15.6 ± 2.5)% vs. Control, P=0.04; n=4). The 5-HT treatment group showed more mature and more in the final stage MK cells as compared to the TPO group. 5-HT2A, 2B, 2C receptors were detected in the surface of megakaryocytes. The effect of 5-HT on proplatelet formation in MK cells was via 5-HT2 receptors and this effect was reduced by 5-HT2 receptor inhibitor ketanserin. 5-HT acted on cytoskeleton reorganization in MKs via 5-HT2 receptors and ERK1/2 pathway. Using an immunofluorescence microscope with F-actin specific binder rhodamine-phalloidin staining, the polymerized actin level was lower in the control group than the 5-HT group and actin distributed diffusely throughout the cytoplasm. In contrast, the polymerization actin level was higher in the 5-HT group. Adding ketanserin and ERK1/2 inhibitor PD98059 to 5-HT treatment, the fluorescence intensity was correspondingly reduced. Our data also demonstrated that ERK1/2 was activated in MKs treated with 5-HT for 30 minutes. In a traumatic stress mice model, both of 5-HT and TPO were increased, but the increasing of TPO is posterior to 5-HT. After added LX1606, the synthesis inhibitor of 5-HT, 5-HT was reduced markedly, as well as TPO. The expression of TPO mRNA and the production of TPO protein were increased as compared with the control in this model. Conclusions: This study suggests that 5-HT promotes thrombopoiesis from two aspects: one is the direct effect on megakaryocytes. 5-HT could promote the proplatelet formation from megakaryocytes. The second is the indirect effect by promoting the production of TPO, which is a paracrine secretion to influence thrombopoiesis. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

Co-Targeting BET Bromodomain Proteins and Aberrant Signaling in AML

AML remains a therapeutic challenge with a high mortality rate, underscoring the need for new biologically based therapies. Somatic alterations that deregulate epigenetic programs and signal transduction pathways frequently coexist in AML. While the former class of alterations is hypothesized to promote a chromatin state that is permissive for AML development and essential for leukemia maintenance, experimental data also suggest that signaling mutations play a central role in driving leukemic growth. Thus, simultaneously targeting the abnormal epigenetic landscape and aberrant signaling is a rational therapeutic approach. We previously used the MEK inhibitor PD0325901 (PD901) to target the Raf/MEK/ERK (MAPK) effector pathway in primary murine AMLs in vivo. Here we report substantial preclinical efficacy of the BET inhibitor PLX51107 in several independent primary AMLs that was further enhanced by PD901. We first exposed five NRAS or KRAS mutant human AML cell lines to varying concentrations of PLX51107 and PD901. These studies revealed potent synergy based on cell proliferation and apoptosis readouts (Figure 1A). We next performed RNA-seq on the NRAS-mutant OCI-AML3 cell line treated with PD901, PLX51107, or the combination. Remarkably, PLX51107 + PD901 cooperated to potently downregulate MYC and its transcriptional targets (Figure 1B). Additionally, AML cells increased the expression of p53 transcriptional targets in response to PLX51107 and CRISPRi-mediated knock-down of TP53 expression abrogated the synergistic effects of PLX51107 + PD901 (Figure 1C). We previously performed retroviral insertional mutagenesis in NrasG12D mice to generate genetically diverse panels of transplantable, primary AMLs. To follow-up on our promising in vitro data, we transplanted 5 of these leukemias into cohorts of recipient mice and treated them with PLX51107 ± PD901. PLX51107 (10 mg/kg/day) showed impressive efficacy that was further enhanced by a modest dose of PD901 (1.5 mg/kg given 4 days per week; Figure 1D). To begin characterizing mechanisms of resistance, we evaluated matched pairs of drug-sensitive ("parental") and relapsed leukemias that emerged during drug treatment. We selected relapsed leukemias that exhibited clonal evolution based on distinct novel retroviral integrations for in depth evaluation. Re-transplanting these AMLs into secondary recipients and re-treating them with PLX51107 ± PD901 confirmed intrinsic drug resistance, which was further validated ex vivo in dose response methylcellulose assays (Figure 1D). Remarkably, several of these resistant leukemias down-regulated basal Myc protein expression, which supports the idea that their transcriptional networks are "rewired" (Figure 1E). We next compared basal and dynamic transcriptional profiles in parental and resistant leukemias by exposing them to PLX51107 ex vivo and then performing RNA-seq analysis. Intriguingly, PLX51107 treatment of parental AMLs resulted in transcriptional changes consistent with myeloid maturation in a dose dependent manner (Figure 1E), suggesting that BET inhibition induces differentiation in these leukemias. By contrast, paired resistant AMLs are relatively "immature" compared to their parental counterparts (Figure 1E), which supports this idea that in vivo treatment with PLX51107 selects for the outgrowth of clones at an earlier progenitor state. These resistant AMLs also upregulate Myc transcriptional targets and unexpectedly downregulate Ras transcriptional targets (Figure 1E). We corroborated these findings by analyzing large pediatric AML transcriptome datasets generated as part of the NCI TARGET initiative (Figure 1F). Taken together, our data support the hypothesis that BET inhibitor and MEK inhibitor combination may be a particularly effective therapeutic approach in AML. Additional preclinical testing in patient derived xenograft models is underway. Figure 1 Disclosures Burgess: Bristol Myers Squibb: Current Employment. Severson:Plexxikon Inc.: Current Employment. Powell:Plexxikon Inc.: Current Employment. Bollag:Plexxikon Inc.: Current Employment.

Interplay between PI3K/mTOR Signaling and IRE1a-XBP1 Promotes Survival of Pre-B NRASG12D all Cells Providing a Therapeutic Vulnerability for the “Undruggable” Driver RAS

Background Activating RAS mutations drive around 30% of pre-B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemias (pre-B ALL) and are particularly common in relapsed ALL with a consecutively poor outcome. Recently published data demonstrated the critical role of the unfolded protein response (UPR) network, namely its IRE1α-XBP1 axis, for the survival of pre-B ALL cells: High expression of XBP1 confers a poor prognosis in pre B-ALL. However, the mechanism of XBP1 activation has not yet been elucidated in RAS mutated pre-B ALL. In this study, we aimed at identifying the molecular mechanism underlying pro-survival IRE1α-XBP1 signaling in RAS mutated pre-B ALL. Methods For a TET-ON inducible NRASG12D model in conditional Xbp1 knockout mice, we used interleukin 7 (IL-7)-dependent murine Mx1-Cre;Xbp1fl/fl pre-B cells transduced with a TET-ON inducible NRASG12D. We performed in vitro cell cycle and apoptosis assays with propidium iodide (PI) and annexin-V/PI. Furthermore, Western Blot and RT-qPCR were applied to analyze target gene expression. In a second approach, we focused on the signaling events following the blockade of RAS downstream targets using the MEK inhibitor PD0325901 and the dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitor BEZ235. We then assessed the efficacy of small molecule inhibition of IRE1α by MKC-8866 on XBP1 inactivation in RAS-mutated pre-B ALL cells either as a single treatment and in combination with the above mentioned drugs. Results We found the expression of Xbp1 significantly increased at the mRNA level with induction of NRASG12D. To determine the significance of Xbp1 in NRASG12D-driven pre-B ALL, we genetically deleted the IRE1α target Xbp1 using Cre-mediated deletion of Xbp1fl/fl in our mouse model of pre-B ALL. Genetic loss of Xbp1 significantly induced apoptosis (2.0-fold, p&amp;lt;0.0001) and caused cell cycle arrest (induction of G0/1, 1.7-fold, p=0.0003) along with an increase in the expression of CDK inhibitors, p21CIP1 and p27KIP1 at the protein level. Genetic ablation of Xbp1 abrogated IL-7 receptor (IL-7R) signaling by reducing the phosphorylation levels of STAT5-Y694 and JAK1-Y1022/Y1023. In an additional approach, we revealed that IL-7-deprived pre-B ALL cells reduce the mRNA expression of Xbp1s, indicating that Xbp1 acts as a downstream linchpin of the IL-7 receptor signaling pathway. Both IL-7-deprivation and genetic loss of Xbp1 increased the phosphorylation levels of ERK1/2-T202/Y204, AKT-S473 and the protein levels of NRASG12D and MAPK negative regulator DUSP6. Pharmacological inhibition of XBP1 activation using MKC-8866 resulted in similar effects on the expression of RAS downstream targets. We therefore tested MKC-8866 in combination with MEK inhibition by PD0325901 as a potential therapeutic strategy against pre-B ALL, which proved non-efficient. As a second option with therapeutic implications, we focused on the PI3K pathway which acts downstream of both the IL-7R and RAS signaling pathways. Strikingly, we observed that genetic ablation of Xbp1 (viable cells after 72 h, BEZ: 71.9 ± 9.0 vs BEZ+ Mx1-Cre;Xbp1fl/f: 10.0 ± 4.9) or pharmacological inhibition of its production with MKC-8866 (viable cells after five days, BEZ: 58.0 ± 6.8 vs BEZ+ MKC-8866: 13.3 ± 7.4) sensitizes pre-B ALL to dual inhibition of PI3K/mTOR with BEZ235. By applying the Bliss formula, we were able to show that BEZ235 in combination with MKC-8866 synergistically reduces the viability of RAS-mutated pre-B ALL cells. Gene expression analysis indicated that BEZ235 in combination with MKC-8866 fully blocked IL-7R signaling and caused an aberrant activation of Ras-Erk signaling. Targeting PI3K/mTOR signaling along with XBP1 inactivation increased expression of NRASG12D and its target DUSP6. In addition, we showed that combined therapy increased expression levels of p19Arf in RAS-mutated pre-B ALL, implicating cell senescence mediated by activated RAS signaling. Conclusion Our work strongly supports the hypothesis that XBP1 induces its positive effects on progression of pre-B ALL cells through the IL-7R signaling pathway. IL-7R signaling through its downstream effector XBP1 counteracts the RAS signaling pathway to promote leukemogenesis in pre-B ALL cells. Active XBP1 prevents the cytotoxic effects of BEZ235 in pre-B ALL cells, and hence targeting XBP1 in combination with dual PI3K/mTOR inhibition by BEZ235 appears as a promising targeted strategy against the "undruggable" driver RAS in NRASG12D-mutated pre-B ALL. Disclosures Brümmendorf: Janssen: Consultancy; Merck: Consultancy; Novartis: Consultancy, Other: travel, accommodation, expenses, Research Funding; Takeda: Consultancy; Pfizer: Consultancy, Honoraria, Other: Travel, Accommodation, Expenses, Research Funding.

MMP-1 promotes osteogenic differentiation of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells via the JNK and ERK pathway.

Enhancing the functions of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is considered a potential approach for promoting tissue regeneration. In this study, we investigated the effects of Matrix Metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) on bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) and its mechanism. Our results showed that knockdown of MMP-1 impeded scratch closure, attenuated proliferation, inhibited ALP activity, ALP denser staining and mineralization in vitro, and decreased expression of RUNX2, OSX, OPN and OCN in BMSCs, while 20 ng/mL recombinant human MMP-1 protein (rhMMP-1) significantly accelerated scratch closure, enhanced proliferation, ALP activity, ALP denser staining and mineralization in vitro, and increased expression of RUNX2, OSX, OPN and OCN. In addition, knockdown of MMP-1 inhibited the expression of phosphorylated c-Jun N-terminal kinase (p-JNK) and phosphorylated extracellular regulated protein kinases (p-ERK), while 20 ng/mL rhMMP-1 increased the expression of p-JNK and p-ERK in BMSCs. Furthermore, inhibition of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERK) by their inhibitor SP600125 and PD98059 dramatically blocked MMP-1-enhanced ALP activity and mineralization in BMSCs. Our results revealed that MMP-1 could accelerate the osteogenic differentiation potentials of BMSCs via the JNK and ERK pathway, providing the mechanism underlying MSC biology and identifying a potential target for improving bone tissue regeneration.

The MAP kinase inhibitor PD98059 reduces chromosomal instability in the autoimmune encephalomyelitis SJL/J-mouse model of multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS), a disease in which the immune system attacks nerve cells, has been associated with both genetic and environmental risk factors. We observed increased micronucleus (MN) formation in SJL/J mouse experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model of MS. Most of these MN were due to chromosomal loss. Increased activation of MAP kinases, which leads to disruption of the mitotic spindle and improper segregation of chromosomes, is associated with MS. MAP kinase inhibitors, such as PD98059, may therefore be beneficial for MS. In the EAE model, PD98059 treatment reduced adverse effects, including MN formation, lipid peroxidation, and GSH oxidation. Interventions that mitigate chromosomal instability may have therapeutic value in MS.

Kanglexin accelerates diabetic wound healing by promoting angiogenesis via FGFR1/ERK signaling

Diabetic foot is one of the main causes of non-traumatic amputation. However, there is still lack of effective drugs to treat diabetic foot in clinical practice. Kanglexin (KLX) is a new anthraquinone compound with cardiovascular protective effects. Here we report that KLX accelerates diabetic wound healing by promoting angiogenesis via FGFR1/ERK signaling. Firstly, KM mice were injected (ip) with streptozocin to establish type 1 diabetic model. The full thickness wound with the diameter of 5 mm was prepared on the back of each mice. The wounds were treated with KLX once a day for 14 consecutive days. Results showed that KLX significantly accelerated the closure of diabetic wounds. Pathological studies of skin tissues around the wounds showed that KLX promoted the formation of granulation tissue and new blood vessels, increased collagen deposition and reduced inflammatory cell infiltration. Besides, KLX significantly alleviated advanced glycation end products (AGEs) - induced abnormal proliferation, migration and tubule formation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), and up-regulated phospho-ERK1/2 both in the diabetic wound tissue and AGEs - treated HUVECs. Moreover, molecular docking results indicated that KLX had the potential to bind with FGF receptor 1 (FGFR1), and subsequent experiments confirmed that FGFR1 inhibitor PD173074 reversed the effect of KLX on promoting the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and angiogenesis, suggesting that KLX promoted angiogenesis through FGFR1/ERK signaling. In conclusion, our study provides a new effective compound for treating diabetic wounds. More importantly, KLX has the potential to be developed as a topical drug to promote diabetic wound healing.