Review
Immunology
Melanie Rose, Marie Duhamel, Franck Rodet, Michel Salzet
Summary: Proprotein convertases (PCs) are a family of serine proteases that process cellular pro-proteins and play a crucial role in cellular homeostasis. Specifically, in lymphoid organs, PCs such as Furin are involved in immune response regulation, with knock-out of Furin in T cells associated with increased inflammatory cytokine secretion and autoantibody production. Additionally, PCs like Furin and PC1/3 have been shown to regulate the innate and adaptive immune responses, suggesting their potential as therapeutic targets in oncoimmune therapy.
FRONTIERS IN IMMUNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Organic
Shanping Ji, Steven H. L. Verhelst
Summary: This article reports a series of novel activity-based probes (ABPs) for targeting the serine protease furin using phosphonate and phosphinate esters as reactive electrophiles. The probes are shown to covalently label furin and exhibit nanomolar potencies, likely due to interactions with different recognition pockets around the active site of furin.
ORGANIC & BIOMOLECULAR CHEMISTRY
(2023)
Article
Immunology
Zsuzsanna Ortutay, Anna Gronholm, Melina Laitinen, Melinda Keresztes-Andrei, Ismail Hermelo, Marko Pesu
Summary: The proprotein convertase enzyme FURIN plays an important role in maintaining cellular homeostasis by promoting the proteolytic maturation of pro-proteins. In T cells, FURIN is crucial for maintaining immune tolerance and T helper cell polarization. A regulatory region upstream of the Furin gene was identified, and deletion of this region reduced the expression of Furin mRNA in activated mouse T cells and affected the expression of genes associated with IFN gamma regulation in Th1 type cells. The Furin genetic regulatory region specifically promoted IFN gamma secretion by activated T cells, indicating characteristics of a super-enhancer for Th1 cell fate.
FRONTIERS IN IMMUNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Omar Al Rifai, Delia Susan-Resiga, Rachid Essalmani, John W. M. Creemers, Nabil G. Seidah, Mathieu Ferron
Summary: The enzyme furin is only partially responsible for FGF23 cleavage under certain conditions in vivo, suggesting the involvement of multiple PCs or other peptidases in the processing of FGF23. Iron deficiency impairs FGF23 processing in mice lacking furin, while injections of erythropoietin or IL-1β do not affect FGF23 cleavage even in the absence of furin or both furin and PC5.
FRONTIERS IN ENDOCRINOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Ophthalmology
Ahmed M. Abu El-Asrar, Mohd I. Nawaz, Ajmal Ahmad, Mohammad M. Siddiquei, Eef Allegaert, Priscilla W. Gikandi, Gert De Hertogh, Ghislain Opdenakker
Summary: Furin is a potential driver molecule of inflammation and angiogenesis associated with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). This study demonstrated that furin levels were significantly upregulated in vitreous samples and retinas of PDR patients, and inhibition of furin could attenuate inflammation and angiogenesis. These findings suggest that furin could be a novel therapeutic target for PDR.
CLINICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL OPHTHALMOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Chithra R. Nair, K. G. Sreejalekshmi
Summary: Through molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation, we found that PAMAM-GTU binds to furin's catalytic triad, while single arm GTU substitution affects the interactions with Asp153, His194 and Ser368. The binding free energy of dendrimer-furin interaction was evaluated by MM/GBSA. One-step synthesis of PAMAM-GTU and the optimization of a basic alumina column as a purification platform were successfully achieved.
NEW JOURNAL OF CHEMISTRY
(2023)
Review
Cell Biology
Sulaiman K. Marafie, Fahd Al-Mulla
Summary: Post-translational modifications are crucial for regulating human diseases, and furin, a type of irreversible post-translational modifier, plays a role in the context of type 2 diabetes and the mTOR signaling pathway. Understanding the role of furin in diabetes and exploring its genetic variants is important for future therapeutic interventions.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Ilaria Coppola, Bas Brouwers, Sandra Meulemans, Bruno Ramos-Molina, John W. M. Creemers
Summary: FURIN cleaves the insulin receptor non-redundantly in beta cells, while redundantly in liver. The study demonstrated that the insulin receptor in beta cells plays a limited role in glucose homeostasis.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2021)
Article
Immunology
Michael G. Spelios, Jeanne M. Capanelli, Adam W. Li
Summary: A study found that an antibody generated against the furin motif of SARS-CoV-2 can block the cleavage of spike protein and inhibit its interaction with host cell receptors, reducing viral infectivity.
IMMUNOLOGY LETTERS
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Delia Susan-Resiga, Emmanuelle Girard, Rachid Essalmani, Anna Roubtsova, Jadwiga Marcinkiewicz, Rabeb M. Derbali, Alexandra Evagelidis, Jae H. Byun, Paul F. Lebeau, Richard C. Austin, Nabil G. Seidah
Summary: ASGR1 plays a crucial role in mediating the endocytosis and lysosomal degradation of desialylated glycoproteins in the liver. It independently targets and degrades LDLR along with PCSK9, without cooperativity between the two. Silencing ASGR1 and PCSK9 may increase LDL uptake by hepatocytes, offering a potential approach to reduce LDL cholesterol levels.
JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL CHEMISTRY
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Medicinal
Riccardo Castelli, Sara Taranto, Lucia Furiassi, Nicole Bozza, Giuseppe Marseglia, Francesca Ferlenghi, Silvia Rivara, Michele Retini, Annalida Bedini, Gilberto Spadoni, Sara Matarazzo, Roberto Ronca, Marco Presta, Marco Mor, Arianna Giacomini
Summary: Inhibition of FGF/FGFR signaling is a promising strategy for the treatment of malignancies dependent on FGF stimulation. Compound 25b has been identified as an effective agent for blocking the proliferation of MM cells by inhibiting FGF-dependent receptor activation. The absence of the hydroxyl group at C3 in compound 1 prevents binding to estrogen receptors, contributing to its antitumor activity.
EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Song Xue, Fan Zhou, Tian Zhao, Huimin Zhao, Xuewei Wang, Long Chen, Jin-ping Li, Shi-Zhong Luo
Summary: This study demonstrates that heparan sulfate can induce the phase separation of basic fibroblast growth factor on the cell surface, providing insights on the mechanism of growth factor recruitment and expanding our understanding of phase separation from intracellular to extracellular proteins.
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS
(2022)
Review
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Giovanni Vitale, Alessia Cozzolino, Pasqualino Malandrino, Roberto Minotta, Giulia Puliani, Davide Saronni, Antongiulio Faggiano, Annamaria Colao
Summary: Neuroendocrine neoplasms are tumors originating from neuroendocrine cells in different organs, with dysregulation of receptor tyrosine kinases playing a crucial role in their development and progression. Research on the role of the fibroblast growth factor receptor system in NENs and the potential of FGFR selective inhibitors shows promising anti-tumor activity in advanced NEN patients, with further studies needed for confirmation.
FRONTIERS IN ENDOCRINOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Meng-Jen Lee, May-Jywan Tsai, Wen-Chi Chang, Wang-Yu Hsu, Chien-Hui Hung, Ya-Tzu Chen, Tsung-Hsi Tu, Chih-Hung Shu, Ching-Jung Chen, Henrich Cheng
Summary: We studied the phenotypes in an oligodendrocyte genesis site at the acute stage of spinal cord injury, when regenerated ascending neurites were observed. We found that fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-1 treatment increased the number of OLIG2+ cells, but decreased the number of other oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPC) and remyelinating oligodendrocytes. Interestingly, FGF-1 treatment also resulted in more mitotic NKX2.2+ OPC cells. In addition, we confirmed in an embryonic spinal cord mixed culture that FGF treatment increased NG2(+) CNPase (+) cell numbers but reduced the numbers of more mature NG2(-) CNPase(+) cells. Blocking FGF receptor in the injured rat model increased the number of NG2+OX42- cells but did not restore the number of mature oligodendrocytes.
Review
Genetics & Heredity
David M. Dolivo
Summary: Fibrosis is a pathological tissue repair process that leads to nearly half of deaths in developed countries. Current therapies targeting fibrosis are lacking, highlighting the significance of basic science research and anti-fibrotic modalities.
JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR MEDICINE-JMM
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Soojung Hahn, Gyuri Kim, Sang-Man Jin, Jae Hyeon Kim
Summary: This study utilized three-dimensional intestinal organoids to investigate the effects of metformin on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and found that metformin can enhance intestinal barrier function and reduce levels of inflammatory cytokines.
BIOCHEMICAL AND BIOPHYSICAL RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS
(2024)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
V. V. Sudarev, M. S. Gette, S. V. Bazhenov, O. M. Tilinova, E. V. Zinovev, I. V. Manukhov, A. I. Kuklin, Yu. L. Ryzhykau, A. V. Vlasov
Summary: This study investigated the self-assembly processes of ferritin-based protein complexes and obtained structurally characterized oligomeric states. These results provide new potential and opportunities for the application of ferritin in various fields.
BIOCHEMICAL AND BIOPHYSICAL RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS
(2024)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Yalda Sabaghi, Farnaz Pourfarzad, Leila Zolghadr, Azita Bahrami, Tahereh Shojazadeh, Alireza Farasat, Nematollah Gheibi
Summary: p-Coumaric acid (p-CA) is a plant compound with anti-cancer activities. This study designed a nano-liposomal carrier containing p-CA to enhance its effectiveness against melanoma cells. The findings showed that the liposomal form of p-CA had a greater impact on the cells. Kinetic modeling indicated that the best fitting model was zero-order.
BIOCHEMICAL AND BIOPHYSICAL RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS
(2024)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
M. D. Nazmul Hasan, Md Mahfuzur Rahman, Al Asmaul Husna, Nobuhiro Nozaki, Osamu Yamato, Naoki Miura
Summary: This study investigated the expression of ncRNAs other than miRNAs in different histologic subtypes of canine mammary gland tumors (MGT). Three aberrantly expressed ncRNAs were identified as potential biomarkers for differentiating MGT subtypes. YRNA and tRFs expression levels were found to be decreased in metastatic compared to primary MGT cell lines.
BIOCHEMICAL AND BIOPHYSICAL RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS
(2024)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Seine A. Shintani
Summary: In this study, the researchers used signal analysis to study the instantaneous amplitude and phase of sarcomeric oscillations in skeletal muscle. They identified two types of oscillations, sarcomeric oscillations and sarcosynced oscillations, and visualized their behavior during propagating waves. The researchers discovered the presence of sarcomeric defect holes and sarcomeric collision holes, which are important indicators for understanding the oscillation properties of sarcomeres. This finding has important implications for improving our understanding of muscle function and its regulatory mechanisms.
BIOCHEMICAL AND BIOPHYSICAL RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS
(2024)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Shuanglin Zhang, Yuzhong Jia, Guolan Ma, Yanyan Yang, Zhenzhen Cao, Antao Luo, Zefu Zhang, Shihan Li, Jie Wen, Hanfeng Liu, Jihua Ma
Summary: Bupleurum is an antiarrhythmic agent that may exert its effects by inhibiting L-type calcium channels.
BIOCHEMICAL AND BIOPHYSICAL RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS
(2024)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Tomotaka Ohkubo, Yasuhiko Matsumoto, Hiroaki Sasaki, Kaoru Kinoshita, Yuki Ogasawara, Takashi Sugita
Summary: This study found that Citrobacter koseri inhibits the growth of Staphylococcus epidermidis, disrupting the balance between S. epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus, and exacerbating inflammation in atopic dermatitis.
BIOCHEMICAL AND BIOPHYSICAL RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS
(2024)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Toshifumi Asano, Philipp Sasse, Takao Nakata
Summary: A Cre recombination-based fluorescent reporter system was developed to monitor cell-cell fusion. The system successfully detected the formation of multinuclear myotubes and placental syncytiotrophoblast. This tool could facilitate the study of cell-to-cell fusion.
BIOCHEMICAL AND BIOPHYSICAL RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS
(2024)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Ke Shi, Yunlong Shan, Xiao Sun, Kuida Chen, Qiong Luo, Qiang Xu
Summary: This study found that low expression of TP53INP2 is associated with poor survival in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. As the malignancy of CRC progresses, TP53INP2 expression gradually decreases. Knockdown of TP53INP2 promotes CRC cell proliferation and tumor growth. Mechanistically, TP53INP2 deficiency decreases phosphorylation of beta-catenin, leading to increased accumulation and enhanced nuclear translocation and transcriptional activity. Additionally, TP53INP2 sequesters TIM50, inhibiting its activation of beta-catenin. In conclusion, downregulation of TP53INP2 promotes CRC progression by activating beta-catenin.
BIOCHEMICAL AND BIOPHYSICAL RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS
(2024)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Martina Rossi, Fabio Tomaselli, Alejandro Hochkoeppler
Summary: Oligomeric enzymes are known for their higher catalytic rates compared to monomeric enzymes, but the extent of additivity in their activity is still not well understood. This study used tetrameric rabbit lactate dehydrogenase as a model to examine the kinetics of its catalytic action. Surprisingly, when the concentration of the limiting reactant exceeded that of a single subunit, there was a significant slowdown in the enzyme's conformational rearrangements.
BIOCHEMICAL AND BIOPHYSICAL RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS
(2024)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Amin Sahraei, Mohammad Javad Shamsoddini, Fakhrossadat Mohammadi, Leila Hassani
Summary: This study explored the inhibitory effects of gallium curcumin, indium curcumin, and vanadyl curcumin on the amyloid fibrillation of hen egg white lysozyme, as well as the binding interactions of these metal complexes with the enzyme. The results showed that indium curcumin and vanadyl curcumin exhibited higher binding affinities and stronger inhibitory effects on amyloid fibrillation compared to gallium curcumin.
BIOCHEMICAL AND BIOPHYSICAL RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS
(2024)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Takahiro Sasaki, Yoshiki Kuse, Shinsuke Nakamura, Masamitsu Shimazawa
Summary: PGRN deficiency plays a significant role in cardiac remodeling and arrhythmias post-myocardial infarction (MI), potentially by promoting metabolic abnormalities in macrophages.
BIOCHEMICAL AND BIOPHYSICAL RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS
(2024)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Hongwei Zhao, Yiqiang Li, Yibo Zhang, Chi Zhang
Summary: Electrical brain stimulation technology is commonly used to treat brain neurological disorders, but it can cause side effects. This study investigated the impact of electric fields on nerve fibers and revealed the possible origin of side effects. The findings provide guidance for selecting electrical parameters in clinical stimulation therapy.
BIOCHEMICAL AND BIOPHYSICAL RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS
(2024)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Julia S. Scott, Lake-Ee Quek, Andrew J. Hoy, Johannes V. Swinnen, Zeyad D. Nassar, Lisa M. Butler
Summary: The fatty acid elongation enzyme ELOVL5 plays a critical role in promoting metastasis in prostate cancer. Knocking down ELOVL5 leads to the accumulation of malonyl-CoA, which inhibits fatty acid oxidation in mitochondria. This study highlights the importance of fatty acid elongation in regulating cell viability and provides a potential target for prostate cancer treatment.
BIOCHEMICAL AND BIOPHYSICAL RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS
(2024)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Zan Zhou, Wen-jun Jiang, Li Li, Jun-qiang Si
Summary: This study investigates the effect of noise exposure on cognitive function in mice and explores the underlying molecular mechanisms. The findings suggest that noise exposure leads to increased inflammation, increased phosphorylation of Tau protein, and decreased levels of postsynaptic density protein, resulting in cognitive impairment.
BIOCHEMICAL AND BIOPHYSICAL RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS
(2024)