Rac1-mediated DNA damage and inflammation promote Nf2 tumorigenesis but also limit cell cycle progression by inducing p53 checkpoint and cellular senescence
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ABSTRACT: Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) is caused by mutations of the tumor suppressor MERLIN/NF2. Prior studies established Yap as the driver of proliferation and tumorigenesis upon Nf2 inactivation in a well defined, genetically engineered murine liver model. Here, we report that in this model system Nf2 tumorigenesis also involves DNA damage and inflammation via Rac1-mediated production of ROS. Ablation of Rac1 blocks Nf2 tumorigenesis in spite of hyperactivation of the cyclinD1-pRb-E2F1 pathway and profound increase in liver size associated with the loss of Rac1-dependent p53 checkpoint and senescence programs. Surprisingly, Erk, Akt and Stat3 signaling does not correlate with proliferation or tumorigenesis despite being activated in Nf2 deficient livers, indicating a lesser role of these pathways for Nf2 tumorigenesis. Because a senescence gene signature is associated with benign NF2 tumors but not with malignant NF2 mutant mesotheliomas, we conclude that senescence may underlie the benign nature of NF2.
ORGANISM(S): Mus musculus
PROVIDER: GSE70742 | GEO | 2016/12/01
SECONDARY ACCESSION(S): PRJNA289469
REPOSITORIES: GEO
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