Cancer stem-like properties and gefitinib resistance are dependent on purine synthetic metabolism mediated by the mitochondrial enzyme MTHFD2
2019
Tumor recurrence is attributable to cancer stem-like cells (CSCs), the metabolic mechanisms of which currently remain obscure. Here, we uncovered the critical role of folate-mediated one-carbon (1C) metabolism involving mitochondrial methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase 2 (MTHFD2) and its downstream
purinesynthesis pathway. MTHFD2 knockdown greatly reduced tumorigenesis and stem-like properties, which were associated with
purinenucleotide deficiency, and caused marked accumulation of 5-aminoimidazole
carboxamide
ribonucleotide(AICAR)—the final intermediate of the
purinesynthesis pathway. Lung cancer cells with acquired resistance to the targeted drug
gefitinib, caused by elevated expression of components of the β-catenin pathway, exhibited increased stem-like properties and enhanced expression of MTHFD2. MTHFD2 knockdown or treatment with AICAR reduced the stem-like properties and restored
gefitinibsensitivity in these
gefitinib-
resistant cancercells. Moreover, overexpression of MTHFD2 in
gefitinib-sensitive lung cancer cells conferred resistance to
gefitinib. Thus, MTHFD2-mediated mitochondrial 1C metabolism appears critical for cancer stem-like properties and resistance to drugs including
gefitinibthrough consumption of AICAR, leading to depletion of the intracellular pool of AICAR. Because CSCs are dependent on MTHFD2, therapies targeting MTHFD2 may eradicate tumors and prevent recurrence.
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