2019
Publication by Müller et al.: Argonaute proteins: from structure to function in development and pathological cell fate determination
The highly conserved Argonaute (AGO) protein family members play a central role in the regulation of gene expression networks, orchestrating the establishment and the maintenance of cell identity throughout the entire life cycle. Here, we review the roles of AGO during early development by focusing on the interplay between specific domains of the protein and their function. Moreover, we report recent works highlighting the importance of AGO post-translational modifications in cancer.
Publication by Aloia et al.: A fatty acid oxidation-dependent metabolic shift regulates the adaptation of BRAF-mutated melanoma to MAPK inhibitors
Treatment of BRAF-mutant melanomas with MAPK inhibitors (MAPKi) results in tumor regression but acquired resistance is pervasive. During the initial treatment phase, a metabolic shift marked by decreased glycolysis and increased fatty acid oxidation (FAO) occurs to survive MAPKi-induced metabolic stress prior to acquiring drug resistance. A triple combination of MAPK, FAO, and glycolytic inhibitors might be a clinically relevant therapeutic approach to improve initial responses to MAPKi.
Sabine Werner: FEBS National Lecture, Athens, Greece
Publication by Muri et al.: B1 and Marginal Zone B Cells but Not Follicular B2 Cells Require Gpx4 to Prevent Lipid Peroxidation and Ferroptosis
Muri et al. demonstrate that B1 and marginal zone (MZ) B cells but not follicular (Fo) B2 cells require Gpx4 during homeostasis and antibody responses. Mechanistically, B1 and MZ B cells display increased lipid metabolism, sensitivity to lipid peroxidation, and ferroptosis in comparison to Fo B cells.
Sabine Werner: Golden Owl
For best teaching in the Department of Biology, ETH Zurich (selected by the students)