CBX7 regulates chemotherapy-induced senescence-like growth arrest in multiple myeloma via the ERK/STAT3/PIM1 axis

Yangyang Ding1,2,3, Zelin Liu1,2, Ya Liao1,2

  • 1Department of Hematology/Hematological Lab, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 678 Furong Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230031, China.

PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Cellular senescence drives multiple myeloma (MM) progression and relapse. Targeting CBX7, a key regulator of senescence, and its ERK/PIM1 pathway may enhance bortezomib chemotherapy efficacy in MM patients.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Cellular Biology
  • Molecular Medicine

Background:

  • Chemotherapy resistance and relapse in multiple myeloma (MM) are linked to cellular senescence.
  • Bortezomib (BTZ) is a proteasome inhibitor used in MM treatment.
  • Understanding myeloma cell senescence drivers is crucial for improving MM outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the key drivers of myeloma cell senescence.
  • To elucidate the role of cellular senescence in MM progression.
  • To identify potential therapeutic targets for overcoming chemotherapy resistance.

Main Methods:

  • Flow cytometry to assess senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) activity.
  • RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) to identify key senescence-regulating genes.
  • CBX7 knockdown and overexpression studies to evaluate its functional role.
  • Xenograft mouse models to validate in vivo effects.

Main Results:

  • Bortezomib (BTZ) induces myeloma cell senescence, with SA-β-gal activity correlated with proliferation.
  • CBX7 is a critical regulator of myeloma cell senescence, with levels fluctuating during disease course.
  • CBX7 knockdown promotes BTZ-induced senescence and growth arrest, while overexpression inhibits it.
  • CBX7 regulates senescence via the ERK/STAT3/MIX1 axis; targeting this pathway enhances BTZ efficacy.

Conclusions:

  • CBX7 is a pivotal regulator of cellular senescence in multiple myeloma.
  • A novel CBX7/ERK/PIM1 regulatory axis controls myeloma cell senescence.
  • Targeting CBX7 and its downstream pathways offers a strategy to augment standard chemotherapy efficacy in MM.

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