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Updated: Jul 10, 2026

Using RNA-sequencing to Detect Novel Splice Variants Related to Drug Resistance in In Vitro Cancer Models
Published on: December 9, 2016
Splicing-associated network PAK1-CLK1/4-SRRM1 is a vulnerability to overcome chemoresistance in human and mouse acute
Camille Vaganay1, Frank Ling1, Lois M Kelly1
1Inserm U1342, IRSL, Paris Saint-Louis Leukemia Institute, Saint Louis Hospital, University of Paris-Cité, 75010 Paris, France.
Abstract:
Chemotherapy resistance in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remains a major clinical challenge. Integration of multiomic profiling and in vivo functional genomics revealed splicing dysregulation as a determinant of chemoresistance in AML. We uncovered a network involving the splicing regulator SRRM1 and the CLK1/4 and PAK1 kinase families as vulnerabilities in chemoresistant AML cells. Both kinase families are hyperactivated in chemoresistant cells, promoting SRRM1 phosphorylation and altering its scaffolding function. We also identified a relapse-associated PAK1 variant, c.1429G>T p.(Ala477→Ser), that confers chemotherapy resistance. Combined PAK1 and CLK1/4 inhibition recapitulated the splicing changes induced by SRRM1 loss, preferentially targeting chemoresistant AML and enhancing chemotherapy efficacy in cell lines, primary cells, and mouse models. Last, we pinpointed MAP2K5 as a critical downstream effector because missplicing of exons 17 and 18 of MAP2K5 upon SRRM1 depletion sensitized cells to chemotherapy. Our findings highlight a therapeutic strategy to overcome AML relapse by targeting splicing dysregulation.
Insights
Splicing dysregulation drives chemotherapy resistance in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Targeting the SRRM1-CLK/PAK network and MAP2K5 splicing offers a novel strategy to overcome AML relapse and enhance treatment efficacy.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genomics
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Chemotherapy resistance is a significant obstacle in treating acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
- Splicing dysregulation has emerged as a key factor contributing to chemoresistance in AML.
- Identifying specific molecular targets is crucial for developing effective AML therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of splicing dysregulation in AML chemotherapy resistance.
- To uncover molecular networks and vulnerabilities in chemoresistant AML cells.
- To explore therapeutic strategies targeting splicing pathways to overcome AML relapse.
Main Methods:
- Multiomic profiling and in vivo functional genomics were employed.
- Analysis of the SRRM1 splicing regulator and CLK1/4 and PAK1 kinase families.
- Assessment of a specific PAK1 variant and MAP2K5 splicing in chemoresistance.
- Inhibition of PAK1 and CLK1/4 in AML cell lines, primary cells, and mouse models.
Main Results:
- Splicing dysregulation, involving SRRM1 and hyperactivated CLK1/4 and PAK1 kinases, was identified as a determinant of chemoresistance.
- A relapse-associated PAK1 variant conferring chemotherapy resistance was discovered.
- Combined inhibition of PAK1 and CLK1/4 mimicked SRRM1 loss effects, targeting chemoresistant AML.
- MAP2K5 missplicing was identified as a critical downstream event sensitized cells to chemotherapy.
Conclusions:
- The SRRM1-CLK/PAK kinase network represents a vulnerability in chemoresistant AML.
- Targeting splicing dysregulation, including MAP2K5, offers a promising therapeutic strategy for AML.
- This approach has the potential to overcome chemotherapy resistance and improve outcomes in AML patients.
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