Amplification of TLK2 Induces Genomic Instability via Impairing the G2–M Checkpoint

Abstract

Managing aggressive breast cancers with enhanced chromosomal instability (CIN) is a significant challenge in clinics. Previously, we described that a cell cycle–associated kinase called Tousled-like kinase 2 (TLK2) is frequently deregulated by genomic amplifications in aggressive estrogen receptor–positive (ER+) breast cancers. In this study, it was discovered that TLK2 amplification and overexpression mechanistically impair Chk1/2-induced DNA damage checkpoint signaling, leading to a G2–M checkpoint defect, delayed DNA repair process, and increased CIN. In addition, TLK2 overexpression modestly sensitizes breast cancer cells to DNA-damaging agents, such as irradiation or doxorubicin. To our knowledge, this is the first report linking TLK2 function to CIN, in contrast to the function of its paralog TLK1 as a guardian of genome stability. This finding yields new insight into the deregulated DNA damage pathway and increased genomic instability in aggressive ER+ breast cancers.

Document Details

Document Type
Pub Defense Publication
Publication Date
Oct 01, 2016
Source ID
10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-16-0161

Entities

People

  • Jamunarani Veeraraghavan
  • Jin-ah Kim
  • Kaiyi Li
  • Meenakshi Anurag
  • Rachel Schiff
  • Xiao-song Wang

Organizations

  • Baylor College of Medicine
  • Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs
  • National Institutes of Health
  • Susan G. Komen for the Cure
  • University of Pittsburgh

Tags

Fields of Study

  • Biology

Readers

  • Breast cancer cell signaling and growth regulation.
  • Molecular Biology and Genetics
  • Molecular and genetic basis of cancer.

Technology Areas

  • Biotechnology