Projects
p53 post-translational modifications
PTMs of p53 regulate its function
p53 acetylation and its effect on p53 function (Cell, 2008; Cell, 2012; Nature, 2016; Genes & development, 2021)
Deacetylases in modulating the functions of p53 and the impact on other non-histone proteins (Cell, 2001; Nature, 2008; Cell, 2012; Cancer research, 2021)
p53 ubiquitination and deubiquitination (Science, 2003; Molecular cell, 2004; Nature medicine, 2016; Cancer research, 2019)
p53 and ferroptosis
p53 modulates ferroptosis in different ways
We first reported that p53 could promote ferroptosis in 2015 (Nature, 2015). After that, we also identified some other mechanisms for p53 to participate in the regulation of ferroptosis and tumor suppression (Cell reports, 2016; PNAS, 2016; Cancer research, 2019; Nature cell biology, 2019; Nature communications, 2021; Nature cancer, 2023; Cell metabolism, 2023).
ARF in p53-dependent and p53-independent tumor suppression
ARF regulates p53 and NRF2 to inhibit tumor
Our studies reveal that ARF-BP1 is a critical mediator of both the p53-dependent and p53-independent tumor suppressor functions of ARF (Cell, 2005). We also identified ULF as a specific ubiquitin ligase for ARF and showed that inactivation of ULF blocks ARF degradation and subsequently activates p53 function in human cells (Nature, 2010; Molecular cell, 2013). Moreover, we found that ARF promotes ferroptosis via an ARF/NRF2/SLC7A11 pathway independent of p53 (Molecular cell, 2017).
Targeting p53 for cancer treatment
Various approachs to target p53
Since p53 has widespread and profound effects in cancer initiation and development, we are trying to develop novel therapeutic methods for cancer by targeting p53 with minor side effects (Nature Communications, 2023; Cell Death & Differentiation, 2023).