AKT1 represses gene conversion induced by different genotoxic stresses and induces supernumerary centrosomes and aneuploidy in hamster ovary cells

Oncogene. 2009 Jun 4;28(22):2231-7. doi: 10.1038/onc.2009.85. Epub 2009 Apr 27.

Abstract

The oncogenic kinase AKT1 is frequently overexpressed or activated in sporadic breast and ovarian cancers. In human breast tumors, we have previously shown that AKT1 represses homologous recombination (HR) induced by one double-strand break (DSB). To further analyze the impact of AKT1 on HR, we ectopically expressed wild-type or mutant forms of AKT1 in a hamster ovary cell line containing an intrachromosomal substrate for monitoring HR. In this cell line, AKT1 repressed HR induced by different genotoxic stresses including ionizing radiation, UV-C and one single DSB introduced into the intrachromosomal substrate. Consistently, AKT1 disrupted RAD51 foci formation, showing that AKT1 specifically affects gene conversion. Concomitantly, AKT1 represses both BRCA1 foci formation and HR stimulation resulting from BRCA1 overexpression, showing that AKT1 affects BRCA1-mediated HR functions, also in another species (hamster) and in another type of cell tissue (ovary cells). Finally, consistent with the HR defects, active AKT1 expression induces supernumerary centrosomes and aneuploidy. In addition to its impact on cell proliferation and apoptosis, the present data propose a novel oncogenic function for AKT1, by producing genomic instability as a consequence of HR repression.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aneuploidy*
  • Animals
  • BRCA1 Protein / metabolism
  • CHO Cells
  • Centrosome / metabolism*
  • Cricetinae
  • Cricetulus
  • DNA Breaks, Double-Stranded / radiation effects
  • DNA Damage*
  • Gene Conversion / radiation effects*
  • Gene Expression Regulation
  • Mitosis / genetics
  • Mitosis / radiation effects
  • Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-akt / metabolism*
  • Rad51 Recombinase / metabolism
  • Ultraviolet Rays / adverse effects

Substances

  • BRCA1 Protein
  • Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-akt
  • Rad51 Recombinase