CRTC2 Forms Co-condensates with YTHDF2 that Enhance Translational Efficiency of m6A-Modified mRNAs to Drive Hepatocarcinogenesis and Lenvatinib Resistance

Abstract

As the third most common cause of cancer-related mortality, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a global health concern. Despite its prevalence, treatment options are limited, underscoring the need to identify potential therapeutic targets and strategies. Here, we identified amplification of CRTC2, situated in the 1q21.3 region, due to copy number alterations in HCC. In a cohort of patients with HCC, CRTC2 protein levels were frequently elevated and correlated with poor prognosis. Genetic deletion of CRTC2 significantly impeded the onset and progression of HCC in mouse models. CRTC2 formed cytoplasmic condensates that recruited the m6A reader YTHDF2. Furthermore, CRTC2 promoted the translocation of m6A-modified mRNAs from decay sites to polyribosomes by interacting with PABP1. The activities of CRTC2 counteracted YTHDF2-mediated mRNA degradation to enhance the translational efficiency of specific mRNAs, including those encoding LRP5 and c-Jun. Targeting CRTC2 in hepatocytes using AAV8.sgCRTC2 elicited substantial therapeutic benefits in HCC mouse model and significantly enhanced the sensitivity to lenvatinib. Together, this research elucidates the pivotal role and underlying molecular mechanisms of CRTC2 in hepatocarcinogenesis and lenvatinib-resistance, highlighting its potential clinical and therapeutic applications.