The regulatory roles of RNA-binding proteins in the tumour immune microenvironment of gastrointestinal malignancies

The crosstalk between the tumour immune microenvironment (TIME) and tumour cells promote immune evasion and resistance to immunotherapy in gastrointestinal (GI) tumours. Post-transcriptional regulation of genes is pivotal to GI tumours progression, and RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) serve as key regulators via their RNA-binding domains. RBPs may exhibit either anti-tumour or pro-tumour functions by influencing the TIME through the modulation of mRNAs and non-coding RNAs expression, as well as post-transcriptional modifications, primarily N6-methyladenosine (m6A). Aberrant regulation of RBPs, such as HuR and YBX1, typically enhances tumour immune escape and impacts prognosis of GI tumour patients. Further, while targeting RBPs offers a promising strategy for improving immunotherapy in GI cancers, the mechanisms by which RBPs regulate the TIME in these tumours remain poorly understood, and the therapeutic application is still in its early stages. This review summarizes current advances in exploring the roles of RBPs in regulating genes expression and their effect on the TIME of GI tumours, then providing theoretical insights for RBP-targeted cancer therapies.

The function of chloride channels in digestive system disease (Review)

Cation channels have been extensively studied in the context of digestive disorders, but comparatively little attention has been given to anions and their associated channels. Chloride ions, the most abundant anions in the human body, act as signaling molecules, modulating cellular behavior and playing a key role in regulating multiorgan physiological and pathophysiological mechanisms. The intra‑ and extracellular distributions of chloride ions are primarily controlled by various chloride channels and transporters. Currently, these chloride channels are classified into several groups: The chloride channels family, cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator, calcium‑activated chloride channels, volume‑regulated anion channels, proton‑activated chloride channels and ligand‑gated anion channels. This review aims to summarize the roles of chloride ion channels and transporter proteins in digestive system diseases, providing a theoretical basis for future research and offering potential new strategies for disease treatment.

Spatial alteration of metabolites in diabetic cortical cataracts: New insight into lactate

This study aimed to use metabolomics to accurately reveal alterations in metabolites and potential regulatory mechanisms in patients with diabetic cortical cataracts (DCC). We first collected cortical samples from different pathological areas of the same lens in DCC patients for metabolomics. Then, we used transcriptomic analysis to study lactate's effect on gene expression in human lens epithelial cells (HLECs). An in vitro rat lens culture assay evaluated lactate's impact on lens transparency, and WB and immunofluorescence assessed lactate-induced apoptosis and oxidative damage in rat LECs. Furthermore, CHIP sequencing and LC-MS identified H3K18la separately modified genes and potential lactylation proteins in HLECs. Immunoprecipitation validated lactylation levels of proteins. Our findings identified 11 upregulated and 18 downregulated metabolites in the opacity zone of LFCs (OZ-LFCs) compared to the clear zone (CZ-LFCs) in DCC patients. We confirmed the differential lactate content between OZ-LFCs and CZ-LFCs and, through transcriptomic analysis, discovered that lactate affects gene expression, protein metabolism, and DNA repair in primary Human Lens epithelial cells (HLECs). Lactate-induced apoptosis and DNA repair hastened lens opacity in a high-sugar rat lens culture model. Lactylation-MS and H3K18la-ChIP sequencing revealed 591 H3K18la-modified genes and 953 lactylation proteins in HLECs. PKM2 and NPM1 lactylation was confirmed through immunoprecipitation. These findings improve our grasp of spatial dynamics in DCC patient metabolomics and suggest a new research path into lactylation modification to understand lactate's role in cataract formation.

Development and validation of a high-throughput screening pipeline of compound libraries to target EMT

Epithelial to Mesenchymal transitions (EMT) drive cell plasticity and are associated with cell features such as invasiveness, migration and stemness. They are orchestrated by select families of EMT-associated transcription factors, which exhibit pleiotropic roles in the malignant progression of various cancer types, such as breast and colorectal cancer (CRC). This has spurred interest in EMT as a promising target for the development of novel therapeutic strategies. In this study, we developed a phenotypic dual EMT Sensor screening assay, amendable to efficient high-throughput identification of small molecules interfering with EMT. In a proof-of-concept screening we identified anti-EMT repurposing drugs. From these, we validated RepSox, a selective inhibitor of the TGF-β type I receptor ALK5, and demonstrated that it is potently blocking EMT in both breast and colorectal cancer cell lines in vitro. In addition, utilizing a Drosophila melanogaster metastatic CRC model we confirmed the ability of the identified anti-EMT hits to suppress metastatic behavior in vivo.

Berberine promotes apoptosis and inhibits the migration of oral squamous carcinoma cells through inhibition of the RAGE/PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway

Given the high recurrence rate, elevated risk of metastasis, and drug resistance associated with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), the development of low - toxicity and highly efficient therapeutic agents has emerged as a top research priority. In this study, we conducted an in-depth investigation into the efficacy and underlying mechanism of berberine (BBR), a compound renowned for its broad anticancer activity, in the context of OSCC. Using network pharmacology, we identified 91 potential targets of BBR in OSCC, with SRC, PIK3CA, and CDC42 ranking among the top. KEGG pathway analysis indicated that the cross-targets were predominantly concentrated in signaling pathways such as PI3K/AKT, AGE-RAGE, and Ras. Molecular docking assays demonstrated that the binding energies between BBR and the core targets were all below -5 kcal/mol, signifying favorable binding interactions. Bioinformatics studies unveiled that SRC, PIK3CA, and CDC42 were highly expressed in OSCC patients and correlated with a poorer prognosis. In vitro, experiments further substantiated that BBR impeded the proliferation and migration of OSCC cells and reduced the intracellular expression levels of RAGE, p-PI3K, p-AKT, and p-mTOR proteins. Our results suggest that BBR effectively facilitates apoptosis and curbs the proliferation and migration of OSCC, potentially by suppressing the RAGE/PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. In summary, these findings underscore the potential of BBR as a single agent capable of exerting multi-target and multi-pathway synergistic effects on cancer cells.

A prognostic microRNA-based signature for localized clear cell renal cell carcinoma: the Bio-miR study

BACKGROUND

Two thirds of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients have localized disease at diagnosis. A significant proportion of these patients will relapse. There is a need for prognostic biomarkers to improve risk-stratification and specific treatments for patients that relapse. The objective of this study is to determine the clinical utility of microRNA signatures as prognostic biomarkers in localized clear cell RCC (ccRCC) and propose new therapeutic targets in patients with a high-risk of relapse.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The microRNA profiles from a discovery cohort of 71 T1-T2 ccRCC patients (n = 88) were analyzed using microarrays. MicroRNAs prognostic value was established, and a microRNAs signature predicting relapse for T1b-T3 disease was defined. Independent validation was carried out by qPCR in cohorts from UK (n = 75) and Spain (n = 180), and the TCGA cohort (n = 175). In the Spanish validation cohort, proteomics experiments were done. Proteins were extracted from FFPE tissue and analyzed using by data-independent acquisition mass spectrometry. Additionally, ccRCC TCGA RNA-seq data was also analyzed. Both protein and RNA-seq data was analyzed using Significance Analysis of Micorarrays (SAM) and probabilistic graphical models, which allow the identification of relevant biological processes between low and high-risk tumors.

RESULTS

A 9-microRNAs signature, Bio-miR, classified patients into low- and high-risk with disease-free survival (DFS) at 5 years of 87.12 vs. 54.17% respectively (p = 0.0086, HR = 3.58, 95%CI: 1.37-8.3). Results were confirmed in the validation cohorts with 5-year DFS rates of 94% vs. 62% in the UK cohort (HR = 7.14, p = 0.001), 82.9% vs. 58.7% in the Spanish cohort (HR = 2.46, p = 0.0013), and 5-year overall survival rates of 72.7% vs. 44.5% in the TCGA cohort (HR = 2.43, p = 0.0012). Among low-risk patients according to adjuvant immunotherapy clinical trial criteria, Bio-miR identified a high-risk group. Maybe those patients ought to be considered to receive adjuvant therapy. Proteins overexpressed in the high-risk group were mainly related to focal adhesion, serine and inositol metabolism, and angiogenesis. Probabilistic graphical models defined eight functional nodes related to specific biological processes. Differences between low- and high-risk tumors were detected in complement activation and translation functional nodes. In ccRCC TCGA cohort, 676 genes were differentially expressed between low and high-risk patients, mainly related to complement activation, adhesion, and chemokine and cytokine cascades. In this case, probabilistic graphical models defined ten functional nodes. Calcium binding, membrane, adhesion, extracellular matrix, blood microparticle, inflammatory response and immune response had higher functional node activity, and metabolism node, containing genes related to retinol and xenobiotic and CYP450 metabolism, had lower activity in the high-risk group.

CONCLUSIONS

Bio-miR dichotomizes ccRCC patients with non-metastatic disease into those with low- and high-risk of relapse. This has implications for treatment and follow-up, identifying patients most likely to benefit from adjuvant treatment in clinical trials, preventing unnecessary exposure to side-effects, and providing health economics benefits. Additionally, promising therapeutic targets, as angiogenesis, immune response, metabolism, or complement activation, were found deregulated in high-risk ccRCC patients defined by Bio-miR. These findings may be useful to select patients for tailored, molecularly-driven clinical trials. Identifying which patients with kidney cancer are most at risk of their cancer coming back after surgery is critical, so that they can be prioritized for early treatment. We have identified a combination of biomarkers present in the cancer tissue (called BiomiR) which can help to do this.

Recent Insights into the Roles of PEST-Containing Nuclear Protein

PEST-containing nuclear protein (PCNP), a short-lived small nuclear protein with 178 amino acids, is a nuclear protein containing two PEST sequences. PCNP is highly expressed in several malignant tumors such as cervical cancer, rectal cancer, and lung cancer. It is also associated with cell cycle regulation and the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K/AKT/mTOR) and Wnt signaling pathways during tumor growth. The present article discuss how PCNP regulates the PI3K/AKT/mTOR and Wnt signaling pathways and related proteins, and the ubiquitination of PCNP regulates tumor cell cycle as well as the progress of the application of PCNP in the pathophysiology and treatment of colon cancer, human ovarian cancer, thyroid cancer, lung adenocarcinoma and oral squamous cell carcinoma. The main relevant articles were retrieved from PubMed, with keywords such as PEST-containing nuclear protein (PCNP), cancer (tumor), and signaling pathways as inclusion/exclusion criteria. Relevant references has been included and cited in the manuscript.

Role of ubiquitination-driven metabolisms in oncogenesis and cancer therapy

Ubiquitination represents one of the most critical post-translational modifications, comprising a multi-stage enzyme process that plays a pivotal role in a myriad of cellular biological activities. The deregulation of the processes of ubiquitination and deubiquitination is associated with the development of cancers and other diseases. This typescript reviews the impact of ubiquitination on metabolic processes, elucidating the regulatory functions of ubiquitination on pivotal enzymes within metabolic pathways in pathological contexts. It underscores the role of ubiquitination-driven metabolism disorders in the etiology of cancers, and oncogenesis, and highlights the potential therapeutic efficacy of targeting ubiquitination-driven enzymes in cancer metabolism, their combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors, and their clinical applications.

SETD5 facilitates stemness and represses ferroptosis via m6A-mediating PKM2 stabilization in non-small cell lung cancer

SETD5, an atypical member of the histone lysine methyltransferase family known for its association with cancer stemness, is a significant predictor of unfavorable survival outcomes in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, the function of SETD5 in NSCLC stemness remains unclear, and whether it is an active H3K36me3 is controversial. Consequently, further investigation is required to clarify the pivotal role of SETD5 in NSCLC stemness and its related mechanism. Thus, this study employed the NSCLC tissue microarray and bioinformatics tools to analyze SETD5 expression and determine its effect on stemness and investigated the role of SETD5 in the metastasis of NSCLC using in vitro and in vivo analyses. The findings indicated high SETD5 expression in embryonic and NSCLC tissues, which was related to the pathological tumor stage, lymph node metastasis, and clinical stage, indicating that SETD5 could be used as a biomarker and prognostic factor in NSCLC. In addition, we found that SETD5 can promote glycolysis, thereby inhibiting ferroptosis and promoting the stemness of NSCLC, causing tumor metastasis and adverse prognosis in patients. In terms of mechanism, SETD5 as H3K36me3 facilitates the m6A modification of METTL14 and the recruitment of YTHDF1 and mediates PKM2 nuclear translocation and phosphorylation of p-PKM2 Tyr105, regulating GPX4 mediated ferroptosis resistance and SOX9 mediated stemness in NSCLC. The findings emphasize that SETD5 may serve as a promising indicator of stemness in NSCLC, which can help develop therapeutic targets for NSCLC and prognostic evaluation. This study provides evidence that SETD5 as H3K36me3 facilitates the m6A modification of METTL14 and the recruitment of YTHDF1 and mediates the nuclear translocation of PKM2, regulating GPX4 mediated ferroptosis resistance and SOX9 mediated stemness, causing tumor metastasis and adverse prognosis in patients.

Characterization of novel mouse esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cell lines and their utility as preclinical models

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) has a high incidence, poor treatment response, and high mortality. Subcutaneous transplant tumor models are commonly used to study the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and its impact on immunotherapy. In this study, we established two new ESCC mouse cell lines, mEC525M and mEC586F, from 4NQO-induced ESCC mouse models of different sexes. We compared their proliferation, motility, and molecular characteristics with existing lines (HNM007, AKR, mEC25) using in vitro experiments and whole-exome sequencing. Treatment sensitivity analysis of all murine ESCC tumor cell lines revealed that AKR and HNM007 cells were more responsive to chemotherapy, mEC25 cells were more sensitive to radiotherapy, whereas mEC525M and mEC586F cells exhibited greater sensitivity to immunotherapy. Multiplex immunohistochemistry (mIHC) staining analysis revealed differences in immune infiltration among the tumors derived from the five mouse ESCC cell lines, with the highest proportion of T cells in mEC525M tumors, the highest proportion of CD11b+ myeloid cells in mEC586F tumors and the highest proportion of CD19+ B cells in mEC25 tumors. In addition, RNA sequencing results also revealed differences in immune responses exhibited by tumor tissues derived from the five mouse ESCC cell lines after anti-PD1 treatment. Therefore, this study offers a valuable tool for investigating the immune microenvironment in ESCC and supports the selection of mouse models for preclinical ESCC research.

The role of CST2 in the pathogenesis and prognosis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

PURPOSE

Cystatin SA (CST2) is a cysteine protease inhibitor that is overexpressed in several malignancies; however, its involvement in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) has yet to be investigated. This study evaluates CST2 expression, its association with clinicopathological parameters, and its prognostic significance in ESCC. We further investigate the biological functions of CST2 to assess CST2 impact on tumor progression and its potential as a prognostic marker.

METHODS

CST2 expression was quantified in 16 ESCC cell lines and 165 paired tumor and adjacent non-cancerous tissues using quantitative reverse-transcription PCR (qRT-PCR). siRNA-mediated CST2 knockdown assays were performed to assess cellular functions in vitro and in vivo. Associations between CST2 expression and clinicopathological features, recurrence patterns, and survival outcomes, including disease-specific survival (DSS) and disease-free survival (DFS), were analyzed using statistical methods.

RESULTS

CST2 mRNA levels were significantly elevated in ESCC tissues compared to normal mucosa. Knockdown of CST2 reduced proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro, while in vivo models demonstrated smaller tumor volumes in CST2 knockdown groups compared to controls. High CST2 expression correlated with worse DSS and DFS. Multivariable analysis confirmed high CST2 expression as an independent prognostic factor for DSS.

CONCLUSION

CST2 plays a critical role in ESCC pathogenesis and progression. Its overexpression is associated with poor clinical outcomes, suggesting CST2 as a potential prognostic biomarker for recurrence and survival in ESCC.

HLA-F regulates the proliferation of trophoblast via PKM2-dependent glycolysis in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia

BACKGROUND

The regulatory molecule Human Leukocyte Antigen F (HLA-F) has been implicated in trophoblast proliferation during pregnancy, and reduced levels of this antigen have been identified in trophoblast cells of patients with preeclampsia. This study aimed to analyze the effect and mechanism of HLA-F on the proliferation of trophoblast and the underlying mechanism of reduced HLA-F involved in preeclampsia.

METHODS

q-PCR, Western blot (WB), and Immunohistochemistry (IHC) were used to detect the expression of HLA-F and Pyruvate Kinase Muscle isoform 2 (PKM2) in placenta tissues. Jar cells were transfected with overexpression lentivirus, specific siRNA, and shRNA to regulate corresponding genes. Immunofluorescence was used to analyze the expression and distribution of HLA-F and PKM2. Extracellular and intracellular lactate, pyruvate, and enzymatic activity of PKM2 were measured using the corresponding assay kits. Cell proliferation was measured by CCK8, MTT, colony formation assay, and Mini patient-derived xenograft (Mini-PDX). Chromatin Immunoprecipitation and deep sequencing (ChIP-seq) and 4-dimensional label-free quantitative proteomics (4D-LFQP-LA) were used to analyze the HLA-F-binding DNA sequences and the differential lactylation proteins in HLA-F-overexpression Jar and its control.

RESULTS

The expression of HLA-F is reduced in extravillous trophoblast and villous cytotrophoblast from patients with preeclampsia. Over-expression of HLA-F promoted proliferation while under-expression inhibited it. Further experiments demonstrated that over-expression of HLA-F promoted expression of the PKM2 protein and its enzymatic activity, resulting in enhanced glycolysis in Jar cells. Specifically, we determined that HLA-F regulated the expression of PKM2 by binding the promoter of PKM, and promoted PKM2 enzyme activity by down-regulating the lactylation of residue K305. Moreover, silencing PKM2 with siRNA reduced HLA-F-mediated glycolysis and proliferation in HLA-F-overexpressing Jar cells. Finally, we corroborated these results using a MiniPDX model, with which we confirmed that the PKM2 agonist TEPP-46 promoted the proliferation of ShHLA-F Jar cells.

CONCLUSIONS

The reduced expression of HLA-F in placental trophoblast cells resulted in the downregulation of both PKM2 transcription and protein expression. Concurrently, the relative upregulation of lactylation at PKM2 K305 contributed to a decline in enzyme activity, further exacerbating glycolysis dysfunction. Collectively, these alterations led to a suppression of trophoblast proliferation capacity and involvement in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia.

Unique Microbial Characterisation of Oesophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Patients with Different Dietary Habits Based on Light Gradient Boosting Machine Learning Classifier

Objectives: The microbiome plays an important role in cancer, but the relationship between dietary habits and the microbiota in oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is not clear. The aim of this study is to explore the complex relationship between the microbiota in oesophagal tissue and dietary habits in ESCC patients. Methods: 173 ESCC patients were included. The method of 16S rRNA sequencing was used to analyze microbial composition and diversity. The LEfSe and Boruta methods were used to screen important microbes, and the LightGBM algorithm distinguished microbes associated with different dietary habits. PICRUST2 and DESeq2 predicted microbial function and screened differential functions. The Pearson test was used to analyze correlations between microbes and functions, and SPARCC microbial symbiotic networks and Cytoscape were used to determine microbial interactions. Results: Significant differences in microbial composition were observed among ESCC patients with different dietary habits. LEfSe and Boruta identified three, six, and two significantly different bacteria in the FF/FP, FF/PF, and FF/PP groups, respectively, with AUC values of 0.683, 0.830, and 0.715. PICRUST2 and DESeq2 analysis revealed 3, 11, and 5 significantly different metabolic pathways in each group. Eubacterium_B sulci was positively correlated with PWY-6285, PWY-3801, and PWY-5823. PWY-6397 was positively correlated with undefinded (Fusobacterium_C). Microbial network analysis confirmed unique microbial characteristics in different diet groups. Conclusions: Different dietary habits lead to alterations in Eubacterium_B sulci and undefinded (Fusobacterium_C) and related functional pathways.

Study on the mechanism of hyperoside in affecting the biological progression and radiosensitivity of esophageal carcinoma by modulating the STAT3/AKT/ERK pathway

Hyperoside (HYP) exhibits diverse pharmacological effects and holds potential for enhancing chemotherapy sensitivity. However, few studies have reported the impact of HYP on the malignant progression of esophageal carcinoma (EC) and its sensitivity to radiotherapy. The impact of HYP on the viability of EC cells (TE-1 and KYSE-150) was assessed using Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assays. The biological characteristics and radiosensitivity of EC cells following HYP treatment were evaluated through clone formation experiments, flow cytometry, scratch wound-healing assays, and transwell migration and invasion assays. Western blot analysis was performed to determine the levels of proteins associated with cell death and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), as well as to explore whether HYP interferes with the radiosensitivity of EC cells via the  STAT3/AKT/ERK pathways. Finally, a subcutaneous graft tumor model was constructed to investigate the effects of HYP and X-ray treatments on in vivo tumor growth. The findings indicated a dose-dependent decrease in the survival rate of KYSE-150 and TE-1 cells following HYP treatment. HYP treatment also inhibited cell proliferation, invasion, migration, and EMT, while increasing the apoptotic rate and radiosensitivity of the cells. Notably, HYP suppressed the malignant progression of EC and enhanced radiosensitivity via the STAT3/AKT/ERK pathway. Moreover, HYP impaired the growth of EC tumors in mice, with the combined HYP and X-ray treatment exerting a stronger inhibitory effect. In conclusion, HYP increases the radiosensitivity of esophageal carcinoma cells, offering considerable promise for application in the clinical treatment of EC.

MiR-374a/b-5p Suppresses Cell Growth in Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Through Blocking Exosomal ANXA1-Induced Macrophage M2 Polarization

Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), comprising 85% of all thyroid cancers, is an epithelial malignancy. The potential for malignant transformation in normal cells by thyroid cancer cells via exosomal Annexin A1 (ANXA1) delivery is investigated in this study. Our aim is to determine the impact of PTC cells on macrophage polarization through exosomal ANXA1 secretion and its implications for tumor progression. Exosomes in PTC cells were examined using transmission electron microscopy, exosome labeling, and nanoparticle tracking analysis. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction was employed to quantify gene expression levels. Protein levels were determined through Western blot analysis. The interplay between genes was assessed using luciferase reporter and RNA pull-down assays. Functional experiments were conducted to investigate PTC cell proliferation and apoptosis. Our findings reveal that ANXA1 promotes PTC cell proliferation and inhibits apoptosis. Exosomes derived from PTC cells were found to promote macrophage M2 polarization. ANXA1 stimulates M2 polarization through the activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway. MicroRNA-374a-5p (miR-374a-5p) and microRNA-374b-5p (miR-374b-5p) were identified as inhibitors of ANXA1 expression and PI3K/AKT pathway activity, thereby inhibiting macrophage M2 polarization. Furthermore, miR-374a-5p and miR-374b-5p were observed to suppress PTC cell proliferation through their regulatory action on ANXA1. Our study suggests that miR-374a/b-5p inhibits PTC cell growth by blocking the macrophage M2 polarization induced by exosomal ANXA1.

Tailored Liposomal Nanomedicine Suppresses Incomplete Radiofrequency Ablation-Induced Tumor Relapse by Reprogramming Antitumor Immunity

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA), a thermoablative treatment for small hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), has limited therapeutic benefit for advanced HCC patients with large, multiple, and/or irregular tumors owing to incomplete RFA (iRFA) of the tumor mass. It is first identified that iRFA-treated tumors exhibited increased pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) expression, exacerbated tumor immunosuppression featured with increased tumor infiltration of suppressive immune cells and increased proliferation, and programmed cell death ligand 1 expression of cancer cell and ultimately a poor prognosis. Herein, a multifunctional nanomedicine is fabricated by encapsulating nanoassemblies of anti-PD-L1 and spermidine-grafted oxidized dextran with shikonin-containing lipid bilayers to reverse iRFA-induced treatment failure. Shikonin, a PKM2 inhibitor, is used to suppress glycolysis in cancer cells, while anti-PD-L1 and spermidine are introduced to collectively reprogram the proliferation and functions of infiltrated CD8+ T lymphocytes. Combined with iRFA, which promoted the exposure of tumor antigens, the intravenous injection of liposomal SPS-NPs effectively stimulated dendritic cell maturation and reversed tumor immunosuppression, thus eliciting potent antitumor immunity to synergistically suppress the growth of residual tumor masses and lung metastasis. The as-prepared liposomal nanomedicine is promising for potentiating the therapeutic benefits of RFA toward advanced HCC patients through reprogramming iRFA-induced tumor immunosuppression.

LINC01305 and LAD1 Co-Regulate CTTN and N-WASP Phosphorylation, Mediating Cytoskeletal Reorganization to Promote ESCC Metastasis

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is prone to metastasis and is a leading cause of mortality. The cytoskeleton is closely related to cell morphology and movement; however, little research has been conducted on ESCC metastasis. In this study, we found that the anchoring filament protein ladinin 1 (LAD1) specifically binds to LINC01305 for co-regulating the level of modulating cortactin proteins (CTTN) and neuronal Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein (N-WASP) phosphorylation, which mediates cytoskeletal reorganization and affects the metastasis of ESCC cells. Additionally, LINC01305 and LAD1 jointly promoted the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process by activating the phosphoinositide-3-kinase-protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) signaling pathway. Moreover, LINC01305 and LAD1 were related to the late clinical stage and lymph node metastasis of ESCC. Our study demonstrated that LINC01305 and LAD1 are major determinants of ESCC dissemination and revealed a novel molecular mechanism of cytoskeletal reorganization that controls ESCC metastasis. Trial Registration: N/A.

One-Step RAA and CRISPR-Cas13a Method for Detecting Influenza B Virus

We developed a sensitive and specific method based on recombinase-aided amplification (RAA) and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-CRISPR-associated protein 13a (Cas13a). This method, named CRISPR-based Rapid and Efficient Test (CRISPRET), is designed for the early diagnosis of Influenza B (FluB) with the aim of shortening its transmission chain. We identified conserved regions in the Influenza B Virus (IBV) NS gene and designed forward and reverse primers along with crRNAs. We then established and optimised the reaction system, and Nucleic Acid Positive Reference Materials of IBV were used to evaluate the detection limit (DL) of CRISPRET. Additionally, we collected 257 clinical samples, comprising 127 samples from patients with IBV infection and 130 samples from healthy individuals, and subjected them to dual detection using CRISPRET and qPCR to evaluate the positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), sensitivity and specificity of CRISPRET. We designed one forward primer, two reverse primers, and two crRNAs to establish and optimise the CRISPR ET. The method demonstrated the DL of 500 copies·μL-1 when assisted by appropriate equipment. Despite requiring auxiliary equipment and a 30-min reaction, the CRISPR ET method enables the detection of IBV nucleic acid within approximately the first 5 min, achieving high sensitivity (100%), specificity (97.69%), PPV (97.69%) and NPV (100%), with a concordance rate of 98.83% to qPCR. CRISPRET offers a simple, field-applicable, one-step method for the rapid detection of IBV. It has strong potential for field-testing applications and intelligent integration into existing diagnostic systems.

CRISPR/Cas9 based knockout of lncRNA MALAT1 attenuates TGF-β1 induced Smad 2/3 mediated fibrosis during AKI-to-CKD transition

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a significant clinical issue with potential long-term consequences, as even a single episode can progress to chronic kidney disease (CKD). The AKI-to-CKD transition involves complex pathophysiology, including persistent inflammation, apoptosis, and fibrosis. Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) has been recognized as a potential therapeutic target for various kidney diseases, including AKI and CKD. In our previous study, we conducted the transcriptomic analysis of lncRNAs in-vitro and animal models of AKI-to-CKD transition and found several dysregulated lncRNAs such as MALAT1, MEG3, NEAT1, MIAT, and H19 in this transition. Among these, we have selected lncRNA MALAT1 to further validate its role in AKI-to-CKD transition as a therapeutic target via a cluster regularly intercept short palindromic protein (CRISPR) associated protein 9 (Cas9)-mediated knockout approach in NRK52E cells. Guide RNAs (gRNAs) were designed to target MALAT1, and the PX459 turbo green fluorescence protein (GFP) plasmid containing MALAT1 gRNA1&2 was transfected into NRK52E cells using CRISPRMAX. Results demonstrated that MALAT1 knockout significantly reduced MALAT1 expression and attenuated Smad2/3-mediated fibrosis by decreasing pSmad2, pSmad2/3, Smad4, vimentin, fibronectin, collagen-I, and α-SMA expression levels, while increasing Smad7, Smurf2, and E-cadherin levels. These findings suggest that targeting the MALAT1/Smad2/3 pathway could be a potential therapeutic target for mitigating fibrosis to prevent AKI-to-CKD transition.

PKM2 regulates osteoclastogenesis by affecting osteoclast precursor cell fusion via downregulation of OC-STAMP and DC-STAMP

Osteoporosis is a common bone disease that has become a serious public health problem with the aging of population. Osteoclasts are the only cells in body that can resorb bone, whose dysfunction is closely related to osteoporosis. Pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) is one of the essential rate-limiting enzymes in the process of glycolysis. This study aimed to elucidate the role of PKM2 in osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption. Bone marrow-derived macrophages were transfected with adenovirus to knock down the expression of PKM2 gene or treated with the PKM2 activators, DASA-58 and TEPP-46. Osteoclast formation was detected by tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining, osteoclast-specific gene and protein expression was detected by RT-quantitative PCR and Western blotting, and the effect of DASA-58 on osteoclast gene expression at the transcriptional level was examined by RNA sequencing. The results showed that knockdown of PKM2 by adenoviral transfection or treatment with PKM2 activators, DASA-58 and TEPP-46, inhibited osteoclast differentiation and suppressed the expression of osteoclast-associated genes in bone marrow-derived macrophages. Furthermore, PKM2 activators, DASA-58 and TEPP-46, could inhibit several signaling pathways in osteoclasts; knockdown of PKM2 or treatment with PKM2 activators, DASA-58 and TEPP-46, both affected osteoclast precursor cell fusion by inhibiting the expression of osteoclast stimulatory transmembrane protein (OC-STAMP) and dendritic cell-specific transmembrane protein (DC-STAMP). Therefore, PKM2 is closely related to osteoclast differentiation and formation, and the development of new therapeutic strategies targeting the PKM2 gene in osteoclasts may be feasible for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.

Prognostic and clinicopathological roles of circular RNA expression in chemoresistance in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: a systematic review

Background

Characterized by a poor prognosis and survivability, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is an aggressive neoplastic condition with a propensity for recurrence where the development of chemoresistance adversely affects the prognostic outcome. Recently, it was shown that circular RNAs (circRNAs) augment the cellular survivability and chemoresistance of malignant cells. Hence, biomarkers for early detection of chemoresistance in these patients can significantly aid in preventing a poor prognostic outcome.

Objective

The present study aimed to systematically identify circRNAs that play a vital role in the development of chemoresistance in HNSCC and understand their mechanisms of action in HNSCC chemoresistance.

Methods

The protocol was prospectively registered on PROSPERO with protocol no. CRD42024532291. A six-stage methodological and PRISMA recommendations were followed for the review.

Results and Discussion

13 studies were identified which yielded 13 circRNAs which have been investigated for their role in the chemoresistance in HNSCC. Of these, 11 circRNAs were reported to be upregulated while only 2 circRNAs were found to be downregulated. Moreover, we found that circRNAs can modulate autophagy (circPARD3, circPKD2, circAP1M2 and circPGAM1), apoptosis (circ-ILF2, circANKS1B, circTPST2, circPUM1 and circ_0001971), drug efflux (circ-ILF2, has_circ_0005033 and circTPST2), EMT (circANKS1B, circCRIM1, circ_0001971), tumor microenvironment (circ-ILF2. circ-ILF2, circCRIM1 and circTPST2), DNA damage (circTPST2) and malignant potential (hsa_circ_0000190 and hg19_ circ_0005033).

Conclusion

The present study identified 13 circRNAs which may serve as biomarkers for prognosis as well as response to chemotherapy in HNSCC.

Systematic Review Registration

PROSPERO, identifier CRD42024532291.

An update on current type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) druggable targets and drugs targeting them

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is characterized by hyperglycemia and affects millions of people globally. Even after advancement and development in medical science, it is a big task to achieve victory over type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). T2DM can be a reason for fatal events like stroke, cardiac failure, nephropathy, and retinopathy. Many advanced antidiabetic drugs have been introduced in the market in the past two decades, leading researchers to hunt for new target proteins and their potential modulators that can help develop newer antidiabetic drugs. This review article comprises a broad literature of the latest developments in the management of T2DM concerning new target proteins, their inhibitors, or drugs from the clinical arena employed for the successful management of symptoms of T2DM using mono, dual, or triple combination medication therapy. The review categorizes antidiabetic drugs into three general classes that include conventional drug targets, currently explored targets, and upcoming emerging targets. The review aims to merge information on the medicines affecting these targets, their mechanisms, followed by the chemical structures, and recent advancements.

MAZ-mediated LAMA5 transcription activation promotes gastric cancer progression through the STAT3 signaling

Laminin subunit alpha-5 (LAMA5) has been identified as an oncogene in many cancers, while its role and mechanism in gastric cancer (GC) remain to be explored. Here, the influences of LAMA5 knockdown on GC were investigated in vitro and in vivo. LAMA5 expression was silenced in GC cells alone or in combination with the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) activator Colivelin, followed by CCK-8, colony formation, EdU, flow cytometry, wound healing assay, and Transwell assay. The regulatory relationship between Myc-associated zinc finger protein (MAZ) and LAMA5 was characterized by ChIP and luciferase reporter analysis. The effect of knockdown of MAZ alone or in combination with LAMA5 overexpression on GC was investigated in vitro and in vivo. LAMA5 was highly expressed in GC cells, and knockdown of LAMA5 inhibited GC cell malignant aggressiveness, which was reversed by the Colivelin treatment. The transcription factor MAZ bound to the promoter of LAMA5 to activate its transcription, and the anti-tumor effects of sh-MAZ on GC cells in vitro and in vivo were overturned by LAMA5 overexpression. In conclusion, MAZ promotes GC cell proliferation and migration by the LAMA5/STAT3 axis, implying that this axis can function as a target for GC therapy.

Chemokines and their receptors in the esophageal carcinoma tumor microenvironment: key factors for metastasis and progression

Esophageal carcinoma (ESCA) is a highly malignant tumor with the highest incidence in Eastern Asia. Although treatment modalities for ESCA have advanced in recent years, the overall prognosis remains poor, as most patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage of the disease. There is an urgent need to promote early screening for ESCA to increase survival rates and improve patient outcomes. The development of ESCA is closely linked to the complex tumor microenvironment (TME), where chemokines and their receptors play pivotal roles. Chemokines are a class of small-molecule, secreted proteins and constitute the largest family of cytokines. They not only directly regulate tumor growth and proliferation but also influence cell migration and localization through specific receptor interactions. Consequently, chemokines and their receptors affect tumor invasion and metastatic spread. Furthermore, chemokines regulate immune cells, including macrophages and regulatory T cells, within the TME. The recruitment of these immune cells further leads to immunosuppression, creating favorable conditions for tumor growth and metastasis. This review examines the impact of ESCA-associated chemokines and their receptors on ESCA, emphasizing their critical involvement in the ESCA TME.

Targeting glycolysis in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: single-cell and multi-omics insights for risk stratification and personalized therapy

Background

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is closely linked to aberrant glycolytic metabolism, a hallmark of cancer progression, immune evasion, and therapy resistance. This study employs single-cell transcriptomics and multi-omics approaches to unravel glycolysis-mediated mechanisms in ESCC, with a focus on risk stratification and therapeutic opportunities.

Methods

Data from TCGA and GEO databases were integrated with single-cell RNA sequencing, bulk RNA sequencing, as well as clinical datasets to investigate glycolysis-associated cell subtypes and their clinical implications in ESCC. Analytical approaches encompassed cell subtype annotation, cell-cell communication network analysis, and gene regulatory network modeling. A glycolysis-related risk score model was built via non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) and Cox regression, and then experimentally verified through Western blotting. Drug sensitivity analyses were carried out to explore potential therapeutic strategies.

Results

Single-cell analysis identified epithelial cells as the dominant glycolysis-active subtype, and tumor tissues showed significantly higher glycolytic activity than adjacent normal tissues. Among malignant epithelial subpopulations, IGFBP3+Epi (IGFBP3-expressing epithelial cells) and LHX9+Epi (LHX9-expressing epithelial cells) had elevated glycolysis levels, which correlated with poor prognosis, immune suppression, and changes in the tumor microenvironment. The seven-gene glycolysis-based risk score model divided patients into high- and low-risk groups, demonstrating strong prognostic performance. Drug sensitivity analysis showed high-risk patients were more responsive to Navitoclax as well as Rapamycin, but low-risk ones were more sensitive to Afatinib and Erlotinib, highlighting the model's usefulness in guiding personalized treatment.

Conclusion

This research emphasizes the crucial role of glycolysis in ESCC progression a well as immune modulation, offering a novel glycolysis-related risk score model with significant prognostic and therapeutic implications. These findings provide a basis for risk-based stratification and tailored therapeutic strategies, advancing precision medicine in ESCC.

Mechanosensitive ion channel-related genes in hepatocellular carcinoma: Unraveling prognostic genes and their roles in drug resistance and immune modulation

Background and aims

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, and its etiology involves a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors. Despite advancements in our understanding of HCC biology and the development of novel therapeutic strategies, the molecular mechanisms underlying its onset, progression, and resistance to therapy remain largely vague. This study aimed to investigate the role of mechanosensitive ion channel-related genes (MICRGs) in HCC, focusing on their potential as prognostic biomarkers and their involvement in immune modulation and drug resistance.

Methods

A comprehensive analysis was conducted using The Cancer Genome Atlas database to identify MICRGs that are upregulated in HCC. Gene expression profiling, bioinformatics tools, and functional experiments were employed to elucidate the role of these channels. In addition, protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analyses and enrichment analyses were performed to explore the biological significance of these genes. An immune cell infiltration analysis was also conducted to understand MICRG-related immune landscape. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data were utilized to identify MICRGs in different cell types within the HCC tissue. Deep-learning neural network analysis across patient cohorts was conducted to identify genes associated with sorafenib resistance. Knockdown experiments, cell viability assays, and apoptosis assays on HCC cell lines were performed to examine the role of Piezo-type mechanosensitive ion channel component 1 (PIEZO1) in sorafenib resistance.

Results

The analysis identified a subset of MICRGs, including PIEZO1, that were significantly upregulated in HCC and associated with poor prognosis. The PPI network analysis revealed complex interactions among these genes. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analyses proposed the involvement of these genes in calcium signaling pathways. Immune cell infiltration analysis demonstrated distinct associations between MICRGs and various immune subpopulations, highlighting their potential roles in immune modulation. scRNA-seq data indicated the upregulation of MICRGs in various cell types in HCC tissues, particularly in endothelial cells and tumor-associated macrophages. Deep-learning neural network analysis across different patient cohorts identified PIEZO1 as a crucial regulator of sorafenib resistance in HCC, which was further validated by functional assays on HCC cell lines.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence that MICRGs, particularly PIEZO1, take on crucial roles in HCC progression and drug resistance. The upregulation of PIEZO1 in HCC cells is associated with poor prognosis and resistance to sorafenib. These findings indicate that PIEZO1 could serve as a potential therapeutic target for overcoming drug resistance and a prognostic biomarker in HCC. Future studies should focus on validating these findings in larger patient cohorts and exploring the functional implications of targeting PIEZO1 in preclinical models.

LINC00942 Accelerates Esophageal Cancer Progression by Raising PRKDC Through Interaction With PTBP1

Aberrantly expressed LINC00942 is participated in the progression of several cancers. However, the function of LINC00942 in esophageal cancer (ESCA) is unclear. The objective of this study was to explore the effect of LINC00942 on ESCA and its possible molecular mechanisms. First, differentially expressed lncRNAs in ESCA were analyzed using GSE192662 microarray. catRAPID omics v2.1 was applied to predict the proteins that might interact with LINC00942. SDS-PAGE silver staining assay, RNA pull down, and RIP assay were utilized to validate proteins interacting with LINC00942. Then, RNA seq was applied to detect the downstream targets of PTBP1, and KEGG enrichment analysis was used to analyze the genes involved in proliferation and migration-related signaling pathways. In addition, CCK-8, EdU and transwell were used to detect the impact of LINC00942 on ESCA cell function. Bioinformatics revealed that LINC00942 was significantly overexpressed in ESCA. Patients in low-expression of LINC00942 had an obviously better prognosis. After LINC00942 knockdown, the proliferation and migration of TE-1 and OE19 were dramatically reduced. Subsequently, PTBP1 was found to interact with LINC00942, and PRKDC was a downstream target of PTBP1. Functional analysis showed that TE-1 and OE19 cell proliferation and migration were markedly elevated after LINC00942 overexpression, and knockdown of PRKDC significantly reversed this effect. Mechanistically, LINC00942 promoted PRKDC expression by interacting with PTBP1. In summary, LINC00942 facilitated the proliferation and migration of ESCA cells via binding to PTBP1 to promote PRKDC expression.

Tumor Metastasis: Mechanistic Insights and Therapeutic Intervention

Metastasis remains a leading cause of cancer‐related deaths, defined by a complex, multi‐step process in which tumor cells spread and form secondary growths in distant tissues. Despite substantial progress in understanding metastasis, the molecular mechanisms driving this process and the development of effective therapies remain incompletely understood. Elucidating the molecular pathways governing metastasis is essential for the discovery of innovative therapeutic targets. The rapid advancements in sequencing technologies and the expansion of biological databases have significantly deepened our understanding of the molecular drivers of metastasis and associated drug resistance. This review focuses on the molecular drivers of metastasis, particularly the roles of genetic mutations, epigenetic changes, and post‐translational modifications in metastasis progression. We also examine how the tumor microenvironment influences metastatic behavior and explore emerging therapeutic strategies, including targeted therapies and immunotherapies. Finally, we discuss future research directions, stressing the importance of novel treatment approaches and personalized strategies to overcome metastasis and improve patient outcomes. By integrating contemporary insights into the molecular basis of metastasis and therapeutic innovation, this review provides a comprehensive framework to guide future research and clinical advancements in metastatic cancer.

PRDX2 promotes gastric cancer progression by forming a feedback loop with PKM2/STAT3 axis

Peroxiredoxin 2 (PRDX2) is an antioxidant enzyme that has been reported to be overexpressed in various cancers. However, the role of PRDX2 in gastric cancer progression and its underlying mechanism remains unclear. Herein, we revealed the function of PRDX2 in gastric cancer progression and explored its molecule mechanism. We identified that PRDX2 was upregulated and associated with poor prognosis in gastric cancer. The knockdown of PRDX2 inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of gastric cancer cells in vitro and suppressed tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, PRDX2 interacted with PKM2 (pyruvate kinase isozyme type M2) and protected PKM2 from ubiquitination and degradation, which enhanced glycolysis in gastric cancer cells. The interaction between PRDX2 and PKM2 also enhanced the binding affinity between PKM2 and importin α5, which induced PKM2 nuclear translocation and activated STAT3 signaling pathway. In addition, STAT3 (signal transducer and activator of transcription 3) was identified to bind to PRDX2 gene promoter and upregulate PRDX2 expression, which forms a positive regulatory feedback loop in gastric cancer cells. The present study unravels the biological role of PRDX2 in cancer progression and illustrates the underlying molecular mechanism, which may provide a potential therapeutic target for gastric cancer.

Divergent roles of PKM2 in regulating PD-L1 and PD-L2 expression and their implications in human and mouse cancer models

Cancer cells evade immune detection through checkpoint molecules like PD-L1 and PD-L2 which suppress T-cell activation. While PD-L1 is well-studied, the role of PD-L2 remains unclear. Pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2), a metabolic enzyme, influences immune checkpoint regulation, but its role in PD-L1 and PD-L2 modulation is not well defined. Here, we investigate the role of pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) in modulating the immune checkpoint molecules PD-L1 and PD-L2 via GATA3 in cancer cells, with insights from both human and mouse models. We find that PKM2 enhances PD-L1 expression while inhibiting PD-L2, a dual regulatory mechanism that facilitates immune evasion. Knockdown and overexpression experiments revealed GATA3 as a key mediator. PKM2 knockout reduced GATA3 level, leading to decreased PD-L1 and increased PD-L2 expression. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP)-qPCR demonstrates that GATA3 functions as a direct transcription factor capable of binding to the promoters of PD-L1 and PD-L2. In silico analyses of 81 esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) cases from the TCGA database demonstrate that PKM2 mRNA is unrelated to PD-L1 and PD-L2 expression but is negatively correlated with CD8 + T-cell infiltration in ESCC. To further validate these findings, we establish a xenograft model using immune-competent C57/BL6N mice, where knockdown of PKM2 results in significant downregulation of both PD-L1 and PD-L2 expression. Collectively, these findings underscore the divergent roles of PKM2 in regulating immune checkpoint expression in human and mouse cancer models and suggest that targeting the PKM2-GATA3 axis could enhance cancer immunotherapy by fine-tuning PD-L1 and PD-L2 levels.

[SLC1A5 overexpression accelerates progression of hepatocellular carcinoma by promoting M2 polarization of macrophages]

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the clinical significance of SLC1A5 overexpression in pan-cancer and its mechanism for promoting hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression.

METHODS

We analyzed the correlation of SLC1A5 expression with clinical stage, lymph node metastasis and prognosis in pan-cancer using TCGA and ICGC datasets and explored its association with immune cell infiltration using EPIC, CIBERSORT, and TIMER algorithms. In HCC cell lines, the effects of lentivirus-mediated SLC1A5 overexpression or RNA interference on cell proliferation were examined using CCK-8 assay, and the growth of HCC cell xenografts overexpressing SLC1A5 was observed in nude mice. The effects of SLC1A5 overexpression or silencing in HCC cells on macrophage polarization were evaluated in a cell co-culture system.

RESULTS

SLC1A5 was mainly localized on cell membrane and was highly expressed in most cancers in association with clinical stage, lymph node metastasis and poor prognosis. SLC1A5 expression was positively correlated with immunity score in 13 cancer types, especially in low-grade glioma (LGG), LIHC and thyroid cancer. SLC1A5 was positively correlated with macrophage infiltration level in LGG and LIHC but negatively correlated with macrophage infiltration in 5 cancers including lung squamous carcinoma, pancreatic carcinoma, and gastric carcinoma. Patients with SLC1A5 overexpression and high level of M2 macrophage infiltration had the worst survival outcomes. SLC1A5 was correlated with immunosuppression-related genes, cytokines, and cytokine receptors, which was the most obvious in LGG and LIHC. SLC1A5 was highly expressed in different HCC cell lines, and its overexpression promoted HCC cell proliferation both in vitro and in nude mice. In the cell co-culture experiment, SLC1A5 was positively correlated with the molecular markers of M2 polarization of macrophages, and its overexpression strongly promoted M2 polarization of the macrophages and inhibited T cell secretion of IFN-γ.

CONCLUSIONS

SLC1A5 expression level is correlated with clinical stage, lymph node metastasis, prognosis, and immune cell infiltration in most cancers, and its overexpression promotes HCC progression by inhibiting T-cell function via promoting M2 polarization of macrophages.

CADD-based discovery of novel oligomeric modulators of PKM2 with antitumor activity in aggressive human glioblastoma models

Pyruvate kinase isoform M2 (PKM2) is a multifunctional enzyme capable of transitioning between monomeric, dimeric, and tetrameric states, with its oligomeric equilibrium playing a pivotal role in tumour progression and survival. The unique exon ten at the dimer-dimer interface represents an attractive target for isoform-specific modulation, offering opportunities for disrupting this equilibrium and altering tumour cell dynamics. This study identifies a novel druggable pocket at the PKM2 dimer interface through conformational analysis. This pocket was exploited in a virtual screening of a large small-molecule library, identifying two promising candidates, C599 and C998. Both compounds exhibited dose-dependent antiproliferative effects in glioblastoma cell lines and induced apoptosis, as evidenced by caspase 3/7 activation. These effects were directly linked to their inhibition of PKM2 enzymatic activity, validating the proposed mechanism of action in their rational design. ADMET studies further highlighted their strong potential as lead PKM2 inhibitors for GBM treatment. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and post-MD analyses, including Dynamic Cross-Correlation Maps (DCCM), Probability Density Function (PDF), and Free Energy Landscape (FEL), confirmed the stability of the protein-ligand interactions and highlighted critical residues at the dimer-dimer interface. The Steered MD simulations demonstrated the high affinity of the compounds for PKM2, as evidenced by the requirement of high rupture forces to induce an unbinding event. These results highlight the potential of the compounds as oligomeric modulators of PKM2. These findings position C599 and C998 as promising lead compounds for antitumor applications. Future studies will focus on optimising these candidates and assessing their efficacy in vivo glioblastoma models, reassuring the thoroughness of our research and the potential for further advancements.

Advancements in clinical research and emerging therapies for triple-negative breast cancer treatment

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), defined by the lack of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2) expression, is acknowledged as the most aggressive form of breast cancer (BC), comprising 15%-20% of all primary cases. Despite the prevalence of TNBC, effective and well-tolerated targeted therapies remain limited, with chemotherapy continuing to be the mainstay of treatment. However, the horizon is brightened by recent advancements in immunotherapy and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), which have garnered the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for various stages of TNBC. Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARPi), particularly for TNBC with BRCA mutations, present a promising avenue, albeit with the challenge of resistance that must be addressed. The success of phosphoinositide-3 kinase (PI3K) pathway inhibitors in hormone receptor (HR)-positive BC suggests potential applicability in TNBC, spurring optimism within the research community. This review endeavors to offer a comprehensive synthesis of both established and cutting-edge targeted therapies for TNBC. We delve into the specifics of PARPi, androgen receptor (AR) inhibitors, Cancer stem cells (CSCs), PI3K/Protein Kinase B (AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), Ntoch, Wnt/β-catenin, hedgehog (Hh) pathway inhibitors, Epigenetic target-mediated drug delivery, ADCs, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs)and novel immunotherapeutic solutions, contextualizing TNBC within current treatment paradigms. By elucidating the mechanisms of these drugs and their prospective clinical applications, we aim to shed light on the challenges and underscore the beacon of hope that translational research and innovative therapies represent for the oncology field.

Exploring metabolic reprogramming in esophageal cancer: the role of key enzymes in glucose, amino acid, and nucleotide pathways and targeted therapies

Esophageal cancer (EC) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide with the character of poor prognosis and high mortality. Despite significant advancements have been achieved in elucidating the molecular mechanisms of EC, for example, in the discovery of new biomarkers and metabolic pathways, effective treatment options for patients with advanced EC are still limited. Metabolic heterogeneity in EC is a critical factor contributing to poor clinical outcomes. This heterogeneity arises from the complex interplay between the tumor microenvironment and genetic factors of tumor cells, which drives significant metabolic alterations in EC, a process known as metabolic reprogramming. Understanding the mechanisms of metabolic reprogramming is essential for developing new antitumor therapies and improving treatment outcomes. Targeting the distinct metabolic alterations in EC could enable more precise and effective therapies. In this review, we explore the complex metabolic changes in glucose, amino acid, and nucleotide metabolism during the progression of EC, and how these changes drive unique nutritional demands in cancer cells. We also evaluate potential therapies targeting key metabolic enzymes and their clinical applicability. Our work will contribute to enhancing knowledge of metabolic reprogramming in EC and provide new insights and approaches for the clinical treatment of EC.

Suppressing SENP1 inhibits esophageal squamous carcinoma cell growth via SIRT6 SUMOylation

PURPOSE

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a prevalent tumor in the gastrointestinal tract, but our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying ESCC remains incomplete. Existing studies indicate that SUMO specific peptidase 1 (SENP1) plays a crucial role in the development and progression of various malignant tumors through diverse molecular mechanisms. However, the functional mechanism and clinical implications of SENP1 in the progression of ESCC remain unclear.

METHODS

Bulk RNA-Sequencing (RNA-seq) was used to compare potential genes in the esophageal tissues of mice with ESCC to the control group. The up-regulated SENP1 was selected. The protein level of SENP1 in ESCC patient samples was analyzed by immunohistochemistry and western blot. The potential prognostic value of SENP1 on overall survival of ESCC patients was examined using tissue microarray analysis and the Kaplan-Meier method. The biological function was confirmed through in vitro and in vivo knockdown approaches of SENP1. The role of SENP1 in cell cycle progression and apoptosis of ESCC cells was analyzed by flow cytometry and western blot. The downstream signaling pathways regulated by SENP1 were investigated via using RNA-Seq. SENP1-associated proteins were identified through immunoprecipitation. Overexpression of Sirtuin 6 (SIRT6) wildtype and mutant was performed to investigate the regulatory role of SENP1 in ESCC progression in vitro.

RESULTS

Our study discovered that SENP1 was upregulated in ESCC tissues and served as a novel prognostic factor. Moreover, SENP1 enhanced cell proliferation and migration of ESCC cell lines in vitro, as well as promoted tumor growth in vivo. Thymidine kinase 1 (TK1), Geminin (GMNN), cyclin dependent kinase 1(CDK1), and cyclin A2 (CCNA2) were identified as downstream genes of SENP1. Mechanistically, SENP1 deSUMOylated SIRT6 and subsequently inhibited SIRT6-mediated histone 3 lysine 56 (H3K56) deacetylation on those downstream genes. SIRT6 SUMOylation mutant (4KR) rescued the growth inhibition upon SENP1 depletion.

CONCLUSIONS

SENP1 promotes the malignant progression of ESCC by inhibiting the deacetylase activity of SIRT6 pathway through deSUMOylation. Our findings suggest that SENP1 may serve as a valuable biomarker for prognosis and a target for therapeutic intervention in ESCC.

Exploring glycolytic enzymes in disease: potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets in neurodegeneration, cancer and parasitic infections

Glycolysis, present in most organisms, is evolutionarily one of the oldest metabolic pathways. It has great relevance at a physiological level because it is responsible for generating ATP in the cell through the conversion of glucose into pyruvate and reducing nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) (that may be fed into the electron chain in the mitochondria to produce additional ATP by oxidative phosphorylation), as well as for producing intermediates that can serve as substrates for other metabolic processes. Glycolysis takes place through 10 consecutive chemical reactions, each of which is catalysed by a specific enzyme. Although energy transduction by glucose metabolism is the main function of this pathway, involvement in virulence, growth, pathogen-host interactions, immunomodulation and adaptation to environmental conditions are other functions attributed to this metabolic pathway. In humans, where glycolysis occurs mainly in the cytosol, the mislocalization of some glycolytic enzymes in various other subcellular locations, as well as alterations in their expression and regulation, has been associated with the development and progression of various diseases. In this review, we describe the role of glycolytic enzymes in the pathogenesis of diseases of clinical interest. In addition, the potential role of these enzymes as targets for drug development and their potential for use as diagnostic and prognostic markers of some pathologies are also discussed.

Exploring the mechanism and crosstalk between IL-6 and IL- 1β on M2 macrophages under metabolic stress conditions

Macrophages are highly variable immune cells that are important in controlling inflammation and maintaining tissue balance. The ability to polarize into two major types-M1, promoting inflammation, and M2, resolving inflammation and contributing to tissue repair-determines their specific roles in health and disease. M2 macrophages are particularly important for reducing inflammation and promoting tissue regeneration, but their function is shaped mainly by surrounding cells. This is evident in obesity, diabetes, and chronic inflammation. Although many cytokines regulate macrophage polarization, interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) are major players, but their effects on M2 macrophage behavior under metabolic stress remain unclear. This study describes the intricacies within M2 macrophages concerning IL-6 and IL-1β signaling when under metabolic stress. Though, more frequently than not, IL-6 is labelled as pro-inflammatory, it can also behave as an anti-inflammatory mediator. On the other hand, IL-1β is the main pro-inflammatory agent, particularly in metabolic disorders. The relationship between these cytokines and the macrophages is mediated through important pathways such as JAK/STAT and NFκB, which get perturbed by metabolic stress. Therefore, metabolic stress also alters the functional parameters of macrophages, including alterations in mitochondrial metabolism, glycolytic and oxidative metabolism. Phosphorylation alters the kinetics involved in energy consumption and affects their polarization and their function. However, it has been suggested that IL-6 and IL-1β may work in concert or competition when inducing M2 polarization and, importantly, implicate cytokine release, phagocytic activity, and tissue repair processes. In this review, we discuss the recent literature on the participation of IL-6 and IL-1β cytokines in macrophage polarization and how metabolic stress changes cytokine functions and synergistic relations. A better understanding of these cytokines would serve as an important step toward exploring alternative antiviral strategies directed against metabolic disturbance and, hence, approve further endeavors.

HSP27/IL-6 axis promotes OSCC chemoresistance, invasion and migration by orchestrating macrophages via a positive feedback loop

Novel strategies to disrupt tumor progression have emerged from studying the interactions between tumor cells and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). However, the molecular mechanisms of interactions between tumor cells and TAMs underlying oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) progression have not been fully elucidated. This study explored the molecular mechanism of the HSP27/IL-6 axis in OSCC chemoresistance, invasion, and migration. Here, we demonstrated the higher expression of HSP27 in OSCC cells. Paracrine HSP27 from OSCC cells enhanced chemoresistance, invasion, migration, and EMT in OSCC by inducing M2 polarization and IL-6 secretion in TAMs. HSP27 and IL-6 established a positive feedback loop between OSCC cells and M2 TAMs. TAMs-derived IL-6 orchestrated OSCC stemness and chemoresistance through upregulating β-catenin and CD44, and enhanced OSCC invasion, migration, and EMT via autocrine HSP27/TLR4 signaling. Collectively, HSP27/IL-6 axis facilitates OSCC chemoresistance, invasion, and migration by orchestrating macrophages through a positive feedback loop. We identify the regulatory mechanism underlying the interaction and crosstalk between OSCC cells and TAMs mediated by the HSP27/IL-6 axis. Targeting the HSP27/IL-6 axis could be a promising treatment strategy for OSCC patients, potentially controlling disease progression and improving prognosis and recurrence outcomes.

Identification of Novel Biomarkers for Ischemic Stroke Through Integrated Bioinformatics Analysis and Machine Learning

Ischemic stroke leads to permanent damage to the affected brain tissue, with strict time constraints for effective treatment. Predictive biomarkers demonstrate great potential in the clinical diagnosis of ischemic stroke, significantly enhancing the accuracy of early identification, thereby enabling clinicians to intervene promptly and reduce patient disability and mortality rates. Furthermore, the application of predictive biomarkers facilitates the development of personalized treatment plans tailored to the specific conditions of individual patients, optimizing treatment outcomes and improving prognoses. Bioinformatics technologies based on high-throughput data provide a crucial foundation for comprehensively understanding the biological characteristics of ischemic stroke and discovering effective predictive targets. In this study, we evaluated gene expression data from ischemic stroke patients retrieved from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, conducting differential expression analysis and functional analysis. Through weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), we characterized gene modules associated with ischemic stroke. To screen candidate core genes, three machine learning algorithms were applied, including Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO), random forest (RF), and support vector machine-recursive feature elimination (SVM-RFE), ultimately identifying five candidate core genes: MBOAT2, CKAP4, FAF1, CLEC4D, and VIM. Subsequent validation was performed using an external dataset. Additionally, the immune infiltration landscape of ischemic stroke was mapped using the CIBERSORT method, investigating the relationship between candidate core genes and immune cells in the pathogenesis of ischemic stroke, as well as the key pathways associated with the core genes. Finally, the key gene VIM was further identified and preliminarily validated through four machine learning algorithms, including generalized linear model (GLM), Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), RF, and SVM-RFE. This study contributes to advancing our understanding of biomarkers for ischemic stroke and provides a reference for the prediction and diagnosis of ischemic stroke.

Metabolic reprogramming and immunological changes in the microenvironment of esophageal cancer: future directions and prospects

Background

Esophageal cancer (EC) is the seventh-most prevalent cancer worldwide and is a significant contributor to cancer-related mortality. Metabolic reprogramming in tumors frequently coincides with aberrant immune function alterations, and extensive research has demonstrated that perturbations in energy metabolism within the tumor microenvironment influence the occurrence and progression of esophageal cancer. Current treatment modalities for esophageal cancer primarily include encompass chemotherapy and a limited array of targeted therapies, which are hampered by toxicity and drug resistance issues. Immunotherapy, particularly immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway, has exhibited promising results; however, a substantial proportion of patients remain unresponsive. The optimization of these immunotherapies requires further investigation. Mounting evidence underscores the importance of modulating metabolic traits within the tumor microenvironment (TME) to augment anti-tumor immunotherapy.

Methods

We selected relevant studies on the metabolism of the esophageal cancer tumor microenvironment and immune cells based on our searches of MEDLINE and PubMed, focusing on screening experimental articles and reviews related to glucose metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and lipid metabolism, as well their interactions with tumor cells and immune cells, published within the last five years. We analyzed and discussed these studies, while also expressing our own insights and opinions.

Results

A total of 137 articles were included in the review: 21 articles focused on the tumor microenvironment of esophageal cancer, 33 delved into research related to glucose metabolism and tumor immunology, 30 introduced amino acid metabolism and immune responses, and 17 focused on the relationship between lipid metabolism in the tumor microenvironment and both tumor cells and immune cells.

Conclusion

This article delves into metabolic reprogramming and immune alterations within the TME of EC, systematically synthesizes the metabolic characteristics of the TME, dissects the interactions between tumor and immune cells, and consolidates and harnesses pertinent immunotherapy targets, with the goal of enhancing anti-tumor immunotherapy for esophageal cancer and thereby offering insights into the development of novel therapeutic strategies.

Advances in the relationship between AP-1 and tumorigenesis, development and therapy resistance

Activating protein 1 (AP-1) is a transcription factor composed of several protein families, Jun proteins and Fos proteins are the components of AP-1. AP-1 is involved in various cellular processes, such as proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis and inflammation. For tumor cells, AP-1 is considered to be a driver whose activity is associated with dysfunction and the onset, development, invasion, and migration of cancer. In addition, AP-1 has been reported to be involved in the drug resistance and radiation resistance of tumor cells during the treatment process. Therefore, AP-1 is a potential target for cancer therapy. At present, a number of inhibitors targeting AP-1 have been developed and have shown certain anti-cancer effects. However, due to the complex structure and function of AP-1, different structures of AP-1 show different effects in different tumor cells, and more studies are needed to reveal its mechanism of action. This article introduces the relationship between AP-1 and tumor development, summarize the current studies and developments of AP-1 related drugs, and provide the future development values of AP-1.

Coptisine inhibits esophageal carcinoma growth by modulating pyroptosis via inhibition of HGF/c-Met signaling

Esophageal carcinoma is a highly prevalent malignancy worldwide. The present study aimed to investigate the mechanism by which the natural compound coptisine affects pyroptosis in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). The expression of c-Met in ESCC patients was assessed by immunohistochemical analysis of tissue microarrays. Natural drugs that bind to c-Met were identified by screening and molecular docking. The effect of coptisine on the proliferation of ESCC cells was detected by CCK-8 and colony formation assays. Cell cycle progression and cell apoptosis were detected by flow cytometry. The levels of mRNAs related to pyroptosis and miR-21 after coptisine treatment were assessed via real-time quantitative PCR. The effect of pyroptosis was evaluated by reactive oxygen species level detection and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis. The expression of proteins related to pyroptosis and the HGF/c-Met pathway was detected by western blotting. A xenograft tumor model was established, and the inhibitory effect of coptisine was evaluated by observing tumor growth. The results showed that the highly expressed protein c-Met in esophageal cancer could bind with coptisine. Coptisine inhibited c-Met phosphorylation and proliferation in ESCC cells. Furthermore, coptisine inhibited the expression of downstream proteins of the HGF/c-Met signaling pathway and induced ROS generation. Tumor xenograft experiments demonstrated that coptisine effectively inhibited tumor growth by reducing the levels of pyroptosis-associated proteins. In conclusion, these findings indicate that inhibition of the HGF/c-Met signaling pathway suppresses pyroptosis to enhance the antitumor effect of coptisine in ESCC and support the potential use of coptisine for EC treatment.

Development and validation of a glycolysis-associated gene signature for predicting the prognosis, immune landscape, and drug sensitivity in bladder cancer

Background

Bladder cancer (BCa) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide, and its prognostication and treatment remains challenging. The fast growth of various cancer cells requires reprogramming of its energy metabolism using aerobic glycolysis as a major energy source. However, the prognostic and therapeutic value of glycolysis-related genes in BCa remains to be determined.

Methods

The fused merge dateset from TCGA, GSE13507 and GSE31684 were used for the analysis of glycolysis-related genes expression or subtyping; and corresponding clinical data of these BCa patients were also collected. In the merge cohort, we constructed a 18 multigene signature using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression model. The four external cohorts (i.e., IMvigor210, GSE32894, GSE48276 and GSE48075) of BCa patients were used to validate the accuracy. We evaluated immune infiltration using seven published algorithms: CIBERSORT, QUANTISEQ, XCELL, TIMER, CIBERSORT-ABS, EPIC, and MCPCOUNTER. Subsequently, in order to analyze the correlation between risk groups(scores) and overall survival, recognised immunoregolatory cells or common chemotherapeutic agents, clinicopathological data and immune checkpoint-related genes of BCa patients, Wilcox rank test, chi-square test, cox regression and spearman's correlation were performed.

Results

Conspicuously, we could see that CD8+ T, cancer associated fibroblast, macrophage M2, NK, endothelial cells and so on were significantly dysregulated between the two risk groups. In addition, compared with the low-risk group, high-risk group predicted poor prognosis and relatively weak sensitivity of chemotherapy. Additionally, we also found that the expression level of partial genes in the model was significantly correlated with objective responses to anti-PD-1 or anti-PD-L1 treatment in the IMvigor210, GSE111636, GSE176307, GSE78220 or GSE67501 cohort; and its expression level was also varied in different objective response cases receiving tislelizumab combined with low-dose nab-paclitaxel therapy based on our mRNA sequencing (TRUCE-01). According to "GSEA" algorithm of R package "clusterProfiler", the most significantly enriched HALLMARK, KEGG pathway and GO term was separately the 'Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition', 'Ecm Receptor Interaction' and 'MF_Extracellular_matrix_structural_constitunet' in the high- vs. low-risk group. Subsequently, we verified the protein and mRNA expression of interested model-related genes from the Human Protein Atlas (HPA) and 10 paired BCa tissues collected by us. Furthermore, in vitro functional experiments demonstrated that FASN was a functional oncogene in BCa cells through promoting cell proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities.

Conclusion

In summary, the glycolysis-associated gene signature established by us exhibited a high predictive performance for the prognosis, immunotherapeutic responsiveness, and chemotherapeutic sensitivity of BCa. And, The model also might function as a chemotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) treatment guidance.

Non-coding RNAs participate in interactions between senescence and gastrointestinal cancers

Relationships between cellular senescence and gastrointestinal cancers have gained prominence in recent years. The currently accepted theory suggests that cellular senescence and cancer occurrence exhibit "double-edged sword" effects. Cellular senescence is related to cancer via four "meta-hallmarks" i.e., genomic instability, epigenetic alterations, chronic inflammation, and dysbiosis, along with two "antagonistic hallmarks" i.e., telomere attrition and stem cell exhaustion. These relationships are characterized by both agonistic and antagonistic elements, but the existence of an intricate dynamic balance remains unknown. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have vital roles in post-transcriptional regulation, but how they participate in agonistic and antagonistic relationships between cellular senescence and gastrointestinal cancers remains to be fully investigated. In this article, we systematically review how ncRNAs (including microRNAs (miRNAs), long ncRNAs (lncRNAs), and circularRNAs (circRNAs)) participate in interactions between cellular senescence and gastrointestinal cancers. Our aim is to elucidate a triangular relationship between "ncRNAs-senescence-gastrointestinal cancers" which considered these three elements as an equal important standing. We are keen to identify prognostic or therapeutic targets for gastrointestinal cancers from, i.e., aging-related ncRNAs, or discover novel strategies to treat and manage in the elderly. We seek to clarify complex relationships where ncRNAs participate in "senescence-gastrointestinal cancers" interactions.

Prediction of Pathologic Complete Response in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Using Preoperative Serum Small Ribonucleic Acid Obtained After Neoadjuvant Chemoradiotherapy

BACKGROUND

The authors hypothesized that small ribonucleic acid (sRNA) obtained from blood samples after neoadjuvant therapy from patients treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy (NACRT) could serve as a novel biomarker for predicting pathologic complete response (pCR).

METHODS

This study included 99 patients treated with esophagectomy after NACRT between March 2010 and October 2021 whose blood samples were collected between the end of NACRT and surgery. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) was used to analyze sRNAs from the blood samples. A predictive model for pCR comprising micro-RNA isoforms (isomiR), transfer RNA (tRNA)-derived sRNAs (tsRNAs), and clinical factors was constructed using cross-validation.

RESULTS

Of the 99 patients, pCR was diagnosed for 30 and non-pCR for 69 of the patients. Among sRNAs, the isomiRs of let-7b and miR-93 and the tsRNA group derived from tRNA-Gly-CCC/GCC were identified as predictive factors. The clinical factors included a decrease in the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) at the primary site, clinical complete response post-NACRT, preoperative biopsy, and post-NACRT carcinoembryonic antigen levels. The combined predictive model for pCR (C-PM) was established using the three sRNAs and four clinical factors. The area under the curve for the C-PM was 0.84, which was a significant factor in the multivariate analysis (odds ratio, 89.41; 95 % confidence interval 8.1-987.5; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Pathologic complete response after NACRT can be predicted by a predictive model constructed from preoperative clinical factors obtained via minimally invasive procedures and sRNA identified by NGS. Preoperative pCR prediction may influence treatment decision-making after NACRT.

Transcriptomic Profile Analysis of Brain Tissue in the Absence of Functional TRPM8 Calcium Channel

Background/Objectives: Transient Receptor Potential Melastatin 8 (TRPM8) is a non-selective, Ca2+-permeable cation channel involved in thermoregulation and other physiological processes, such as basal tear secretion, cell differentiation, and insulin homeostasis. The activation and deactivation of TRPM8 occur through genetic modifications, channel interactions, and signaling cascades. Recent evidence suggests a significant role of TRPM8 in the hypothalamus and amygdala related to pain sensation and sexual behavior. Notably, TRPM8 has been implicated in neuropathic pain, migraines, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease. Our laboratory has identified testosterone as a high-affinity ligand of TRPM8. TRPM8 deficiency appears to influence behavioral traits in mice, like increased aggression and deficits in sexual satiety. Here, we aim to explore the pathways altered in brain tissues of TRPM8-deficient mice using the expression and methylation profiles of messenger RNA (mRNA) and long non-coding RNA (lncRNA). Specifically, we focused on brain regions integral to behavioral and hormonal control, including the olfactory bulb, hypothalamus, amygdala, and insula. Methods: RNA was isolated and purified for microarray analysis collected from male wild-type and TRPM8 knockout mice. Results: We identified various differentially expressed genes tied to multiple signaling pathways. Among them, the androgen-estrogen receptor (AR-ER) pathway, steroidogenesis pathway, sexual reward pathway, and cocaine reward pathway are particularly worth noting. Conclusions: These results should bridge the existing gaps in the knowledge regarding TRPM8 and inform potential targets for future studies to elucidate its role in the behavior changes and pathology of the diseases associated with TRPM8 activity.

TWEAK is an activator of Hippo-YAP signaling protecting against hepatic Ischemia/ reperfusion injury

Hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) represents a formidable complication commonly linked with hemorrhagic shock, liver resection, and transplantation. This study aims to elucidate the role of Tumor Necrosis Factor-like Weak Inducer of Apoptosis (TWEAK) in the pathogenesis of hepatic I/R injury and to delineate the underlying mechanisms involved. Utilizing a hypoxia-reoxygenation model in human liver organoids (HLOs) alongside a murine model of warm ischemia-reperfusion injury, we systematically investigated the interplay between TWEAK, its receptor Fn14, and the HIPPO signaling pathway. Our findings indicate that TWEAK pretreatment significantly mitigates IRI in murine livers as well as hypoxia/reoxygenation injury in HLOs. Notably, administration of adeno-associated virus (AAV) to knock down Fn14 abrogated the protective effects of TWEAK in the murine model. Transcriptome sequencing analysis revealed that the interaction between TWEAK and Fn14 enhances cellular resistance to IRI by activating the HIPPO signaling pathway. Overall, TWEAK emerges as a promising therapeutic target for mitigating hepatic I/R injury, potentially improving outcomes in liver transplantation.

Annexin A2: the feasibility of being a therapeutic target associated with cancer metastasis and drug resistance in cancer microenvironment

At present, there is still a lack of effective treatment strategies for cancer metastasis and drug resistance, so finding effective biomarkers is particularly important. AnnexinA2 (ANXA2), a vital membrane protein, critically influences cancer progression, tumor invasion, and tumor microenvironment modulation. To assess the possible application of ANXA2 as a therapeutic target against cancer cell metastasis and drug resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs in the tumor microenvironment, we elucidated the functionality of ANXA2 in stromal cells, angiogenic vascular cells, and infiltrated immune cells that mediate metastasis and drug resistance, as well as its potential as a therapeutic target. ANXA2 shows a high expression level in many tissues, and its expression level is even higher in several tumors and their microenvironments. ANXA2 is a crucial regulator of many factors and may serve as a target against drug-resistant cancers.

Spatial transcriptome profiling identifies DTX3L and BST2 as key biomarkers in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma tumorigenesis

BACKGROUND

Understanding the stepwise progression of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is crucial for developing customized strategies for early detection and optimal clinical management. Herein, we aimed to unravel the transcriptional and immunologic alterations occurring during malignant transformation and identify clinically significant biomarkers of ESCC.

METHODS

Digital spatial profiling (DSP) was performed on 11 patients with early-stage ESCC (pT1) to explore the transcriptional alterations in epithelial, immune cell, and non-immune cell stromal compartments across regions of distinct histology, including normal tissues, low- and high-grade dysplasia, and cancerous tissues. Furthermore, single-cell spatial transcriptomics was performed using the CosMx Spatial Molecular Imaging (SMI) system on 4 additional patients with pT1 ESCC. Immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis was performed on consecutive histological sections of 20 pT1 ESCCs. Additionally, public bulk and single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) datasets were analyzed, and in vitro and in vivo functional studies were conducted.

RESULTS

Spatial transcriptional reprogramming and dynamic cell signaling pathways that determined ESCC progression were delineated. Increased infiltration of macrophages from normal tissues through dysplasia to cancerous tissues occurred. Macrophage subtypes were characterized using the scRNA-seq dataset. Cell-cell communication analysis of scRNA-seq and SMI data indicated that the migration inhibitory factor (MIF)-CD74 axis may exhibit pro-tumor interactions between macrophages and epithelial cells. DSP, SMI, and IHC data demonstrated that DTX3L expression in epithelial cells and BST2 expression in stromal cells increased gradually with ESCC progression. Functional studies demonstrated that DTX3L or BST2 knockdown inhibited ESCC proliferation and migration and decreased M2 polarization of tumor-associated macrophages.

CONCLUSIONS

Spatial profiling comprehensively characterized the molecular and immunological hallmarks from normal tissue to ESCC, guiding the way to a deeper understanding of the tumorigenesis and progression of this disease and contributing to the prevention of ESCC. Within this exploration, we uncovered biomarkers that exhibit a robust correlation with ESCC progression, offering potential new avenues for insightful therapeutic approaches.

The emerging role of circular RNAs in cisplatin resistance in ovarian cancer: From molecular mechanism to future potential

Ovarian cancer (OC) is the most common cause of death in female cancers. The prognosis of OC is very poor due to delayed diagnosis and identification of most patients in advanced stages, metastasis, recurrence, and resistance to chemotherapy. As chemotherapy with platinum-based drugs such as cisplatin (DDP) is the main treatment in most OC cases, resistance to DDP is an important obstacle to achieving satisfactory therapeutic efficacy. Consequently, knowing the different molecular mechanisms involved in resistance to DDP is necessary to achieve new therapeutic approaches. According to numerous recent studies, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) could regulate proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and chemoresistance in many cancers, including OC. Most of these ncRNAs are released by tumor cells into human fluid, allowing them to be used as tools for diagnosis. CircRNAs are ncRNA family members that have a role in the initiation, progression, and chemoresistance regulation of various cancers. In the current study, we investigated the roles of several circRNAs and their signaling pathways on OC progression and also on DDP resistance during chemotherapy.