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Balaji N, Kukal S, Bhat A, Pradhan N, Minocha S, Kumar S. A quartet of cancer stem cell niches in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2024:S1359-6101(24)00064-9. [PMID: 39217065 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2024.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2024] [Revised: 08/20/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC), the most prevalent type of primary liver cancer, is known for its aggressive behavior and poor prognosis. The Cancer Stem Cell theory, which postulates the presence of a small population of self-renewing cells called Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs), provides insights into various clinical and molecular features of HCC such as tumor heterogeneity, metabolic adaptability, therapy resistance, and recurrence. These CSCs are nurtured in the tumor microenvironment (TME), where a mix of internal and external factors creates a tumor-supportive niche that is continuously evolving both spatially and temporally, thus enhancing the tumor's complexity. This review details the origins of hepatic CSCs (HCSCs) and the factors influencing their stem-like qualities. It highlights the reciprocal crosstalk between HCSCs and the TME (hypoxic, vascular, invasive, and immune niches), exploring the signaling pathways involved and how these interactions control the malignant traits of CSCs. Additionally, it discusses potential therapeutic approaches targeting the HCSC niche and their possible uses in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neha Balaji
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, 110016, India
| | - Samiksha Kukal
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, 110016, India
| | - Anjali Bhat
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, 110016, India
| | - Nikita Pradhan
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, 110016, India
| | - Shilpi Minocha
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, 110016, India.
| | - Saran Kumar
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, 110016, India.
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2
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Yang H, Wang H, He Y, Yang Y, Thompson EW, Xia D, Burke LJ, Cao L, Hooper JD, Roberts MS, Crawford DHG, Liang X. Identification and characterization of TM4SF1 + tumor self-seeded cells. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114512. [PMID: 39003738 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor self-seeding is a process whereby circulating tumor cells (CTCs) recolonize the primary tumor, which promotes tumor growth, angiogenesis, and invasion. However, the detailed nature and functions of tumor self-seeded cells (TSCs) have not been well defined due to challenges in tracking and isolating TSCs. Here, we report an accurate animal model using photoconvertible tagging to recapitulate the spontaneous process of tumor self-seeding and identify TSCs as a subpopulation of primary tumor cells with enhanced invasiveness and survival. We demonstrate transmembrane-4-L-six-family-1 (TM4SF1) as a marker of TSCs, which promotes migration, invasion, and anchorage-independent survival in cancer cells. By analyzing single-cell RNA sequencing datasets, we identify a potential TSC population with a metastatic profile in patients with cancer, which is detectable in early-stage disease and expands during cancer progression. In summary, we establish a framework to study TSCs and identify emerging cell targets with diagnostic, prognostic, or therapeutic potential in cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haotian Yang
- Frazer Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia; Gallipoli Medical Research, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia
| | - Haolu Wang
- Frazer Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia; Gallipoli Medical Research, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia
| | - Yaowu He
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Yang Yang
- Frazer Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Erik W Thompson
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology and Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
| | - Di Xia
- Genome Innovation Hub, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Leslie J Burke
- Gallipoli Medical Research, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia
| | - Lu Cao
- Gallipoli Medical Research, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia
| | - John D Hooper
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Michael S Roberts
- Frazer Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Darrell H G Crawford
- Gallipoli Medical Research, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
| | - Xiaowen Liang
- Frazer Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia; Gallipoli Medical Research, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia.
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3
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Chan HY, Ramasamy TS, Chung FFL, Teow SY. Role of sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) in regulation of autophagy and nuclear factor-kappa Beta (NF-ĸβ) pathways in sorafenib-resistant hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Cell Biochem Biophys 2024; 82:959-968. [PMID: 38466472 DOI: 10.1007/s12013-024-01247-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a major global health problem with high incidence and mortality. Diagnosis of HCC at late stages and tumour heterogeneity in patients with different genetic profiles are known factors that complicate the disease treatment. HCC therapy becomes even more challenging in patients with drug resistance such as resistance to sorafenib, which is a common drug used in HCC patients. Sorafenib resistance can further aggravate HCC by regulating various oncogenic pathways such as autophagy and nuclear factor-kappa Beta (NF-ĸβ) signalling. Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), is a nicotinamide adenosine dinucleotide (NAD)-dependent histone deacetylases that regulates various metabolic and oncogenic events such as cell survival, apoptosis, autophagy, tumourigenesis, metastasis and drug resistance in various cancers, but its role in HCC, particularly in sorafenib resistance is underexplored. In this study, we generated sorafenib-resistant HepG2 and Huh-7 liver cancer cell models to investigate the role of SIRT1 and its effect on autophagy and nuclear factor-kappa Beta (NF-ĸβ) signalling pathways. Western blot analysis showed increased SIRT1, altered autophagy pathway and activated NF-ĸβ signalling in sorafenib-resistant cells. SIRT1-silenced HCC cells demonstrated down-regulated autophagy in both parental and chemoresistant cells. This may occur through the deacetylation of key autophagy molecules such as FOXO3, beclin 1, ATGs and LC3 by SIRT1, highlighting the role of SIRT1 in autophagy induction. Silencing of SIRT1 also resulted in activated NF-ĸβ signalling. This is because SIRT1 failed to deacetylate p65 subunit of NF-κB, translocate the NF-κB from nucleus to cytoplasm, and suppress NF-κB activity due to the silencing. Hence, the NF-κB transcriptional activity was restored. These findings summarize the role of SIRT1 in autophagy/NF-ĸβ regulatory axis, with a similar trend observed in both parental and sorafenib-resistant cells. The present work promotes a better understanding of the role of SIRT1 in autophagy and NF-ĸβ signalling in HCC and sorafenib-resistant HCC. As some key proteins in these pathways are potential therapeutic targets, a better understanding of SIRT1/autophagy/NF-ĸβ axis could further improve the therapeutic strategies against HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Yin Chan
- Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Jalan Universiti, 47500 Subang Jaya, Bandar, Sunway, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Thamil Selvee Ramasamy
- Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Felicia Fei-Lei Chung
- Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Jalan Universiti, 47500 Subang Jaya, Bandar, Sunway, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Sin-Yeang Teow
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Mathematics and Technology, Wenzhou-Kean University, 88 Daxue Road, Ouhai, Wenzhou, 325060, Zhejiang Provinve, China.
- Wenzhou Municipal Key Lab for Applied Biomedical and Biopharmaceutical Informatics, Ouhai, Wenzhou, 325060, Zhejiang Province, China.
- Zhejiang Bioinformatics International Science and Technology Cooperation Center, Ouhai, Wenzhou, 325060, Zhejiang Province, China.
- Dorothy and George Hennings College of Science, Mathematics and Technology, Kean University, 1000 Morries Ave, Union, NJ, 07083, USA.
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4
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Ladd AD, Duarte S, Sahin I, Zarrinpar A. Mechanisms of drug resistance in HCC. Hepatology 2024; 79:926-940. [PMID: 36680397 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
HCC comprises ∼80% of primary liver cancer. HCC is the only major cancer for which death rates have not improved over the last 10 years. Most patients are diagnosed with advanced disease when surgical and locoregional treatments are not feasible or effective. Sorafenib, a multikinase inhibitor targeting cell growth and angiogenesis, was approved for advanced unresectable HCC in 2007. Since then, other multikinase inhibitors have been approved. Lenvatinib was found to be noninferior to sorafenib as a first-line agent. Regorafenib, cabozantinib, and ramucirumab were shown to prolong survival as second-line agents. Advances in immunotherapy for HCC have also added hope for patients, but their efficacy remains limited. A large proportion of patients with advanced HCC gain no long-term benefit from systemic therapy due to primary and acquired drug resistance, which, combined with its rising incidence, keeps HCC a highly fatal disease. This review summarizes mechanisms of primary and acquired resistance to therapy and includes methods for bypassing resistance. It addresses recent advancements in immunotherapy, provides new perspectives on the linkage between drug resistance and molecular etiology of HCC, and evaluates the role of the microbiome in drug resistance. It also discusses alterations in signaling pathways, dysregulation of apoptosis, modulations in the tumor microenvironment, involvement of cancer stem cells, changes in drug metabolism/transport, tumor hypoxia, DNA repair, and the role of microRNAs in drug resistance. Understanding the interplay among these factors will provide guidance on the development of new therapeutic strategies capable of improving patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra D Ladd
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Sergio Duarte
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Ilyas Sahin
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Ali Zarrinpar
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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5
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Bai J, Huang M, Zhou J, Song B, Hua J, Ding R. Development of a predictive nomogram for postembolization syndrome after transcatheter arterial chemoembolization of hepatocellular carcinoma. Sci Rep 2024; 14:3303. [PMID: 38332011 PMCID: PMC10853204 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53711-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Post-embolization syndrome (PES) is a frequent complication after receiving transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but only a few studies have focused on the factors influencing PES in those patients. In this study, the impact factors of PES were explored and a nomogram was constructed to predict the occurrence of PES in HCC patients with TACE. This was a retrospective cohort study of HCC patients who underwent TACE obtained from the third affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University between January 1, 2020, and September 1, 2022. T‑test and Chi‑square test were used to search for factors influencing PES occurrence, and then the nomogram was further established based on multivariable logistic regression analysis. Validation of the predictive nomogram was also evaluated by calibration curve, concordance index (C-index), and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. The enrolled patients (n = 258) were randomly assigned to the primary cohort (n = 180) and validation cohort (n = 78) in a 7:3 ratio. Among 180 patients in the primary cohort, 106 (58.89%) experienced PES. TACE types (P = 0.015), embolization degree (P = 0.008), and tumor number (P = 0.026) were identified as predictors by the logistic regression analysis and were used to develop the predictive nomogram. The internally validated and externally validated C-indexes were 0.713 and 0.703, respectively. The calibration curves presented good consistency between actual and predictive survival. Types of embolic agents, embolization degree, and tumor number were found to be the predictors of PES after TACE. The nomogram could reliably predict PES in HCC patients with TACE. This predictive model might be considered for clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinfeng Bai
- Minimally Invasive Intervention Department, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650118, China
| | - Ming Huang
- Minimally Invasive Intervention Department, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650118, China
| | - Jinmei Zhou
- Minimally Invasive Intervention Department, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650118, China
| | - Bohan Song
- Minimally Invasive Intervention Department, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650118, China
| | - Jianjie Hua
- Minimally Invasive Intervention Department, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650118, China
| | - Rong Ding
- Minimally Invasive Intervention Department, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650118, China.
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6
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Rodrigues P, Bangali H, Ali E, Nauryzbaevish AS, Hjazi A, Fenjan MN, Alawadi A, Alsaalamy A, Alasheqi MQ, Mustafa YF. The mechanistic role of NAT10 in cancer: Unraveling the enigmatic web of oncogenic signaling. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 253:154990. [PMID: 38056132 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
N-acetyltransferase 10 (NAT10), a versatile enzyme, has gained considerable attention as a significant player in the complex realm of cancer biology. Its enigmatic role in tumorigenesis extends across a wide array of cellular processes, impacting cell growth, differentiation, survival, and genomic stability. Within the intricate network of oncogenic signaling, NAT10 emerges as a crucial agent in multiple cancer types, such as breast, lung, colorectal, and leukemia. This compelling research addresses the intricate complexity of the mechanistic role of NAT10 in cancer development. By elucidating its active participation in essential physiological processes, we investigate the regulatory role of NAT10 in cell cycle checkpoints, coordination of chromatin remodeling, and detailed modulation of the delicate balance between apoptosis and cell survival. Perturbations in NAT10 expression and function have been linked to oncogenesis, metastasis, and drug resistance in a variety of cancer types. Furthermore, the bewildering interactions between NAT10 and key oncogenic factors, such as p53 and c-Myc, are deciphered, providing profound insights into the molecular underpinnings of cancer pathogenesis. Equally intriguing, the paradoxical role of NAT10 as a potential tumor suppressor or oncogene is influenced by context-dependent factors and the cellular microenvironment. This study explores the fascinating interplay of genetic changes, epigenetic changes, and post-translational modifications that shape the dual character of NAT10, revealing the delicate balance between cancer initiation and suppression. Taken together, this overview delves deeply into the enigmatic role of NAT10 in cancer, elucidating its multifaceted roles and its complex interplay with oncogenic networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Rodrigues
- Department of Computer Engineering, College of Computer Science, King Khalid University, Al-Faraa, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Harun Bangali
- Department of Computer Engineering, College of Computer Science, King Khalid University, Al-Faraa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Eyhab Ali
- College of Chemistry, Al-Zahraa University for Women, Karbala, Iraq
| | - Abdreshov Serik Nauryzbaevish
- Institute of Genetics and Physiology SC MSHE RK, Laboratory of Physiology Lymphatic System, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | - Ahmed Hjazi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed N Fenjan
- College of Health and Medical Technology, Al-Ayen University, Thi-Qar, Iraq
| | - Ahmed Alawadi
- College of Technical Engineering, the Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq; College of Technical Engineering, the Islamic University of Al Diwaniyah, Iraq; College of Technical Engineering, the Islamic University of Babylon, Iraq
| | - Ali Alsaalamy
- College of Technical Engineering, Imam Ja'afar Al-Sadiq University, Al-Muthanna 66002, Iraq
| | | | - Yasser Fakri Mustafa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Mosul, Mosul 41001, Iraq
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Davodabadi F, Sajjadi SF, Sarhadi M, Mirghasemi S, Nadali Hezaveh M, Khosravi S, Kamali Andani M, Cordani M, Basiri M, Ghavami S. Cancer chemotherapy resistance: Mechanisms and recent breakthrough in targeted drug delivery. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 958:176013. [PMID: 37633322 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.176013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
Conventional chemotherapy, one of the most widely used cancer treatment methods, has serious side effects, and usually results in cancer treatment failure. Drug resistance is one of the primary reasons for this failure. The most significant drawbacks of systemic chemotherapy are rapid clearance from the circulation, the drug's low concentration in the tumor site, and considerable adverse effects outside the tumor. Several ways have been developed to boost neoplasm treatment efficacy and overcome medication resistance. In recent years, targeted drug delivery has become an essential therapeutic application. As more mechanisms of tumor treatment resistance are discovered, nanoparticles (NPs) are designed to target these pathways. Therefore, understanding the limitations and challenges of this technology is critical for nanocarrier evaluation. Nano-drugs have been increasingly employed in medicine, incorporating therapeutic applications for more precise and effective tumor diagnosis, therapy, and targeting. Many benefits of NP-based drug delivery systems in cancer treatment have been proven, including good pharmacokinetics, tumor cell-specific targeting, decreased side effects, and lessened drug resistance. As more mechanisms of tumor treatment resistance are discovered, NPs are designed to target these pathways. At the moment, this innovative technology has the potential to bring fresh insights into cancer therapy. Therefore, understanding the limitations and challenges of this technology is critical for nanocarrier evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Davodabadi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Science, Payame Noor University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Seyedeh Fatemeh Sajjadi
- School of Biological Science, Institute for Research in Fundamental Sciences (IPM), Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Sarhadi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Research Institute of Cellular and Molecular Sciences in Infectious Diseases, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran.
| | - Shaghayegh Mirghasemi
- Department of Chemistry, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mahdieh Nadali Hezaveh
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, 84156-83111, Iran.
| | - Samin Khosravi
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, North Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mahdieh Kamali Andani
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Science, Payame Noor University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Marco Cordani
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Mohsen Basiri
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Saeid Ghavami
- Academy of Silesia, Faculty of Medicine, Rolna 43, 40-555. Katowice, Poland; Research Institute of Oncology and Hematology, Cancer Care Manitoba-University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5, Canada; Biology of Breathing Theme, Children Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5, Canada; Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, University of Manitoba College of Medicine, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5, Canada.
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8
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Wu J, Xu X, Wu S, Shi W, Zhang G, Cao Y, Wang Z, Wu J, Jiang C. UBE2S promotes malignant properties via VHL/HIF-1α and VHL/JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathways and decreases sensitivity to sorafenib in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Med 2023; 12:18078-18097. [PMID: 37563971 PMCID: PMC10523983 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme E2S (UBE2S), an E2 enzyme, is associated with the development of various tumors and exerts oncogenic activities. UBE2S is overexpressed in tumors, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the key molecular mechanisms of UBE2S in HCC still need additional research. The aim of this study was to explore the role of UBE2S in HCC. METHODS The expression levels of UBE2S in HCC tissues and cells were detected by western blot analysis, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis (qRT-PCR), and immunohistochemistry (IHC). A 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, wound healing assay, colony formation assay transwell assay, and animal models were used to detect the proliferation and migration ability of HCC cells. Western blot analysis, qRT-PCR, immunofluorescence, small-interfering RNA (siRNA), and plasmid transfection and coimmunoprecipitation (Co-IP) assays were performed to detect the interaction among UBE2S, von Hippel-Lindau (VHL), hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α), Janus kinase-2 (JAK2), and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3). RESULTS In this study, we found that high UBE2S expression was associated with poor prognosis in HCC patients. In addition, UBE2S expression was upregulated in HCC tissues and cell lines. Knockdown of UBE2S inhibited the proliferation and migration of HCC cells in vitro and in vivo by directly interacting with VHL to downregulate the HIF-1α and JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathways. Accordingly, overexpression of UBE2S significantly enhanced the proliferation and migration of HCC cells in vitro via VHL to upregulate HIF-1α and JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathways. Furthermore, we found that downregulation of UBE2S expression enhanced the sensitivity of HCC cells to sorafenib in vivo and in vitro. CONCLUSION UBE2S enhances malignant properties via the VHL/HIF-1α and VHL/JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathways and reduces sensitivity to sorafenib in HCC. The findings of this study may open a new approach for HCC diagnosis and provide a potential option for the treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyi Wu
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong LaboratoryShounuo City Light West BlockJinanShandongChina
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical UniversityFuzhouFujianChina
| | - Xiangjie Xu
- Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Traditional Chinese and Western MedicineNanjing University of Chinese MedicineNanjingJiangsuChina
| | - Shasha Wu
- Department of Clinical Medicine and RehabilitationJiangsu College of NursingHuai'anJiangsuChina
| | - Weiwei Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular MedicineMedical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing UniversityNanjingJiangsuChina
| | - Guang Zhang
- Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Traditional Chinese and Western MedicineNanjing University of Chinese MedicineNanjingJiangsuChina
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular MedicineMedical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing UniversityNanjingJiangsuChina
| | - Yin Cao
- Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Traditional Chinese and Western MedicineNanjing University of Chinese MedicineNanjingJiangsuChina
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular MedicineMedical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing UniversityNanjingJiangsuChina
| | - Zhongxia Wang
- Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Traditional Chinese and Western MedicineNanjing University of Chinese MedicineNanjingJiangsuChina
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular MedicineMedical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing UniversityNanjingJiangsuChina
| | - Junhua Wu
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong LaboratoryShounuo City Light West BlockJinanShandongChina
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular MedicineMedical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing UniversityNanjingJiangsuChina
| | - Chunping Jiang
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong LaboratoryShounuo City Light West BlockJinanShandongChina
- Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Traditional Chinese and Western MedicineNanjing University of Chinese MedicineNanjingJiangsuChina
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, National Institute of Healthcare Data Science at Nanjing University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular MedicineMedical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing UniversityNanjingJiangsuChina
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9
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Chen S, Du Y, Guan XY, Yan Q. The current status of tumor microenvironment and cancer stem cells in sorafenib resistance of hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1204513. [PMID: 37576900 PMCID: PMC10412930 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1204513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a heterogeneous and aggressive liver cancer that presents limited treatment options. Despite being the standard therapy for advanced HCC, sorafenib frequently encounters resistance, emphasizing the need to uncover the underlying mechanisms and develop effective treatments. This comprehensive review highlights the crucial interplay between the tumor microenvironment, cancer stem cells (CSCs), and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in the context of sorafenib resistance. The tumor microenvironment, encompassing hypoxia, immune cells, stromal cells, and exosomes, exerts a significant impact on HCC progression and therapy response. Hypoxic conditions and immune cell infiltration create an immunosuppressive milieu, shielding tumor cells from immune surveillance and hindering therapeutic efficacy. Additionally, the presence of CSCs emerges as a prominent contributor to sorafenib resistance, with CD133+ CSCs implicated in drug resistance and tumor initiation. Moreover, CSCs undergo EMT, a process intimately linked to tumor progression, CSC activation, and further promotion of sorafenib resistance, metastasis, and tumor-initiating capacity. Elucidating the correlation between the tumor microenvironment, CSCs, and sorafenib resistance holds paramount importance in the quest to develop reliable biomarkers capable of predicting therapeutic response. Novel therapeutic strategies must consider the influence of the tumor microenvironment and CSC activation to effectively overcome sorafenib resistance in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of General Surgery (Colorectal Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yaqing Du
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Biopharmaceuticals, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xin-Yuan Guan
- State Key Laboratory for Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Qian Yan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of General Surgery (Colorectal Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Samavarchi Tehrani S, Esmaeili F, Shirzad M, Goodarzi G, Yousefi T, Maniati M, Taheri-Anganeh M, Anushiravani A. The critical role of circular RNAs in drug resistance in gastrointestinal cancers. Med Oncol 2023; 40:116. [PMID: 36917431 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-023-01980-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
Nowadays, drug resistance (DR) in gastrointestinal (GI) cancers, as the main reason for cancer-related mortality worldwide, has become a serious problem in the management of patients. Several mechanisms have been proposed for resistance to anticancer drugs, including altered transport and metabolism of drugs, mutation of drug targets, altered DNA repair system, inhibited apoptosis and autophagy, cancer stem cells, tumor heterogeneity, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Compelling evidence has revealed that genetic and epigenetic factors are strongly linked to DR. Non-coding RNA (ncRNA) interferences are the most crucial epigenetic alterations explored so far, and among these ncRNAs, circular RNAs (circRNAs) are the most emerging members known to have unique properties. Due to the absence of 5' and 3' ends in these novel RNAs, the two ends are covalently bonded together and are generated from pre-mRNA in a process known as back-splicing, which makes them more stable than other RNAs. As far as the unique structure and function of circRNAs is concerned, they are implicated in proliferation, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, metastasis, and DR. A clear understanding of the molecular mechanisms responsible for circRNAs-mediated DR in the GI cancers will open a new window to the management of GI cancers. Hence, in the present review, we will describe briefly the biogenesis, multiple features, and different biological functions of circRNAs. Then, we will summarize current mechanisms of DR, and finally, discuss molecular mechanisms through which circRNAs regulate DR development in esophageal cancer, pancreatic cancer, gastric cancer, colorectal cancer, and hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadra Samavarchi Tehrani
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fataneh Esmaeili
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Moein Shirzad
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Golnaz Goodarzi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tooba Yousefi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahmood Maniati
- Department of English, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Mortaza Taheri-Anganeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
| | - Amir Anushiravani
- Digestive Disease Research Center, Digestive Disease Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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11
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Singh AK, Singh SV, Kumar R, Kumar S, Senapati S, Pandey AK. Current therapeutic modalities and chemopreventive role of natural products in liver cancer: Progress and promise. World J Hepatol 2023; 15:1-18. [PMID: 36744169 PMCID: PMC9896505 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v15.i1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is a severe concern for public health officials since the clinical cases are increasing each year, with an estimated 5-year survival rate of 30%–35% after diagnosis. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) constitutes a significant subtype of liver cancer (approximate75%) and is considered primary liver cancer. Treatment for liver cancer mainly depends on the stage of its progression, where surgery including, hepatectomy and liver transplantation, and ablation and radiotherapy are the prime choice. For advanced liver cancer, various drugs and immunotherapy are used as first-line treatment, whereas second-line treatment includes chemotherapeutic drugs from natural and synthetic origins. Sorafenib and lenvatinib are first-line therapies, while regorafenib and ramucirumab are second-line therapy. Various metabolic and signaling pathways such as Notch, JAK/ STAT, Hippo, TGF-β, and Wnt have played a critical role during HCC progression. Dysbiosis has also been implicated in liver cancer. Drug-induced toxicity is a key obstacle in the treatment of liver cancer, necessitating the development of effective and safe medications, with natural compounds such as resveratrol, curcumin, diallyl sulfide, and others emerging as promising anticancer agents. This review highlights the current status of liver cancer research, signaling pathways, therapeutic targets, current treatment strategies and the chemopreventive role of various natural products in managing liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Kumar Singh
- Department of Botany, Government Naveen Girls College, Balod (Hemchand Yadav University), Durg, Chattisgarh, India
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Allahabad, Prayagraj 211002, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Shiv Vardan Singh
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Allahabad, Prayagraj 211002, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Ramesh Kumar
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Allahabad, Prayagraj 211002, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Basic and Applied Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda 151401, Punjab, India
| | - Shashank Kumar
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Basic and Applied Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda 151401, Punjab, India
| | - Sabyasachi Senapati
- Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda 151401, Punjab, India
| | - Abhay K Pandey
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Allahabad, Prayagraj 211002, Uttar Pradesh, India
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12
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Jeng KS, Chang CF, Sheen IS, Jeng CJ, Wang CH. Cellular and Molecular Biology of Cancer Stem Cells of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:1417. [PMID: 36674932 PMCID: PMC9861908 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer death globally. The cancer stem cells (CSCs) of HCC are responsible for tumor growth, invasion, metastasis, recurrence, chemoresistance, target therapy resistance and radioresistance. The reported main surface markers used to identify liver CSCs include epithelial cell adhesion/activating molecule (EpCAM), cluster differentiation 90 (CD90), CD44 and CD133. The main molecular signaling pathways include the Wnt/β-catenin, transforming growth factors-β (TGF-β), sonic hedgehog (SHH), PI3K/Akt/mTOR and Notch. Patients with EpCAM-positive alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)-positive HCC are usually young but have advanced tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) stages. CD90-positive HCCs are usually poorly differentiated with worse prognosis. Those with CD44-positive HCC cells develop early metastases. Those with CD133 expression have a higher recurrence rate and a shorter overall survival. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway triggers angiogenesis, tumor infiltration and metastasis through the enhancement of angiogenic factors. All CD133+ liver CSCs, CD133+/EpCAM+ liver CSCs and CD44+ liver CSCs contribute to sorafenib resistance. SHH signaling could protect HCC cells against ionizing radiation in an autocrine manner. Reducing the CSC population of HCC is crucial for the improvement of the therapy of advanced HCC. However, targeting CSCs of HCC is still challenging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuo-Shyang Jeng
- Department of Surgery, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City 22060, Taiwan
| | - Chiung-Fang Chang
- Department of Surgery, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City 22060, Taiwan
| | - I-Shyang Sheen
- Department of Hepato Gastroenterology, Linkou Medical Center, Chang-Gung University, Taoyuan City 33305, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Juei Jeng
- Postgraduate of Institute of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Hsuan Wang
- Department of Surgery, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City 22060, Taiwan
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13
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Yang CK, Huang CH, Hu CH, Fang JH, Chen TC, Lin YC, Lin CY. Immunophenotype and antitumor activity of cytokine-induced killer cells from patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0280023. [PMID: 36598909 PMCID: PMC9812323 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cells are heterogeneous lymphocytes from human peripheral blood mononucleated cells (PBMCs) co-cultured with several cytokines. The main purpose of this study is to evaluate the functional characteristics and anticancer ability of CIK cells from hepatocarcinoma (HCC) patients. METHODS CIK cells were activated ex-vivo and expanded from PBMCs from HCC patients. The immunophenotype and the ex-vivo killing ability of CIK cells were evaluated. Human CIK cells were intravenously injected into NOD/SCID mice to evaluate the in vivo anticancer ability. RESULTS More than 70% of CIK cells were CD3+CD8+, and 15%-30% were CD3+CD56+. These cells expressed an increased number of activated natural killer (NK) receptors, such as DNAM1 and NKG2D, and expressed low-immune checkpoint molecules, including PD-1, CTLA-4, and LAG-3. Among the chemokine receptors expressed by CIKs, CXCR3 and CD62L were elevated in CD8+ T cells, representing the trafficking ability to inflamed tumor sites. CIK cells possess the ex-vivo anticancer activity to different cell lines. To demonstrate in vivo antitumor ability, human CIK cells could significantly suppress the tumor of J7 bearing NOD/SCID mice. Furthermore, human immune cells could be detected in the peripheral blood and on the tumors after CIK injection. CONCLUSIONS This study revealed that CIK cells from HCC patients possess cytotoxic properties, and express increased levels of effector NK receptors and chemokine molecules and lower levels of suppressive checkpoint receptors. CIK cells can suppress human HCC ex-vivo and in vivo. Future clinical trials of human CIK cell therapy for HCC are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chan-Keng Yang
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Hao Huang
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Division of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Hsun Hu
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Jian-He Fang
- Division of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Tse-Ching Chen
- Department of Pathology, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Chang Lin
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- * E-mail:
| | - Chun-Yen Lin
- Division of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
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14
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Jiang L, Li L, Liu Y, Lu L, Zhan M, Yuan S, Liu Y. Drug resistance mechanism of kinase inhibitors in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1097277. [PMID: 36891274 PMCID: PMC9987615 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1097277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common form of primary liver cancer, and it usually occurs following chronic liver disease. Although some progress has been made in the treatment of HCC, the prognosis of patients with advanced HCC is not optimistic, mainly because of the inevitable development of drug resistance. Therefore, multi-target kinase inhibitors for the treatment of HCC, such as sorafenib, lenvatinib, cabozantinib, and regorafenib, produce small clinical benefits for patients with HCC. It is necessary to study the mechanism of kinase inhibitor resistance and explore possible solutions to overcome this resistance to improve clinical benefits. In this study, we reviewed the mechanisms of resistance to multi-target kinase inhibitors in HCC and discussed strategies that can be used to improve treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Jiang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated With Jinan University), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Luan Li
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yongzhuang Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ligong Lu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated With Jinan University), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Meixiao Zhan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated With Jinan University), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Shengtao Yuan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yanyan Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated With Jinan University), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
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15
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Zhang G, Wang Y, Fuchs BC, Guo W, Drum DL, Erstad DJ, Shi B, DeLeo AB, Zheng H, Cai L, Zhang L, Tanabe KK, Wang X. Improving the Therapeutic Efficacy of Sorafenib for Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Repurposing Disulfiram. Front Oncol 2022; 12:913736. [PMID: 35912209 PMCID: PMC9329590 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.913736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundSorafenib, a kinase inhibitor, is a standard treatment for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) but provides only a limited survival benefit. Disulfiram (DSF), a drug for treating alcoholism and a chelator of copper (Cu), forms a complex with Cu (DSF/Cu). DSF/Cu is a potent inducer of autophagic apoptosis of cancer stem cells, which can demonstrate drug resistance. Thus, we hypothesized that DSF/Cu could increase the sensitivity of HCC cells to sorafenib by targeting hepatic cancer stem cells.MethodsThe synergistic effect of DSF/Cu and sorafenib on human HCC cell lines was assessed by cell viability MTT assay. Changes in stemness gene expression in HCC cells were investigated by assessing the presence of hepatic cancer stem cells (HCSCs) (defined as ALDH+ cells) using flow cytometry, sphere formation ability as an index of in vitro tumorigenicity, and expression of stemness gene-encoded proteins by western blot. Autophagic apoptosis and the ERK signaling pathway were also assessed by western blot. Most importantly, the in vivo anti-tumor efficacy of DSF/Cu and sorafenib was tested using orthotopic HCC xenografts in mice.ResultsCompared with sorafenib alone, DSF/Cu + sorafenib synergistically inhibited proliferation of all HCC cell lines, decreased the stemness of HCC cells, and increased the autophagy and apoptosis of HCC cells. The mechanism by which DSF/Cu mediated these phenomena with sorafenib was sustained activation of the ERK pathway. The combination of DSF/Cu (formed with endogenous Cu2+) and sorafenib was significantly more effective than sorafenib alone in inhibiting the growth of orthotopic HCC xenografts in mice. This in vivo anti-tumor efficacy was associated with decreased stemness in treated HCC tumors.ConclusionsDSF/Cu and sorafenib can synergistically and effectively treat HCC by targeting HCSCs in vitro and in vivo. Our data provide a foundation for clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gong Zhang
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Oncologic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yufeng Wang
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Oncologic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of General Surgery, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bryan C. Fuchs
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Oncologic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Wei Guo
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Oncologic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - David L. Drum
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Oncologic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Derek J. Erstad
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Oncologic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Baomin Shi
- Department of General Surgery, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Albert B. DeLeo
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Oncologic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Hui Zheng
- Biostatistics Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Lei Cai
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Oncologic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Liyuan Zhang
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Oncologic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Kenneth K. Tanabe
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Oncologic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Xinhui Wang
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Oncologic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- *Correspondence: Xinhui Wang,
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16
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Rescuing SLAMF3 Expression Restores Sorafenib Response in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells through the Induction of Mesenchymal-to-Epithelial Transition. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14040910. [PMID: 35205659 PMCID: PMC8869973 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14040910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Acquired resistance to sorafenib in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients results in poor prognosis. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is the major mechanism implicated in the resistance to sorafenib. We have reported the tumor suppressor role of SLAMF3 (signaling lymphocytic activation molecules family 3) in HCC progression and highlighted its implication in controlling the MRP-1 transporter activity. These data suggest the implication of SLAMF3 in sorafenib resistance mechanisms. Methods: We evaluated the resistance to sorafenib in Huh-7 cells treated with progressive doses (Res cells). We investigated the link between acquired resistance to sorafenib and SLAMF3 expression by flow cytometry and Western blot methods. Furthermore, we analyzed the EMT and the stem cell potential of cells resistant to sorafenib. Results: Sorafenib resistance was confirmed in Res cells by analyzing the cell viability in the presence of sorafenib. The mesenchymal transition, in Res cells, was confirmed by high migratory index and the expression of EMT antigens. Interestingly, we found that loss of SLAMF3 expression corresponded to sorafenib-resistant phenotypes. The overexpression of SLAMF3 reversed EMT, decreased metastatic potential and inhibited mTOR/ERK1/2 in Res cells. Conclusions: We propose that rescuing SLAMF3 expression in resistant cells could represent a potential therapeutic strategy to enhance sorafenib efficacy in HCC patients.
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17
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Quercetin Regulates Key Components of the Cellular Microenvironment during Early Hepatocarcinogenesis. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11020358. [PMID: 35204240 PMCID: PMC8868318 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11020358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a health problem worldwide due to its high mortality rate, and the tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a key role in the HCC progression. The current ineffective therapies to fight the disease still warrant the development of preventive strategies. Quercetin has been shown to have different antitumor activities; however, its effect on TME components in preneoplastic lesions has not been fully investigated yet. Here, we aimed to evaluate the effect of quercetin (10 mg/kg) on TME components during the early stages of HCC progression induced in the rat. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses showed that quercetin decreases the size of preneoplastic lesions, glycogen and collagen accumulation, the expression of cancer stem cells and myofibroblasts markers, and that of the transporter ATP binding cassette subfamily C member 3 (ABCC3), a marker of HCC progression and multi-drug resistance. Our results strongly suggest that quercetin has the capability to reduce key components of TME, as well as the expression of ABCC3. Thus, quercetin can be an alternative treatment for inhibiting the growth of early HCC tumors.
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18
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Cucarull B, Tutusaus A, Rider P, Hernáez-Alsina T, Cuño C, García de Frutos P, Colell A, Marí M, Morales A. Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Molecular Pathogenesis and Therapeutic Advances. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14030621. [PMID: 35158892 PMCID: PMC8833604 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common form of liver cancer, continues to be a serious medical problem with poor prognosis, without major therapeutic improvement for years and increasing incidence. Fortunately, advances in systemic treatment options are finally arriving for HCC patients. After a decade of sorafenib as a standard therapy for advanced HCC, several tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), antiangiogenic antibodies, and immune checkpoint inhibitors have reached the clinic. Although infections by hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus remain principal factors for HCC development, the rise of non- alcoholic steatohepatitis from diabetes mellitus or metabolic syndrome is impeding HCC decline. Knowledge of specific molecular mechanisms, based on the etiology and the HCC microenvironment that influence tumor growth and immune control, will be crucial for physician decision-making among a variety of drugs to prescribe. In addition, markers of treatment efficacy are needed to speed the movement of patients towards other potentially effective treatments. Consequently, research to provide scientific data for the evidence-based management of liver cancer is guaranteed in the coming years and discussed here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blanca Cucarull
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, IIBB-CSIC, IDIBAPS, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (B.C.); (A.T.); (P.R.); (C.C.); (P.G.d.F.); (A.C.)
| | - Anna Tutusaus
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, IIBB-CSIC, IDIBAPS, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (B.C.); (A.T.); (P.R.); (C.C.); (P.G.d.F.); (A.C.)
| | - Patricia Rider
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, IIBB-CSIC, IDIBAPS, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (B.C.); (A.T.); (P.R.); (C.C.); (P.G.d.F.); (A.C.)
| | | | - Carlos Cuño
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, IIBB-CSIC, IDIBAPS, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (B.C.); (A.T.); (P.R.); (C.C.); (P.G.d.F.); (A.C.)
| | - Pablo García de Frutos
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, IIBB-CSIC, IDIBAPS, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (B.C.); (A.T.); (P.R.); (C.C.); (P.G.d.F.); (A.C.)
- Unidad Asociada (IMIM), IIBB-CSIC, CIBERCV, IDIBAPS, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Colell
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, IIBB-CSIC, IDIBAPS, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (B.C.); (A.T.); (P.R.); (C.C.); (P.G.d.F.); (A.C.)
- Network Center for Biomedical Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Montserrat Marí
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, IIBB-CSIC, IDIBAPS, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (B.C.); (A.T.); (P.R.); (C.C.); (P.G.d.F.); (A.C.)
- Correspondence: (M.M.); (A.M.); Tel.: +34-932558314 (M.M. & A.M.)
| | - Albert Morales
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, IIBB-CSIC, IDIBAPS, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (B.C.); (A.T.); (P.R.); (C.C.); (P.G.d.F.); (A.C.)
- Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer Group, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, University of Barcelona, CIBEREHD, IDIBAPS, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence: (M.M.); (A.M.); Tel.: +34-932558314 (M.M. & A.M.)
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19
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Xu D, Wang Y, Wu J, Lin S, Chen Y, Zheng J. Identification and clinical validation of EMT-associated prognostic features based on hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:621. [PMID: 34819088 PMCID: PMC8613962 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-02326-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to construct a model based on the prognostic features associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) to explore the various mechanisms and therapeutic strategies available for the treatment of metastasis and invasion by hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. METHODS EMT-associated genes were identified, and their molecular subtypes were determined by consistent clustering analysis. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) among the molecular subtypes were ascertained using the limma package and they were subjected to functional enrichment analysis. The immune cell scores of the molecular subtypes were evaluated using ESTIMATE, MCPcounter, and GSCA packages of R. A multi-gene prognostic model was constructed using lasso regression, and the immunotherapeutic effects of the model were analyzed using the Imvigor210 cohort. In addition, immunohistochemical analysis was performed on a cohort of HCC tissue to validate gene expression. RESULTS Based on the 59 EMT-associated genes identified, the 365-liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) samples were divided into two subtypes, C1 and C2. The C1 subtype mostly showed poor prognosis, had higher immune scores compared to the C2 subtype, and showed greater correlation with pathways of tumor progression. A four-gene signature construct was fabricated based on the 1130 DEGs among the subtypes. The construct was highly robust and showed stable predictive efficacy when validated using datasets from different platforms (HCCDB18 and GSE14520). Additionally, compared to currently existing models, our model demonstrated better performance. The results of the immunotherapy cohort showed that patients in the low-risk group have a better immune response, leading to a better patient's prognosis. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that the expression levels of the FTCD, PON1, and TMEM45A were significantly over-expressed in 41 normal samples compared to HCC samples, while that of the G6PD was significantly over-expressed in cancerous tissues. CONCLUSIONS The four-gene signature construct fabricated based on the EMT-associated genes provides valuable information to further study the pathogenesis and clinical management of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dafeng Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Hainan General Hospital, Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Geriatric Medicine Center, Hainan General Hospital, Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Jincai Wu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Hainan General Hospital, Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Shixun Lin
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Hainan General Hospital, Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Yonghai Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Hainan General Hospital, Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Jinfang Zheng
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Hainan General Hospital, Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, China.
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20
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Ramírez-Cosmes A, Reyes-Jiménez E, Zertuche-Martínez C, Hernández-Hernández CA, García-Román R, Romero-Díaz RI, Manuel-Martínez AE, Elizarrarás-Rivas J, Vásquez-Garzón VR. The implications of ABCC3 in cancer drug resistance: can we use it as a therapeutic target? Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:4127-4140. [PMID: 34659880 PMCID: PMC8493376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance is one of the main causes of chemotherapy failure. Although several factors are involved in cancer drug resistant, the exporter pumps overexpression that mediates the drugs flow to outside the cells and reduces both the drugs intracellular concentration and effectiveness, has been one of the most important challenges. Overexpression of ABCC3, a member of the ABCC subfamily, has been strongly associated to the resistance to multiple drugs. ABCC3 has been found highly expressed in different types of cancers and is associated with poor prognosis and resistance to treatments. In this review, we summarize the molecular mechanisms involved in cancer drug resistance and discuss the current knowledge about the structure, function and role of ABCC3 in drug resistance, as well as, the expression status of ABCC3 in different types of cancer. We also provide evidences that place ABCC3 as a potential therapeutic target for improving the cancer treatment by focusing on the need of developing more effective cancer therapies to target ABCC3 in translational researches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Ramírez-Cosmes
- Laboratorio Fibrosis y Cáncer, Facultad de Medicina y Cirugía, Universidad Autónoma “Benito Juárez” de OaxacaOaxaca, Oax, México
| | - Edilburga Reyes-Jiménez
- Laboratorio Fibrosis y Cáncer, Facultad de Medicina y Cirugía, Universidad Autónoma “Benito Juárez” de OaxacaOaxaca, Oax, México
| | - Cecilia Zertuche-Martínez
- Laboratorio Fibrosis y Cáncer, Facultad de Medicina y Cirugía, Universidad Autónoma “Benito Juárez” de OaxacaOaxaca, Oax, México
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Verónica R Vásquez-Garzón
- Laboratorio Fibrosis y Cáncer, Facultad de Medicina y Cirugía, Universidad Autónoma “Benito Juárez” de OaxacaOaxaca, Oax, México
- CONACYT-Facultad de Medicina y Cirugía, Universidad Autónoma “Benito Juárez” de OaxacaOaxaca, Oax, México
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21
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Zeng Z, Lu Q, Liu Y, Zhao J, Zhang Q, Hu L, Shi Z, Tu Y, Xiao Z, Xu Q, Huang D. Effect of the Hypoxia Inducible Factor on Sorafenib Resistance of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2021; 11:641522. [PMID: 34307125 PMCID: PMC8292964 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.641522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Sorafenib a multi-target tyrosine kinase inhibitor, is the first-line drug for treating advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Mechanistically, it suppresses tumor angiogenesis, cell proliferation and promotes apoptosis. Although sorafenib effectively prolongs median survival rates of patients with advanced HCC, its efficacy is limited by drug resistance in some patients. In HCC, this resistance is attributed to multiple complex mechanisms. Previous clinical data has shown that HIFs expression is a predictor of poor prognosis, with further evidence demonstrating that a combination of sorafenib and HIFs-targeted therapy or HIFs inhibitors can overcome HCC sorafenib resistance. Here, we describe the molecular mechanism underlying sorafenib resistance in HCC patients, and highlight the impact of hypoxia microenvironment on sorafenib resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Zeng
- The Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.,Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Qiliang Lu
- The Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.,Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Yang Liu
- The Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.,Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Junjun Zhao
- Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China.,Graduate Department, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- The Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Linjun Hu
- The Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.,Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhan Shi
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yifeng Tu
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zunqiang Xiao
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qiuran Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Diagnosis and Individualized Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Dongsheng Huang
- The Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Diagnosis and Individualized Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
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22
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Gan G, Shi Z, Liu D, Zhang S, Zhu H, Wang Y, Mi J. 3-hydroxyanthranic acid increases the sensitivity of hepatocellular carcinoma to sorafenib by decreasing tumor cell stemness. Cell Death Discov 2021; 7:173. [PMID: 34230478 PMCID: PMC8260721 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-021-00561-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Sorafenib is the FDA-approved first-line target drug for HCC patients. However, sorafenib only confers 3–5 months of survival benefit with <30% of HCC patients. Thus, it is necessary to develop a sensitizer for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) to sorafenib. Here, we report that in representative HCC cell lines (SMMC-7721 and PLC8024) that are insensitive to sorafenib, 3-HAA (50 μM) significantly enhances cell sensitivity to sorafenib to an extent that could not be explained by additive effects. In nude mice carrying HCC xenograft, tumor growth is inhibited by sorafenib (10 mg/kg/day) or 3-HAA (100 mg/kg/day) alone. When used in combination, the treatment effectively prevents the xenograft from growing. In a set of mechanistic experiments, we find enhanced AKT activation and increased proportion of CD44+CD133+ cells in sorafenib-resistant HCC cells and tissues. The proportion of CD44+CD133+ cells is reduced upon 3-HAA treatment in both cultured cells and mouse xenografts, suggesting that 3-HAA could decrease the stemness of HCC. We also detect decreased phosphorylation of AKT, a regulator of the GSK3β/β-catenin signaling upon 3-HAA treatment. The AKT activator SC79 activates GSK3 β/β-catenin signaling while the Wnt inhibitor XAV-939 abolishes 3-HAA inhibition of HCC growth in vitro and in mice. The current study demonstrates that 3-HAA sensitizes HCC cells to sorafenib by reducing tumor stemness, suggesting it is a promising molecule for HCC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guifang Gan
- Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Department of Clinical Laboratories, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200011, Shanghai, China.,Basic Medical Institute, Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Tongren Hospital, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200025, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhaopeng Shi
- Basic Medical Institute, Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Tongren Hospital, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200025, Shanghai, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Basic Medical Institute, Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Tongren Hospital, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200025, Shanghai, China
| | - Shaoyi Zhang
- Basic Medical Institute, Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Tongren Hospital, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200025, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Zhu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital affiliated to Shandong University, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, 250117, Jinan, Shandong, China.
| | - Yugang Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200025, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jun Mi
- Basic Medical Institute, Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Tongren Hospital, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200025, Shanghai, China. .,Department of Nuclear Medicine, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200025, Shanghai, China.
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23
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Shrestha R, Bridle KR, Cao L, Crawford DHG, Jayachandran A. Dual Targeting of Sorafenib-Resistant HCC-Derived Cancer Stem Cells. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 28:2150-2172. [PMID: 34208001 PMCID: PMC8293268 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol28030200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Sorafenib, an oral multi-tyrosine kinase inhibitor, has been the first-line therapy for the treatment of patients with advanced HCC, providing a survival benefit of only three months in approximately 30% of patients. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a rare tumour subpopulation with self-renewal and differentiation capabilities, and have been implicated in tumour growth, recurrence and drug resistance. The process of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) contributes to the generation and maintenance of the CSC population, resulting in immune evasion and therapy resistance in several cancers, including HCC. The aim of this study is to target the chemoresistant CSC population in HCC by assessing the effectiveness of a combination treatment approach with Sorafenib, an EMT inhibitor and an immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI). A stem-cell-conditioned serum-free medium was utilised to enrich the CSC population from the human HCC cell lines Hep3B, PLC/PRF/5 and HepG2. The anchorage independent spheres were characterised for CSC features. The human HCC-derived spheres were assessed for EMT status and expression of immune checkpoint molecules. The effect of combination treatment with SB431542, an EMT inhibitor, and siRNA-mediated knockdown of programmed cell death protein ligand-1 (PD-L1) or CD73 along with Sorafenib on human HCC-derived CSCs was examined with cell viability and apoptosis assays. The three-dimensional spheres enriched from human HCC cell lines demonstrated CSC-like features. The human HCC-derived CSCs also exhibited the EMT phenotype along with the upregulation of immune checkpoint molecules. The combined treatment with SB431542 and siRNA-mediated PD-L1 or CD73 knockdown effectively enhanced the cytotoxicity of Sorafenib against the CSC population compared to Sorafenib alone, as evidenced by the reduced size and proliferation of spheres. Furthermore, the combination treatment of Sorafenib with SB431542 and PD-L1 or CD73 siRNA resulted in an increased proportion of an apoptotic population, as evidenced by flow cytometry analysis. In conclusion, the combined targeting of EMT and immune checkpoint molecules with Sorafenib can effectively target the CSC tumour subpopulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ritu Shrestha
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia; (R.S.); (K.R.B.); (L.C.); (D.H.G.C.)
- Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia
| | - Kim R. Bridle
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia; (R.S.); (K.R.B.); (L.C.); (D.H.G.C.)
- Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia
| | - Lu Cao
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia; (R.S.); (K.R.B.); (L.C.); (D.H.G.C.)
- Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia
| | - Darrell H. G. Crawford
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia; (R.S.); (K.R.B.); (L.C.); (D.H.G.C.)
- Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia
| | - Aparna Jayachandran
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia; (R.S.); (K.R.B.); (L.C.); (D.H.G.C.)
- Gallipoli Medical Research Institute, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4120, Australia
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat, VIC 3350, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-4-2424-8058
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Synthesis and biological evaluation of novel isoxazole-piperazine hybrids as potential anti-cancer agents with inhibitory effect on liver cancer stem cells. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 221:113489. [PMID: 33951549 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In our effort for the development of novel anticancer therapeutics, a series of isoxazole-piperazine analogues were prepared, and primarily screened for their antiproliferative potential against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC; Huh7/Mahlavu) and breast (MCF-7) cancer cells. All compounds demonstrated potent to moderate cytotoxicity on all cell lines with IC50 values in the range of 0.09-11.7 μM. Further biological studies with 6a and 13d in HCC cells have shown that both compounds induced G1 or G2/M arrests resulting in apoptotic cell death. Subsequent analysis of proteins involved in cell cycle progression as well as proliferation of HCC cells revealed that 6a and 13d may affect cellular survival pathways differently depending on the mutation profiles of cells (p53 and PTEN), epidermal/mesenchymal characteristics, and activation of cell mechanisms through p53 dependent/independent pathways. Lastly, we have demonstrated the potential anti-stemness properties of these compounds in which the proportion of liver CSCs in Huh7 cells (CD133+/EpCAM+) were significantly reduced by 6a and 13d. Furthermore, both compounds caused a significant reduction in expression of stemness markers, NANOG or OCT4 proteins, in Mahlavu and Huh7 cells, as well as resulted in a decreased sphere formation capacity in Huh7 cells. Together, these novel isoxazole-piperazine derivatives may possess potential as leads for development of effective anti-cancer drugs against HCC cells with stem cell-like properties.
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25
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Alternative Vascularization Mechanisms in Tumor Resistance to Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13081912. [PMID: 33921099 PMCID: PMC8071410 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13081912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Tumors rely on blood vessels to grow and metastasize. Malignant tumors can employ different strategies to create a functional vascular network. Tumor cells can use normal processes of vessel formation but can also employ cancer-specific mechanisms, by co-opting normal vessels present in tissues or by turning themselves into vascular cells. These different types of tumor vessels have specific molecular and functional characteristics that profoundly affect tumor behavior and response to therapies, including drugs targeting the tumor vasculature (antiangiogenic therapies). In this review, we discuss how vessels formed by different mechanisms affect the intrinsic sensitivity of tumors to therapy and, on the other hand, how therapies can affect tumor vessel formation, leading to resistance to drugs, cancer recurrence, and treatment failure. Potential strategies to avoid vessel-mediated resistance to antineoplastic therapies will be discussed. Abstract Blood vessels in tumors are formed through a variety of different mechanisms, each generating vessels with peculiar structural, molecular, and functional properties. This heterogeneity has a major impact on tumor response or resistance to antineoplastic therapies and is now emerging as a promising target for strategies to prevent drug resistance and improve the distribution and efficacy of antineoplastic treatments. This review presents evidence of how different mechanisms of tumor vessel formation (vasculogenesis, glomeruloid proliferation, intussusceptive angiogenesis, vasculogenic mimicry, and vessel co-option) affect tumor responses to antiangiogenic and antineoplastic therapies, but also how therapies can promote alternative mechanisms of vessel formation, contributing to tumor recurrence, malignant progression, and acquired drug resistance. We discuss the possibility of tailoring treatment strategies to overcome vasculature-mediated drug resistance or to improve drug distribution and efficacy.
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26
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Estevinho MM, Fernandes C, Silva JC, Gomes AC, Afecto E, Correia J, Carvalho J. Role of ATP-binding Cassette Transporters in Sorafenib Therapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: an overview. Curr Drug Targets 2021; 23:21-32. [PMID: 33845738 DOI: 10.2174/1389450122666210412125018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Revised: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Molecular therapy with sorafenib remains the mainstay for advanced-stage hepatocellular carcinoma. Notwithstanding, treatment efficacy is low, with few patients obtaining long-lasting benefits due to the high chemoresistance rate. OBJECTIVE To perform, for the first time, an overview of the literature concerning the role of adenosine triphosphate-binding cassette (ABC) transporters in sorafenib therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma. METHODS Three online databases (PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus) were searched, from inception to October 2020. Studies selection, analysis and data collection was independently performed by two authors. RESULTS The search yielded 224 results; 29 were selected for inclusion. Most studies were pre-clinical, using HCC cell lines; three used human samples. Studies highlight the effect of sorafenib in decreasing ABC transporters expression. Conversely, it is described the role of ABC transporters, particularly multidrug resistance protein 1 (MDR-1), multidrug resistance-associated proteins 1 and 2 (MRP-1 and MRP-2) and ABC subfamily G member 2 (ABCG2) in sorafenib pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, being key resistance factors. Combination therapy with naturally available or synthetic compounds that modulate ABC transporters may revert sorafenib resistance, by increasing absorption and intracellular concentration. CONCLUSION A deeper understanding of ABC transporters' mechanisms may provide guidance for developing innovative approaches for hepatocellular carcinoma. Further studies are warranted to translate the current knowledge into practice and paving the way to individualized therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Manuela Estevinho
- Department of Gastroenterology, Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho Hospital Center, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal. b Department of Biomedicine, Unit of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto. Portugal
| | - Carlos Fernandes
- Department of Gastroenterology, Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho Hospital Center, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal. b Department of Biomedicine, Unit of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto. Portugal
| | - João Carlos Silva
- Department of Gastroenterology, Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho Hospital Center, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal. b Department of Biomedicine, Unit of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto. Portugal
| | - Ana Catarina Gomes
- Department of Gastroenterology, Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho Hospital Center, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal. b Department of Biomedicine, Unit of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto. Portugal
| | - Edgar Afecto
- Department of Gastroenterology, Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho Hospital Center, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal. b Department of Biomedicine, Unit of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto. Portugal
| | - João Correia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho Hospital Center, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal. b Department of Biomedicine, Unit of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto. Portugal
| | - João Carvalho
- Department of Gastroenterology, Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho Hospital Center, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal. b Department of Biomedicine, Unit of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto. Portugal
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27
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Li W, Liu K, Chen Y, Zhu M, Li M. Role of Alpha-Fetoprotein in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Drug Resistance. Curr Med Chem 2021; 28:1126-1142. [PMID: 32729413 DOI: 10.2174/0929867327999200729151247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Revised: 07/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major type of primary liver cancer and a major cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide because of its high recurrence rate and poor prognosis. Surgical resection is currently the major treatment measure for patients in the early and middle stages of the disease. Because due to late diagnosis, most patients already miss the opportunity for surgery upon disease confirmation, conservative chemotherapy (drug treatment) remains an important method of comprehensive treatment for patients with middle- and late-stage liver cancer. However, multidrug resistance (MDR) in patients with HCC severely reduces the treatment effect and is an important obstacle to chemotherapeutic success. Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is an important biomarker for the diagnosis of HCC. The serum expression levels of AFP in many patients with HCC are increased, and a persistently increased AFP level is a risk factor for HCC progression. Many studies have indicated that AFP functions as an immune suppressor, and AFP can promote malignant transformation during HCC development and might be involved in the process of MDR in patients with liver cancer. This review describes drug resistance mechanisms during HCC drug treatment and reviews the relationship between the mechanism of AFP in HCC development and progression and HCC drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Li
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou 571199, Hainan Province, China
| | - Kun Liu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou 571199, Hainan Province, China
| | - Yi Chen
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou 571199, Hainan Province, China
| | - Mingyue Zhu
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou 571199, Hainan Province, China
| | - Mengsen Li
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, Hainan Medical College, Haikou 571199, Hainan Province, China
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28
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Stabilization of snail maintains the sorafenib resistance of hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Arch Biochem Biophys 2021; 699:108754. [PMID: 33450239 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2021.108754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 12/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Drug resistance is one of the major challenges for treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with sorafenib. Our present study found that sorafenib resistant (SR) HCC cells showed epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) characteristics with the downregulation of epithelial marker and upregulation of mesenchymal makers. The expression of Snail, a core factor of EMT, was increased in HCC/SR cells, while knockdown of Snail can restore sorafenib sensitivity and EMT potential of HCC/SR cells. Further, the upregulation of protein stability was responsible for the upregulation of Snail in HCC/SR cells. ATM and CSN2, which can stabilize Snail protein, were increased in HCC/SR cells. Knockdown of ATM and CSN2 can suppress the expression of Snail and increase sorafenib sensitivity of HCC/SR cells. It indicated that targeted inhibition of Snail might be helpful to overcome sorafenib resistance of HCC patients.
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29
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Ma Y, Xu R, Liu X, Zhang Y, Song L, Cai S, Zhou S, Xie Y, Li A, Cao W, Tang X. LY3214996 relieves acquired resistance to sorafenib in hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Int J Med Sci 2021; 18:1456-1464. [PMID: 33628103 PMCID: PMC7893555 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.51256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Sorafenib, an oral multi-kinase inhibitor of rapidly accelerated fibrosarcoma; vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2/3, platelet-derived growth factor receptor, c-Kit, and Flt-3 signaling, is approved for treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the benefit of sorafenib is often diminished because of acquired resistance through the reactivation of ERK signaling in sorafenib-resistant HCC cells. In this work, we investigated whether adding LY3214996, a selective ERK1/2 inhibitor, to sorafenib would increase the anti-tumor effectiveness of sorafenib to HCC cells. Methods: The Huh7 cell line was used as a cell model for treatment with sorafenib, LY3214996, and their combination. Phosphorylation of the key kinases in the Ras/Raf/MAPK and PI3K/Akt pathways, protein expression of the cell cycle, and apoptosis migration were assessed with western blot. MTT and colony-formation assays were used to evaluate cell proliferation. Wound-healing assay was used to assess cell migration. Cell cycle and apoptosis analyses were conducted with flow cytometry. Results: LY3214996 decreased phosphorylation of the Ras/Raf/MAPK and PI3K/Akt pathways, including p-c-Raf, p-P90RSK, p-S6K and p-eIF4EBP1 activated by sorafenib, despite increased p-ERK1/2 levels. LY3214996 increased the anti-proliferation, anti-migration, cell-cycle progression, and pro-apoptotic effects of sorafenib on Huh7R cells. Conclusions: Reactivation of ERK1/2 appears to be a molecular mechanism of acquired resistance of HCC to sorafenib. LY3214996 combined with sorafenib enhanced the anti-tumor effects of sorafenib in HCC. These findings form a theoretical basis for trial of LY3214996 combined with sorafenib as second-line treatment of sorafenib-resistant in advanced HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongfang Ma
- Medical school, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan 232001, China.,Institute of Environment-friendly Materials and Occupational Health of Anhui University of Science and Technology (Wuhu), Wuhu, 241003, China
| | - Ruyue Xu
- Medical school, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan 232001, China.,Institute of Environment-friendly Materials and Occupational Health of Anhui University of Science and Technology (Wuhu), Wuhu, 241003, China
| | - Xueke Liu
- Medical school, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan 232001, China.,Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu 322000, China
| | - Yinci Zhang
- Medical school, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan 232001, China.,Institute of Environment-friendly Materials and Occupational Health of Anhui University of Science and Technology (Wuhu), Wuhu, 241003, China
| | - Li Song
- Medical school, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan 232001, China.,Institute of Environment-friendly Materials and Occupational Health of Anhui University of Science and Technology (Wuhu), Wuhu, 241003, China
| | - Shuyu Cai
- Medical school, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan 232001, China.,Institute of Environment-friendly Materials and Occupational Health of Anhui University of Science and Technology (Wuhu), Wuhu, 241003, China
| | - Shuping Zhou
- Medical school, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan 232001, China
| | - Yinghai Xie
- Medical school, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan 232001, China
| | - Amin Li
- Medical school, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan 232001, China.,Institute of Environment-friendly Materials and Occupational Health of Anhui University of Science and Technology (Wuhu), Wuhu, 241003, China
| | - Weiya Cao
- Medical school, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan 232001, China.,Institute of Environment-friendly Materials and Occupational Health of Anhui University of Science and Technology (Wuhu), Wuhu, 241003, China
| | - Xiaolong Tang
- Medical school, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan 232001, China.,Institute of Environment-friendly Materials and Occupational Health of Anhui University of Science and Technology (Wuhu), Wuhu, 241003, China
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Y-Box Binding Protein-1 Promotes Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Sorafenib-Resistant Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 22:ijms22010224. [PMID: 33379356 PMCID: PMC7795419 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the most common cancer types worldwide. In cases of advanced-stage disease, sorafenib is considered the treatment of choice. However, resistance to sorafenib remains a major obstacle for effective clinical application. Based on integrated phosphoproteomic and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data, we identified a transcription factor, Y-box binding protein-1 (YB-1), with elevated phosphorylation of Ser102 in sorafenib-resistant HuH-7R cells. Phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K) and protein kinase B (AKT) were activated by sorafenib, which, in turn, increased the phosphorylation level of YB-1. In functional analyses, knockdown of YB-1 led to decreased cell migration and invasion in vitro. At the molecular level, inhibition of YB-1 induced suppression of zinc-finger protein SNAI1 (Snail), twist-related protein 1 (Twist1), zinc-finger E-box-binding homeobox 1 (Zeb1), matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and vimentin levels, implying a role of YB-1 in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process in HuH-7R cells. Additionally, YB-1 contributes to morphological alterations resulting from F-actin rearrangement through Cdc42 activation. Mutation analyses revealed that phosphorylation at S102 affects the migratory and invasive potential of HuH-7R cells. Our collective findings suggest that sorafenib promotes YB-1 phosphorylation through effect from the EGFR/PI3K/AKT pathway, leading to significant enhancement of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell metastasis. Elucidation of the specific mechanisms of action of YB-1 may aid in the development of effective strategies to suppress metastasis and overcome resistance.
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Ceballos MP, Angel A, Delprato CB, Livore VI, Ferretti AC, Lucci A, Comanzo CG, Alvarez MDL, Quiroga AD, Mottino AD, Carrillo MC. Sirtuin 1 and 2 inhibitors enhance the inhibitory effect of sorafenib in hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Eur J Pharmacol 2020; 892:173736. [PMID: 33220273 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.173736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Multidrug resistance (MDR) counteracts the efficiency of sorafenib, an important first-line therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Sirtuins (SIRTs) 1 and 2 are associated with tumor progression and MDR. We treated 2D and 3D cultures (which mimic the features of in vivo tumors) from HCC cells with sorafenib alone or in the presence of SIRTs 1 and 2 inhibitors (cambinol or EX-527; combined treatments). Cultures subjected to combined treatments showed a greater fall in cellular viability, proliferation (PCNA, cyclin D1 and Ki-67 expression and cell cycle analysis), migration and invasion when compared with cultures treated only with sorafenib. Similarly, combined treatments produced more apoptosis (annexin V/PI, caspase-3/7 activity) than sorafenib alone. Since cell cycle dysregulation and apoptotic blockage are reported mechanisms of MDR, the modulation found in PCNA, cyclin D1, Ki-67 and caspase-3/7 proteins by cambinol and EX-527 are probably playing a role in enhancing the sensitivity of HCC cell lines to sorafenib. EX-527 reduced MRP3 and BCRP expression in sorafenib-treated HCC cells. Since ABC transporters contribute to MDR, MRP3 and BCRP could be also influencing in the response of HCC cells to sorafenib. Overall, 2D and 3D cultures behave similarly except that 3D cultures were less sensitive to treatments, reinforcing the clinical relevance of the current study. Findings presented in this manuscript support a potential application for SIRTs 1 and 2 inhibitors since we demonstrated that these compounds enhance the inhibitory effect of sorafenib upon treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma cells lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Paula Ceballos
- Instituto de Fisiología Experimental (IFISE), Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, CONICET, UNR, Suipacha 570, 2000, Rosario, Argentina.
| | - Antonella Angel
- Instituto de Fisiología Experimental (IFISE), Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, CONICET, UNR, Suipacha 570, 2000, Rosario, Argentina.
| | - Carla Beatriz Delprato
- Instituto de Fisiología Experimental (IFISE), Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, CONICET, UNR, Suipacha 570, 2000, Rosario, Argentina.
| | - Verónica Inés Livore
- Instituto de Fisiología Experimental (IFISE), Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, CONICET, UNR, Suipacha 570, 2000, Rosario, Argentina.
| | - Anabela Cecilia Ferretti
- Área Morfología, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, UNR, Suipacha 570, 2000, Rosario, Argentina.
| | - Alvaro Lucci
- Instituto de Fisiología Experimental (IFISE), Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, CONICET, UNR, Suipacha 570, 2000, Rosario, Argentina; Área Morfología, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, UNR, Suipacha 570, 2000, Rosario, Argentina.
| | - Carla Gabriela Comanzo
- Instituto de Fisiología Experimental (IFISE), Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, CONICET, UNR, Suipacha 570, 2000, Rosario, Argentina.
| | - María de Luján Alvarez
- Instituto de Fisiología Experimental (IFISE), Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, CONICET, UNR, Suipacha 570, 2000, Rosario, Argentina; Área Morfología, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, UNR, Suipacha 570, 2000, Rosario, Argentina.
| | - Ariel Darío Quiroga
- Instituto de Fisiología Experimental (IFISE), Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, CONICET, UNR, Suipacha 570, 2000, Rosario, Argentina; Área Morfología, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, UNR, Suipacha 570, 2000, Rosario, Argentina.
| | - Aldo Domingo Mottino
- Instituto de Fisiología Experimental (IFISE), Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, CONICET, UNR, Suipacha 570, 2000, Rosario, Argentina.
| | - María Cristina Carrillo
- Instituto de Fisiología Experimental (IFISE), Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, CONICET, UNR, Suipacha 570, 2000, Rosario, Argentina; Área Morfología, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, UNR, Suipacha 570, 2000, Rosario, Argentina.
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KCNQ1OT1 contributes to sorafenib resistance and programmed death‑ligand‑1‑mediated immune escape via sponging miR‑506 in hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Int J Mol Med 2020; 46:1794-1804. [PMID: 33000204 PMCID: PMC7521583 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2020.4710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance and immune escape of tumor cells severely compromise the treatment efficiency of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Long non-coding RNA KCNQ1 overlapping transcript 1 (lncRNA KCNQ1OT1) has been shown to be involved in drug resistance in several cancers. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of KCNQ1OT1 in sorafenib resistance and immune escape of HCC cells. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR analysis, western blotting and immunohistochemistry were performed to detect the expression of KCNQ1OT1, miR-506 and programmed death-ligand-1 (PD-L1). Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, flow cytometry and Transwell assays were used to evaluate IC50 value, cell apoptosis and metastasis. ELISA was performed to detect the secretion of cytokines. Dual-luciferase reporter assay was conducted to verify the targeting relationships between miR-506 and KCNQ1OT1 or PD-L1. KCNQ1OT1 and PD-L1 were found to be upregulated and miR-506 was downregulated in sorafenib-resistant HCC tissues and cells. Furthermore, KCNQ1OT1 knockdown reduced the IC50 value of sorafenib, suppressed cell metastasis and promoted apoptosis in sorafenib-resistant HCC cells. Moreover, KCNQ1OT1 knockdown changed the tumor microenvironment and T-cell apoptosis in a sorafenib-resistant HCC/T-cell co-culture model. In addition, it was demonstrated that KCNQ1OT1 functioned as a competing endogenous RNA of miR-506 and increased PD-L1 expression in sorafenib-resistant HCC cells. miR-506 inhibition abolished the effects of KCNQ1OT1 knockdown on sorafenib sensitivity, tumor growth, the tumor microenvironment and T-cell apoptosis. In conclusion, KCNQ1OT1 knockdown inhibited sorafenib resistance and PD-L1-mediated immune escape by sponging miR-506 in sorafenib-resistant HCC cells.
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Chow AKM, Yau SWL, Ng L. Novel molecular targets in hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Clin Oncol 2020; 11:589-605. [PMID: 32879846 PMCID: PMC7443834 DOI: 10.5306/wjco.v11.i8.589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Globally, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer and cancer-related deaths. The therapeutic efficacy of locoregional and systemic treatment in patients with advanced HCC remains low, which results in a poor prognosis. The development of sorafenib for the treatment of HCC has resulted in a new era of molecular targeted therapy for this disease. However, the median overall survival was reported to be barely higher in the sorafenib treatment group than in the control group. Hence, in this review we describe the importance of developing more effective targeted therapies for the management of advanced HCC. Recent investigations of molecular signaling pathways in several cancers have provided some insights into developing molecular therapies that target critical members of these signaling pathways. Proteins involved in the Hedgehog and Notch signaling pathways, Polo-like kinase 1, arginine, histone deacetylases and Glypican-3 can be potential targets in the treatment of HCC. Monotherapy has limited therapeutic efficacy due to the development of inhibitory feedback mechanisms and induction of chemoresistance. Thus, emphasis is now on the development of personalized and combination molecular targeted therapies that can serve as ideal therapeutic strategies for improved management of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariel Ka-Man Chow
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, The Open University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Simon Wing-Lung Yau
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, The Open University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Lui Ng
- Department of Surgery, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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Lin Z, Xia S, Liang Y, Ji L, Pan Y, Jiang S, Wan Z, Tao L, Chen J, Lin C, Liang X, Xu J, Cai X. LXR activation potentiates sorafenib sensitivity in HCC by activating microRNA-378a transcription. Am J Cancer Res 2020; 10:8834-8850. [PMID: 32754282 PMCID: PMC7392029 DOI: 10.7150/thno.45158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Sorafenib resistance is a major obstacle to the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are multifunctional regulators of gene expression with profound impact for human disease. Therefore, better understanding of the biological mechanisms of abnormally expressed miRNAs is critical to discovering novel, promising therapeutic targets for HCC treatment. This study aimed to investigate the role of miR-378a-3p in the sorafenib resistance of HCC and elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms. Methods: A novel hub miR-378a-3p was identified based on miRNA microarray and bioinformatics analysis. The abnormal expression of miR-378-3p was validated in different HCC patient cohorts and sorafenib-resistant (SR) HCC cell lines. The functional role of miR-378a-3p and its downstream and upstream regulatory machinery were investigated by gain-of-function and loss-of-function assays in vitro and in vivo. Interactions among miR-378a-3p, LXRα, and IGF1R were examined by a series of molecular biology experiments. Then, the clinical relevance of miR-378a-3p and its targets were evaluated in HCC samples. HCC patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model was used to assess the therapeutic value of LXRα and its downstream miR-378a-3p. Results: miR-378a-3p expression was frequently reduced in established sorafenib-resistant HCC cell lines. The decreased miR-378a-3p levels correlated with poor overall survival of HCC patients following sorafenib treatment. miR-378a-3p overexpression induced apoptosis in SR HCC cells, whereas miR-378a-3p silencing exerted the opposite effects. IGF1R was identified as a novel target of miR-378a-3p. Furthermore, the primary miR-378 level was not consistent with its precursor miRNA level in SR HCC cells, which was attributed to the downregulation of exportin5 (XPO5) and subsequently reduced nuclear export of precursor miR-378 and restrained maturation of miR-378-3p. In this context, we combined an agonist GW3965 of liver X receptor alpha (LXRα), which functioned as a transcription activator of miRNA-378a, and its activation re-sensitized sorafenib-resistant cells to sorafenib treatment in vitro and in vivo. Conclusions: Our finding suggested decreased expression of XPO5 prevents maturation of miR-378a-3p, which leaded to the overexpression of IGF-1R and counteracted the effects of sorafenib-induced apoptosis. LXRα was able to activate miRNA-378a-3p transcription in HCC cells and could be a potential combinable treatment strategy with sorafenib to suppress HCC progression.
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Marin JJ, Macias RI, Monte MJ, Romero MR, Asensio M, Sanchez-Martin A, Cives-Losada C, Temprano AG, Espinosa-Escudero R, Reviejo M, Bohorquez LH, Briz O. Molecular Bases of Drug Resistance in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12061663. [PMID: 32585893 PMCID: PMC7352164 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12061663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The poor outcome of patients with non-surgically removable advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most frequent type of primary liver cancer, is mainly due to the high refractoriness of this aggressive tumor to classical chemotherapy. Novel pharmacological approaches based on the use of inhibitors of tyrosine kinases (TKIs), mainly sorafenib and regorafenib, have provided only a modest prolongation of the overall survival in these HCC patients. The present review is an update of the available information regarding our understanding of the molecular bases of mechanisms of chemoresistance (MOC) with a significant impact on the response of HCC to existing pharmacological tools, which include classical chemotherapeutic agents, TKIs and novel immune-sensitizing strategies. Many of the more than one hundred genes involved in seven MOC have been identified as potential biomarkers to predict the failure of treatment, as well as druggable targets to develop novel strategies aimed at increasing the sensitivity of HCC to pharmacological treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose J.G. Marin
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM) Group, University of Salamanca, IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (R.I.R.M.); (M.J.M.); (M.R.R.); (M.A.); (A.S.-M.); (C.C.-L.); (A.G.T.); (R.E.-E.); (M.R.); (L.H.B.)
- Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: (J.J.G.M.); (O.B.); Tel.: +34-663182872 (J.J.G.M.); +34-923294674 (O.B.)
| | - Rocio I.R. Macias
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM) Group, University of Salamanca, IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (R.I.R.M.); (M.J.M.); (M.R.R.); (M.A.); (A.S.-M.); (C.C.-L.); (A.G.T.); (R.E.-E.); (M.R.); (L.H.B.)
- Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria J. Monte
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM) Group, University of Salamanca, IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (R.I.R.M.); (M.J.M.); (M.R.R.); (M.A.); (A.S.-M.); (C.C.-L.); (A.G.T.); (R.E.-E.); (M.R.); (L.H.B.)
- Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta R. Romero
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM) Group, University of Salamanca, IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (R.I.R.M.); (M.J.M.); (M.R.R.); (M.A.); (A.S.-M.); (C.C.-L.); (A.G.T.); (R.E.-E.); (M.R.); (L.H.B.)
- Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Maitane Asensio
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM) Group, University of Salamanca, IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (R.I.R.M.); (M.J.M.); (M.R.R.); (M.A.); (A.S.-M.); (C.C.-L.); (A.G.T.); (R.E.-E.); (M.R.); (L.H.B.)
| | - Anabel Sanchez-Martin
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM) Group, University of Salamanca, IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (R.I.R.M.); (M.J.M.); (M.R.R.); (M.A.); (A.S.-M.); (C.C.-L.); (A.G.T.); (R.E.-E.); (M.R.); (L.H.B.)
| | - Candela Cives-Losada
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM) Group, University of Salamanca, IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (R.I.R.M.); (M.J.M.); (M.R.R.); (M.A.); (A.S.-M.); (C.C.-L.); (A.G.T.); (R.E.-E.); (M.R.); (L.H.B.)
| | - Alvaro G. Temprano
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM) Group, University of Salamanca, IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (R.I.R.M.); (M.J.M.); (M.R.R.); (M.A.); (A.S.-M.); (C.C.-L.); (A.G.T.); (R.E.-E.); (M.R.); (L.H.B.)
| | - Ricardo Espinosa-Escudero
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM) Group, University of Salamanca, IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (R.I.R.M.); (M.J.M.); (M.R.R.); (M.A.); (A.S.-M.); (C.C.-L.); (A.G.T.); (R.E.-E.); (M.R.); (L.H.B.)
| | - Maria Reviejo
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM) Group, University of Salamanca, IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (R.I.R.M.); (M.J.M.); (M.R.R.); (M.A.); (A.S.-M.); (C.C.-L.); (A.G.T.); (R.E.-E.); (M.R.); (L.H.B.)
| | - Laura H. Bohorquez
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM) Group, University of Salamanca, IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (R.I.R.M.); (M.J.M.); (M.R.R.); (M.A.); (A.S.-M.); (C.C.-L.); (A.G.T.); (R.E.-E.); (M.R.); (L.H.B.)
| | - Oscar Briz
- Experimental Hepatology and Drug Targeting (HEVEFARM) Group, University of Salamanca, IBSAL, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (R.I.R.M.); (M.J.M.); (M.R.R.); (M.A.); (A.S.-M.); (C.C.-L.); (A.G.T.); (R.E.-E.); (M.R.); (L.H.B.)
- Center for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Carlos III National Institute of Health, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: (J.J.G.M.); (O.B.); Tel.: +34-663182872 (J.J.G.M.); +34-923294674 (O.B.)
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The mechanisms of sorafenib resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma: theoretical basis and therapeutic aspects. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2020; 5:87. [PMID: 32532960 PMCID: PMC7292831 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-020-0187-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 462] [Impact Index Per Article: 115.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 03/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Sorafenib is a multikinase inhibitor capable of facilitating apoptosis, mitigating angiogenesis and suppressing tumor cell proliferation. In late-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), sorafenib is currently an effective first-line therapy. Unfortunately, the development of drug resistance to sorafenib is becoming increasingly common. This study aims to identify factors contributing to resistance and ways to mitigate resistance. Recent studies have shown that epigenetics, transport processes, regulated cell death, and the tumor microenvironment are involved in the development of sorafenib resistance in HCC and subsequent HCC progression. This study summarizes discoveries achieved recently in terms of the principles of sorafenib resistance and outlines approaches suitable for improving therapeutic outcomes for HCC patients.
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Malale K, Fu J, Qiu L, Zhan K, Gan X, Mei Z. Hypoxia-Induced Aquaporin-3 Changes Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Sensitivity to Sorafenib by Activating the PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathway. Cancer Manag Res 2020; 12:4321-4333. [PMID: 32606928 PMCID: PMC7294049 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s243918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Hypoxia-induced changes are primarily activated in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and long-term sorafenib exposure, thereby reducing the sensitivity to the drug. Aquaporin-3 (AQP3), a member of the aquaporin family, is a hypoxia-induced substance that affects the chemosensitivity of non-hepatocellular tumors. However, its expression and role in the sensitivity of hypoxic HCC cells to sorafenib-induced apoptosis remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to detect changes in AQP3 expression in hypoxic HCC cells and to determine whether these changes alter the sensitivity of these cells to sorafenib. Materials and Methods Huh7 and HepG2 hypoxic cell models were established and AQP3 expression was detected using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and Western blotting. Furthermore, the role of AQP3 in cell sensitivity to sorafenib was evaluated via flow cytometry, Western blotting, and a CCK-8 assay. Results The results of qPCR and Western blotting showed that AQP3 was overexpressed in the Huh7 and HepG2 hypoxic cell models. Furthermore, AQP3 protein levels were positively correlated with hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) levels. Compared with cells transfected with lentivirus-GFP (Lv-GFP), hypoxic cells transfected with lentivirus-AQP3 (Lv-AQP3) were less sensitive to sorafenib-induced apoptosis. However, the sensitivity to the drug increased in cells transfected with lentivirus-AQP3RNAi (Lv-AQP3RNAi). Akt and Erk phosphorylation was enhanced in Lv-AQP3-transfected cells. Compared with UO126 (a Mek1/2 inhibitor), LY294002 (a PI3K inhibitor) attenuated the AQP3-induced insensitivity to sorafenib observed in hypoxic cells transfected with Lv-AQP3. Combined with LY294002-treated cells, hypoxic cells transfected with Lv-AQP3RNAi were more sensitive to sorafenib. Conclusion The study results show that AQP3 is a potential therapeutic target for improving the sensitivity of hypoxic HCC cells to sorafenib.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kija Malale
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jili Fu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Liewang Qiu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ke Zhan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiuni Gan
- Department of Nursing, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhechuan Mei
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
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Zhang G, Kang Z, Mei H, Huang Z, Li H. Promising diagnostic and prognostic value of six genes in human hepatocellular carcinoma. Am J Transl Res 2020; 12:1239-1254. [PMID: 32355538 PMCID: PMC7191178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer. Ample data have been reported to unravel the carcinogenesis over the past decades. Although pinpointing the cause of the HCC is challenging, this in and of itself may not be an insuperable problem. Indeed, the emergence of novel molecular targets has given rise to targeted therapy for HCC. Compared to traditional treatments, drugs with molecularly targeted agents are considered an optimal way to treat HCC. However, targeted approaches are currently limited among HCC patients. In our work, we explored more potential genes for targeted treatment of HCC. Initially, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in gene expression profiling interactive analysis (GEPIA) and NetworkAnalyst. Subsequently, 10 key genes were selected through enrichment analysis and PPI network construction. Based on the GEPIA and Oncomine databases, six upregulated genes were selected. High protein expression of these six genes were confirmed through the Human Protein Atlas database. In addition, these six genes were associated with unfavorable overall survival and progression-free survival based on Kaplan-Meier plotter bioinformatics. Moreover, gene expression was closely related to the tumor stages and pathological grades, as determined with UALCAN. More importantly, PTTG1, UBE2C, and ZWINT were identified as potential targets of anti-cancer drugs using cBioPortal. qPCR and western blot assays were used to show the high expression levels of the latter three genes in HCC cell lines. Collectively, these findings are expected to provide a theoretical basis for and give novel insights into clinical research of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanqi Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan UniversityWuhan 430060, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Zhengchun Kang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Navy Medical UniversityShanghai 200433, P.R. China
| | - Hongliang Mei
- Department of General Surgery, General Hospital of Central Theater Command of PLAWuhan 430070, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Zhiyuan Huang
- Department of General Surgery, General Hospital of Central Theater Command of PLAWuhan 430070, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Hanjun Li
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan UniversityWuhan 430060, Hubei, P.R. China
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Quantitative phosphoproteomic analysis identifies the potential therapeutic target EphA2 for overcoming sorafenib resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Exp Mol Med 2020; 52:497-513. [PMID: 32203105 PMCID: PMC7156679 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-020-0404-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Limited therapeutic options are available for advanced-stage hepatocellular carcinoma owing to its poor diagnosis. Drug resistance to sorafenib, the only available targeted agent, is commonly reported. The comprehensive elucidation of the mechanisms underlying sorafenib resistance may thus aid in the development of more efficacious therapeutic agents. To clarify the signaling changes contributing to resistance, we applied quantitative phosphoproteomics to analyze the differential phosphorylation changes between parental and sorafenib-resistant HuH-7 cells. Consequently, an average of ~1500 differential phosphoproteins were identified and quantified, among which 533 were significantly upregulated in resistant cells. Further bioinformatic integration via functional categorization annotation, pathway enrichment and interaction linkage analysis led to the discovery of alterations in pathways associated with cell adhesion and motility, cell survival and cell growth and the identification of a novel target, EphA2, in resistant HuH-7R cells. In vitro functional analysis indicated that the suppression of EphA2 function impairs cell proliferation and motility and, most importantly, overcomes sorafenib resistance. The attenuation of sorafenib resistance may be achieved prior to its development through the modulation of EphA2 and the subsequent inhibition of Akt activity. Binding analyses and in silico modeling revealed a ligand mimic lead compound, prazosin, that could abate the ligand-independent oncogenic activity of EphA2. Finally, data obtained from in vivo animal models verified that the simultaneous inhibition of EphA2 with sorafenib treatment can effectively overcome sorafenib resistance and extend the projected survival of resistant tumor-bearing mice. Thus our findings regarding the targeting of EphA2 may provide an effective approach for overcoming sorafenib resistance and may contribute to the management of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Cheng CW, Tse E. Targeting PIN1 as a Therapeutic Approach for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 7:369. [PMID: 32010690 PMCID: PMC6974617 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2019.00369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PIN1 is a peptidyl-prolyl cis/trans isomerase that specifically binds and catalyzes the cis/trans isomerization of the phosphorylated serine or threonine residue preceding a proline (pSer/Thr-Pro) motif of its interacting proteins. Through this phosphorylation-dependent prolyl isomerization, PIN1 is involved in the regulation of various important cellular processes including cell cycle progression, cell proliferation, apoptosis and microRNAs biogenesis; hence its dysregulation contributes to malignant transformation. PIN1 is highly expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). By fine-tuning the functions of its interacting proteins such as cyclin D1, x-protein of hepatitis B virus and exportin 5, PIN1 plays an important role in hepatocarcinogenesis. Growing evidence supports that targeting PIN1 is a potential therapeutic approach for HCC by inhibiting cell proliferation, inducing cellular apoptosis, and restoring microRNAs biogenesis. Novel formulation of PIN1 inhibitors that increases in vivo bioavailability of PIN1 inhibitors represents a promising future direction for the therapeutic strategy of HCC treatment. In this review, the mechanisms underlying PIN1 over-expression in HCC are explored. Furthermore, we also discuss the roles of PIN1 in HCC tumorigenesis and metastasis through its interaction with various phosphoproteins. Finally, recent progress in the therapeutic options targeting PIN1 for HCC treatment is examined and summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi-Wai Cheng
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Eric Tse
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
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The Pivotal Role of Long Noncoding RNA RAB5IF in the Proliferation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Via LGR5 Mediated β-Catenin and c-Myc Signaling. Biomolecules 2019; 9:biom9110718. [PMID: 31717443 PMCID: PMC6920882 DOI: 10.3390/biom9110718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Revised: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In the current study, the function of long noncoding RNA (LncRNA) RAB5IF was elucidated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCCs) in association with LGR5 related signaling. Here TCGA analysis revealed that LncRNA RAB5IF was overexpressed in HCC, and its overexpression level was significantly (p < 0.05) correlated with poor prognosis in patients with HCC. Furthermore, LncRNA RAB5IF depletion suppressed cell proliferation and colony formation, increased sub G1 population, cleavage of poly ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) and cysteine aspartyl-specific protease (caspase 3) and attenuated the expression of procaspase 3, pro-PARP and B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) in HepG2 and Hep3B cells. Furthermore, LncRNA RAB5IF depletion reduced the expression of LGR5 and its downstreams such as β-catenin and c-Myc in HepG2 and Hep3B cells. Notably, LGR5 depletion also attenuated the expression of pro-PARP, pro-caspase3, β-catenin and c-Myc in HepG2 and Hep3B cells. Conversely, LGR5 overexpression upregulated β-catenin and c-Myc in Alpha Mouse Liver 12 (AML-12) normal hepatocytes. Overall, these findings provide novel evidence that LncRNA RAB5IF promotes the growth of hepatocellular carcinoma cells via LGR5 mediated β-catenin and c-Myc signaling as a potent oncogenic target.
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Weng X, Zeng L, Yan F, He M, Wu X, Zheng D. Cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 2B gene is associated with the sensitivity of hepatoma cells to Sorafenib. Onco Targets Ther 2019; 12:5025-5036. [PMID: 31388306 PMCID: PMC6607202 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s196607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 04/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: The sensitivity of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) to Sorafenib is low. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 2B (CDKN2B) gene on the prognosis of HCC and the sensitivity of HCC cells to Sorafenib. Patients and methods: Streptavidin-perosidase (SP) staining was performed to determine the expression of CDKN2B in HCC tissues and adjacent tissues. The cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay was carried out to determine cell viability. CDKN2B mRNA and protein were tested by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blot, respectively. CDKN2B gene was silenced or over-expressed in the cells by plasmid transfection technique. Flow cytometry was carried out to detect cell cycle and apoptosis. Results: SP staining results showed that CDKN2B was positive in adjacent tissues and in HCC tissues from partial response (PR) patients, CDKN2B was slightly positive in stable disease (SD) patients, but negative in progression disease (PD) patients. The survival rate of patients with low expression of CDKN2B was low. Up-regulation of CDKN2B expression could promote the pro-apoptotic effect of Sorafenib and cell arrest in G1 phase. When the CDKN2B gene expression was down-regulated, the cell apoptosis rate and the proportion of cells treated with Sorafenib in G1 phase decreased. Silencing CDKN2B reversed CDKN2B overexpression caused by Sorafenib. Conclusion: CDKN2B genes were lowly expressed in tumor tissues from HCC patients who were treated with Sorafenib and had a poor prognosis. Up-regulation of CDKN2B promoted sensitivity of HCC to Sorafenib, and similarly down-regulation of CDKN2B reduced the sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xie Weng
- Department of Cancer Center,TCM-Integrated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510310, People's Republic of China
| | - Lixian Zeng
- Department of Cancer Center,TCM-Integrated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510310, People's Republic of China
| | - Feifei Yan
- Department of Cancer Center,TCM-Integrated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510310, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengxue He
- Department of Cancer Center,TCM-Integrated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510310, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiuqiong Wu
- Department of Cancer Center,TCM-Integrated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510310, People's Republic of China
| | - Dayong Zheng
- Department of Cancer Center,TCM-Integrated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510310, People's Republic of China
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Ceballos MP, Rigalli JP, Ceré LI, Semeniuk M, Catania VA, Ruiz ML. ABC Transporters: Regulation and Association with Multidrug Resistance in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Colorectal Carcinoma. Curr Med Chem 2019; 26:1224-1250. [PMID: 29303075 DOI: 10.2174/0929867325666180105103637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2017] [Revised: 10/19/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
For most cancers, the treatment of choice is still chemotherapy despite its severe adverse effects, systemic toxicity and limited efficacy due to the development of multidrug resistance (MDR). MDR leads to chemotherapy failure generally associated with a decrease in drug concentration inside cancer cells, frequently due to the overexpression of ABC transporters such as P-glycoprotein (P-gp/MDR1/ABCB1), multidrug resistance-associated proteins (MRPs/ABCCs), and breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP/ABCG2), which limits the efficacy of chemotherapeutic drugs. The aim of this review is to compile information about transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation of ABC transporters and discuss their role in mediating MDR in cancer cells. This review also focuses on drug resistance by ABC efflux transporters in cancer cells, particularly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and colorectal carcinoma (CRC) cells. Some aspects of the chemotherapy failure and future directions to overcome this problem are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Paula Ceballos
- Institute of Experimental Physiology, Faculty of Biochemical and Pharmaceutical Science, Rosario National University, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Juan Pablo Rigalli
- Institute of Experimental Physiology, Faculty of Biochemical and Pharmaceutical Science, Rosario National University, Rosario, Argentina.,Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacoepidemiology, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Lucila Inés Ceré
- Institute of Experimental Physiology, Faculty of Biochemical and Pharmaceutical Science, Rosario National University, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Mariana Semeniuk
- Institute of Experimental Physiology, Faculty of Biochemical and Pharmaceutical Science, Rosario National University, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Viviana Alicia Catania
- Institute of Experimental Physiology, Faculty of Biochemical and Pharmaceutical Science, Rosario National University, Rosario, Argentina
| | - María Laura Ruiz
- Institute of Experimental Physiology, Faculty of Biochemical and Pharmaceutical Science, Rosario National University, Rosario, Argentina
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Li X, Zhang ZS, Zhang XH, Yang SN, Liu D, Diao CR, Wang H, Zheng FP. Cyanidin inhibits EMT induced by oxaliplatin via targeting the PDK1-PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Food Funct 2019; 10:592-601. [PMID: 30672917 DOI: 10.1039/c8fo01611a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Anthocyanins have been shown to exhibit antitumor activity in several cancers in vitro and in vivo. Oxaliplatin is widely used as an anti-cancer drug. However, a large proportion of patients receiving platinum-based anti-cancer drug treatments will relapse because of metastasis and drug resistance. The aim of this study is to discover an effective anthocyanin that possesses the combinational anti-metastatic effects of oxaliplatin. Our results showed that cyanidin, one of the main constituents of anthocyanins, widely found in black rice, black bean, Hawthorn and other foods, could reverse drug resistance and enhance the effects of oxaliplatin on hepatic cellular cancer (HCC). Cyanidin inhibited migration and reversed EMT biomarker changes induced by low dose OXA. Moreover, 3-phosphoinositide-dependent protein kinase 1 (PDK1) can be considered a potential target and cyanidin significantly increased OXA sensitivity and inhibited the EMT induced by OXA via PI3K/Akt signaling in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Li
- School of Marine and Biological Engineering, Yancheng Teachers University, Yancheng 224051, China.
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Weng X, Wu J, Lv Z, Peng C, Chen J, Zhang C, He B, Tong R, Hu W, Ding C, Cao L, Chen D, Wu J, Zheng S. Targeting Mybbp1a suppresses HCC progression via inhibiting IGF1/AKT pathway by CpG islands hypo-methylation dependent promotion of IGFBP5. EBioMedicine 2019; 44:225-236. [PMID: 31109829 PMCID: PMC6606930 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2019.05.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myb-binding protein 1A (Mybbp1a) is a nucleolar protein that can regulate rRNA metabolism, the stress response and carcinogenesis. However, the function of Mybbp1a in the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is unclear. We aimed to determine the role of Mybbp1a in HCC and the underlying mechanism. METHODS We investigated the function of Mybbp1a in HCC cell models and the xenograft mouse model. The relationship between Mybbp1a and IGFBP5 was found through expression profile chip. The molecular mechanism of Mybbp1a regulating IGFBP5 was proved through CO-IP, CHIP, Bisulfite Sequencing and Pyrosequencing. FINDINGS In this study, we observed that Mybbp1a was overexpressed in HCC tissues and associated with the poor prognosis of HCC patients. Suppression of Mybbp1a led to a reduction in the proliferation and migration ability of HCC cells through inhibiting the IGF1/AKT signaling pathway. Further study found that Mybbp1a could form a complex with DNMT1 and induce aberrant hyper-methylation of CpG islands of IGFBP5, which inhibits secretion of IGFBP5 and then activates IGF1/AKT signaling pathway. INTERPRETATION These findings extend our understanding of the function of Mybbp1a in the progression of HCC. The newly identified Mybbp1a may provide a novel biomarker for developing potential therapeutic targets of HCC. FUND: Science Technology Department of Zhejiang Province (No. 2015C03034), National Health and Family Planning Commission of China (No. 2016138643), Innovative Research Groups of National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 81721091), Major program of National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 91542205).
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Weng
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China; Key Lab of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Public Health, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Jingbang Wu
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China; Key Lab of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Public Health, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Zhen Lv
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Chuanhui Peng
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China; Key Lab of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Public Health, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Junru Chen
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China; Key Lab of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Public Health, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Cheng Zhang
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Bin He
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China; Key Lab of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Public Health, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Rongliang Tong
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China; Key Lab of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Public Health, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Wendi Hu
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China; Key Lab of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Public Health, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Chaofeng Ding
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Linping Cao
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Diyu Chen
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China; Key Lab of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Public Health, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Jian Wu
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China; Key Lab of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Public Health, Hangzhou 310003, China; The Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China.
| | - Shusen Zheng
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China; Key Lab of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Public Health, Hangzhou 310003, China; The Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China.
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Xiang QF, Zhan MX, Li Y, Liang H, Hu C, Huang YM, Xiao J, He X, Xin YJ, Chen MS, Lu LG. Activation of MET promotes resistance to sorafenib in hepatocellular carcinoma cells via the AKT/ERK1/2-EGR1 pathway. ARTIFICIAL CELLS NANOMEDICINE AND BIOTECHNOLOGY 2019; 47:83-89. [PMID: 30663411 DOI: 10.1080/21691401.2018.1543195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Sorafenib is an oral multikinase inhibitor that has become an established therapeutic approach in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the benefit of sorafenib in clinical therapy is often affected by drug resistance. Therefore, it is important to explore the mechanisms underlying sorafenib resistance and to develop individualized therapeutic strategies for coping with this problem. In this study, we found that addition of HGF to sorafenib-treated HCC cells activated MET and re-stimulated the downstream AKT and ERK1/2 pathways. Thereby, restored sorafenib-treated HCC cells proliferation, migration and invasion ability, and rescued cells from apoptosis. In addition, we found that HGF treatment of HCC cells induced early growth response protein (EGR1) expression, which is involved in sorafenib resistance. Importantly, the HGF rescued effect in sorafenib-treated HCC cells could be abrogated by inhibiting MET activation with PHA-665752 or by downregulating EGR1 expression with small interfering RNA (siRNA). Therefore, inhibition of the HGF/MET pathway may improve response to sorafenib in HCC, and combination therapy should be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing-Feng Xiang
- a Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery , Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center , Guangzhou , China.,b Department of General Surgery , Zhuhai People's Hospital, Zhuhai Hospital of Jinan University , Zhuhai , China
| | - Mei-Xiao Zhan
- c Zhuhai Interventional Medical Center, Zhuhai Precision Medicine Center , Zhuhai People's Hospital , Zhuhai Hospital of Jinan University , Zhuhai , China
| | - Yong Li
- c Zhuhai Interventional Medical Center, Zhuhai Precision Medicine Center , Zhuhai People's Hospital , Zhuhai Hospital of Jinan University , Zhuhai , China
| | - Hui Liang
- b Department of General Surgery , Zhuhai People's Hospital, Zhuhai Hospital of Jinan University , Zhuhai , China
| | - Cong Hu
- b Department of General Surgery , Zhuhai People's Hospital, Zhuhai Hospital of Jinan University , Zhuhai , China
| | - Yao-Ming Huang
- b Department of General Surgery , Zhuhai People's Hospital, Zhuhai Hospital of Jinan University , Zhuhai , China
| | - Jing Xiao
- c Zhuhai Interventional Medical Center, Zhuhai Precision Medicine Center , Zhuhai People's Hospital , Zhuhai Hospital of Jinan University , Zhuhai , China
| | - Xu He
- c Zhuhai Interventional Medical Center, Zhuhai Precision Medicine Center , Zhuhai People's Hospital , Zhuhai Hospital of Jinan University , Zhuhai , China
| | - Yong-Jie Xin
- c Zhuhai Interventional Medical Center, Zhuhai Precision Medicine Center , Zhuhai People's Hospital , Zhuhai Hospital of Jinan University , Zhuhai , China
| | - Min-Shan Chen
- a Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery , Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center , Guangzhou , China
| | - Li-Gong Lu
- c Zhuhai Interventional Medical Center, Zhuhai Precision Medicine Center , Zhuhai People's Hospital , Zhuhai Hospital of Jinan University , Zhuhai , China
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Kessler BE, Mishall KM, Kellett MD, Clark EG, Pugazhenthi U, Pozdeyev N, Kim J, Tan AC, Schweppe RE. Resistance to Src inhibition alters the BRAF-mutant tumor secretome to promote an invasive phenotype and therapeutic escape through a FAK>p130Cas>c-Jun signaling axis. Oncogene 2019; 38:2565-2579. [PMID: 30531837 PMCID: PMC6450711 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-018-0617-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2018] [Revised: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Few therapy options exist for patients with advanced papillary and anaplastic thyroid cancer. We and others have previously identified c-Src as a key mediator of thyroid cancer pro-tumorigenic processes and a promising therapeutic target for thyroid cancer. To increase the efficacy of targeting Src in the clinic, we sought to define mechanisms of resistance to the Src inhibitor, dasatinib, to identify key pathways to target in combination. Using a panel of thyroid cancer cell lines expressing clinically relevant mutations in BRAF or RAS, which were previously developed to be resistant to dasatinib, we identified a switch to a more invasive phenotype in the BRAF-mutant cells as a potential therapy escape mechanism. This phenotype switch is driven by FAK kinase activity, and signaling through the p130Cas>c-Jun signaling axis. We have further shown this more invasive phenotype is accompanied by alterations in the secretome through the increased expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including IL-1β, and the pro-invasive metalloprotease, MMP-9. Furthermore, IL-1β signals via a feedforward autocrine loop to promote invasion through a FAK>p130Cas>c-Jun>MMP-9 signaling axis. We further demonstrate that upfront combined inhibition of FAK and Src synergistically inhibits growth and invasion, and induces apoptosis in a panel of BRAF- and RAS-mutant thyroid cancer cell lines. Together our data demonstrate that acquired resistance to single-agent Src inhibition promotes a more invasive phenotype through an IL-1β>FAK>p130Cas>c-Jun >MMP signaling axis, and that combined inhibition of FAK and Src has the potential to block this inhibitor-induced phenotype switch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittelle E Kessler
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Katie M Mishall
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Meghan D Kellett
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Erin G Clark
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Umarani Pugazhenthi
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Nikita Pozdeyev
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Division of Bioinformatics and Personalized Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Jihye Kim
- University of Colorado Cancer Center, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Aik Choon Tan
- University of Colorado Cancer Center, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Rebecca E Schweppe
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
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Lai HH, Li CW, Hong CC, Sun HY, Chiu CF, Ou DL, Chen PS. TARBP2-mediated destabilization of Nanog overcomes sorafenib resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma. Mol Oncol 2019; 13:928-945. [PMID: 30657254 PMCID: PMC6441883 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.12449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2018] [Revised: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 12/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a lethal human malignancy and a leading cause of cancer‐related death worldwide. Patients with HCC are often diagnosed at an advanced stage, and the prognosis is usually poor. The multikinase inhibitor sorafenib is the first‐line treatment for patients with advanced HCC. However, cases of primary or acquired resistance to sorafenib have gradually increased, leading to a predicament in HCC therapy. Thus, it is critical to investigate the mechanism underlying sorafenib resistance. Transactivation response element RNA‐binding protein 2 (TARBP2) is a multifaceted miRNA biogenesis factor that regulates cancer stem cell (CSC) properties. The tumorigenicity and drug resistance of cancer cells are often enhanced due to the acquisition of CSC features. However, the role of TARBP2 in sorafenib resistance in HCC remains unknown. Our results demonstrate that TARBP2 is significantly downregulated in sorafenib‐resistant HCC cells. The TARBP2 protein was destabilized through autophagic–lysosomal proteolysis, thereby stabilizing the expression of the CSC marker protein Nanog, which facilitates sorafenib resistance in HCC cells. In summary, here we reveal a novel miRNA‐independent role of TARBP2 in regulating sorafenib resistance in HCC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Huang Lai
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.,Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Wei Li
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Chen Hong
- Institute of Molecular and Genomic Medicine, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Yu Sun
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha, China
| | - Ching-Feng Chiu
- Graduate Institute of Metabolism and Obesity Sciences, College of Nutrition, Taipei Medical University, Taiwan
| | - Da-Liang Ou
- Graduate Institute of Oncology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Pai-Sheng Chen
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.,Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
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Wang N, Wang S, Li MY, Hu BG, Liu LP, Yang SL, Yang S, Gong Z, Lai PBS, Chen GG. Cancer stem cells in hepatocellular carcinoma: an overview and promising therapeutic strategies. Ther Adv Med Oncol 2018; 10:1758835918816287. [PMID: 30622654 PMCID: PMC6304707 DOI: 10.1177/1758835918816287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The poor clinical outcome of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients is ascribed to the resistance of HCC cells to traditional treatments and tumor recurrence after curative therapies. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been identified as a small subset of cancer cells which have high capacity for self-renewal, differentiation and tumorigenesis. Recent advances in the field of liver CSCs (LCSCs) have enabled the identification of CSC surface markers and the isolation of CSC subpopulations from HCC cells. Given their central role in cancer initiation, metastasis, recurrence and therapeutic resistance, LCSCs constitute a therapeutic opportunity to achieve cure and prevent relapse of HCC. Thus, it is necessary to develop therapeutic strategies to selectively and efficiently target LCSCs. Small molecular inhibitors targeting the core stemness signaling pathways have been actively pursued and evaluated in preclinical and clinical studies. Other alternative therapeutic strategies include targeting LCSC surface markers, interrupting the CSC microenvironment, and altering the epigenetic state. In this review, we summarize the properties of CSCs in HCC and discuss novel therapeutic strategies that can be used to target LCSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuozhou Wang
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of
Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR,
China
| | - Shanshan Wang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck
Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of
Wales Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ming-Yue Li
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, The
Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong,
China
- Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese
University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Bao-guang Hu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The
Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, Shandong,
China
| | - Li-ping Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreas
Surgery, The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Shenzhen
People’s Hospital), Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Sheng-li Yang
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical
College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shucai Yang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Pingshan
District People’s Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province,
China
| | - Zhongqin Gong
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of
Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR,
China
| | - Paul B. S. Lai
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University
of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
SAR, China
| | - George G. Chen
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University
of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
SAR, China
- Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese
University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
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Brown ZJ, Heinrich B, Greten TF. Mouse models of hepatocellular carcinoma: an overview and highlights for immunotherapy research. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2018; 15:536-554. [PMID: 29904153 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-018-0033-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Mouse models are the basis of preclinical and translational research in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Multiple methods exist to induce tumour formation in mice, including genetically engineered mouse models, chemotoxic agents, intrahepatic or intrasplenic injection of tumour cells and xenograft approaches. Additionally, as HCC generally develops in the context of diseased liver, methods exist to induce liver disease in mice to mimic viral hepatitis, fatty liver disease, fibrosis, alcohol-induced liver disease and cholestasis. Similar to HCC in humans, response to therapy in mouse models is monitored with imaging modalities such as CT or MRI, as well as additional techniques involving bioluminescence. As immunotherapy is increasingly applied to HCC, mouse models for these approaches are required for preclinical data. In studying cancer immunotherapy, it is important to consider aspects of antitumour immune responses and to produce a model that mimics the complexity of the immune system. This Review provides an overview of the different mouse models of HCC, presenting techniques to prepare an HCC mouse model and discussing different approaches to help researchers choose an appropriate model for a specific hypothesis. Specific aspects of immunotherapy research in HCC and the applied mouse models in this field are also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary J Brown
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Bernd Heinrich
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Tim F Greten
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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