Ovarian squamous cell carcinoma: clinicopathological features, prognosis and immunotherapy outcomes

OBJECTIVE

To explore the characteristics and survival outcomes of ovarian squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and the treatment effectiveness of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs).

METHODS

Patients diagnosed with ovarian SCC at Peking Union Medical College Hospital between January 2000 and September 2023 were included. Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier method. Univariate and multivariate analysis of OS were performed using the Cox proportional hazards model.

RESULTS

A total of 42 patients were included, with a median age of 51.5 years (range, 23-74). The majority had SCC arising from teratomas (54.8%), followed by endometriosis (14.3%) and Brenner's tumor (2.4%). Patients undergoing molecular testing exhibited a median tumor mutation burden (TMB) of 10.00 mutations/Mb (range, 7.28-46.86), predominantly featuring PIK3CA mutations. Thirty-eight patients (90.5%) received adjuvant chemotherapy. The median OS was 42.0 months, with the 1- and 5-year OS rates were 73.7% and 48.7%, respectively. And the median PFS was 26.9 months, with the 1- and 5-year PFS rates were 57.5% and 43.8%, respectively. Five patients underwent first-line postoperative adjuvant therapy combining ICIs with chemotherapy. During the 9.5 to 25.1 months follow-up, 4 patients showed no evidence of disease, while 1 relapsed and received treatment. Late-stage disease and younger age at diagnosis were associated with worse survival outcomes.

CONCLUSION

The prognosis for ovarian SCC remains unfavorable. The stage and age were prognostic predictors for survival. ICIs may be beneficial for patients with ovarian SCC, particularly those with a high TMB.

Novel digital droplet inverse PCR assay shows that natural clearance of hepatitis B infection is associated with fewer viral integrations

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA integration into the host cell genome is reportedly a major cause of liver cancer, and a source of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). High HBsAg levels can alter immune responses which therefore contributes to the progression of HBV-related disease. However, to what extent integration leads to the persistent circulating HBsAg is unclear. Here, we aimed to determine if the extent of HBV DNA integration is associated with the persistence of circulating HBsAg in people exposed to HBV. We established a digital droplet quantitative inverse PCR (dd-qinvPCR) method to quantify integrated HBV DNA in patients who had been exposed to HBV (anti-HBc positive and HBeAg-negative). Total DNA extracts from both liver resections (n = 32; 14 HBsAg-negative and 18 HBsAg-positive) and fine-needle aspirates (FNA, n = 10; 2 HBsAg-negative and 8 HBsAg-positive) were analysed. Using defined in vitro samples for assay establishment, we showed that dd-qinvPCR could detect integrations within an input of <80 cells. The frequency of integrated HBV DNA in those who had undergone HBsAg loss (n = 14, mean ± SD of 1.514 × 10-3 ± 1.839 × 10-3 integrations per cell) was on average 9-fold lower than those with active HBV infection (n = 18, 1.16 × 10-2 ± 1.76 × 10-2 integrations per cell; p = 0.0179). In conclusion, we have developed and validated a highly precise, sensitive and quantitative PCR-based method for the quantification of HBV integrations in clinical samples. Natural clearance of HBV is associated with fewer viral integrations. Future studies are needed to determine if dynamics of integrated HBV DNA can inform the development of curative therapies.

Impact of liquid-liquid phase separation- and immune-related gene signatures on multiple myeloma prognosis: focus on DDX21 and EZH2

OBJECTIVE

Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) may affect the therapeutic sensitivity of multiple myeloma (MM). This study aimed to identify LLPS-related genes with MM prognostic values and to confirm their effects on tumor progression.

METHODS

Based on public transcriptomic data, this study screened LLPS- and immune-related genes for MM-derived plasma cells. Subtypes were identified using consensus clustering, followed by comparisons using t-test and survival analysis. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator was implemented to screen prognostic signatures, and Kaplan-Meier and receiver operator characteristic curves were plotted to assess their prognostic values. After transfected with sh-DDX21, CCK8, flow cytometry, and Transwells were used to observe MM cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion.

RESULTS

By overlapping LLPS- and immune-related genes, 103 genes were obtained to cluster MM samples into three subtypes, which had significant differences in survival and immune landscape. Cox regression analysis screened out EZH2 and DDX21 that significantly overexpressed in MM to construct a prognostic model, with superior performance in predicting MM prognostic risks. Notably, subtype2 with more adverse prognosis showed significantly elevated risk scores and was more distributed in groups with high prognostic risk. In vitro experiments confirmed that cell proliferation, invasion, and migration were significantly inhibited in MM.1S cells transfected with sh-DDX21.

CONCLUSION

LLPS-related EZH2 and DDX21 were novel markers to predict prognostic risk of MM. Among them, DDX21 was experimentally confirmed to promote MM cell proliferation, migration and invasion. These potential prognostic markers could be targeted in future personalized therapeutic strategies for MM, potentially improving patient outcomes.

Unraveling cysteinyl leukotrienes and their receptors in inflammation through the brain-gut-lung axis

Cysteinyl leukotrienes (CysLTs), as potent lipid inflammatory mediators, play a pivotal role in systemic multi-organ inflammation and inter-organ communication through interactions with their receptors (CysLTRs). However, However, the function of CysLT3R is unclear and lacks a network of cross-organ metabolite interactions, and the clinical use of leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs) has certain limitations. This review systematically synthesizes existing evidence and proposes future directions by clarifying receptor subtype specificity, optimizing targeted therapies, exploring CysLTs' applications in neuroimmunology, and elucidating the dual roles of CysLTs in chronic inflammation. It is indicated that CysLTs activate eosinophils, mast cells, and airway tuft cells, driving type 2 immune responses and mucus secretion in the lungs, thereby exacerbating respiratory diseases such as asthma. In the nervous system, CysLTs aggravate neurodegenerative disorders like cerebral ischemia and Alzheimer's disease by disrupting the blood-brain barrier, promoting glial activation, and inducing neuronal damage. In the gut, CysLTs regulate anti-helminth immunity via the tuft cell-ILC2 pathway and collaborate with prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) to modulate bile excretion and mucosal protection. Furthermore, CysLTs mediate communication through the gut-lung and gut-brain axes via metabolites such as succinate, contributing to cross-organ inflammatory regulation. In conclusion, this review highlights the complex roles of CysLTs in chronic inflammation, providing a theoretical foundation for precise intervention in multi-organ inflammatory diseases, which provides a theoretical framework for precision interventions in multi-organ inflammatory diseases and inspires interdisciplinary breakthroughs.

Study on the mechanism of Xanthoceras sorbifolia Bunge oil in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease by an integrated "network pharmacology-metabolomics" strategy

BACKGROUND

Xanthoceras sorbifolia Bunge oil (XSBO) has garnered significant interest from researchers due to its distinctive anti-Alzheimer's disease (AD) properties. However, the underlying molecular mechanism remain unclear. This study aims to investigate the potential mechanisms by which XSBO may exert therapeutic effects on AD by employing a combination of network pharmacology analysis and experimental validation.

METHODS

The chemical composition and absorbed compounds of XSBO were identified using GC-MS and LC-MS. Network pharmacology analysis was performed using various computational tools to identify hub genes and construct compound-target-pathway networks. Subsequently, both in vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted to confirm the mechanisms by which XSBO may treat AD.

RESULTS

The results identified 43 active compounds in XSBO, targeting a total of 223 genes, of which 191 were associated with AD. Network analysis indicated that the active constituents in XSBO, such as 9,12-octadecadienoic acid, linoelaidic acid and 11-octadecenoic acid, interact with targets including MAPK1, MAPK3, AKT1, RXRA, RXRB, PPARD and PPARA to modulate inflammation-related signalling pathways and the sphingolipid signalling pathway. In vitro investigations corroborated that XSBO can significantly influence the viability of Aβ25-35-induced SH-SY5Y cells via the MAPK pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that XSBO has the potential to mitigate inflammation network disorders through the MAPK pathway and to restore sphingolipid metabolite levels in AD rats, thereby laying a groundwork for future studies.

Preclinical development of ozuriftamab vedotin (BA3021), a novel ROR2-specific conditionally active biologic antibody-drug conjugate

Receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor (ROR2) has been identified as a highly relevant tumor-associated antigen in a variety of cancer indications of high unmet medical need, including melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, osteosarcoma, gastrointestinal stromal tumor, colorectal cancer, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, and non-small cell lung cancer. Overexpression of ROR2 often correlates with advanced disease or poor prognosis, making it an attractive target for cancer therapy. We developed a novel, conditionally active biologic (CAB) antibody-drug conjugate (ADC), ozuriftamab vedotin (BA3021), which binds to ROR2 only in the acidic tumor microenvironment. In healthy tissue, binding to ROR2 is greatly reduced by a novel selection mechanism using physiological chemicals as protein-associated chemical switches (PaCS). The CAB anti-ROR2 ADC displays the anticipated binding properties and mediates potent lysis of ROR2-positive cancer cell lines. In vivo, BA3021 has potent and durable antitumor activity in human cancer xenograft mouse models, including patient-derived xenograft models. In non-human primates, BA3021 was well tolerated at doses of up to 10 mg/kg and showed excellent stability in vivo. These preclinical results indicate that CAB anti-ROR2 ADC is efficacious and well tolerated and may be a promising treatment for cancer patients with ROR2-expressing tumors.

Stemness regulation in prostate cancer: prostate cancer stem cells and targeted therapy

BACKGROUND

Increasing evidence indicates that cancer stem cells (CSCs) and cancer stem-like cells form a special subpopulation of cells that are ubiquitous in tumors. These cells exhibit similar characteristics to those of normal stem cells in tissues; moreover, they are capable of self-renewal and differentiation, as well as high tumorigenicity and drug resistance. In prostate cancer (PCa), it is difficult to kill these cells using androgen signaling inhibitors and chemotherapy drugs. Consequently, the residual prostate cancer stem cells (PCSCs) mediate tumor recurrence and progression.

OBJECTIVE

This review aims to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of PCSCs, with a particular emphasis on potential therapeutic strategies targeting these cells.

METHODS

After searching in PubMed and Embase databases using 'prostate cancer' and 'cancer stem cells' as keywords, studies related were compiled and examined.

RESULTS

In this review, we detail the origin and characteristics of PCSCs, introduce the regulatory pathways closely related to CSC survival and stemness maintenance, and discuss the link between epithelial-mesenchymal transition, tumor microenvironment and tumor stemness. Furthermore, we introduce the currently available therapeutic strategies targeting CSCs, including signaling pathway inhibitors, anti-apoptotic protein inhibitors, microRNAs, nanomedicine, and immunotherapy. Lastly, we summarize the limitations of current CSC research and mention future research directions.

CONCLUSION

A deeper understanding of the regulatory network and molecular markers of PCSCs could facilitate the development of novel therapeutic strategies targeting these cells. Previous preclinical studies have demonstrated the potential of this treatment approach. In the future, this may offer alternative treatment options for PCa patients.

Identification of multicohort-based predictive signature for NMIBC recurrence reveals SDCBP as a novel oncogene in bladder cancer

BACKGROUND

Despite surgical and intravesical chemotherapy interventions, non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) poses a high risk of recurrence, which significantly impacts patient survival. Traditional clinical characteristics alone are inadequate for accurately assessing the risk of NMIBC recurrence, necessitating the development of novel predictive tools.

METHODS

We analyzed microarray data of NMIBC samples obtained from the ArrayExpress and GEO databases. LASSO regression was utilized to develop the predictive signature. We combined gene signature and clinicopathological factors to construct a clinical nomogram for estimating NMIBC recurrence in a local cohort. Finally. the biological functions and potential mechanisms of SDCBP in bladder cancer were investigated experimentally in vitro and in vivo.

RESULTS

An 8-gene signature was developed, and its efficiency for predicting NMIBC recurrence was evaluated using Kaplan-Meier and time-dependent ROC curves in both training and validation datasets. Immunohistochemical testing revealed elevated levels of ACTN4 and SDCBP in recurrent NMIBC tissues. We integrated the two proteins with clinical factors to develop a nomogram model, which showed superior accuracy compared to individual parameters. Gene Set Variation Analysis and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis unveiled SDCBP exerted cancer-promoting biological processes, such as angiogenesis, EMT, metastasis and proliferation. Experimental procedures demonstrated that silencing SDCBP attenuated cell growth, glucose metabolism and extracellular acidification rate, accompanied by decreased expression of p-AKT, p-ERK1/2, LDHA and Vimentin.

CONCLUSIONS

The established 8-gene signature holds promise as a tool for predicting NMIBC recurrence, while targeting SDCBP may represent a potential strategy for delaying disease relapse.

Tumor organoids in cancer medicine: from model systems to natural compound screening

CONTEXT

The advent of tissue engineering and biomedical techniques has significantly advanced the development of three-dimensional (3D) cell culture systems, particularly tumor organoids. These self-assembled 3D cell clusters closely replicate the histopathological, genetic, and phenotypic characteristics of primary tissues, making them invaluable tools in cancer research and drug screening.

OBJECTIVE

This review addresses the challenges in developing in vitro models that accurately reflect tumor heterogeneity and explores the application of tumor organoids in cancer research, with a specific focus on the screening of natural products for antitumor therapies.

METHODS

This review synthesizes information from major databases, including Chemical Abstracts, Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Abstracts, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed and Springer Link. Publications were selected without date restrictions, using terms such as 'organoid', 'natural product', 'pharmacological', 'extract', 'nanomaterial' and 'traditional uses'. Articles related to agriculture, ecology, synthetic work or published in languages other than English were excluded.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

The review identifies key challenges related to the efficiency and variability of organoid generation and discusses ongoing efforts to enhance their predictive capabilities in drug screening and personalized medicine. Recent studies utilizing patient-derived organoid models for natural compound screening are highlighted, demonstrating the potential of these models in developing new classes of anticancer agents. The integration of natural products with patient-derived organoid models presents a promising approach for discovering novel anticancer compounds and elucidating their mechanisms of action.

Rotenone inhibited osteosarcoma metastasis by modulating ZO-2 expression and location via the ROS/Ca2+/AMPK pathway

BACKGROUND

Pulmonary metastases in osteosarcoma (OS) are associated with a poor prognosis. Rotenone has shown anti-cancer activity. However, its effects on metastasis and the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. This study investigated the potential use of Rotenone for OS treatment.

METHODS

The effect of Rotenone and ROS/Ca2+/AMPK/ZO-2 pathway on metastasis and EMT was evaluated by Western blot, Transwell and Wound healing. Flow cytometer was employed to measure the intracellular Ros and Ca2+ levels. The subcellular location of ZO-2 was detected by IF, interaction between AMPK and ZO-2 were examined by Co-IP. Then, subcutaneous tumor and metastasis models were used to evaluate the function of Rotenone in OS metastasis.

RESULTS

Rotenone-induced ROS led to increased intracellular Ca2+, which promoted the EMT of OS cells through activation of AMPK and ZO-2 nuclear translocation. Inhibition of ROS production decreased intracellular Ca2+, restraining AMPK activity. Knock-down of ZO-2 significantly suppressed the anti-metastasis effects of Rotenone in OS cells. Moreover, Rotenone elevated p-AMPK and ZO-2 expression but inhibited EMT and lung metastasis in vivo.Conclusion These results provide evidence supporting an anti-metastatic effect of Rotenone. These findings support the use of Rotenone in the prevention of OS metastasis.

ALKBH3-mediated m1A demethylation promotes the malignant progression of acute myeloid leukemia by regulating ferroptosis through the upregulation of ATF4 expression

To investigate the role of ALKBH3 in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), we constructed an animal model of xenotransplantation of AML. Our study demonstrated that ALKBH3-mediated m1A demethylation inhibits ferroptosis in KG-1 cells by increasing ATF4 expression, thus promoting the development of AML. These findings suggest that reducing ALKBH3 expression may be a potential strategy to mitigate AML progression.

Background: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is characterized by the unrestrained proliferation of myeloid cells. Studies have shown that ALKBH3 is upregulated in most tumors, but the role of ALKBH3 in AML remains unclear.Methods: In this study, we investigated the function of ALKBH3 in AML cells (KG-1) by immunofluorescence, ELISA, flow cytometry, HE staining, and Western blotting.Results: Our results revealed that ALKBH3 is upregulated in AML and that the downregulation of ALKBH3 inhibited KG-1 cell proliferation and promoted cell apoptosis; at the same time, ALKBH3 upregulated ATF4 expression through m1A demethylation, and the knockdown of ATF4 resulted in increased ferrous iron content; TFR1, ACSL4, and PTGS2 expression; and ROS and MDA levels, whereas SOD and GSH levels and the expression levels of ATF4, SLC7A11, GPX4, and FTH1 decreased in KG-1 cells, thereby promoting ferroptosis. Mechanistically, ALKBH3-mediated m1A demethylation suppressed ferroptosis in KG-1 cells by increasing ATF4 expression, thereby promoting the development of AML.Conclusions: Our study indicated that reducing the expression of ALKBH3 might be a potential target for improving AML symptoms.

PINCH-1 promotes tumor growth and metastasis by enhancing DRP1-mediated mitochondrial fission in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

PURPOSE

Abnormal expression of PINCH-1 has been observed in various types of human cancers. However, the clinical importance and mechanism underlying its role in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is yet to be fully elucidated.

METHODS

This study evaluated the expression of PINCH-1 in HNSCC samples through immunohistochemical staining and Western blotting. AMC-HN-8, Cal27, and SCC7 cell lines were utilized for cellular function experiments, both in vivo and in vitro. CCK8, colony-formation assay, flow cytometry, wound-healing assay, and transwell assay were employed to investigate the effects of alterations in target proteins on the growth and metastasis of cancer cells. Mito-Tracker Deep Red FM was used to track mitochondrial morphology.

RESULTS

PINCH-1 was found to be overexpressed in HNSCC and closely associated with lymph node metastasis and poor pathologic differentiation. Its upregulation promoted proliferation, inhibited apoptosis, and enhanced migration and invasion in HNSCC cells. It also promoted mitochondrial fission. We conducted a mechanism analysis, which showed that PINCH-1 knockdown inhibited mitochondrial fission by reducing the expression of DRP1. Furthermore, inhibition of mitochondrial fission could impede the proliferation and metastasis of HNSCC cells. Re-expression of DRP1 reversed the inhibitory effect of PINCH-1 knockdown on mitochondrial fission, cell proliferation, and metastasis in HNSCC cells.

CONCLUSIONS

PINCH-1 plays a critical oncogenic role in HNSCC by enhancing DRP1-mediated mitochondrial fission, which may serve as a novel therapeutic target for HNSCC.

Multiple radiations and its effect on biological system - a review on in vitro and in vivo mechanisms

PURPOSE

We are exposed to different types of radiation from natural sources or for biomedical diagnostic and therapeutic purposes at different doses or times. The dose, duration, and number of exposures can cause multiple effects both in vivo and in vitro. Several researchers have explored the effects of ionizing and non-ionizing radiation in cell lines and animal models. Macromolecules, such as DNA, RNA, and proteins, are the primary targets of damage and can lead to several diseases, including cancer and even cell death. Chronic low-dose exposure of cells to radiation can cause alterations in gene expression and can be deleterious to the fate of the cells. We aim to discuss the implications of multiple radiations on different biological systems, including how nanotechnology can facilitate the effects of radiation in therapeutics.

CONCLUSION

In this review, we discuss the in vitro and in vivo changes that occur due to exposure to different types of radiation used in diagnosis, therapeutics, and other means, such as radiation equipment operators and patients being exposed. The effects of ionizing and non-ionizing radiation have been discussed separately. We have also mentioned in detail about the human-caused accidents of Hiroshima and Chernobyl in this article. The application of nanotechnology in facilitating the effects of radiation in the therapy and management of radioresistance of cells has also been discussed. The radio resistance and method to improve the radiosensitivity have also been mentioned. This review article can reflect the recent developments in the various uses of ionizing and non-ionizing radiation in biomedical field and will open up new avenues to utilize radiation in a more prudent way. The role of nanotechnology in reducing the harmful effects of radiation is also discussed.

TET-mediated 5hmC in breast cancer: mechanism and clinical potential

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, with differences in clinical features due to its distinct molecular subtypes. Current studies have demonstrated that epigenetic modifications play a crucial role in regulating the progression of breast cancer. Among these mechanisms, DNA demethylation and its reverse process have been studied extensively for their roles in activating or silencing cancer related gene expression. Specifically, Ten-Eleven Translocation (TET) enzymes are involved in the conversion process from 5-methylcytosine (5mC) to 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC), which results in a significant difference in the global level of 5hmC in breast cancer compared with normal tissues. In this review, we summarize the functions of TET proteins and the regulated 5hmC levels in the pathogenesis of breast cancer. Discussions on the clinical values of 5hmC in early diagnosis and the prediction of prognosis are also mentioned.

From chaos to order: optimizing fecal microbiota transplantation for enhanced immune checkpoint inhibitors efficacy

The integration of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) presents a promising approach for enhancing cancer treatment efficacy and overcoming therapeutic resistance. This review critically examines the controversial effects of FMT on ICIs outcomes and elucidates the underlying mechanisms. We investigate how FMT modulates gut microbiota composition, microbial metabolite profiles, and the tumor microenvironment, thereby influencing ICIs effectiveness. Key factors influencing FMT efficacy, including donor selection criteria, recipient characteristics, and administration protocols, are comprehensively discussed. The review delineates strategies for optimizing FMT formulations and systematically monitoring post-transplant microbiome dynamics. Through a comprehensive synthesis of evidence from clinical trials and preclinical studies, we elucidate the potential benefits and challenges of combining FMT with ICIs across diverse cancer types. While some studies report improved outcomes, others indicate no benefit or potential adverse effects, emphasizing the complexity of host-microbiome interactions in cancer immunotherapy. We outline critical research directions, encompassing the need for large-scale, multi-center randomized controlled trials, in-depth microbial ecology studies, and the integration of multi-omics approaches with artificial intelligence. Regulatory and ethical challenges are critically addressed, underscoring the imperative for standardized protocols and rigorous long-term safety assessments. This comprehensive review seeks to guide future research endeavors and clinical applications of FMT-ICIs combination therapy, with the potential to improve cancer patient outcomes while ensuring both safety and efficacy. As this rapidly evolving field advances, maintaining a judicious balance between openness to innovation and cautious scrutiny is crucial for realizing the full potential of microbiome modulation in cancer immunotherapy.

Characterization of global research trends and prospects on celastrol, a principal bioactive ingredient of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F: bibliometric analysis

CONTEXT

Celastrol, acknowledged as a prominent exemplar of the potential for transforming traditional medicinal compounds into contemporary pharmaceuticals, has garnered considerable attention owing to its extensive pharmacological activities. The increasing volume of publications concerning celastrol highlights its importance in current scientific inquiry. Despite the growing interest in this compound, a bibliometric analysis focused on this subject remains to be undertaken.

OBJECTIVE

Our study explored a bibliometric approach to identify and characterize global research trends and frontiers related to celastrol, including mapping research outputs, influential contributors, and thematic areas, as well as highlighting gaps and opportunities for future investigations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, we utilized the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) to source and review articles related to celastrol published from 1997 to 2023. The bibliometric analysis was conducted using the R package 'Bibliometrix,' supplemented by visualization tools including CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and GraphPad Prism 10.

RESULTS

Celastrol related research papers have exhibited an upward trend annually and can be categorized into three distinct phases, each highlighting different areas of focus. China, the United States, and South Korea rank as the top three nations for publication volume, with varied research interests across these countries. Several prolific research teams have emerged, each with distinct areas of interest. Examining the primary research domains of celastrol (anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and toxicity) reveals a notable intersection between the first two domains.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

The scope and depth of celastrol research have been steadily expanding, with regional and team-specific variations. Key research areas include anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and toxicity studies. Future research is expected to focus on enhancing the effectiveness and reducing the toxicity of celastrol. Meanwhile, given the multi-target characteristics of celastrol's effects, integrating methods such as network biology and molecular simulation will provide a novel perspective for celastrol research.

circKCNQ5 promotes the proliferation of DNA-methyltransferase 3A R882 mutated acute myeloid leukemia cells by elevating high-mobility group box 1 expression

BACKGROUND

Patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) harboring the DNA-methyltransferase 3 A (DNMT3A) R882 mutation (DR882MUT) usually have a high recurrence rate and poor prognosis. circKCNQ5 levels were aberrantly elevated in patients with AML according to the microarray platform. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to investigate the effect and mechanism of circKCNQ5 on DR882MUT AML cell proliferation.

METHODS

A DR882MUT cell line model was established. circKCNQ5 expression in AML cells expressing wild-type DNMT3A (DNMT3A-WT) or DR882MUT was analyzed using RT-qPCR. The proliferation of DNMT3A-WT and DR882MUT AML cells after transfection was measured using a CCK-8 assay. High-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) protein expression was assessed by western blotting. The regulatory mechanism of circKCNQ5 on HMGB1 expression was studied using RNA pull-down and co-immunoprecipitation assays.

RESULTS

circKCNQ5 expression increased gradually in HS-5, DNMT3A-WT, and DR882MUT AML cells. circKCNQ5 overexpression facilitated the proliferation of DNMT3A-WT KG-1a and HL-60 cells, whereas circKCNQ5 silencing blocked DR882MUT KG-1a and HL-60 cell proliferation. CircKCNQ5 interacts with HMGB1 and enhanced HMGB1 protein levels by inhibiting HMGB1 ubiquitination. HMGB1 protein levels increased gradually in HS-5, DNMT3A-WT, and DR882MUT AML cells. Furthermore, circKCNQ5 overexpression elevated HMGB1 protein levels in DNMT3A-WT KG-1a and HL-60 cells, whereas circKCNQ5 silencing reduced HMGB1 protein levels in DR882MUT KG-1a and HL-60 cells. HMGB1 overexpression remarkably increased the proliferative ability of DR882MUT KG-1a and HL-60 cells and circKCNQ5 silencing.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings verified that circKCNQ5 promotes the proliferation of DR882MUT AML cells by increasing HMGB1 expression.

Elevated expression of ANAPC1 in lung squamous cell carcinoma: clinical implications and mechanisms

AIM

To investigate the comprehensive expression levels and possible molecular mechanisms of Anaphase Promoting Complex Subunit 1 (ANAPC1) in lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC).

METHODS

Data from 2,031 samples were combined to evaluate ANAPC1 mRNA levels, and 118 samples were collected for immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis. High-expression co-expressed genes (HECEGs) associated with ANAPC1 were analyzed for signaling pathways. Clinical significance, immune computations, and Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) validation of ANAPC1's role in LUSC were assessed. Molecular docking evaluated binding affinity with potential therapeutics.

RESULTS

ANAPC1 mRNA was significantly upregulated in LUSC (SMD = 1.97, 95% CI [1.26-2.67]). Protein-level analysis confirmed this upregulation (p < 0.001). Most HECEGs associated with ANAPC1 were enriched in cell cycle pathways. Higher ANAPC1 expression correlated with poorer survival in LUSC patients (HR = 1.11, 95% CI: 1-1.49). ANAPC1 expression was higher in males and N1-stage vs. females and N0-stage; lower in grade I vs. II/III. Overexpression reduces immune cell infiltration and immunotherapy effectiveness, while knockdown inhibits cell proliferation. Drug sensitivity and docking analyses identified tenovin-1, carboxyatractyloside, and phycocyanobilin as potential antitumor agents targeting ANAPC1.

CONCLUSION

The elevated expression of ANAPC1 might play a role in LUSC advancement and progression through its participation in cell growth-related pathways.

Inhibitory effect of Endostar on HIF-1 with upregulation of MHC-I in lung cancer cells

Endostar is a human recombinant endostatin which is an attractive anti-angiogenesis protein. Because inefficient antigen presenting MHC class I expression (which can be downregulated by HIF-1) is an important strategy for cancer immune evasion, besides its anti-angiogenesis effect, it remains unclear whether Endostar has an inhibitory effect on HIF-1 expression by upregulating MHC class I expression in cancer cells to facilitate immunotherapies, including PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors. In this study, A549 and NCI-H1299 lung cancer cells were treated with Endostar (6.25 μg/ml, 12.5 μg/ml, and 25 μg/ml, respectively). HIF-1 expression was detected by Immunocytochemistry and Western blot. Proteins of the MHC class I α-heavy chain and β2 m light chain, STAT3 and pSTAT3 were detected by Western blot. The mRNAs of MHC class I α-heavy chain and β2 m light chain were detected by RT-qPCR. It was shown that decreased expression of HIF-1 and promotion of β2-microglobulin were observed after Endostar treatment. In addition, elevated levels of MHC class I α-heavy chain mRNA and protein, as well as downregulation of STAT3 and pSTAT3, were also observed following Endostar treatment. Endostar inhibited HIF-1 expression in A549 and NCI-H1299 lung cancer cells, upregulated expression of MHC class I α-heavy chain and β2 m light chain, with the upregulation of STAT3 and pSTAT3, suggesting involvement of STAT3 pathway. It is important because only in combination with MHC class I on target cells can tumor antigenic peptides be recognized by CD8+ CTLs which destroy target cells. However, MHC class I is frequently deficient in cancer cells.

27-Hydroxycholesterol in cancer development and drug resistance

27-Hydroxycholesterol (27HC), a cholesterol metabolite, functions both as a selective oestrogen receptor (ER) modulator and a ligand for liver X receptors (LXRs). The discovery of 27HC involvement in carcinogenesis has unveiled new research avenues, yet its precise role remains controversial and context-dependent. In this review, we provide an overview of the biosynthesis and metabolism of 27HC and explore its cancer-associated signalling, with a particular focus on ER- and LXR-mediated pathways. Given the tissue-specific dual role of 27HC, we discuss its differential impact across various cancer types. Furthermore, we sort out 27HC-contributed drug resistance mechanisms from the perspectives of drug efflux, cellular proliferation, apoptosis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), antioxidant defence, epigenetic modification, and metabolic reprogramming. Finally, we highlight the chemical inhibitors to mitigate 27HC-driven cancer progression and drug resistance. This review offers an updated role of 27HC in cancer biology, setting the stage for future research and the development of targeted therapeutics.

IRES activation: HK2 and TPI1 glycolytic enzymes play a pivotal role in non-neuronal cell survival under hypoxia

Hypoxia-induced brain damage can cause consciousness, memory failure and death. HK2 and TPI1 were investigated to see how they change hypoxia sensitivity in neurons and non-neurons. Hypoxia sensitivity is determined by the differential overexpression of both important glycolytic enzymes in neuronal and non-neuronal cells. C6 glioma cells expressed greater HK2 and TPI1 protein than neuro 2A cells, which were more sensitive to hypoxia-induced cell death by MTT and lactate dehydrogenase leakage assay. After 48 h of hypoxia, C6 glioma cells displayed substantial protein upregulation of HK2 and TPI1 glycolytic proteins but not mRNA. Hypoxia did not raise HK2 and TPI1 mRNA transcription, pointing at post-transcriptional protein regulation. Using di-cistronic and promoter-less di-cistronic assays, we discovered significant IRES regions in HK2 and TPI1 mRNA's 5'UTR, more active in C6 glioma cells with polypyrimidine tract binding (PTB) protein. We concluded that non-neuronal cells varied in HK2 and TPI1 overexpression, altering their vulnerability to hypoxia-induced cell death. Adjusting HK2, TP1 and PTB levels may prevent hypoxia-induced brain cell death. These results offer new information on glycolytic enzyme modulation under hypoxia, crucial for comprehending cell survival in hypoxic situations. This could affect situations like neurodegenerative illnesses or ischaemic injuries, where hypoxia-induced cell death is crucial.

Trends in the immunotherapy for glioblastoma: A two-decade bibliometric analysis

Glioblastoma is a life-threatening primary malignant brain tumor with an unfavorable prognosis. Contributing factors to its poor outcome include tumor heterogeneity, low mutational burden, and immunosuppression within the tumor microenvironment. Recognizing these challenges, immunotherapeutic strategies have emerged as a promising avenue for glioblastoma treatment. Although several dynamic research and scientific trend have increasingly taken pace in the immunotherapeutic approaches to glioblastoma, systematic bibliometric studies on such trends are few. On this note, this study explores a bibliometric analysis of the research hotspots and trends in glioblastoma immunotherapy. We conducted a search in the Web of Science Core Collection database for articles on glioblastoma immunotherapy published between 2004 and 2024. Using VOSviewer and CiteSpace software, we analyzed collected articles to explore aspects such as country of origin, journal of publication, affiliated institute, authorship, keywords, and citation patterns. As of May 1, 2024, we retrieved 3,729 papers on Glioblastoma Immunotherapy. In the field of glioblastoma immunotherapy, the United States stands out as the leading contributor, with 1,708 publications and a substantial 90,590 citations. Following closely, China has made significant contributions through 926 publications, earning 17,533 citations, while Germany adds to the body of knowledge with 349 publications and 16,355 citations. Furthermore, Authoritative journals in this field include Clinical Cancer Research and Neuro-Oncology. The top five keywords during this period were temozolomide, radiotherapy, dendritic cell, cytotoxic T lymphocyte, and vaccination. Moreover, Hotspots in the field include immune checkpoint inhibitors and chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy.

Downregulated expression of dual-specificity phosphatase-1 in multiple myeloma as a predictor of poor survival outcomes

OBJECTIVES

Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable hematological malignancy, Dual-specificity phosphatase-1 (DUSP1) plays a crucial role in the initiation and progression of various tumors. Here, we aim to elucidate the role of DUSP1 in MM.

METHODS

DUSP1 mRNA expression was analyzed based on public datasets, and protein expression was determined by immunohistochemistry. The association between DUSP1 and clinicopathological characteristics, as well as its impact on survival, were investigated. Protein-protein interaction and gene set enrichment analysis were performed.

RESULTS

Low DUSP1 expression was detected in MM and it was associated with elevated β2-microglobulin, C-reactive protein, creatinine, lactate dehydrogenase, plasma cell ratio, and decreased hemoglobin levels. The DUSP1high group exhibited superior outcomes across clinical endpoints. Univariate and multivariate analyses indicated that low DUSP1 expression was an independent prognostic factor for poor OS (hazard ratio = 0.273). The findings suggested that DUSP1 expression was related to proto-oncogene c-Fos (FOS), heat shock protein family member 1a (HSPA1A), several members of the MAPK family, nuclear receptor subfamily 3, group C, member 1 (NR3C1), and zinc finger protein 36 (ZFP36). DUSP1 mRNA levels were positively correlated with ribosomes and were negatively correlated with oocyte meiosis, one carbon pool by folate, homologous recombination, base excision repair, and pyrimidine metabolism pathways.

DISCUSSION

The potential mechanisms identified through the PPI network analysis could provide insight into how DUSP1 may influence MM.

CONCLUSIONS

Low expression of DUSP1 may be considered a poor prognostic factor for MM patients.

Update on the correlation between mitochondrial function and osteonecrosis of the femoral head osteocytes

Mitochondrial health is maintained in a steady state through mitochondrial dynamics and autophagy processes. Recent studies have identified healthy mitochondria as crucial regulators of cellular function and survival. This process involves adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis by mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), regulation of calcium metabolism and inflammatory responses, and intracellular oxidative stress management. In the skeletal system, they participate in the regulation of cellular behaviors and the responses of osteoblasts, osteoclasts, chondrocytes, and osteocytes to external stimuli. Indeed, mitochondrial damage or dysfunction occurs in the development of a few bone diseases. For example, mitochondrial damage may lead to an imbalance in osteoblasts and osteoclasts, resulting in osteoporosis, osteomalacia, or poor bone production, and chondrocyte death and inflammatory infiltration in osteoarthritis are the main causes of cartilage degeneration due to mitochondrial damage. However, the opposite exists for osteosarcoma, where overactive mitochondrial metabolism is able to accelerate the proliferation and migration of osteosarcoma cells, which is a major disease feature. Bone is a dynamic organ and osteocytes play a fundamental role in all regions of bone tissue and are involved in regulating bone integrity. This review examines the impact of mitochondrial physiological function on osteocyte health and summarizes the microscopic molecular mechanisms underlying its effects. It highlights that targeted therapies focusing on osteocyte mitochondria may be beneficial for osteocyte survival, providing a new insight for the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases associated with osteocyte death.

Construction of a novel radioresistance-related signature for prediction of prognosis, immune microenvironment and anti-tumour drug sensitivity in non-small cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a fatal disease, and radioresistance is an important factor leading to treatment failure and disease progression. The objective of this research was to detect radioresistance-related genes (RRRGs) with prognostic value in NSCLC.

METHODS

The weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA) and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) analysis were performed to identify RRRGs using expression profiles from TCGA and GEO databases. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression and random survival forest (RSF) were used to screen for prognostically relevant RRRGs. Multivariate Cox regression was used to construct a risk score model. Then, Immune landscape and drug sensitivity were evaluated. The biological functions exerted by the key gene LBH were verified by in vitro experiments.

RESULTS

Ninety-nine RRRGs were screened by intersecting the results of DEGs and WGCNA, then 11 hub RRRGs associated with survival were identified using machine learning algorithms (LASSO and RSF). Subsequently, an eight-gene (APOBEC3B, DOCK4, IER5L, LBH, LY6K, RERG, RMDN2 and TSPAN2) risk score model was established and demonstrated to be an independent prognostic factor in NSCLC on the basis of Cox regression analysis. The immune landscape and sensitivity to anti-tumour drugs showed significant disparities between patients categorized into different risk score subgroups. In vitro experiments indicated that overexpression of LBH enhanced the radiosensitivity of A549 cells, and knockdown LBH reversed the cytotoxicity induced by X-rays.

CONCLUSION

Our study developed an eight-gene risk score model with potential clinical value that can be adopted for choice of drug treatment and prognostic prediction. Its clinical routine use may assist clinicians in selecting more rational practices for individuals, which is important for improving the prognosis of NSCLC patients. These findings also provide references for the development of potential therapeutic targets.

Past, present, and future of exosomes research in cancer: A bibliometric and visualization analysis

Cancer seriously threatens the lives and health of people worldwide, and exosomes seem to play an important role in managing cancer effectively, which has attracted extensive attention from researchers in recent years. This study aimed to scientifically visualize exosomes research in cancer (ERC) through bibliometric analysis, reviewing the past, summarizing the present, and predicting the future, with a view to providing valuable insights for scholars and policy makers. Researches search and data collection from Web of Science Core Collection and clinical trial.gov. Calculations and visualizations were performed using Microsoft Excel, VOSviewer, Bibliometrix R-package, and CiteSpace. As of December 1, 2024, and March 8, 2025, we identified 8,001 ERC-related publications and 107 ERC-related clinical trials, with an increasing trend in annual publications. Our findings supported that China, Nanjing Medical University, and International Journal of Molecular Sciences were the most productive countries, institutions, and journals, respectively. Whiteside, Theresa L. had the most publications, while Théry, C was the most co-cited scholar. In addition, Cancer Research was the most co-cited journal. Spatial and temporal distribution of clinical trials was the same as for publications. High-frequency keywords were "extracellular vesicle," "microRNA" and "biomarker." Additional, "surface functionalization," "plant," "machine learning," "nanomaterials," "promotes metastasis," "engineered exosomes," and "macrophage-derived exosomes" were promising research topics. Our study comprehensively and visually summarized the structure, hotspots, and evolutionary trends of ERC. It would inspire subsequent studies from a macroscopic perspective and provide a basis for rational allocation of resources and identification of collaborations among researchers.

The search for a TNBC vaccine: the guardian vaccine

Nearly 20 million people are diagnosed with cancer each year with breast cancer being the most common among women. Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), defined by its no/low expression of ER and PR and lack of amplification of HER2, makes up 15-20% of all breast cancer cases. While patients overall have a higher response to chemotherapy, this subgroup is associated with the lowest survival rate indicating significant clinical and molecular heterogeneity demanding alternate treatment options. Therefore, new therapies have been explored, with a large focus on utilizing the immune system. A whole host of immunotherapies have been studied including immune checkpoint inhibitors, now standard of care for eligible patients, and possibly the most exciting and promising is that of a TNBC vaccine. While currently there are no approved TNBC vaccines, this review highlights many promising studies and points to an antigen, p53, which we believe is highly relevant for TNBC.

The critical role of ferroptosis in virus-associated hematologic malignancies and its potential value in antiviral-antitumor therapy

Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV), and human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) are key infectious agents linked to the development of various hematological malignancies, including Hodgkin's lymphoma, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, and adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma. This review highlights the critical knowledge gaps in understanding the role of ferroptosis, a novel form of cell death, in virus-related tumors. We focus on how ferroptosis influences the host cell response to these viral infections, revealing groundbreaking mechanisms by which the three viruses differentially regulate core pathways of ferroptosis, such as iron homeostasis, lipid peroxidation, and antioxidant systems, thereby promoting malignant transformation of host cells. Additionally, we explore the potential of antiviral drugs and ferroptosis modulators in the treatment of virus-associated hematological malignancies.

tRNA modifications: greasing the wheels of translation and beyond

Transfer RNA (tRNA) is one of the most abundant RNA types in cells, acting as an adaptor to bridge the genetic information in mRNAs with the amino acid sequence in proteins. Both tRNAs and small fragments processed from them play many nonconventional roles in addition to translation. tRNA molecules undergo various types of chemical modifications to ensure the accuracy and efficiency of translation and regulate their diverse functions beyond translation. In this review, we discuss the biogenesis and molecular mechanisms of tRNA modifications, including major tRNA modifications, writer enzymes, and their dynamic regulation. We also summarize the state-of-the-art technologies for measuring tRNA modification, with a particular focus on 2'-O-methylation (Nm), and discuss their limitations and remaining challenges. Finally, we highlight recent discoveries linking dysregulation of tRNA modifications with genetic diseases.

ELAV/Hu RNA-binding protein family: key regulators in neurological disorders, cancer, and other diseases

The ELAV/Hu family represents a crucial group of RNA-binding proteins predominantly expressed in neurons, playing significant roles in mRNA transcription and translation. These proteins bind to AU-rich elements in transcripts to regulate the expression of cytokines, growth factors, and the development and maintenance of neurons. Elav-like RNA-binding proteins exhibit remarkable molecular weight conservation across different species, highlighting their evolutionary conservation. Although these proteins are widely expressed in the nervous system and other cell types, variations in the DNA sequences of the four Elav proteins contribute to their distinct roles in neurological disorders, cancer, and other Diseases . Elavl1, a ubiquitously expressed family member, is integral to processes such as cell growth, ageing, tumorigenesis, and inflammatory diseases. Elavl2, primarily expressed in the nervous and reproductive systems, is critical for central nervous system and retinal development; its dysregulation has been implicated in neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism. Both Elavl3 and Elavl4 are restricted to the nervous system and are involved in neuronal differentiation and excitability. Elavl3 is essential for cerebellar function and has been associated with epilepsy, while Elavl4 is linked to neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the ELAV/Hu family's role in nervous system development, neurological disorders, cancer, and other diseases.

A targeted MAVS fusion protein for controlled innate immune activation and antitumor therapy

Targeted therapies leveraging the innate immune system are emerging as promising cancer treatments. The mitochondrial antiviral signaling protein (MAVS) plays a crucial role in initiating innate immune responses, but its clinical use is limited by the risk of uncontrolled activation and systemic toxicity. To address this, we developed a novel therapeutic agent, the truncated interferon activation switch (TRIAS), combining MAVS truncates with a tumor antigen-targeting single-chain variable fragment (scFv). This design ensures antigen-dependent, controlled activation. Lentiviral delivery of TRIAS induced significant antitumor responses, including complete tumor regression in some cases. Flow cytometry (FCM) analysis further confirmed that tumor cells were the predominant population expressing the transgene. TRIAS-expressing tumor cells exhibited enhanced antitumor activity, likely due to increased cytokine release and upregulated major histocompatibility complex (MHC) expression, enabling tumor cells to function as antigen-presenting cells. This activated other immune cells, driving adaptive immune responses. Additionally, TRIAS promoted a proinflammatory shift in the tumor microenvironment (TME). In conclusion, TRIAS was validated as an innovative immunotherapeutic agent with MAVS-like immune-activating properties and tightly controlled mechanisms, offering a safer and more effective approach for clinical cancer immunotherapy.

PCK2 promotes invasion and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in triple-negative breast cancer by promoting TGF-β/SMAD3 signaling through inhibiting TRIM67-mediated SMAD3 ubiquitination

PCK2, which encodes mitochondrial phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK-M), is upregulated in various cancers. We demonstrated high expression of PEPCK-M in approximately half of triple-negative breast cancers (TNBCs) previously. TNBC is associated with an aggressive phenotype and a high metastasis rate. In this study, we investigated the role of PCK2 in TNBC. PCK2 knockdown suppressed proliferation and mTOR signaling in TNBC cells. In addition, cell invasion/migration ability and the expression of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers were positively correlated with PCK2 expression in TNBC cells via regulation of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)/SMAD3 signaling. SMAD3 was positively regulated by PCK2 in TNBC cells. Knockdown of SMAD3 in PCK2-overexpressing TNBC cells reduced the expression levels of EMT markers, Snail and Slug, and suppressed cell invasion/migration. In addition, PCK2 knockdown attenuated the stimulatory effect of TGF-β on SMAD3 phosphorylation in TNBC cells. PEPCK-M promotes the protein and mRNA expression of SMAD3 via competitive binding to tripartite motif-containing 67 (TRIM67), an E3 ubiquitin ligase, to reduce SMAD3 ubiquitination, which leads to promoting nuclear translocation of SMAD3 and autoregulation of SMAD3 transcription. Moreover, high PCK2 mRNA expression was significantly associated with poor survival in TNBC patients. In conclusion, our study revealed for the first time that PCK2 activates TGF-β/SMAD3 signaling by regulating the expression and phosphorylation of SMAD3 by inhibiting TRIM67-mediated SMAD3 ubiquitination and promoting the stimulatory effect of TGF-β to promote TNBC invasion. The regulatory effect of PCK2 on mTOR and TGF-β/SMAD3 signaling suggests that PCK2 is a potential therapeutic target for suppressing TNBC progression.

Suppression of pseudogene MT2P1 transcription induced by E2F7 inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma cell proliferation and facilitates apoptosis via preserving its parental gene

The majority of the pseudogenes are inert in normal transcription. Their transcripts are mostly attributed to non-coding RNAs that play various functions in human tumorigenicity and progression. Distinctively, pseudogene MT2P1 is universally transcribed in hepatocytes and presents a significant decrease in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The effect of MT2P1-RNA on HCC cell proliferation and apoptosis needs investigation. MT2P1-RNA was detected by RT-qPCR assay in HCC tissues and cell lines, combined with the exploration of the public databases. The immunohistochemistry assay was used for testing the expression profile of E2F7 and the parental gene MT2A. The clinicopathological features of the patients were collected and analyzed. Ectopic expression of MT2P1-RNA in HCC cell lines was conducted, and the CCK8 assay and flow cytometry assay were carried out. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay and Dual-luciferase reporter assay were, respectively, applied to validate the interaction between MT2P1, E2F7, and microRNA-15b-5p. The downregulation of MT2P1-RNA in HCC is negatively correlated with dismal clinicopathological features. MT2P1-RNA significantly suppressed HCC cell proliferation and induced apoptosis. E2F7 depletion sequentially elevated the level of MT2P1-RNA and MT2A, and E2F7 was validated as a suppressive transcription factor of the MT2P1 gene. The direct interactions of either MT2P1/miR-15b-5p or miR-15b-5p/MT2A were, respectively, ascertained, enlightening the ceRNA effect of them. The pseudogene-derived MT2P1-RNA is a suppressor of HCC by exerting the ceRNA effect on preserving MT2A, and its transcription is regulated by the suppressive transcription factor E2F7.

Insights into the molecular and genetic role of obesity in breast cancer pathogenesis

The epidemic of obesity is a growing concern and is one of the major risk factors for several chronic diseases, including several types of cancers. The correlation of breast cancer with obesity has been extensively studied and involves an interplay of hormonal, metabolic, and genetic factors explored in this review. Inflammation and hormone dysregulation play an important role in promoting a protumorigenic environment through adipose tissue, which is involved in energy storage and functions as an endocrine organ. As a result, various cytokines, primarily proinflammatory in nature, are released, resulting in low-grade inflammation promoting tumor growth. Additionally, obese conditions also induce imbalances in hormones, particularly estrogen and insulin, both of which drive carcinogenesis. Genetic components such as single nucleotide polymorphisms also play critical roles in modulating the correlation between obesity and breast cancer. This review provides a comprehensive overview of various mechanisms underlying obesity and breast cancer incidence and progression.

Unraveling the anoikis-cancer nexus: a bibliometric analysis of research trends and mechanisms

BACKGROUND

Cancer, influenced by genetics and the environment, involves anoikis, a cell death mechanism upon extracellular matrix detachment crucial for metastasis. Understanding this relationship is key for therapy. We analyze cancer and anoikis trends using bibliometrics.

METHODS

A search was conducted from Web of Science Core, PubMed, Scopus and non-English databases such as the CNKI (inception- 21 December 2024). Data analysis employed Microsoft Excel, VOSviewer, CiteSpace, R software, and the online platform (https://bibliometric.com/).

RESULTS

2510 publications were retrieved, with a significant increase in the last decade. China led, the University of Texas system was productive, and the Oncogene Journal was popular. Breast, and colorectal cancers were frequently studied. Among them, representative tumor-related mechanisms were identified, commonalities such as (EMT, ECM, autophagy) and respective specific mechanisms were summarized.

CONCLUSION

This bibliometric analysis highlights rapid advances in anoikis research in cancer, emphasizing EMT and FAK pathways' translational potential, guiding targeted therapies, and improving cancer treatment outcomes.

Deciphering the interplay between SETD2 mediated H3K36me3 and RNA N6-methyladenosine in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC)

RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) plays diverse roles in RNA metabolism and its deregulation contributes to tumor initiation and progression. Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is characterized by near ubiquitous loss of VHL followed by mutations in epigenetic regulators PBRM1, SETD2, and BAP1. Mutations in SETD2, a histone H3 lysine 36 trimethylase (H3K36me3), are associated with reduced survival, greater metastatic propensity, and metabolic reprogramming. While m6A and H3K36me3 deregulation are separately implicated in renal tumorigenesis, H3K36me3 may participate directly in m6A targeting, but the m6A-H3K36me3 interplay has not been investigated in the context of ccRCC. Using RCC-relevant SETD2 isogenic knockout and rescue cell line models, we demonstrate a dynamic redistribution of m6A in the SETD2 depleted transcriptome, with a subset of transcripts involved in metabolic reprogramming demonstrating SETD2 dependent m6A and expression level changes. Using a panel of six histone modifications we show that m6A redistributes to regions enriched in gained active enhancers upon SETD2 inactivation. Finally, we demonstrate a reversal of transcriptomic programs involved in SETD2 loss mediated metabolic reprogramming, and reduced cell viability through pharmacologic inhibition or genetic ablation of m6A writer METTL3 specific to SETD2 deficient cells. Thus, targeting m6A may represent a novel therapeutic vulnerability in SETD2 mutant ccRCC.

Brown B, Chan TA, Chand D, Constanzo J, Demaria S, I. Gabrilovich D, Golden E, Godkin A, Guha C, P. Gupta G, Hasan A, G. Herrera F, Kaufman H, Li D, A. Melcher A, McDonald S, Merghoub T, Monjazeb AM, Paris S, Pitroda S, Sadanandam A, Schaue D, Santambrogio L, Szapary P, Sage J, W. Welsh J, Wilkins A, H. Young K, Wennerberg E, Zitvogel L, Galluzzi L, Deutsch E, C. Formenti S. Updates on radiotherapy-immunotherapy combinations: Proceedings of 8th Annual ImmunoRad Conference

The annual ImmunoRad Conference has established itself as a recurrent occasion to explore the possibility of combining radiation therapy (RT) and immunotherapy (IT) for clinical cancer management. Bringing together a number of preclinical and clinical leaders in the fields of radiation oncology, immuno-oncology and IT, this annual event fosters indeed essential conversations and fruitful exchanges on how to address existing challenges to expand the therapeutic value of RT-IT combinations. The 8th edition of the ImmunoRad Conference, which has been held in October 2024 at the Weill Cornell Medical College of New York City, highlighted exciting preclinical and clinical advances at the interface between RT and IT, setting the stage for extra progress toward extended benefits for patients with an increasing variety of tumor types. Here, we critically summarize the lines of investigation that have been discussed at the occasion of the 8th Annual ImmunoRad Conference.

Integrated bioinformatics analysis identifies neutrophils and villous cytotrophoblasts infiltration characterized by BLC6 upregulation as associated with the co-occurrence of gestational diabetes mellitus and pre-eclampsia

BACKGROUND

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) patients are one of the important high-risk groups for the development of pre-eclampsia (PE). The pathogenesis of PE in GDM patients is not fully understood. This study aims to identify hub genes and pathways associated with the co-occurrence of GDM and PE.

METHODS

The matrix files of GDM and PE datasets were downloaded from GEO to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The common DEGs were predicted for functional analysis through GO and KEGG analysis. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed to determine the common hub genes for GDM and PE. Diagnostic hub genes were obtained through regression modeling and ROC analysis, and validated in publicly available datasets. The differences in immune infiltration between GDM and PE were analyzed. The expression and role of common hub genes in the co-occurrence of GDM and PE were explored through analysis of single-cell sequencing data.

RESULTS

A total of 104 DEGs were identified between GDM and PE. These common DEGs were found to be involved in mucosal immune response and the JAK-STAT signaling pathway. A total of 27 common hub genes were identified for both GDM and PE. BCL6, DNAH9, and SCG2 were identified as potential diagnostic biomarkers for PE. BCL6 showed high expression in neutrophils and villous cytotrophoblasts (VCTs) in both PE and GDM.

CONCLUSION

This study identified BCL6, DNAH9, and SCG2 as common hub genes in GDM and PE. BCL6 is expected to be a new target for the diagnosis and treatment of GDM concurrent with PE.

Discussion on the mechanism of HER2 resistance in esophagogastric junction and gastric cancer in the era of immunotherapy

Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is a critical biomarker and therapeutic target in gastric/gastroesophageal junction (G/GEJ) cancers, despite the initial success of HER2-targeted therapies, such as trastuzumab, resistance to these drugs has emerged as a major impediment to effective long-term treatment. This review examines the mechanisms of drug resistance in HER2-positive G/GEJ cancer, the primary mechanisms of resistance explored include alterations in the HER2 receptor itself, such as mutations and changes in expression levels, as well as downstream signaling pathways, and interactions with the tumor microenvironment (TME). Furthermore, the review discusses the Novel therapeutic approaches, including the use of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and combination therapies are assessed for their potential to enhance outcomes. By integrating recent research findings and clinical trials, this review aims to provide oncologists and researchers with insights into developing more effective treatments for patients with drug-resistant HER2-positive G/GEJ cancer.

Normal bronchial field basal cells show persistent methylome-wide impact of tobacco smoking, including in known cancer genes

Lung carcinogenesis is causally linked to cigarette smoking, in part by epigenetic changes. We tested whether accumulated epigenetic change in smokers is apparent in bronchial basal cells as cells of origin of squamous cell carcinoma. Using an EM-seq platform covering 53.8 million CpGs (96% of the entire genome) at an average of 7.5 sequencing reads per CpG site at a single base resolution, we evaluated cytology-normal basal cells bronchoscopically brushed from the in situ tobacco smoke-exposed 'bronchial epithelial field' and isolated by short-term primary culture from 54 human subjects. We found that mean methylation was globally lower in ever (former and current) smokers versus never smokers (p = 0.0013) across promoters, CpG shores, exons, introns, 3'-UTRs, and intergenic regions, but not in CpG islands. Among 6mers with dinucleotides flanking CpG, those containing CGCG showed no effect from smoking, while those flanked with TT and AA displayed the strongest effects. At the gene level, smoking-related differences in methylation level were observed in CDKL1, ARTN, EDC3, CYP1B1, FAM131A, and MAGI2. Among candidate cancer genes, smoking reduced the methylation level in KRAS, ROS1, CDKN1A, CHRNB4, and CADM1. We conclude that smoking reduces long-term epigenome-wide methylation in bronchial stem cells, is impacted by the flanking sequence, and persists indefinitely beyond smoking cessation.

Indole-3-lactic acid suppresses colorectal cancer via metabolic reprogramming

Research indicates that abnormal gut microbiota metabolism is linked to colorectal cancer (CRC) progression, but the role of microbiota-related tryptophan metabolism disruption remains unclear. Using metagenomic sequencing and targeted Trp metabolomics, our research identified that CRC patients had abnormal indole-3-lactic acid (ILA) levels, which were related to tumor malignancy. Exogenous ILA administration suppressed CRC development in AOM/DSS induced and xenograft mice models. Furthermore, in vitro experiments demonstrated that ILA inhibits tumor cell proliferation, migration, and anti-apoptotic capabilities. Mechanistically, ILA appears to directly occupy the phosphorylation sites of STAT3, leading to a reduction in intracellular phosphorylated STAT3 (p-STAT3) levels and the inhibition of the HK2 pathway, thereby downregulating glucose metabolism in cancer cells. Notably, this inhibition is independent of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR). In conclusion, our research findings demonstrate that alterations in tryptophan metabolism among CRC patients can influence tumor progression and reveal a novel mechanism through which ILA exerts its inhibitory effects on CRC. These findings offer new insights into the role of gut microbiota in CRC and identify potential clinical therapeutic targets.

Targeting the atypical chemokine receptor 2 (Ackr2) improves the benefit of anti-PD-1 immunotherapy in melanoma mouse model

Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapies, such as anti-PD-1, have transformed cancer treatment, but many patients do not respond due to a non-inflammatory tumor microenvironment (TME). Here, we investigated the impact of targeting Atypical Chemokine Receptor 2 (ACKR2), which scavenges key chemokines involved in immune cell recruitment, on the improvement of anti-PD-1-based therapy. In a melanoma mouse model, we demonstrated that Ackr2 inhibition increases the release of proinflammatory chemokines CCL5 and CXCL10 and enhances the infiltration of NK cells, activated CD8+ and CD4+ effector T cells while reducing regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the TME. Targeting Ackr2 led to tumor growth inhibition, improved survival, and enhanced response to anti-PD-1 therapy. In BRAF- and NRAS-mutant melanoma patients, low ACKR2 expression or high CCL5/CXCL10 levels correlated with improved survival and higher CD8+ T cell markers. Targeting ACKR2 represents a promising approach for developing combination therapies, particularly for 'cold' ICB resistant tumors.

Desulfovibrio vulgaris flagellin exacerbates colorectal cancer through activating LRRC19/TRAF6/TAK1 pathway

The initiation and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC) are intimately associated with genetic, environmental and biological factors. Desulfovibrio vulgaris (DSV), a sulfate-reducing bacterium, has been found excessive growth in CRC patients, suggesting a potential role in carcinogenesis. However, the precise mechanisms underlying this association remain incompletely understood. We have found Desulfovibrio was abundant in high-fat diet-induced Apcmin/+ mice, and DSV, a member of Desulfovibrio, triggered colonocyte proliferation of germ-free mice. Furthermore, the level of DSV progressively rose from healthy individuals to CRC patients. Flagella are important accessory structures of bacteria, which can help them colonize and enhance their invasive ability. We found that D. vulgaris flagellin (DVF) drove the proliferation, migration, and invasion of CRC cells and fostered the growth of CRC xenografts. DVF enriched the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-associated genes and characterized the facilitation of DVF on EMT. Mechanistically, DVF induced EMT through a functional transmembrane receptor called leucine-rich repeat containing 19 (LRRC19). DVF interacted with LRRC19 to modulate the ubiquitination of tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor (TRAF)6, rather than TRAF2. This interaction drove the ubiquitination of pivotal molecule TAK1, further enhancing its autophosphorylation and ultimately contributing to EMT. Collectively, DVF interacts with LRRC19 to activate the TRAF6/TAK1 signaling pathway, thereby promoting the EMT of CRC. These data shed new light on the role of gut microbiota in CRC and establish a potential clinical therapeutic target.

The pancreatic tumor microenvironment of treatment-naïve patients causes a functional shift in γδ T cells, impairing their anti-tumoral defense

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) presents a unique challenge for researchers due to its late diagnosis caused by vague symptoms and lack of early detection markers. Additionally, PDAC is characterized by an immunosuppressive microenvironment (TME), making it a difficult tumor to treat. While γδ T cells have shown potential for anti-tumor activity, conflicting studies exist regarding their effectiveness in pancreatic cancer. This study aims to explore the hypothesis that the PDAC TME hinders the anti-tumor capabilities of γδ T cells through blockade of cytotoxic functions. For this reason, we chose to enroll PDAC treatment-naive patients to avoid the possibility of therapy modifying the TME. By flow cytometry, our research findings indicate that the presence of γδ T cells among CD45+ cells in tumor tissue is lower compared to CD66+ cells, but higher than in blood. Circulating Vδ1 T cells exhibit a terminal effector memory phenotype (TEMRA) more than Vδ2 T cells. Interestingly, Vδ1 and Vδ2 T cells appear to be more prevalent at different stages of tumor development. In our in vitro culture using conditioned medium derived from Patient-derived organoids ;(PDOs), we observed a shift in expression markers in γδ T cells of healthy individuals toward an activation and exhaustion phenotype, as confirmed by scRNA-seq analysis extracted from a public database. A deeper understanding of γδ T cells in PDAC could be valuable for developing novel therapies aimed at mitigating the impact of the pancreatic tumor microenvironment on this cell population.

Accelerated senescence of bone marrow erythrocyte precursors in myelodysplastic syndrome

BACKGROUND

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) represent a heterogeneous group of clonal hematopoietic disorders characterized by ineffective haematopoiesis, refractory cytopenia, and an increased risk of progression to acute myeloid leukaemia. This study investigates the presence of cellular senescence in bone marrow (BM) CD235a+ erythrocyte precursors of MDS patients and explores its correlation with anaemia.

METHODS

We assessed senescence-related markers and cell cycle distribution in BM CD235a+ erythrocyte precursors of MDS patients. Correlation analyses were conducted between the relative mRNA expression of p16INK4A, a key senescence regulator, and peripheral blood parameters.

RESULTS

MDS patients exhibited heightened cellular senescence characterized by increased SA-β-gal positivity, elevated p16INK4A and p21CIP1 expression, reduced CyclinD1 levels, and elevated IL-6. Cell cycle analysis revealed G0/G1 phase arrest. Correlation analysis established a negative association between p16INK4A expression and reticulocyte count, RBC count, haemoglobin concentration, indicating a direct link between BM erythrocyte precursors senescence and anaemia severity.

CONCLUSION

MDS patients have accelerated senescence of bone marrow erythrocyte precursors, which is related to their anaemia. The observed correlation underscores the potential significance of senescence-targeted interventions in managing anaemia in MDS.Key MessagesBone marrow CD235a⁺ erythroid precursors in MDS patients exhibit accelerated senescence, characterized by cell cycle arrest and increased inflammatory markers. p16INK4A expression negatively correlates with anaemia severity, suggesting senescence as a key contributor to MDS-related anaemia.

Apium graveolens L. alleviates acute lung injury in human A-549 cells by reducing NF-κB and NLRP3 inflammasome signaling

BACKGROUND

Apium graveolens L. (celery) is a dietary vegetable with anti-inflammatory properties. It has the potential to treat acute lung injury (ALI) caused by COVID-19 or other diseases.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of Apium graveolens water extract (AGWE) on ALI in human lung A-549 cells induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A-549 cells were treated with AGWE for 24 h and then stimulated with 10 μg/mL LPS for another 24 h. The effects of AGWE on cell viability, the inflammatory response, oxidative stress, and apoptosis and their regulatory factors, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), and NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome signaling activation were analyzed.

RESULTS

Treatment with 5-50 μg/mL AGWE reversed the decrease in cell viability caused by LPS (p < 0.05). AGWE can reduce interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-18, and TNF-α levels; their EC50 values are 61.4, 65.7, 37.8, and 79.7 μg/mL, respectively. AGWE can reduce reactive oxygen species and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances in A-549 cells induced by LPS. AGWE also reduced the levels of apoptosis (EC50 of 74.8 μg/mL) and its regulators (Bid; Caspase-9, -8, and -3; Bax) and increased the levels of the mitochondrial membrane potential in A-549 cells induced by LPS. AGWE can also decrease the protein levels of NLRP3 and Caspase-1 and the activation of NF-κB signaling in A-549 cells induced by LPS.

CONCLUSIONS

These results show that 10 and 50 μg/mL AGWE can reduce the acute inflammation induced by LPS by reducing NF-κB and NLRP3 inflammasome signaling and mitochondria-dependent apoptosis pathways.

The role of cisplatin in modulating the tumor immune microenvironment and its combination therapy strategies: a new approach to enhance anti-tumor efficacy

Cisplatin is a platinum-based drug that is frequently used to treat multiple tumors. The anti-tumor effect of cisplatin is closely related to the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), which includes several immune cell types, such as the tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CTLs), dendritic cells (DCs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), regulatory T cells (Tregs), and natural killer (NK) cells. The interaction between these immune cells can promote tumor survival and chemoresistance, and decrease the efficacy of cisplatin monotherapy. Therefore, various combination treatment strategies have been devised to enhance patient responsiveness to cisplatin therapy. Cisplatin can augment anti-tumor immune responses in combination with immune checkpoint blockers (such as PD-1/PD-L1 or CTLA4 inhibitors), lipid metabolism disruptors (like FASN inhibitors and SCD inhibitors) and nanoparticles (NPs), resulting in better outcomes. Exploring the interaction between cisplatin and the TIME will help identify potential therapeutic targets for improving the treatment outcomes in cancer patients.

Multifaceted role of nitric oxide in vascular dementia

Vascular dementia is a highly heterogeneous neurodegenerative disorder induced by a variety of factors. Currently, there are no definitive treatments for the cognitive dysfunction associated with vascular dementia. However, early detection and preventive measures have proven effective in reducing the risk of onset and improving patient prognosis. Nitric oxide plays an integral role in various physiological and pathological processes within the central nervous system. In recent years, nitric oxide has been implicated in the regulation of synaptic plasticity and has emerged as a crucial factor in the pathophysiology of vascular dementia. At different stages of vascular dementia, nitric oxide levels and bioavailability undergo dynamic alterations, with a marked reduction in the later stages, which significantly contributes to the cognitive deficits associated with the disease. This review provides a comprehensive review of the emerging role of nitric oxide in the physiological and pathological processes underlying vascular dementia, focusing on its effects on synaptic dysfunction, neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and blood‒brain barrier integrity. Furthermore, we suggest that targeting the nitric oxide soluble guanylate cyclase-cyclic guanosine monophosphate pathway through specific therapeutic strategies may offer a novel approach for treating vascular dementia, potentially improving both cognitive function and patient prognosis. The review contributes to a better understanding of the multifaceted role of nitric oxide in vascular dementia and to offering insights into future therapeutic interventions.

Topical delgocitinib for the treatment of chronic hand eczema

PURPOSE

Chronic hand eczema (CHE) is a prevalent dermatological condition characterized by significant morbidity and impaired quality of life. Delgocitinib, a pan-JAK inhibitor, has emerged as a promising topical treatment for CHE, targeting key cytokine-mediated inflammatory pathways involved in the disease. Delgocitinib 20 mg/g (2%) cream was approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) in 2024 for moderate-to-severe CHE, and its U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) review is currently in progress.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PubMed, Medline and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched up to January 21, 2025, using specific search terms related to delgocitinib and chronic hand eczema.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Clinical trials have demonstrated its effectiveness in improving disease severity, including eczema signs and symptoms such as pain and itching, and enhancing patient-reported outcomes compared to vehicle. Topical delgocitinib has shown a favorable safety profile, with most adverse events being mild and unrelated to treatment. Serious adverse events were rare, and treatment discontinuation due to adverse events was minimal. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on topical delgocitinib's clinical utility and safety in CHE, positioning it as a valuable therapeutic option. Further comparative studies are needed to evaluate its efficacy against oral JAK inhibitors and other topical immunosuppressants, providing insight into optimizing treatment strategies for this chronic condition.