Noncoding RNAs and programmed cell death in hepatocellular carcinoma: Significant role of epigenetic modifications in prognosis, chemoresistance, and tumor recurrence rate

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of liver cancer with a high death rate in the world. The molecular mechanisms related to the pathogenesis of HCC have not been precisely defined so far. Hence, this review aimed to address the potential cross-talk between noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) and programmed cell death in HCC. All related papers in the English language up to June 2023 were collected and screened. The searched keywords in scientific databases, including Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar, were HCC, ncRNAs, Epigenetic, Programmed cell death, Autophagy, Apoptosis, Ferroptosis, Chemoresistance, Tumor recurrence, Prognosis, and Prediction. According to the reports, ncRNAs, comprising long ncRNAs, microRNAs, circular RNAs, and small nucleolar RNAs can affect cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and metastasis, as well as cell death-related processes, such as autophagy, ferroptosis, necroptosis, and apoptosis in HCC by regulating cancer-associated genes and signaling pathways, for example, phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Akt, extracellular signal-regulated kinase/MAPK, and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways. It seems that ncRNAs, as epigenetic regulators, can be utilized as biomarkers in diagnosis, prognosis, survival and recurrence rates prediction, chemoresistance, and evaluation of therapeutic response in HCC patients. However, more scientific evidence is suggested to be accomplished to confirm these results.

Inhibition of ferroptosis: A new direction in the treatment of ulcerative colitis by traditional Chinese medicine

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic idiopathic intestinal disease of unknown cause and has been classified as one of the modern intractable diseases by the World Health Organization (WHO). Ferroptosis, as an iron-ion-dependent mode of programmed cell death, is closely related to iron metabolism, lipid peroxidation, and imbalance of the antioxidant system, and plays an important role in the development of UC. In this paper, we will review the regulatory pathways of ferroptosis, the relationship between ferroptosis and the pathogenesis of UC, and the treatment of UC by TCM from the perspective of ferroptosis inhibition, and summarize the mechanism of action of the active ingredients of TCM and TCM compounds to improve UC through ferroptosis inhibition, and look forward to the prospect of the application of ferroptosis inhibition by TCM in the treatment of UC.

AIM OF THIS REVIEW

This paper aims to elucidate the mechanism of action of TCM active ingredients and TCM combinations in the treatment of UC by inhibiting ferroptosis. The active ingredients of TCM have the significant advantages of multi-targets and multi-pathways, and ferroptosis is the current research hotspot in the prevention and treatment of UC, so the inhibition of ferroptosis by TCM is a key direction for future research.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The keywords "ferroptosis", "ulcerative colitis" and "TCM" were searched in Pubmed, CNKI, and Wed of Science databases. Papers related to clinical trials and pharmacological research up to August 2023 were screened for inclusion. Combined with the theory of TCM, we systematically summarized the effects of TCM active ingredients and TCM combinations in inhibiting ferroptosis and thus preventing UC.

RESULTS

A large number of studies have shown that TCM active ingredients and TCM combinations inhibit the inflammatory response and oxidative stress in the course of UC mainly by interfering with iron metabolism, correcting lipid metabolism and peroxidative accumulation, and regulating the processes of glutathione (GSH) and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), to improve colonic mucosal damage and promote the repair of colonic mucosal tissue.

CONCLUSION

Since the study of ferroptosis in UC is still in the exploratory stage, many issues still deserve attention in the future. This paper reviews the mechanism of ferroptosis inhibition by TCM active ingredients and TCM combinations to prevent and treat UC. In the future, we should also further increase the number of clinical experimental studies to explore whether more TCM medicines can play a therapeutic role in UC by inhibiting ferroptosis, and explore more pathways and genes targeting the inhibition of ferroptosis, to seek more TCM therapies for UC. We believe that the use of TCM active ingredients and TCM combinations to regulate ferroptosis is an important direction for future UC prevention and treatment.

Effects of quercetin on the DNA methylation pattern in tumor therapy: an updated review

Quercetin is a unique bioactive flavonoid, and is an excellent antioxidant and has anti-tumor effects by regulating different tumor-related processes like proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and spread. The latest investigations reveal that quercetin may have the capability to influence DNA methylation modification, one of the primary factors in the development of tumors. Despite the fact that quercetin has significant therapeutic properties, its use as an anti-tumor medicine is constrained by its poor solubility, short half-life, and ineffective tumor targeting. Here, we review the structure and properties of quercetin, its capacity for DNA methylation modification in tumors, and the possibility of nanoscale delivery of quercetin for future tumor treatment.

Icariin inhibits chondrocyte ferroptosis and alleviates osteoarthritis by enhancing the SLC7A11/GPX4 signaling

BACKGROUND

Chondrocyte ferroptosis plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA), regulated by the SLC7A11/GPX4 signaling pathway. Icariin (ICA), a flavonoid glycoside, exhibits strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. This study investigated whether ICA could modulate the SLC7A11/GPX4 signaling to inhibit chondrocyte ferroptosis and alleviate OA.

PURPOSE

The objective was to explore the impact of ICA on chondrocyte ferroptosis in OA and its modulation of the SLC7A11/GPX4 signaling pathway.

METHODS

The anti-ferroptosis effects of ICA were evaluated in an interleukin-1β (IL-1β)-treated SW1353 cell model, using Ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1) and Erastin (Era) as ferroptosis inhibitor and inducer, respectively, along with GPX4 knockdown via lentivirus-based shRNA. Additionally, the therapeutic efficacy of ICA on OA-related articular cartilage damage was assessed in rats through histopathology and immunohistochemistry (IHC).

RESULTS

IL-1β treatment upregulated the expression of OA-associated matrix metalloproteinases (MMP3 and MMP1), a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS-5), and increased intracellular ROS, lipid ROS, and MDA levels while downregulating collagen II and SOX9 expression in SW1353 cells. ICA treatment countered the IL-1β-induced upregulation of MMPs and ADAMTS-5, restored collagen II and SOX9 expression, and reduced intracellular ROS, lipid ROS, and MDA levels. Furthermore, IL-1β upregulated P53 but downregulated SLC7A11 and GPX4 expression in SW1353 cells, effects that were mitigated by ICA or Fer-1 treatment. Significantly, ICA also alleviated Era-induced ferroptosis, whereas it had no effect on GPX4-silenced SW1353 cells. In vivo, ICA treatment reduced articular cartilage damage in OA rats by partially restoring collagen II and GPX4 expression, inhibiting cartilage extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation and chondrocyte ferroptosis.

CONCLUSION

ICA treatment mitigated chondrocyte ferroptosis and articular cartilage damage by enhancing the SLC7A11/GPX4 signaling, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent for OA interventions.

Long noncoding RNA UNC5B-AS1 suppresses cell proliferation by sponging miR-24-3p in glioblastoma multiforme

BACKGROUND

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common primary CNS tumor, characterized by high mortality and heterogeneity. However, the related lncRNA signatures and their target microRNA (miRNA) for GBM are still mostly unknown. Therefore, it is critical that we discover lncRNA markers in GBM and their biological activities.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

GBM-related RNA-seq data were obtained from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. The "edger" R package was used for differently expressed lncRNAs (DELs) identification. Then, we forecasted prospective miRNAs that might bind to lncRNAs by Cytoscape software. Survival analysis of those miRNAs was examined by the starBase database, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis of the miRNAs' target genes was conducted by the Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) database and R software. Moreover, the proliferative ability of unc-5 netrin receptor B antisense RNA 1 (UNC5B-AS1) cells was evaluated by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) analysis. Mechanistically, the regulatory interaction between UNC5B-AS1 and miRNA in GBM biological processes was studied using CCK-8 analysis.

RESULTS

Our results indicated that overexpression of UNC5B-AS1 has been shown to suppress GBM cell growth. Mechanistically, miR-24-3p in GBM was able to alleviate the anti-oncogenic effects of UNC5B-AS1 on cell proliferation.

CONCLUSION

The discovery of the novel UNC5B-AS1-miR-24-3p network suggests possible lncRNA and miRNA roles in the development of GBM, which may have significant ramifications for the analysis of clinical prognosis and the development of GBM medications.

The roles of ferroptosis in cancer: Tumor suppression, tumor microenvironment, and therapeutic interventions

In cancer treatment, the recurrent challenge of inducing apoptosis through conventional therapeutic modalities, often thwarted by therapy resistance, emphasizes the critical need to explore alternative cell death pathways. Ferroptosis, an iron-dependent form of regulated cell death triggered by the lethal accumulation of lipid peroxides on cellular membranes, has emerged as one such promising frontier in oncology. Induction of ferroptosis not only suppresses tumor growth but also holds potential for augmenting immunotherapy responses and surmounting resistance to existing cancer therapies. This review navigates the role of ferroptosis in tumor suppression. Furthermore, we delve into the complex role of ferroptosis within the tumor microenvironment and its interplay with antitumor immunity, offering insights into the prospect of targeting ferroptosis as a strategic approach in cancer therapy.

Relationship of mTORC1 and ferroptosis in tumors

Ferroptosis is a novel form of programmed death, dependent on iron ions and oxidative stress, with a predominant intracellular form of lipid peroxidation. In recent years, ferroptosis has gained more and more interest of people in the treatment mechanism of targeted tumors. mTOR, always overexpressed in the tumor, and controlling cell growth and metabolic activities, has an important role in both autophagy and ferroptosis. Interestingly, the selective types of autophay plays an important role in promoting ferroptosis, which is related to mTOR and some metabolic pathways (especially in iron and amino acids). In this paper, we list the main mechanisms linking ferroptosis with mTOR signaling pathway and further summarize the current compounds targeting ferroptosis in these ways. There are growing experimental evidences that targeting mTOR and ferroptosis may have effective impact in many tumors, and understanding the mechanisms linking mTOR to ferroptosis could provide a potential therapeutic approach for tumor treatment.

PHLDA2-mediated phosphatidic acid peroxidation triggers a distinct ferroptotic response during tumor suppression

Although the role of ferroptosis in killing tumor cells is well established, recent studies indicate that ferroptosis inducers also sabotage anti-tumor immunity by killing neutrophils and thus unexpectedly stimulate tumor growth, raising a serious issue about whether ferroptosis effectively suppresses tumor development in vivo. Through genome-wide CRISPR-Cas9 screenings, we discover a pleckstrin homology-like domain family A member 2 (PHLDA2)-mediated ferroptosis pathway that is neither ACSL4-dependent nor requires common ferroptosis inducers. PHLDA2-mediated ferroptosis acts through the peroxidation of phosphatidic acid (PA) upon high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS-induced ferroptosis is critical for tumor growth in the absence of common ferroptosis inducers; strikingly, loss of PHLDA2 abrogates ROS-induced ferroptosis and promotes tumor growth but has no obvious effect in normal tissues in both immunodeficient and immunocompetent mouse tumor models. These data demonstrate that PHLDA2-mediated PA peroxidation triggers a distinct ferroptosis response critical for tumor suppression and reveal that PHLDA2-mediated ferroptosis occurs naturally in vivo without any treatment from ferroptosis inducers.

Lipoxygenases at the Intersection of Infection and Carcinogenesis

The persisting presence of opportunistic pathogens like Pseudomonas aeruginosa poses a significant threat to many immunocompromised cancer patients with pulmonary infections. This review highlights the complexity of interactions in the host's defensive eicosanoid signaling network and its hijacking by pathogenic bacteria to their own advantage. Human lipoxygenases (ALOXs) and their mouse counterparts are integral elements of the innate immune system, mostly operating in the pro-inflammatory mode. Taking into account the indispensable role of inflammation in carcinogenesis, lipoxygenases have counteracting roles in this process. In addition to describing the structure-function of lipoxygenases in this review, we discuss their roles in such critical processes as cancer cell signaling, metastases, death of cancer and immune cells through ferroptosis, as well as the roles of ALOXs in carcinogenesis promoted by pathogenic infections. Finally, we discuss perspectives of novel oncotherapeutic approaches to harness lipoxygenase signaling in tumors.

The positive feedback loop of the NAT10/Mybbp1a/p53 axis promotes cardiomyocyte ferroptosis to exacerbate cardiac I/R injury

Ferroptosis is a nonapoptotic form of regulated cell death that has been reported to play a central role in cardiac ischemia‒reperfusion (I/R) injury. N-acetyltransferase 10 (NAT10) contributes to cardiomyocyte apoptosis by functioning as an RNA ac4c acetyltransferase, but its role in cardiomyocyte ferroptosis during I/R injury has not been determined. This study aimed to elucidate the role of NAT10 in cardiac ferroptosis as well as the underlying mechanism. The mRNA and protein levels of NAT10 were increased in mouse hearts after I/R and in cardiomyocytes that were exposed to hypoxia/reoxygenation. P53 acted as an endogenous activator of NAT10 during I/R in a transcription-dependent manner. Cardiac overexpression of NAT10 caused cardiomyocyte ferroptosis to exacerbate I/R injury, while cardiomyocyte-specific knockout of NAT10 or pharmacological inhibition of NAT10 with Remodelin had the opposite effects. The inhibition of cardiomyocyte ferroptosis by Fer-1 exerted superior cardioprotective effects against the NAT10-induced exacerbation of post-I/R cardiac damage than the inhibition of apoptosis by emricasan. Mechanistically, NAT10 induced the ac4C modification of Mybbp1a, increasing its stability, which in turn activated p53 and subsequently repressed the transcription of the anti-ferroptotic gene SLC7A11. Moreover, knockdown of Mybbp1a partially abolished the detrimental effects of NAT10 overexpression on cardiomyocyte ferroptosis and cardiac I/R injury. Collectively, our study revealed that p53 and NAT10 interdependently cooperate to form a positive feedback loop that promotes cardiomyocyte ferroptosis to exacerbate cardiac I/R injury, suggesting that targeting the NAT10/Mybbp1a/p53 axis may be a novel approach for treating cardiac I/R.

GPX4, ferroptosis, and diseases

GPX4 (Glutathione peroxidase 4) serves as a crucial intracellular regulatory factor, participating in various physiological processes and playing a significant role in maintaining the redox homeostasis within the body. Ferroptosis, a form of iron-dependent non-apoptotic cell death, has gained considerable attention in recent years due to its involvement in multiple pathological processes. GPX4 is closely associated with ferroptosis and functions as the primary inhibitor of this process. Together, GPX4 and ferroptosis contribute to the pathophysiology of several diseases, including sepsis, nervous system diseases, ischemia reperfusion injury, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. This review comprehensively explores the regulatory roles and impacts of GPX4 and ferroptosis in the development and progression of these diseases, with the aim of providing insights for identifying potential therapeutic strategies in the future.

SBFI26 induces triple-negative breast cancer cells ferroptosis via lipid peroxidation

SBFI26, an inhibitor of FABP5, has been shown to suppress the proliferation and metastasis of tumour cells. However, the underlying mechanism by which SBFI26 induces ferroptosis in breast cancer cells remains largely unknown. Three breast cancer cell lines were treated with SBFI26 and CCK-8 assessed cytotoxicity. Transcriptome was performed on the Illumina platform and verified by qPCR. Western blot evaluated protein levels. Malondialdehyde (MDA), total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), Fe, glutathione (GSH) and oxidized glutathione (GSSG) were measured. SBFI26 induced cell death time- and dose-dependent, with a more significant inhibitory effect on MDA-MB-231 cells. Fer-1, GSH and Vitamin C attenuated the effects but not erastin. RNA-Seq analysis revealed that SBFI26 treatment significantly enriched differentially expressed genes related to ferroptosis. Furthermore, SBFI26 increased intracellular MDA, iron ion, and GSSG levels while decreasing T-SOD, total glutathione (T-GSH), and GSH levels.SBFI26 dose-dependently up-regulates the expression of HMOX1 and ALOX12 at both gene and protein levels, promoting ferroptosis. Similarly, it significantly increases the expression of SAT1, ALOX5, ALOX15, ALOXE3 and CHAC1 that, promoting ferroptosis while downregulating the NFE2L2 gene and protein that inhibit ferroptosis. SBFI26 leads to cellular accumulation of fatty acids, which triggers excess ferrous ions and subsequent lipid peroxidation for inducing ferroptosis.

Ferritinophagy: A new idea for liver diseases regulated by ferroptosis

BACKGROUND

The discovery of regulatory cell death has led to a breakthrough in the therapeutic field. Various forms of cell death, such as necrosis, apoptosis, pyroptosis, autophagy, and ferroptosis, play an important role in the development of liver diseases. In general, more than one form of cell death pathways is responsible for the disease state. Therefore, it is particularly important to study the regulation and interaction of various cell death forms in liver diseases.

DATA SOURCES

We performed a PubMed search up to November 2022 with the following keywords: ferritinophagy, ferroptosis, and liver disease. We also used terms such as signal path, inducer, and inhibitor to supplement the query results.

RESULTS

This review summarized the basic characteristics of ferritinophagy and ferroptosis and the regulation of ferroptosis by ferritinophagy and reviewed the key targets and treatment strategies of ferroptosis in different liver diseases.

CONCLUSIONS

Ferritinophagy is a potential therapeutic target in ferroptosis-related liver diseases.

Icaritin activates p53 and inhibits aerobic glycolysis in liver cancer cells

Metabolic reprogramming enables cancer cells to generate energy mainly through aerobic glycolysis, which is achieved by increasing the expression levels of glycolysis-related enzymes. Therefore, the development of drugs targeting aerobic glycolysis could be an effective strategy for cancer treatment. Icaritin (ICT) is an active ingredient from the Chinese herbal plant Epimedium with several biological activities, but its anti-cancer mechanism remains inconclusive. Using normal hepatocytes and hepatoma cells, our results showed that ICT suppressed cell proliferation and clonal formation and decreased glucose consumption and lactate production in liver cancer cells. In consistent, the mRNA and protein levels of several aerobic glycolysis-related genes were decreased upon ICT treatment. Furthermore, our results demonstrated that the expression levels of the aerobic glycolysis-related proteins were correlated with the p53 status in hepatoma cells. Using PFT-α or siRNA-p53, our results confirmed that ICT regulated aerobic glycolysis in a p53-dependent manner. In addition, ICT was found to stabilize p53 at the post-translational level which might be mediated by inhibiting MDM2 expression and affecting its interaction with p53. Finally, our results demonstrated that ICT increased the levels of ROS that activated p53 via the p38 MAPK pathway. In conclusion, ICT increased intracellular ROS levels in liver cancer cells, which promoted the stabilization and activation of p53, inhibiting the expression of aerobic glycolysis-related genes and glycolysis, and ultimately leading to the suppression of liver cancer development.

Roles of reactive oxygen species in inflammation and cancer

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) constitute a spectrum of oxygenic metabolites crucial in modulating pathological organism functions. Disruptions in ROS equilibrium span various diseases, and current insights suggest a dual role for ROS in tumorigenesis and the immune response within cancer. This review rigorously examines ROS production and its role in normal cells, elucidating the subsequent regulatory network in inflammation and cancer. Comprehensive synthesis details the documented impacts of ROS on diverse immune cells. Exploring the intricate relationship between ROS and cancer immunity, we highlight its influence on existing immunotherapies, including immune checkpoint blockade, chimeric antigen receptors, and cancer vaccines. Additionally, we underscore the promising prospects of utilizing ROS and targeting ROS modulators as novel immunotherapeutic interventions for cancer. This review discusses the complex interplay between ROS, inflammation, and tumorigenesis, emphasizing the multifaceted functions of ROS in both physiological and pathological conditions. It also underscores the potential implications of ROS in cancer immunotherapy and suggests future research directions, including the development of targeted therapies and precision oncology approaches. In summary, this review emphasizes the significance of understanding ROS-mediated mechanisms for advancing cancer therapy and developing personalized treatments.

Robotic Actuation-Mediated Quantitative Mechanogenetics for Noninvasive and On-Demand Cancer Therapy

Cell mechanotransduction signals are important targets for physical therapy. However, current physiotherapy heavily relies on ultrasound, which is generated by high-power equipment or amplified by auxiliary drugs, potentially causing undesired side effects. To address current limitations, a robotic actuation-mediated therapy is developed that utilizes gentle mechanical loads to activate mechanosensitive ion channels. The resulting calcium influx precisely regulated the expression of recombinant tumor suppressor protein and death-associated protein kinase, leading to programmed apoptosis of cancer cell line through caspase-dependent pathway. In stark contrast to traditional gene therapy, the complete elimination of early- and middle-stage tumors (volume ≤ 100 mm3) and significant growth inhibition of late-stage tumor (500 mm3) are realized in tumor-bearing mice by transfecting mechanogenetic circuits and treating daily with quantitative robotic actuation in a form of 5 min treatment over the course of 14 days. Thus, this massage-derived therapy represents a quantitative strategy for cancer treatment.

[Role of Ferroptosis in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer and Progress of Traditional Chinese Medicine Intervention]

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is one of the malignant tumors with high morbidity and mortality worldwide. Ferroptosis is a new type of programmed cell death caused by abnormal accumulation of iron-dependent reactive oxygen species (ROS) leading to lipid peroxidation. It involves the balance between iron metabolism, lipid metabolism, oxygen free radical reaction and lipid peroxidation. Recent studies have found that ferroptosis is closely related to the occurrence and development of NSCLC. Due to the emergence of chemotherapy resistance and radiotherapy resistance in the treatment of NSCLC, there is an urgent need to develop new effective drugs and treatment strategies. Traditional Chinese medicine has unique advantages in the prevention and treatment of NSCLC due to its multi-targets and minimal side effects. In this review, we summarize the mechanism of ferroptosis in NSCLC, and discuss the research status of active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine, single-herb traditional Chinese medicine and Chinese herbal compounds in the intervention of NSCLC through ferroptosis, in order to provide a new theoretical basis for the research of ferroptosis pathway and the prevention and treatment of NSCLC by targeted ferroptosis of traditional Chinese medicine.
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Oncolytic Newcastle disease virus induced degradation of YAP through E3 ubiquitin ligase PRKN to exacerbate ferroptosis in tumor cells

Ferroptosis, a form of programmed cell death characterized by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation, has recently gained considerable attention in the field of cancer therapy. There is significant crosstalk between ferroptosis and several classical signaling pathways, such as the Hippo pathway, which suppresses abnormal growth and is frequently aberrant in tumor tissues. Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP), the core effector molecule of the Hippo pathway, is abnormally expressed and activated in a variety of malignant tumor tissues. We previously proved that the oncolytic Newcastle disease virus (NDV) activated ferroptosis to kill tumor cells. NDV has been used in tumor therapy; however, its oncolytic mechanism is not completely understood. In this study, we demonstrated that NDV exacerbated ferroptosis in tumor cells by inducing ubiquitin-mediated degradation of YAP at Lys90 through E3 ubiquitin ligase parkin (PRKN). Blocking YAP degradation suppressed NDV-induced ferroptosis by suppressing the expression of Zrt/Irt-like protein 14 (ZIP14), a metal ion transporter that regulates iron uptake. These findings demonstrate that NDV exacerbated ferroptosis in tumor cells by inducing YAP degradation. Our study provides new insights into the mechanism of NDV-induced ferroptosis and highlights the critical role that oncolytic viruses play in the treatment of drug-resistant cancers.IMPORTANCEThe oncolytic Newcastle disease virus (NDV) is being developed for use in cancer treatment; however, its oncolytic mechanism is still not completely understood. The Hippo pathway, which is a tumor suppressor pathway, is frequently dysregulated in tumor tissues due to aberrant yes-associated protein 1 (YAP) activation. In this study, we have demonstrated that NDV degrades YAP to induce ferroptosis and promote virus replication in tumor cells. Notably, NDV was found to induce ubiquitin-mediated degradation of YAP at Lys90 through E3 ubiquitin ligase parkin (PRKN). Our study reveals a new mechanism by which NDV induces ferroptosis and provides new insights into NDV as an oncolytic agent for cancer treatment.

MaiJiTong granule attenuates atherosclerosis by reducing ferroptosis via activating STAT6-mediated inhibition of DMT1 and SOCS1/p53 pathways in LDLR-/- mice

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Atherosclerosis is the primary pathological basis of cardiovascular disease. Ferroptosis is a regulated form of cell death, a process of lipid peroxidation driven by iron, which can initiate and promote atherosclerosis. STAT6 is a signal transducer that shows a potential role in regulating ferroptosis, but, the exact role in ferroptosis during atherogenesis remains unclear. The Traditional Chinese Medicine Maijitong granule (MJT) is used for treating cardiovascular disease and shows a potential inhibitory effect on ferroptosis. However, the antiatherogenic effect and the underlying mechanism remain unclear. In this study, we determined the role of STAT6 in ferroptosis during atherogenesis, investigated the antiatherogenic effect of MJT, and determined whether its antiatherogenic effect was dependent on the inhibition of ferroptosis.

METHODS

8-week-old male LDLR-/- mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) at 1st and 10th week, respectively, to assess the preventive and therapeutic effects of MJT on atherosclerosis and ferroptosis. Simultaneously, the anti-ferroptotic effects and mechanism of MJT were determined by evaluating the expression of genes responsible for lipid peroxidation and iron metabolism. Subsequently, we reanalyzed microarray data in the GSE28117 obtained from cells after STAT6 knockdown or overexpression and analyzed the correlation between STAT6 and ferroptosis. Finally, the STAT6-/- mice were fed HFD and injected with AAV-PCSK9 to validate the role of STAT6 in ferroptosis during atherogenesis and revealed the antiatherogenic and anti-ferroptotic effect of MJT.

RESULTS

MJT attenuated atherosclerosis by reducing plaque lesion area and enhancing plaque stability in both preventive and therapeutic groups. MJT reduced inflammation via suppressing inflammatory cytokines and inhibited foam cell formation by lowering the LDL level and promoting ABCA1/G1-mediated lipid efflux. MJT ameliorated the ferroptosis by reducing lipid peroxidation and iron dysregulation during atherogenesis. Mechanistically, STAT6 negatively regulated ferroptosis by transcriptionally suppressing SOCS1/p53 and DMT1 pathways. MJT suppressed the DMT1 and SOCS1/p53 via stimulating STAT6 phosphorylation. In addition, STAT6 knockout exacerbated atherosclerosis and ferroptosis, which abolished the antiatherogenic and anti-ferroptotic effects of MJT.

CONCLUSION

STAT6 acts as a negative regulator of ferroptosis and atherosclerosis via transcriptionally suppressing DMT1 and SOCS1 expression and MJT attenuates atherosclerosis and ferroptosis by activating the STAT6-mediated inhibition of DMT1 and SOCS1/p53 pathways, which indicated that STAT6 acts a novel promising therapeutic target to ameliorate atherosclerosis by inhibiting ferroptosis and MJT can serve as a new therapy for atherosclerosis treatment.

Sustained activation of NF-κB through constitutively active IKKβ leads to senescence bypass in murine dermal fibroblasts

Although the transcription factor nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) plays a central role in the regulation of senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) acquisition, our understanding of the involvement of NF-κB in the induction of cellular senescence is limited. Here, we show that activation of the canonical NF-κB pathway suppresses senescence in murine dermal fibroblasts. IκB kinase β (IKKβ)-depleted dermal fibroblasts showed ineffective NF-κB activation and underwent senescence more rapidly than control cells when cultured under 20% oxygen conditions, as indicated by senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) staining and p16INK4a mRNA levels. Conversely, the expression of constitutively active IKKβ (IKKβ-CA) was sufficient to drive senescence bypass. Notably, the expression of a degradation-resistant form of inhibitor of κB (IκB), which inhibits NF-κB nuclear translocation, abolished senescence bypass, suggesting that the inhibitory effect of IKKβ-CA on senescence is largely mediated by NF-κB. We also found that IKKβ-CA expression suppressed the derepression of INK4/Arf genes and counteracted the senescence-associated loss of Ezh2, a catalytic subunit of the Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2). Moreover, pharmacological inhibition of Ezh2 abolished IKKβ-CA-induced senescence bypass. We propose that NF-κB plays a suppressive role in the induction of stress-induced senescence through sustaining Ezh2 expression.

Dysregulation and antimetastatic function of circLRIG1 modulated by miR-214-3p/LRIG1 axis in bladder carcinoma

CircLRIG1, a newly discovered circRNA, has yet to have its potential function and biological processes reported. This study explored the role of circLRIG1 in the development and progression of bladder carcinoma and its potential molecular mechanisms. Techniques such as qRT-PCR, Western blot, various cellular assays, and in vivo models were used to investigate mRNA and protein levels, cell behavior, molecular interactions, and tumor growth. The results showed that both circLRIG1 and LRIG1 were significantly reduced in bladder carcinoma tissues and cell lines. Low circLRIG1 expression was associated with poor patient prognosis. Overexpressing circLRIG1 inhibited bladder carcinoma cell growth, migration, and invasion, promoted apoptosis, and decreased tumor growth and metastasis in vivo. Importantly, circLRIG1 was found to sponge miR-214-3p, enhancing LRIG1 expression, and its overexpression also modulated protein levels of E-cadherin, N-cadherin, Vimentin, and LRIG1. Similar effects were observed with LRIG1 overexpression. Notably, a positive correlation was found between circLRIG1 and LRIG1 expression in bladder carcinoma tissues. Additionally, the tumor-suppressing effect of circLRIG1 was reversed by overexpressing miR-214-3p or silencing LRIG1. The study concludes that circLRIG1 suppresses bladder carcinoma progression by enhancing LRIG1 expression via sponging miR-214-3p, providing a potential strategy for early diagnosis and treatment of bladder carcinoma.

Evidence of Cross-Kingdom Gene Regulation by Plant MicroRNAs and Possible Reasons for Inconsistencies

The debate on whether cross-kingdom gene regulation by orally acquired plant miRNAs is possible has been ongoing for nearly 10 years without a conclusive answer. In this study, we categorized plant miRNAs into different groups, namely, extracellular vesicle (EV)-borne plant miRNAs, extracted plant miRNAs, herbal decoction-borne plant miRNAs, synthetic plant miRNA mimics, and plant tissue/juice-borne plant miRNAs. This categorization aimed to simplify the analysis and address the question more specifically. Our evidence suggests that EV-borne plant miRNAs, extracted plant miRNAs, herbal decoction-borne plant miRNAs, and synthetic plant miRNA mimics consistently facilitate cross-kingdom gene regulation. However, the results regarding the cross-kingdom gene regulation by plant tissue- and juice-borne plant miRNAs are inconclusive. This inconsistency may be due to variations in study methods, a low absorption rate of miRNAs and the selective absorption of plant miRNAs in the gastrointestinal tract. Overall, it is deduced that cross-kingdom gene regulation by orally acquired plant miRNAs can occur under certain circumstances, depending on factors such as the types of plant miRNAs, the delivery mechanism, and their concentrations in the plant.

Echinatin mitigates sevoflurane-induced neurotoxicity through regulation of ferroptosis and iron homeostasis

Surgery and anesthesia are vital medical interventions, but concerns over their potential cognitive side effects, particularly with the use of inhalational anesthetics like sevoflurane, have surfaced. This study delves into the neuroprotective potential of Echinatin against sevoflurane-induced neurotoxicity and the underlying mechanisms. Echinatin, a natural compound, has exhibited anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. Sevoflurane, while a popular anesthetic, is associated with perioperative neurocognitive disorders (PND) and neurotoxicity. Our investigation began with cellular models, where Echinatin demonstrated a significant reduction in sevoflurane-induced apoptosis. Mechanistically, we identified ferroptosis, a novel form of programmed cell death characterized by iron accumulation and lipid peroxidation, as a key player in sevoflurane-induced neuronal injury. Echinatin notably suppressed ferroptosis in sevoflurane-exposed cells, suggesting a pivotal role in neuroprotection. Expanding our research to a murine model, we observed perturbations in iron homeostasis, inflammatory cytokines, and antioxidants due to sevoflurane exposure. Echinatin treatment effectively restored iron balance, mitigated inflammation, and preserved antioxidant levels in vivo. Behavioral assessments using the Morris water maze further confirmed Echinatin's neuroprotective potential, as it ameliorated sevoflurane-induced spatial learning and memory impairments. In conclusion, our study unveils Echinatin as a promising candidate for mitigating sevoflurane-induced neurotoxicity. Through the regulation of ferroptosis, iron homeostasis, and inflammation, Echinatin demonstrates significant neuroprotection both in vitro and in vivo. These findings illuminate the potential for Echinatin to enhance the safety of surgical procedures involving sevoflurane anesthesia, minimizing the risk of cognitive deficits and neurotoxicity.

PANoptosis-related genes function as efficient prognostic biomarkers in colon adenocarcinoma

Background

PANoptosis is a newly discovered cell death type, and tightly associated with immune system activities. To date, the mechanism, regulation and application of PANoptosis in tumor is largely unknown. Our aim is to explore the prognostic value of PANoptosis-related genes in colon adenocarcinoma (COAD).

Methods

Analyzing data from The Cancer Genome Atlas-COAD (TCGA-COAD) involving 458 COAD cases, we concentrated on five PANoptosis pathways from the Molecular Signatures Database (MSigDB) and a comprehensive set of immune-related genes. Our approach involved identifying distinct genetic COAD subtype clusters and developing a prognostic model based on these parameters.

Results

The research successfully identified two genetic subtype clusters in COAD, marked by distinct profiles in PANoptosis pathways and immune-related gene expression. A prognostic model, incorporating these findings, demonstrated significant predictive power for survival outcomes, underscoring the interplay between PANoptosis and immune responses in COAD.

Conclusion

This study enhances our understanding of COAD's genetic framework, emphasizing the synergy between cell death pathways and the immune system. The development of a prognostic model based on these insights offers a promising tool for personalized treatment strategies. Future research should focus on validating and refining this model in clinical settings to optimize therapeutic interventions in COAD.

Immunotherapy Study on Non-small-Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) Combined with Cytotoxic T Cells and miRNA34a

Immunotherapy has emerged as a promising approach for cancer treatment, and the use of microRNAs (miRNAs) as therapeutic agents has gained significant attention. In this study, we investigated the effectiveness of immunotherapy utilizing miRNA34a and Jurkat T cells in inducing cell death in non-small-cell lung cancer cells, specifically A549 cells. Moreover, we explored the impact of Jurkat T cell activation and miRNA34a delivery using iron oxide nanorods (IONRs) on the killing of cancer cells. A549 cells were cocultured with both activated and inactivated Jurkat T cells, both before and after the delivery of miRNA34a. Surprisingly, our results revealed that even inactive Jurkat T cells were capable of inducing cell death in cancer cells. This unexpected observation suggested the presence of alternative mechanisms by which Jurkat T cells can exert cytotoxic effects on cancer cells. We stimulated Jurkat T cells using anti-CD3/CD28 and analyzed their efficacy in killing A549 compared to that of the inactive Jurkat T cells in conjunction with miRNA34a. Our findings indicated that the activation of Jurkat T cells significantly enhanced their cytotoxic potential against cancer cells compared to their inactive counterparts. The combined treatment of A549 cells with activated Jurkat T cells and miRNA34a demonstrated the highest level of cancer cell death, suggesting a synergistic effect between Jurkat T cell activation and miRNA therapy. Besides the apoptosis mechanism for the Jurkat T cells' cytotoxic effects on A549 cells, we furthermore investigated the ferroptosis pathway, which was found to have an impact on the cancer cell killing due to the presence of miRNA34a and IONRs as the delivery agent inside the cancer cells.

Insights into the mechanism of transcription factors in Pb2+-induced apoptosis

The health risks associated with exposure to heavy metals, such as Pb2+, are increasingly concerning the public. Pb2+ can cause significant harm to the human body through oxidative stress, autophagy, inflammation, and DNA damage, disrupting cellular homeostasis and ultimately leading to cell death. Among these mechanisms, apoptosis is considered crucial. It has been confirmed that transcription factors play a central role as mediators during the apoptosis process. Interestingly, these transcription factors have different effects on apoptosis depending on the concentration and duration of Pb2+ exposure. In this article, we systematically summarize the significant roles of several transcription factors in Pb2+-induced apoptosis. This information provides insights into therapeutic strategies and prognostic biomarkers for diseases related to Pb2+ exposure.

RNAkines are secreted messengers shaping health and disease

Extracellular noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) have crucial roles in intercellular communications. The process of ncRNA secretion is highly regulated, with specific ncRNA profiles produced under different physiological and pathological circumstances. These ncRNAs are transported primarily via extracellular vesicles (EVs) from their origin cells to target cells, utilising both endocrine and paracrine pathways. The intercellular impacts of extracellular ncRNAs are essential for maintaining homeostasis and the pathogenesis of various diseases. Given the unique aspects of extracellular ncRNAs, here we propose the term 'RNAkine' to describe these recently identified secreted factors. We explore their roles as intercellular modulators, particularly in their ability to regulate metabolism and influence tumorigenesis, highlighting their definition and importance as a distinct class of secreted factors.

Allogeneic platelet-rich plasma inhibits ferroptosis in promoting wound repair of type 2 diabetic ulcers

Increasing evidence has revealed the emerging role of ferroptosis in the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its complications. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been demonstrated to facilitate the healing of T2DM ulcers. However, the mechanism by which PRP repairs T2DM ulcers remains unclear. Here, we sought to investigate the interaction between PRP and ferroptosis in repairing T2DM ulcers. The results showed that the cellular activity, proliferation, and migration of fibroblasts were down-regulated, and the cellular activity and normal function of vascular endothelial cells were impaired in the high glucose environment or under RSL3 conditions (a GSH peroxidase 4 inhibitor and ferroptosis inducer). Additionally, both cells experienced over-activation of multiple forms of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation. In the T2DM rat model, we observed a decreased rate of ulcer wound healing, impaired proliferative capacity, diminished vascular regeneration, and marked inflammation and hyperfibrosis. More importantly, there was typical damage to mitochondria, increased levels of iron ions, and consistent alterations in protein expression of ferroptosis-related factors. These factors include cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2), glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), transferrin receptor (TFRC), and Solute Carrier Family 7 Member 11 (SLC7A11), among others. Due to the strong association between ferroptosis and T2DM ulcers, the use of allogeneic platelet-rich plasma (Al-PRP) exhibited physiological effects similar to those of the ferroptosis inhibitor Ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1). In vivo experiments, both drugs inhibited a range of impediments to wound healing caused by T2DM and ameliorated the adverse effects associated with ferroptosis. Moreover, Al-PRP attenuated the impairment of normal cellular function, activation of ROS and lipid peroxidation induced by high glucose or RSL3. These results suggested that ferroptosis was involved in the development of T2DM ulcers, which could be treated with Al-PRP by inhibiting ferroptosis, and inhibition of ferroptosis may be a suitable treatment strategy for T2DM ulcers.

Ferroptosis: Potential opportunities for natural products in cancer therapy

Cancer cells often exhibit defects in the execution of cell death, resulting in poor clinical outcomes for patients with many cancer types. Ferroptosis is a newly discovered form of programmed cell death characterized by intracellular iron overload and lipid peroxidation in the cell membrane. Increasing evidence suggests that ferroptosis is closely associated with a wide variety of physiological and pathological processes, particularly in cancer. Notably, various bioactive natural products have been shown to induce the initiation and execution of ferroptosis in cancer cells, thereby exerting anticancer effects. In this review, we summarize the core regulatory mechanisms of ferroptosis and the multifaceted roles of ferroptosis in cancer. Importantly, we focus on natural products that regulate ferroptosis in cancer cells, such as terpenoids, polyphenols, alkaloids, steroids, quinones, and polysaccharides. The clinical efficacy, adverse effects, and drug-drug interactions of these natural products need to be evaluated in further high-quality studies to accelerate their application in cancer treatment.

Cell fate regulation governed by p53: Friends or reversible foes in cancer therapy

Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. Targeted therapies aimed at key oncogenic driver mutations in combination with chemotherapy and radiotherapy as well as immunotherapy have benefited cancer patients considerably. Tumor protein p53 (TP53), a crucial tumor suppressor gene encoding p53, regulates numerous downstream genes and cellular phenotypes in response to various stressors. The affected genes are involved in diverse processes, including cell cycle arrest, DNA repair, cellular senescence, metabolic homeostasis, apoptosis, and autophagy. However, accumulating recent studies have continued to reveal novel and unexpected functions of p53 in governing the fate of tumors, for example, functions in ferroptosis, immunity, the tumor microenvironment and microbiome metabolism. Among the possibilities, the evolutionary plasticity of p53 is the most controversial, partially due to the dizzying array of biological functions that have been attributed to different regulatory mechanisms of p53 signaling. Nearly 40 years after its discovery, this key tumor suppressor remains somewhat enigmatic. The intricate and diverse functions of p53 in regulating cell fate during cancer treatment are only the tip of the iceberg with respect to its equally complicated structural biology, which has been painstakingly revealed. Additionally, TP53 mutation is one of the most significant genetic alterations in cancer, contributing to rapid cancer cell growth and tumor progression. Here, we summarized recent advances that implicate altered p53 in modulating the response to various cancer therapies, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy. Furthermore, we also discussed potential strategies for targeting p53 as a therapeutic option for cancer.

DsRNA-based pesticides: Considerations for efficiency and risk assessment

In view of the ongoing climate change and the ever-growing world population, novel agricultural solutions are required to ensure sustainable food supply. Microbials, natural substances, semiochemicals and double stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) are all considered potential low risk pesticides. DsRNAs function at the molecular level, targeting specific regions of specific genes of specific organisms, provided that they share a minimal sequence complementarity of approximately 20 nucleotides. Thus, dsRNAs may offer a great alternative to conventional chemicals in environmentally friendly pest control strategies. Any low-risk pesticide needs to be efficient and exhibit low toxicological potential and low environmental persistence. Having said that, in the current review, the mode of dsRNA action is explored and the parameters that need to be taken into consideration for the development of efficient dsRNA-based pesticides are highlighted. Moreover, since dsRNAs mode of action differs from those of synthetic pesticides, custom-made risk assessment schemes may be required and thus, critical issues related to the risk assessment of dsRNA pesticides are discussed here.

TRIM59-mediated ferroptosis enhances neuroblastoma development and chemosensitivity through p53 ubiquitination and degradation

Neuroblastoma, predominantly afflicting young individuals, is characterized as an embryonal tumor, with poor prognosis primarily attributed to chemoresistance. This study delved into the impact of tripartite motif (TRIM) 59, an E3 ligase, on neuroblastoma development and chemosensitivity through mediating ferroptosis and the involvement of the tumor suppressor p53. Clinical samples were assessed for TRIM59 and p53 levels to explore their correlation with neuroblastoma differentiation. In neuroblastoma cells, modulation of TRIM59 expression, either through overexpression or knockdown, was coupled with doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX) or ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1) therapy. In vivo assessments examined the influence of TRIM59 knockdown on neuroblastoma chemosensitivity to DOX. Co-immunoprecipitation and ubiquitination assays investigated the association between TRIM59 and p53. Proliferation was gauged with Cell Counting Kit-8, lipid reactive oxygen species (ROS) were assessed via flow cytometry, and protein levels were determined by Western blotting. TRIM59 expression was inversely correlated with neuroblastoma differentiation and positively linked to cell proliferation in response to DOX. Moreover, TRIM59 impeded lipid ROS generation and ferroptosis by directly interacting with p53, promoting its ubiquitination and degradation in DOX-exposed neuroblastoma cells. Fer-1 countered the impact of TRIM59 knockdown on neuroblastoma, while TRIM59 knockdown enhanced the therapeutic efficacy of DOX in xenograph mice. This study underscores TRIM59 as an oncogene in neuroblastoma, fostering growth and chemoresistance by suppressing ferroptosis through p53 ubiquitination and degradation. TRIM59 emerges as a potential strategy for neuroblastoma therapy.

Ferroptosis and Pyroptosis in Epilepsy

Epilepsy is sudden, recurrent, and transient central nervous system dysfunction caused by abnormal discharge of neurons in the brain. Ferroptosis and pyroptosis are newly discovered ways of programmed cell death. One of the characteristics of ferroptosis is the oxidative stress generated by lipid peroxides. Similarly, pyroptosis has unique pro-inflammatory properties. As both oxidative stress and neuroinflammation are significant contributors to the pathogenesis of epilepsy, increasing evidence shows that ferroptosis and pyroptosis are closely related to epilepsy. This article reviews the current comprehension of ferroptosis and pyroptosis and elucidates potential mechanisms by which ferroptosis and pyroptosis may contribute to epilepsy. In addition, we also highlight the possible interactions between ferroptosis and pyroptosis because they reportedly coexist in many diseases, and increasing studies have demonstrated the convergence of pathways between the two. This is of great significance for explaining the occurrence and development of epilepsy and provides a new therapeutic perspective for the treatment of epilepsy.

PRMT-7/PRMT7 activates HLH-30/TFEB to guard plasma membrane integrity compromised by bacterial pore-forming toxins

Bacterial pore-forming toxins (PFTs) that disrupt host plasma membrane integrity (PMI) significantly contribute to the virulence of various pathogens. However, how host cells protect PMI in response to PFT perforation in vivo remains obscure. Previously, we demonstrated that the HLH-30/TFEB-dependent intrinsic cellular defense (INCED) is elicited by PFT to maintain PMI in Caenorhabditis elegans intestinal epithelium. Yet, the molecular mechanism for the full activation of HLH-30/TFEB by PFT remains elusive. Here, we reveal that PRMT-7 (protein arginine methyltransferase-7) is indispensable to the nuclear transactivation of HLH-30 elicited by PFTs. We demonstrate that PRMT-7 participates in the methylation of HLH-30 on its RAG complex binding domain to facilitate its nuclear localization and activation. Moreover, we showed that PRMT7 is evolutionarily conserved to regulate TFEB cellular localization and repair plasma damage caused by PFTs in human intestinal cells. Together, our observations not only unveil a novel PRMT-7/PRMT7-dependent post-translational regulation of HLH-30/TFEB but also shed insight on the evolutionarily conserved mechanism of the INCED against PFT in metazoans.

Delineating functional and molecular impact of ex vivo sample handling in precision medicine

Consistent handling of samples is crucial for achieving reproducible molecular and functional testing results in translational research. Here, we used 229 acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patient samples to assess the impact of sample handling on high-throughput functional drug testing, mass spectrometry-based proteomics, and flow cytometry. Our data revealed novel and previously described changes in cell phenotype and drug response dependent on sample biobanking. Specifically, myeloid cells with a CD117 (c-KIT) positive phenotype decreased after biobanking, potentially distorting cell population representations and affecting drugs targeting these cells. Additionally, highly granular AML cell numbers decreased after freezing. Secondly, protein expression levels, as well as sensitivity to drugs targeting cell proliferation, metabolism, tyrosine kinases (e.g., JAK, KIT, FLT3), and BH3 mimetics were notably affected by biobanking. Moreover, drug response profiles of paired fresh and frozen samples showed that freezing samples can lead to systematic errors in drug sensitivity scores. While a high correlation between fresh and frozen for the entire drug library was observed, freezing cells had a considerable impact at an individual level, which could influence outcomes in translational studies. Our study highlights conditions where standardization is needed to improve reproducibility, and where validation of data generated from biobanked cohorts may be particularly important.

n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids delay intervertebral disc degeneration by inhibiting nuclear receptor coactivator 4-mediated iron overload

n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are closely related to the progression of numerous chronic inflammatory diseases, but the role of n-3 PUFAs in the intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) remains unclear. In this study, male C57BL/6 wildtype mice (WT group, n = 30) and fat-1 transgenic mice (TG group, n = 30) were randomly selected to construct the IVDD model. The results demonstrated that the optimized composition of PUFAs in the TG mice had a significant impact on delaying IVDD and cellular senescence of intervertebral disc (IVD). Mechanismly, n-3 PUFAs inhibited IVD senescence by alleviating NCOA4-mediated iron overload. NCOA4 overexpression promoted iron overload and weakened the pro-proliferation and anti-senescence effect of DHA on the IVD cells. Furthermore, this study futher revealed n-3 PUFAs downregulated NCOA4 expression by inactiviting the LGR5/β-catenin signaling pathway. This study provides an important theoretical basis for preventing and treating IVDD and low back pain.

When CDK4/6i meets GPX4i: Stop dividing to die iron hard

In this issue of Cell Chemical Biology, Rodencal et al.1 report that cell-cycle arrest by p53 stabilizers or CDK4/6 inhibitors (CDK4/6i) can lead to phospholipid remodeling and hence sensitize cancer cells to GPX4 inhibitor (GPX4i)-triggered ferroptosis. This study suggests a novel cancer therapeutic strategy combining CDK4/6i with GPX4i.

Exploring beyond Common Cell Death Pathways in Oral Cancer: A Systematic Review

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most common and lethal type of head and neck cancer in the world. Variable response and acquisition of resistance to traditional therapies show that it is essential to develop novel strategies that can provide better outcomes for the patient. Understanding of cellular and molecular mechanisms of cell death control has increased rapidly in recent years. Activation of cell death pathways, such as the emerging forms of non-apoptotic programmed cell death, including ferroptosis, pyroptosis, necroptosis, NETosis, parthanatos, mitoptosis and paraptosis, may represent clinically relevant novel therapeutic opportunities. This systematic review summarizes the recently described forms of cell death in OSCC, highlighting their potential for informing diagnosis, prognosis and treatment. Original studies that explored any of the selected cell deaths in OSCC were included. Electronic search, study selection, data collection and risk of bias assessment tools were realized. The literature search was carried out in four databases, and the extracted data from 79 articles were categorized and grouped by type of cell death. Ferroptosis, pyroptosis, and necroptosis represented the main forms of cell death in the selected studies, with links to cancer immunity and inflammatory responses, progression and prognosis of OSCC. Harnessing the potential of these pathways may be useful in patient-specific prognosis and individualized therapy. We provide perspectives on how these different cell death types can be integrated to develop decision tools for diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of OSCC.

Ferroptosis: A Frontier in Osteoporosis

Reduced bone mass and degeneration of the microarchitecture of bone tissue are the hallmarks of osteoporosis, a bone metabolic disease that increases skeletal fragility and fracture susceptibility. Osteoporosis is primarily caused by unbalanced bone remodeling, in which bone synthesis is outpaced by bone resorption caused by osteoclasts. Along with the bone-building vitamins calcium and vitamin D, typical medications for treating osteoporosis include bisphosphonates and calcitonin. The present therapies effectively stop osteoclast activation that is too high, however they come with varying degrees of negative effects. Numerous factors can contribute to osteoporosis, which is characterized by a loss of bone mass and density due to the deterioration of the bone's microstructure, which makes the bone more fragile. As a result, it is a systemic bone condition that makes patients more likely to fracture. Interest in the function of ferroptosis in the pathophysiology of osteoporosis is developing. In this review, we go through the shape of the cell, the fundamental mechanisms of ferroptosis, the relationship between osteoclasts and osteoblasts, the association between ferroptosis and diabetic osteoporosis, steroid-induced osteoporosis, and the relationship between ferroptosis and postmenopausal osteoporosis. The functions of ferroptosis and osteoporosis in cellular function, signaling cascades, pharmacological inhibition, and gene silencing have been better understood thanks to recent advances in biomedical research.

Engineered a dual-targeting HA-TPP/A nanoparticle for combination therapy against KRAS-TP53 co-mutation in gastrointestinal cancers

KRAS-TP53 co-mutation is strongly associated with poor prognosis and high malignancy in gastrointestinal cancers. Therefore, a novel approach to oncotherapy may lie in combination therapy targeting both KRAS and TP53. Herein, we present a novel self-assembled nanoparticle (HA-TPP/A) that are functionalized nano-carrier hyaluronic acid (HA)-TPP conjugate (HA-TPP) to degrade mutant p53 proteins (mutp53) and co-deliver AMG510 for treating KRAS-TP53 co-alteration of gastrointestinal cancers by inhibiting the mutant KRAS and mutp53 signaling pathways. The HA-TPP/A nanoparticles led to ubiquitination-dependent proteasomal degradation of mutp53 by targeting damage to mitochondria. Furthermore, these nanoparticles abrogated the gain-of-function (GOF) phenotypes of mutp53 and increased sensitivity to AMG510-induced cell killing, thereby reducing cell proliferation and migration in gastrointestinal cancer with KRAS-TP53 co-mutation. The co-loaded HA-TPP/A nanoparticles demonstrated remarkable therapeutic efficacy in a tumor-bearing mouse model, particularly in KRAS-TP53 double mutant expressing cancer cells, compared with single drug and combined free drug groups. Notably, HA-TPP/A is the first reported nanoparticle with an ability to co-target KRAS-TP53, providing a promising approach for therapy in highly malignant gastrointestinal tumors and potentially expanding clinical indications for AMG510 targeted therapies in gastrointestinal tumors.

Exercise-induced Musclin determines the fate of fibro-adipogenic progenitors to control muscle homeostasis

The effects of exercise on fibro-adipogenic progenitors (FAPs) are unclear, and the direct molecular link is still unknown. In this study, we reveal that exercise reduces the frequency of FAPs and attenuates collagen deposition and adipose formation in injured or disused muscles through Musclin. Mechanistically, Musclin inhibits FAP proliferation and promotes apoptosis in FAPs by upregulating FILIP1L. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP)-qPCR confirms that FoxO3a is the transcription factor of FILIP1L. In addition, the Musclin/FILIP1L pathway facilitates the phagocytosis of apoptotic FAPs by macrophages through downregulating the expression of CD47. Genetic ablation of FILIP1L in FAPs abolishes the effects of exercise or Musclin on FAPs and the benefits on the reduction of fibrosis and fatty infiltration. Overall, exercise forms a microenvironment of myokines in muscle and prevents the abnormal accumulation of FAPs in a Musclin/FILIP1L-dependent manner. The administration of exogenous Musclin exerts a therapeutic effect, demonstrating a potential therapeutic approach for muscle atrophy or acute muscle injury.

Mechanistic Insights about Sorafenib-, Valproic Acid- and Metformin-Induced Cell Death in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is among the main causes of death by cancer worldwide, representing about 80-90% of all liver cancers. Treatments available for advanced HCC include atezolizumab, bevacizumab, sorafenib, among others. Atezolizumab and bevacizumab are immunological options recently incorporated into first-line treatments, along with sorafenib, for which great treatment achievements have been reached. However, sorafenib resistance is developed in most patients, and therapeutical combinations targeting cancer hallmark mechanisms and intracellular signaling have been proposed. In this review, we compiled evidence of the mechanisms of cell death caused by sorafenib administered alone or in combination with valproic acid and metformin and discussed them from a molecular perspective.

Molecular mechanism of NR4A1/MDM2/P53 signaling pathway regulation inducing ferroptosis in renal tubular epithelial cells involved in the progression of renal ischemia-reperfusion injury

Revealing the possible molecular mechanism of the NR4A1 (nuclear receptor subfamily 4 group A member 1)-MDM2 (MDM2 proto-oncogene)-P53 (tumor protein p53) signaling pathway that induces ferroptosis in renal tubular epithelial cells. Renal ischemia-reperfusion injury (RIRI) -related datasets were obtained from the GEO database. Differentially expressed genes in RIRI were analyzed using R language, intersected with RIRI-related genes in the GeneCard database, and retrieved from the literature to finally obtain differential ferroptosis-related genes. An in vitro cell model of RIRI was constructed using mouse renal cortical proximal tubule epithelial cells (mRTEC cells) treated with hypoxia-reoxygenation (H/R). Bioinformatic analysis showed that NR4A1 may be involved in RIRI through the induction of ferroptosis; in addition, we predicted through online databases that the downstream target gene of NR4A1, MDM2, could be targeted and regulated by ChIP and dual luciferase assays, and that NR4A1 could prevent MDM2 by inhibiting it, and NR4A1 was able to promote ferroptosis by inhibiting the ubiquitinated degradation of P53. NR4A1 expression was significantly increased in mRTEC cells in the hypoxia/reoxygenation model, and the expression of ferroptosis-related genes was increased in vitro experiments. NR4A1 reduces the ubiquitinated degradation of P53 by targeting the inhibition of MDM2 expression, thereby inducing ferroptosis and ultimately exacerbating RIRI by affecting the oxidative respiration process in mitochondria and producing oxidized lipids. This study presents a novel therapeutic approach for the clinical treatment of renal ischemia-reperfusion injury by developing drugs that inhibit NR4A1 to alleviate kidney damage caused by renal ischemia-reperfusion.

Triaging between post-translational modification of cell cycle regulators and their therapeutics in neurodegenerative diseases

Neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease, present challenges in healthcare because of their complicated etiologies and absence of healing remedies. Lately, the emerging role of post-translational modifications (PTMs), in the context of cell cycle regulators, has garnered big interest as a potential avenue for therapeutic intervention. The review explores the problematic panorama of PTMs on cell cycle regulators and their implications in neurodegenerative diseases. We delve into the dynamic phosphorylation, acetylation, ubiquitination, SUMOylation, Glycation, and Neddylation that modulate the key cell cycle regulators, consisting of cyclins, cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs), and their inhibitors. The dysregulation of these PTMs is related to aberrant cell cycle in neurons, which is one of the factors involved in neurodegenerative pathologies. Moreover, the effect of exogenous activation of CDKs and CDK inhibitors through PTMs on the signaling cascade was studied in postmitotic conditions of NDDs. Furthermore, the therapeutic implications of CDK inhibitors and associated alteration in PTMs were discussed. Lastly, we explored the putative mechanism of PTMs to restore normal neuronal function that might reverse NDDs.

Characterizing the protein-protein interaction between MDM2 and 14-3-3σ; proof of concept for small molecule stabilization

Mouse Double Minute 2 (MDM2) is a key negative regulator of the tumor suppressor protein p53. MDM2 overexpression occurs in many types of cancer and results in the suppression of WT p53. The 14-3-3 family of adaptor proteins are known to bind MDM2 and the 14-3-3σ isoform controls MDM2 cellular localization and stability to inhibit its activity. Therefore, small molecule stabilization of the 14-3-3σ/MDM2 protein-protein interaction (PPI) is a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of cancer. Here, we provide a detailed biophysical and structural characterization of the phosphorylation-dependent interaction between 14-3-3σ and peptides that mimic the 14-3-3 binding motifs within MDM2. The data show that di-phosphorylation of MDM2 at S166 and S186 is essential for high affinity 14-3-3 binding and that the binary complex formed involves one MDM2 di-phosphorylated peptide bound to a dimer of 14-3-3σ. However, the two phosphorylation sites do not simultaneously interact so as to bridge the 14-3-3 dimer in a 'multivalent' fashion. Instead, the two phosphorylated MDM2 motifs 'rock' between the two binding grooves of the dimer, which is unusual in the context of 14-3-3 proteins. In addition, we show that the 14-3-3σ-MDM2 interaction is amenable to small molecule stabilization. The natural product fusicoccin A forms a ternary complex with a 14-3-3σ dimer and an MDM2 di-phosphorylated peptide resulting in the stabilization of the 14-3-3σ/MDM2 PPI. This work serves as a proof-of-concept of the drugability of the 14-3-3/MDM2 PPI and paves the way toward the development of more selective and efficacious small molecule stabilizers.

Ferroptosis: Mechanisms and role in diabetes mellitus and its complications

Diabetes mellitus (DM) and its complications are major diseases that affect human health and pose a serious threat to global public health. Although the prevention and treatment of DM and its complications are constantly being revised, optimal treatment strategies remain unavailable. Further exploration of new anti-diabetic strategies is an arduous task. Revealing the pathological changes and molecular mechanisms of DM and its complications is the cornerstone for exploring new therapeutic strategies. Ferroptosis is a type of newly discovered iron-dependent regulated cell death. Notably, the role of ferroptosis in the occurrence, development, and pathogenesis of DM and its complications has gradually been revealed. Numerous studies have shown that ferroptosis plays an important role in the pathophysiology and pathogenesis of DM and its associated complications. The aim of this review is to discuss the known underlying mechanisms of ferroptosis, the relationship between ferroptosis and DM, and the relationship between ferroptosis as a mode of cell death and diabetic kidney disease, diabetic retinopathy, diabetic cardiomyopathy, diabetic osteoporosis, diabetes-associated cognitive dysfunction, DM-induced erectile dysfunction, and diabetic atherosclerosis.

P53 together with ferroptosis: a promising strategy leaving cancer cells without escape

TP53, functioning as the keeper of the genome, assumes a pivotal function in the inhibition of tumorigenesis. Recent studies have revealed that p53 regulates ferroptosis pathways within tumor cells and is closely related to tumorigenesis. Therefore, we summarize the pathways and mechanisms by which p53 regulates ferroptosis and identify a series of upstream and downstream molecules involved in this process. Furthermore, we construct a p53-ferroptosis network centered on p53. Finally, we present the progress of drugs to prevent wild-type p53 (wtp53) degeneration and restore wtp53, highlighting the deficiencies of drug development and the prospects for p53 in cancer treatment. These findings provide novel strategies and directions for future cancer therapy.

Interplay of Ferroptosis and Cuproptosis in Cancer: Dissecting Metal-Driven Mechanisms for Therapeutic Potentials

Iron (Fe) and copper (Cu), essential transition metals, play pivotal roles in various cellular processes critical to cancer biology, including cell proliferation, mitochondrial respiration, distant metastases, and oxidative stress. The emergence of ferroptosis and cuproptosis as distinct forms of non-apoptotic cell death has heightened their significance, particularly in connection with these metal ions. While initially studied separately, recent evidence underscores the interdependence of ferroptosis and cuproptosis. Studies reveal a link between mitochondrial copper accumulation and ferroptosis induction. This interconnected relationship presents a promising strategy, especially for addressing refractory cancers marked by drug tolerance. Harnessing the toxicity of iron and copper in clinical settings becomes crucial. Simultaneous targeting of ferroptosis and cuproptosis, exemplified by the combination of sorafenib and elesclomol-Cu, represents an intriguing approach. Strategies targeting mitochondria further enhance the precision of these approaches, providing hope for improving treatment outcomes of drug-resistant cancers. Moreover, the combination of iron chelators and copper-lowering agents with established therapeutic modalities exhibits a synergy that holds promise for the augmentation of anti-tumor efficacy in various malignancies. This review elaborates on the complex interplay between ferroptosis and cuproptosis, including their underlying mechanisms, and explores their potential as druggable targets in both cancer research and clinical settings.

Therapeutic importance and diagnostic function of circRNAs in urological cancers: from metastasis to drug resistance

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a member of non-coding RNAs with no ability in encoding proteins and their aberrant dysregulation is observed in cancers. Their closed-loop structure has increased their stability, and they are reliable biomarkers for cancer diagnosis. Urological cancers have been responsible for high mortality and morbidity worldwide, and developing new strategies in their treatment, especially based on gene therapy, is of importance since these malignant diseases do not respond to conventional therapies. In the current review, three important aims are followed. At the first step, the role of circRNAs in increasing or decreasing the progression of urological cancers is discussed, and the double-edged sword function of them is also highlighted. At the second step, the interaction of circRNAs with molecular targets responsible for urological cancer progression is discussed, and their impact on molecular processes such as apoptosis, autophagy, EMT, and MMPs is highlighted. Finally, the use of circRNAs as biomarkers in the diagnosis and prognosis of urological cancer patients is discussed to translate current findings in the clinic for better treatment of patients. Furthermore, since circRNAs can be transferred to tumor via exosomes and the interactions in tumor microenvironment provided by exosomes such as between macrophages and cancer cells is of importance in cancer progression, a separate section has been devoted to the role of exosomal circRNAs in urological tumors.

The inhibition of FTO attenuates the antifibrotic effect of leonurine in rat cardiac fibroblasts

BACKGROUND

Myocardial fibrosis (MF) is a common pathological condition in cardiovascular diseases that often causes severe cardiac dysfunction. MF is characterized by changes in cardiomyocytes, cardiac fibroblasts (CFs), levels of collagen (Col) -1, -3, and overdeposition of the extracellular matrix. Our previous research showed that leonurine (LE) effectively inhibits collagen synthesis and differentiation of CFs, but the mechanism is not fully elucidated. Recent evidence indicates that fat mass and obesity-associated proteins (FTO) regulates the occurrence and development of MF. This study aimed to explore the role of FTO in the antifibrotic effects of LE.

METHODS

Neonatal rat CFs were isolated, and induced using angiotensin II (Ang II) to establish a cell model of MF. Cell viability, wound healing and transwell assays were used to detect cell activity and migration ability. The protein and mRNA levels of MF-related factors were measured following stimulation with Ang II and LE under normal conditions or after FTO knockdown. The RNA methylation level was measured by dot blot assay.

RESULTS

The results showed that LE (20, 40 μM) was not toxic to normal CFs. LE reduced the proliferation, migration and collagen synthesis of Ang II-induced CFs. Further investigation showed that FTO was downregulated by Ang II stimulation, whereas LE reversed this effect. FTO knockdown facilitated the migration of CFs, upregulated the protein levels of Col-3, α-SMA and Col-1 in Ang II and LE-stimulated CFs, and enhanced the fluorescence intensity of α-SMA. Furthermore, LE reduced N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylation, which was partially blocked by FTO knockdown. FTO knockdown also reduced the expression levels of p53 protein in Ang II and LE-stimulated CFs.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that the inhibition of FTO may attenuate the antifibrotic effect of LE in CFs, suggesting that FTO may serve as a key protein for anti-MF of LE.