SB203580, a specific inhibitor of p38-MAPK pathway, is a new reversal agent of P-glycoprotein-mediated multidrug resistance

A new 2α,5α,10β,14β-tetraacetoxy-4(20),11-taxadiene (SIA) derivative overcomes paclitaxel resistance by inhibiting MAPK signaling and increasing paclitaxel accumulation in breast cancer cells

Tumor resistance due to multiple mechanisms seriously hinders the efficacy of chemotherapy drugs such as paclitaxel. The most widely studied P-glycoprotein inhibitors still have limited ability to reverse resistance in the clinic. In this study, NPB304, a novel Sinenxan A (SIA) derivative, was found to significantly sensitize resistant breast cancer cells to paclitaxel in vitro and in vivo. Treatment with NPB304 increased paclitaxel-induced apoptosis in a p53-dependent manner through PARP cleavage. Importantly, NPB304 enhanced the antitumor effect of paclitaxel in resistant breast tumor xenografts in nude mice without significantly affecting weight loss. NPB304 regulated cell resistance through inhibition of MAPK pathway components, including p-ERK and p-p38. Moreover, NPB304 increased paclitaxel accumulation by affecting P-gp function. In addition to increasing Rhodamine 123 accumulation, NPB304 promoted bidirectional permeability but decreased the efflux ratio of paclitaxel in a Caco-2 monolayer model, thereby increasing the intracellular concentration of paclitaxel. Similarly, NPB304 increased the concentration of paclitaxel in the resistant tumor tissue. Hence, NPB304 is a novel compound that promotes the sensitization of resistant cells to paclitaxel through multiple mechanisms and has the potential for use in combination therapies to treat resistant breast cancer.

YM155 sensitizes triple-negative breast cancer to membrane-bound TRAIL through p38 MAPK- and CHOP-mediated DR5 upregulation

Because available treatments have limited efficacy in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), the identification of new therapeutic strategies to improve patients' outcome is urgently needed. In our study, we investigated the effects of the administration of the small molecule selective survivin suppressant YM155, alone or in association with CD34+ cells transduced with a replication-deficient adenovirus encoding the human tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) gene (CD34-TRAIL+ cells), in three TNBC cell models. YM155 exposure significantly impaired TNBC cell growth and selectively modulated survivin expression at both mRNA and protein level. In addition, co-culturing YM155-treated TNBC cells with CD34-TRAIL+ cells resulted in markedly increased cytotoxic effect and apoptotic response in comparison with single treatments. Such a chemosensitizing effect was observed only in TNBC cells inherently expressing DR5 and relied on the ability of YM155 to upregulate DR5 expression through a p38 MAPK- and CHOP-dependent mechanism. YM155/CD34-TRAIL+ combination also showed a significant inhibitory effect on the growth of DR5-expressing TNBC cells following xenotransplantation into NOD/SCID mice, in the absence of toxicity. Overall, our data (i) provide, for the first time, evidence that YM155 sensitizes TNBC cells to CD34-TRAIL+ cells-induced apoptosis by a mechanism involving the downregulation of survivin and the simultaneous p38 MAPK- and CHOP-mediated upregulation of DR5, and (ii) suggest the combination of YM155 with TRAIL-armed CD34+ progenitor cells as a promising therapeutic option for patients with TNBC expressing DR5.

Regulations of P-Glycoprotein/ABCB1/MDR1 in Human Cancer Cells

Multidrug resistance (MDR) in cancer cells is a phenotype whereby cells display reduced sensitivity to anticancer drugs, based on a variety of mechanisms, including an increase in drug efflux, the reduction of drug uptake, the activation of cell growth and survival signaling, the promotion of DNA repair, and the inhibition of apoptosis signaling. Increased expression of the plasma membrane drug efflux pumps, the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters, is involved in MDR. P-Glycoprotein/ABCB1 is a member of the ABC transporter family, and facilitates the efflux of various anticancer drugs, including anthracyclines, vinca alkaloids, epipodophyllotoxins, taxanes, and kinase inhibitors, from cells. P-Glycoprotein is also expressed in normal tissues and cells, including the kidney, liver, colon, and adrenal gland, to transport and/or secrete substrates and at the blood-brain, blood-placenta, and blood-testis barriers to protect these tissues from toxic substances. To understand the mechanistic functions of P-glycoprotein and to overcome MDR, investigators have identified the substrates and competitive inhibitors of P-glycoprotein. Recently, we and other groups reported associations between cellular signaling pathways and the expression, stability, degradation, localization, and activity of P-glycoprotein. The present review summarizes the currently available information about the transcriptional and posttranslational regulation of P-glycoprotein expression and function.

Inhibitory effects of PPARγ ligands on TGF-β1-induced corneal myofibroblast transformation

Corneal scarring, whether caused by trauma, laser refractive surgery, or infection, remains a significant problem for humans. Certain ligands for peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) have shown promise as antiscarring agents in a variety of body tissues. In the cornea, their relative effectiveness and mechanisms of action are still poorly understood. Here, we contrasted the antifibrotic effects of three different PPARγ ligands (15-deoxy-Δ12,14-prostaglandin J2, troglitazone, and rosiglitazone) in cat corneal fibroblasts. Western blot analyses revealed that all three compounds reduced transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1-driven myofibroblast differentiation and up-regulation of α-smooth muscle actin, type I collagen, and fibronectin expression. Because these effects were independent of PPARγ, we ascertained whether they occurred by altering phosphorylation of Smads 2/3, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase, stress-activated protein kinase, protein kinase B, extracellular signal-regulated kinase, and/or myosin light chain 2. Only p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphorylation was significantly inhibited by all three PPARγ ligands. Finally, we tested the antifibrotic potential of troglitazone in a cat model of photorefractive keratectomy-induced corneal injury. Topical application of troglitazone significantly reduced α-smooth muscle actin expression and haze in the stromal ablation zone. Thus, the PPARγ ligands tested here showed great promise as antifibrotics, both in vitro and in vivo. Our results also provided new evidence for the signaling pathways that may underlie these antifibrotic actions in corneal fibroblasts.

Characterization of p38 MAPK isoforms for drug resistance study using systems biology approach

MOTIVATION

p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase activation plays an important role in resistance to chemotherapeutic cytotoxic drugs in treating multiple myeloma (MM). However, how the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway is involved in drug resistance, in particular the roles that the various p38 isoforms play, remains largely unknown.

METHOD

To explore the underlying mechanisms, we developed a novel systems biology approach by integrating liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and reverse phase protein array data from human MM cell lines with computational pathway models in which the unknown parameters were inferred using a proposed novel algorithm called modularized factor graph.

RESULTS

New mechanisms predicted by our models suggest that combined activation of various p38 isoforms may result in drug resistance in MM via regulating the related pathways including extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway and NFкB pathway. ERK pathway regulating cell growth is synergistically regulated by p38δ isoform, whereas nuclear factor kappa B (NFкB) pathway regulating cell apoptosis is synergistically regulated by p38α isoform. This finding that p38δ isoform promotes the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 in MM cells treated with bortezomib was validated by western blotting. Based on the predicted mechanisms, we further screened drug combinations in silico and found that a promising drug combination targeting ERK1/2 and NFκB might reduce the effects of drug resistance in MM cells. This study provides a framework of a systems biology approach to studying drug resistance and drug combination selection.

AVAILABILITY AND IMPLEMENTATION

RPPA experimental Data and Matlab source codes of modularized factor graph for parameter estimation are freely available online at http://ctsb.is.wfubmc.edu/publications/modularized-factor-graph.php.

Synergistic antitumor activity of cetuximab and namitecan in human squamous cell carcinoma models relies on cooperative inhibition of EGFR expression and depends on high EGFR gene copy number

PURPOSE

Despite the frequent overexpression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), the efficacy of cetuximab alone is limited. Given the marked activity of namitecan, a hydrophilic camptothecin, against SCC models, the present study was performed to explore the efficacy of the cetuximab-namitecan combination in a panel of SCC models.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

We examined the antiproliferative and antitumor activities of the cetuximab-namitecan combination in four SCC models characterized by a different EGFR gene copy number/EGFR protein level. We also assessed the effects of the combination on EGFR expression at both mRNA and protein levels and investigated the molecular basis of the interaction between the two agents.

RESULTS

Cetuximab and namitecan exhibited synergistic effects, resulting in potentiation of cell growth inhibition and, most importantly, enhanced therapeutic efficacy, with high cure rates in three SCC models characterized by high EGFR gene copy number, without increasing toxicity. The synergistic antitumor effect was also observed with the cetuximab-irinotecan combination. At the molecular level, the two agents produced a cooperative effect resulting in complete downregulation of EGFR. Interestingly, when singly administered, the camptothecin was able to strongly decrease EGFR expression mainly by transcriptional inhibition.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results (i) demonstrate a marked efficacy of the cetuximab-namitecan combination, which reflects a complete abrogation of EGFR expression as a critical determinant of the therapeutic improvement, in SCC preclinical models, and (ii) suggest EGFR gene copy number as a possible marker to be used for patient selection in the clinical setting.

(S)-tetrahydroisoquinoline alkaloid inhibits LPS-induced arachidonic acid release through downregulation of cPLA2 expression

Sepsis, a systemic inflammatory response syndrome, remains a potentially lethal condition. (S)-1-α-Naphthylmethyl-6,7-dihydroxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline (CKD712) is noted as a drug candidate for sepsis. Many studies have demonstrated its significant anti-inflammatory effects. Here we first examined whether CKD712 inhibits lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced arachidonic acid (AA) release in the RAW 264.7 mouse monocyte cell line, and subsequently, its inhibitory mechanisms. CKD712 reversed LPS-associated morphological changes in the RAW 264.7 cells, and inhibited LPS-induced release of AA in a concentrationdependent manner. The inhibition was apparently due to the diminished expression of a cytosolic form of phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) by CKD712, resulting from reduced NF-κB activation. Furthermore, CKD712 inhibited the activation of ERK1/2 and SAP/JNK, but not of p38 MAPK. CKD712 had no effect on the activity or phosphorylation of cPLA2 and on calcium influx. Our results collectively suggest that CKD712 inhibits LPS-induced AA release through the inhibition of a MAPKs/NF-κB pathway leading to reduced cPLA2 expression in RAW 264.7 cells.

Nuclear multidrug-resistance related protein 1 contributes to multidrug-resistance of mucoepidermoid carcinoma mainly via regulating multidrug-resistance protein 1: a human mucoepidermoid carcinoma cells model and Spearman's rank correlation analysis

Background

Multidrug resistance-related protein 1 (MRP1/ABCC1) and multidrug resistance protein 1 (MDR1/P-glycoprotein/ABCB1) are both membrane-bound drug transporters. In contrast to MDR1, MRP1 also transports glutathione (GSH) and drugs conjugated to GSH. Due to its extraordinary transport properties, MRP1/ABCC1 contributes to several physiological functions and pathophysiological incidents. We previously found that nuclear translocation of MRP1 contributes to multidrug-resistance (MDR) of mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC). The present study investigated how MRP1 contributes to MDR in the nuclei of MEC cells.

Methods

Western blot and RT-PCR was carried out to investigate the change of multidrug-resistance protein 1 (MDR1) in MC3/5FU cells after MRP1 was downregulated through RNA interference (RNAi). Immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining of 127 cases of MEC tissues was scored with the expression index (EI). The EI of MDR1 and MRP1 (or nuclear MRP1) was analyzed with Spearman's rank correlation analysis. Using multiple tumor tissue assays, the location of MRP1 in other tissues was checked by HIC. Luciferase reporter assays of MDR1 promoter was carried out to check the connection between MRP1 and MDR1 promoter.

Results

MRP1 downregulation led to a decreased MDR1 expression in MC3/5FU cells which was caused by decreased activity of MDR1 promoter. IHC study of 127 cases of MEC tissues demonstrated a strong positive correlation between nuclear MRP1 expression and MDR1 expression. Furthermore, IHC study of multiple tumor tissue array sections showed that although nuclear MRP1 widely existed in MEC tissues, it was not found in normal tissues or other tumor tissues.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that nuclear MRP1 contributes to MDR mainly through regulating MDR1 expression in MEC. And the unique location of MRP1 made it an available target in identifying MEC from other tumors.

Tandutinib (MLN518/CT53518) targeted to stem-like cells by inhibiting the function of ATP-binding cassette subfamily G member 2

Tandutinib is a novel inhibitor of tyrosine kinases FLT3, PDGFR and KIT. Our study was to explore the capability of tandutinib to reverse ABC transporter-mediated multidrug resistance. Tandutinib reversed ABCG2-mediated drug resistance in ABCG2-482-R2, ABCG2-482-G2, ABCG2-482-T7 and S1-M1-80 cells and increased the accumulation of doxorubicin, rhodamine 123 and [H(3)] mitoxantrone in ABCG2-overexpressing cells. Importantly, tandutinib selectively sensitized side population cells to mitoxantrone. Taken together, our results advocate the potency of tandutinib as an ABCG2 modulator and stem-like cells targeted agent to increase efficiency of anticancer drugs.

Increased glutathione and mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphorylation are involved in the induction of doxorubicin resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma cells

AIM

  The human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell line HepG2 can easily acquire resistance to doxorubicin. However, the mechanism of action is unclear.

METHODS

  In the present study, we used confocal microscopy, flow cytometry and other methods to reveal the mechanisms by which HepG2 cells acquire doxorubicin resistance.

RESULTS

  Our results showed that R-HepG2 cells, a doxorubicin-resistant sub-line of HepG2, exhibited decreased intracellular accumulation of doxorubicin and increased expression of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and multidrug resistance-associated protein 1 when compared with HepG2 cells. R-HepG2 cells also harbored higher levels of glutathione and increased expression of glutathione peroxidase. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (p38 and c-jun-N-terminal kinases), IkBα and CREB were increased in R-HepG2 cells. Specific p38 inhibitor SB203580 decreased P-gp expression. The multi-kinase inhibitor sorafenib tosylate also significantly suppressed the phosphorylation of these proteins and inhibited the expression of P-gp.

CONCLUSION

  These findings reveal that the drug resistance could be acquired through mitogen-activated protein kinase-dependent upregulation of P-gp. This mechanism protects R-HepG2 cells from the anticancer action of doxorubicin.

BIRB796, the inhibitor of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase, enhances the efficacy of chemotherapeutic agents in ABCB1 overexpression cells

ATP-binding-cassette family membrane proteins play an important role in multidrug resistance. In this study, we investigated BIRB796, an orally active inhibitor of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase, reversed MDR induced by ABCB1, ABCG2 and ABCC1. Our results showed that BIRB796 could reverse ABCB1-mediated MDR in both the drug selected and transfected ABCB1-overexpressing cell models, but did not enhance the efficacy of substrate-chemotherapeutical agents in ABCC1 or ABCG2 overexpression cells and their parental sensitive cells. Furthermore, BIRB796 increased the intracellular accumulation of the ABCB1 substrates, such as rhodamine 123 and doxorubicin. Moreover, BIRB796 bidirectionally mediated the ATPase activity of ABCB1, stimulating at low concentration, inhibiting at high concentration. However, BIRB796 did not alter the expression of ABCB1 both at protein and mRNA level. The down-regulation of p38 by siRNA neither affected the expression of ABCB1 nor the cytotoxic effect of paclitaxel on KBV200. The binding model of BIRB796 within the large cavity of the transmembrane region of ABCB1 may form the basis for future lead optimization studies. Importantly, BIRB796 also enhanced the effect of paclitaxel on the inhibition of growth of the ABCB1-overexpressing KBV200 cell xenografts in nude mice. Overall, we conclude that BIRB796 reverses ABCB1-mediated MDR by directly inhibiting its transport function. These findings may be useful for cancer combinational therapy with BIRB796 in the clinic.

Signal transduction pathways and transcriptional mechanisms of ABCB1/Pgp-mediated multiple drug resistance in human cancer cells

Multiple drug resistance (MDR), defined as the ability of tumour cells to survive exposure to many chemotherapeutic agents, is a major cause of treatment failure in human cancers. The membrane transporter P-glycoprotein (Pgp, encoded by the ABCB1 [adenosine triphosphate-binding cassette, subfamily B, member 1] gene) is the main mechanism for decreased intracellular drug accumulation in human MDR cancer. ABCB1/Pgp-mediated MDR involves several signal transduction pathways and transcription factors. Activation of these signal transduction pathways influences the prognosis of MDR human cancer. Signalling pathways involved in ABCB1/Pgp-mediated MDR include the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), c-Jun NH(2)-terminal kinase (JNK), p38, cyclic adenosine monophosphate-dependent protein kinase, phosphatidylino sitol 3-kinase and protein kinase C signalling pathways. This review summarizes the biological characteristics, target points and signalling cascade mediators of these pathways. Drugs targeted against these pathways may provide new therapies for treatment of ABCB1/Pgp-mediated MDR.

Reversal of multidrug resistance by gefitinib via RAF1/ERK pathway in pancreatic cancer cell line

Pancreatic cancer is a devastating malignancy, characterized by intrinsic or acquired resistance to conventional chemotherapies. Recent evidences suggest an involvement of tyrosine kinase pathway in the regulation of multidrug resistance (MDR) protein gene expression. The aim of this study was to test whether gefitinib, an epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor could regulate the MDR protein gene expression and sensitize the resistant cancer cells to chemotherapy. The gene expression of MDR proteins (MRP1, MRP2, MRP3, and PGP) were evaluated by quantitative RT-PCR, and expression levels of various tyrosine kinases were investigated by quantitative RT-PCR and Western blot in pancreatic cancer cell line. MTT assay was used for evaluating the effect of chemotherapeutic agents. Chemotherapeutics induced drug resistance by regulating the gene expression of MDR proteins (MRP1, MRP2, and MRP3), and increased the gene expression of RAF1/ERK and the phosphorylation of ERK in pancreatic cancer Bxpc-3 cells. Gefitinib caused an inhibition of p-ERK tyrosine kinase activation in a dose-dependent manner, and reversed gemcitabine-induced RAF1/ERK gene expression and p-ERK activation. In addition, a reversal of MDR proteins gene expression was achieved by gefitinib, which sensitized resistant cells to gemcitabine. This study demonstrated that MDR of Bxpc-3 cell is involved in the RAF1/ERK tyrosine kinase pathway. Gefitinib reverses the MDR protein gene expression and restores sensitivity of resistant cells to gemcitabine via RAF1/ERK signaling pathway. Combination of gefitinib with conventional chemotherapeutic agents may offer a new approach for the treatment of patients with pancreatic cancer.

Reversal of P-glycoprotein-mediated multidrug resistance of human hepatic cancer cells by Astragaloside II

OBJECTIVES

Chemoresistance is the main obstacle encountered in cancer treatment and is frequently associated with multidrug resistance (MDR). Astragaloside is a saponin which is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine. It has been reported that Astragaloside has antitumour effects on hepatocellular carcinoma Bel-7402 cells in vitro and in vivo. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of Astragaloside II on the reversal of MDR and its molecular mechanism in vitro.

METHODS

In this study, Bel-7402 and Bel-7402/FU cell lines were used as the experimental model. Drug sensitivity was determined using the 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay, accumulation and efflux of Rh123 were analyzed by flow cytometer, the mRNA level of mdr1 was determined by RT-PCR and the protein levels of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and mitogen-activated protein kinase were determined by Western blot.

KEY FINDINGS

Astragaloside II (0.08 mg/ml) showed strong potency to increase 5-fluorouracil cytotoxicity toward 5-fluorouracil-resistant human hepatic cancer cells Bel-7402/FU. The mechanism of Astragaloside II on P-gp-mediated MDR demonstrated that Astragaloside II significantly increased the intracellular accumulation of rhodamine 123 via inhibition of P-gp transport function. Based on the analysis of P-gp and mdr1 gene expression using Western blot and RT-PCR, the results revealed that Astragaloside II could downregulate the expression of the P-gp and mdr1 gene. In addition, Astragaloside II suppressed phosphorylation of extracellular signal regulated kinase 1/2, p38 and c-Jun N-terminal kinase.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggested that Astragaloside II is a potent MDR reversal agent and may be a potential adjunctive agent for hepatic cancer chemotherapy.

Biphasic regulation of P-glycoprotein function and expression by NO donors in Caco-2 cells

AIM

To investigate the effects of nitric oxide (NO) donors on the function and expression of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) in Caco-2 cells.

METHODS

Caco-2 cells were exposed to NO donors for designated times. P-gp function and expression were assessed using Rhodamine123 uptake assay and Western blotting, respectively. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (iROS) and intracellular reactive nitrogen species (iRNS) levels were measured using ROS and RNS assay kits, respectively.

RESULTS

Exposure of Caco-2 cells to 0.1 or 2 mmol/L of sodium nitroprusside (SNP) affected the function and expression of P-gp in concentration- and time-dependent manners. A short-term (4 h) exposure reduced P-gp function and expression accompanied with significantly increased levels of iROS and iRNS. In contrast, a long-term (24 h) exposure stimulated the P-gp function and expression. The stimulatory effects of 2 mmol/L SNP was less profound as compared to those caused by 0.1 mmol/L SNP. The other NO donors SIN-1 and SNAP showed similar effects. Neither the NO scavenger PTIO (2 mmol/L) nor soluble guanylate cyclase inhibitor ODQ (50 μmol/L) reversed the SNP-induced alteration of P-gp function. On the other hand, free radical scavengers ascorbate, glutathione and uric acid (2 mmol/L for each), PKC inhibitor chelerythrine (5 μmol/L), PI3K/Akt inhibitor wortmannin (1 μmol/L) and p38 MAPK inhibitor SB203580 (10 μmol/L) reversed the upregulation of P-gp function by the long-term exposure to SNP, but these agents had no effect on the impaired P-gp function following the short-term exposure to SNP.

CONCLUSION

NO donors time-dependently regulate P-gp function and expression in Caco-2 cells: short-term exposure impairs P-gp function and expression, whereas long-term exposure stimulates P-gp function and expression. The regulation occurs via a NO-independent mechanism.

Nilotinib counteracts P-glycoprotein-mediated multidrug resistance and synergizes the antitumoral effect of doxorubicin in soft tissue sarcomas

The therapeutic effect of doxorubicin (DXR) in the treatment of soft tissue sarcomas (STS) is limited by its toxicity and the development of multidrug resistance (MDR), the latter mainly induced by high expression of efflux pumps (e.g., P-glycoprotein [P-gp]). Therefore, the search for alternative therapies, which sensitize these tumors to chemotherapy while maintaining a low toxicity profile, is a rational approach. We assessed efficacy and molecular mechanisms involved in the antiproliferative effects of the tyrosine kinase inhibitors, nilotinib and imatinib, as single agents or in combination with DXR, in human synovial sarcoma SW982 and leiomyosarcoma SK-UT-1 cells. As single compound nilotinib (1-10 µM) was more potent than imatinib inhibiting the growth of SK-UT-1 and SW982 cells by 33.5-59.6%, respectively. Importantly, only nilotinib synergized the antitumoral effect of DXR (0.05-0.5 µM) by at least 2-fold, which clearly surpassed the mere sum of effects according to isobolographic analysis. Moreover, nilotinib in combination with DXR had a sustained effect on cell number (-70.3±5.8%) even 12 days after withdrawal of drugs compared to DXR alone. On the molecular level, only nilotinib fully blocked FBS-induced ERK1 and p38 MAPK activation, hence, reducing basal and DXR-induced up-regulation of P-gp levels. Moreover, efflux activity of the MDR-related proteins P-gp and MRP-1 was inhibited, altogether resulting in intracellular DXR retention. In high-risk STS tumors 53.8% and 15.4% were positive for P-gp and MRP-1 expression, respectively, with high incidence of P-gp in synovial sarcoma (72.7%). In summary, nilotinib exhibits antiproliferative effects on cellular models of STS and sensitizes them to DXR by reverting DXR-induced P-gp-mediated MDR and inhibiting MRP-1 activity, leading to a synergistic effect with potential for clinical treatment.

Activation of JNK triggers release of Brd4 from mitotic chromosomes and mediates protection from drug-induced mitotic stress

Some anti-cancer drugs, including those that alter microtubule dynamics target mitotic cells and induce apoptosis in some cell types. However, such drugs elicit protective responses in other cell types allowing cells to escape from drug-induced mitotic inhibition. Cells with a faulty protective mechanism undergo defective mitosis, leading to genome instability. Brd4 is a double bromodomain protein that remains on chromosomes during mitosis. However, Brd4 is released from mitotic chromosomes when cells are exposed to anti-mitotic drugs including nocodazole. Neither the mechanisms, nor the biological significance of drug-induced Brd4 release has been fully understood. We found that deletion of the internal C-terminal region abolished nocodazole induced Brd4 release from mouse P19 cells. Furthermore, cells expressing truncated Brd4, unable to dissociate from chromosomes were blocked from mitotic progression and failed to complete cell division. We also found that pharmacological and peptide inhibitors of the c-jun-N-terminal kinases (JNK) pathway, but not inhibitors of other MAP kinases, prevented release of Brd4 from chromosomes. The JNK inhibitor that blocked Brd4 release also blocked mitotic progression. Further supporting the role of JNK in Brd4 release, JNK2-/- embryonic fibroblasts were defective in Brd4 release and sustained greater inhibition of cell growth after nocodazole treatment. In sum, activation of JNK pathway triggers release of Brd4 from chromosomes upon nocodazole treatment, which mediates a protective response designed to minimize drug-induced mitotic stress.

Involvement of the epidermal growth factor receptor in the modulation of multidrug resistance in human hepatocellular carcinoma cells in vitro

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a molecular complex tumor with high intrinsic drug resistance. Recent evidence suggests an involvement of the tyrosine kinase pathway in the regulation of ATP-binding cassette protein (ABC-transport protein) mediated multidrug resistance in cancer cells. The aim of this study was to examine whether EGFR inhibition sensitizes HCCs to chemotherapy and to elucidate its mechanism.

Results

Chemotherapeutic treatment induces multidrug resistance and significantly increases ABC-transport protein expression and function in a time- and dose-dependent manner in HCC cells. Furthermore, cytostatic treatment increases the mRNA expression of tyrosine kinases and induces the phosphorylation of ERK. EGF activation of the tyrosine kinase pathway up-regulated the ABC-transport protein mRNA expression and enhanced the survival of resistant HCC cells. Consistent with these effects, inhibition of the EGFR using siRNA decreased the ABC-transport protein mRNA expression and inhibited the proliferation of resistant cells. Additional treatment with Gefitinib, a clinically approved EGFR inhibitor, caused a dose-dependent reversal of resistance to conventional chemotherapy.

Conclusion

The present study demonstrates that the multidrug resistance of HCC is modulated through the EGF-activated tyrosine kinase cascade. Consequentially, the restoration of chemosensitivity by EGFR inhibition may lead towards new tailored therapies in patients with highly resistant tumors.

The role of cytokines in the regulation of drug disposition: extended functional pleiotropism?

INTRODUCTION

Drug disposition, metabolism and drug-drug interactions are important considerations for most drugs. Cytokines are integral to the successful resolution of many diseases. Data are emerging on a role for cytokines in regulation of the expression and activity of drug transporters and drug metabolising enzymes. Investigation of the interaction between pharmacological and immunological responses is key to understanding the complex relationships involved in patient response to therapy.

AREAS COVERED

Evidence detailing the ability of cytokines to regulate drug disposition and metabolism is reviewed in the context of different cell and tissue types. The literature search undertaken provides an overview of the current understanding of the interrelationship between pharmacological and immunological factors which may influence successful drug therapy.

EXPERT OPINION

Dysregulation of cytokines and cytokine networks is a hallmark of a number of diseases such as HIV and cancer. The mechanisms by which the immune system can influence drug disposition are relatively understudied but recent work has highlighted the necessity for examining its impact on pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. A more comprehensive approach in clinical studies will allow better determination of the impact of cytokines on drug disposition. In addition, determining the mechanisms that underpin the differential effects of cytokines across different cell types will clarify the responses reported in these studies.

ABC drug transporters and immunity: novel therapeutic targets in autoimmunity and cancer

ABC transporters were identified originally for their contribution to clinical MDR as a result of their capacity to extrude various unrelated cytotoxic drugs. More recent reports have shown that ABC transporters can play important roles in the development, differentiation, and maturation of immune cells and are involved in migration of immune effector cells to sites of inflammation. Many of the currently identified, endogenous ABC transporter substrates have immunostimulating effects. Increasing the expression of ABC transporters on immune cells and thereby enhancing immune cell development or functionality may be beneficial to immunotherapy in the field of oncology. On the contrary, in the treatment of autoimmune diseases, blockade of these transporters may prove beneficial, as it could dampen disease activity by compromising immune effector cell functions. This review will focus on the expression, regulation, and substrate specificity of ABC transporters in relation to functional activities of immune effector cells and discusses implications for the treatment of cancer on the one hand and autoimmune diseases on the other.

Gamma-linolenic acid modulates the response of multidrug-resistant K562 leukemic cells to anticancer drugs

Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) is known to have selective tumoricidal action. It is also reported that GLA may increase the cytotoxic activity of cancer chemotherapeutic agents in some cancer cells. The present study examined whether GLA pretreatment could modulate the response of multidrug-resistant K562/ADM leukemic cells to anticancer drugs. The cell viability assay results showed that GLA at 10 microg/ml enhanced cell growth inhibition induced by the MDR-type drugs doxorubicin, etoposide and vincristine, but could not enhance or even attenuated cell growth inhibition induced by the non-MDR-type drug cisplatin, mitomycin and fluorouracil in K562/ADM cells. Further flow cytometry results showed that GLA decreased the expression of P-glycoprotein, enhanced the accumulation of doxorubicin and rhodamine 123 in K562/ADM cells and inhibited the efflux of rhodamine 123 from K562/ADM cells, lowered the efflux rate. These results suggest that GLA could modulate the response to anti-cancer agents in P-gp overexpressing multidrug-resistant cells, and the mechanism may be by decreasing the P-gp expression and inhibiting P-gp function.

Increased p38-MAPK is responsible for chemotherapy resistance in human gastric cancer cells

Background

Chemoresistance is one of the main obstacles to successful cancer therapy and is frequently associated with Multidrug resistance (MDR). Many different mechanisms have been suggested to explain the development of an MDR phenotype in cancer cells. One of the most studied mechanisms is the overexpression of P-glycoprotein (P-gp), which is a product of the MDR1 gene. Tumor cells often acquire the drug-resistance phenotype due to upregulation of the MDR1 gene. Overexpression of MDR1 gene has often been reported in primary gastric adenocarcinoma.

Methods

This study investigated the role of p38-MAPK signal pathway in vincristine-resistant SGC7901/VCR cells. P-gp and MDR1 RNA were detected by Western blot analysis and RT-PCR amplification. Mitgen-activated protein kinases and function of P-gp were demonstrated by Western blot and FACS Aria cytometer analysis. Ap-1 activity and cell apoptosis were detected by Dual-Luciferase Reporter Assay and annexin V-PI dual staining.

Results

The vincristine-resistant SGC7901/VCR cells with increased expression of the multidrug-resistance 1 (MDR1) gene were resistant to P-gp-related drug and P-gp-unrelated drugs. Constitutive increases of phosphorylated p38-MAPK and AP-1 activities were also found in the drug-resistant cells. Inhibition of p38-MAPK by SB202190 reduced activator protein-1 (AP-1) activity and MDR1 expression levels and increased the sensitivity of SGC7901/VCR cells to chemotherapy.

Conclusion

Activation of the p38-MAPK pathway might be responsible for the modulation of P-glycoprotein-mediated and P-glycoprotein-unmediated multidrug resistance in the SGC7901/VCR cell line.

Acidosis induces multi-drug resistance in rat prostate cancer cells (AT1) in vitro and in vivo by increasing the activity of the p-glycoprotein via activation of p38

Because solid growing tumors often show hypoxia and pronounced extracellular acidosis, the aim of this study was to analyze the impact of an acidotic environment on the activity of the p-glycoprotein (pGP) and on the cellular content and cytotoxicity of the chemotherapeutic drug daunorubicin in the AT1 R-3327 Dunning prostate carcinoma cell line cultured in vitro and in vivo. In vitro, extracellular acidosis (pH 6.6) activated p38 and ERK1/2 and thereby induced daunorubicin resistance via a pronounced activation of pGP. De-novo protein synthesis was not necessary and analysis of transport kinetics indicated a fast and persistent pGP activation at pH 6.6 (when compared with 7.4). Intracellular acidification also induced daunorubicin resistance via activation of pGP, which was mediated by activation of p38 alone. In vivo, tumors were implanted subcutaneously, and the tumor pH was artificially lowered by forcing anaerobic metabolism. In vivo, the reduced extracellular pH of 6.6 was also able to induce daunorubicin resistance, which was abolished by inhibition of p38. These results suggest that pGP activity is dependent on extracellular pH in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, there is strong indication that this effect is mediated via activation of p38 in vivo. Activation of ERK is also suitable to induce pGP activity. Therefore, inhibition of p38 (and ERK) may be used to prevent acidosis induced increase in pGP activity and thereby attenuate multidrug resistance. In addition, supportive treatments reducing tumor acidosis may improve the cytotoxic effect of chemotherapeutic drugs.

Targeting of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases to early growth response gene 1 (EGR-1) in the human paclitaxel-resistance ovarian carcinoma cells

To investigate the relationship between the expression of early growth response gene 1 (EGR-1) and p38MAPK pathway in the paclitaxel resistance of ovarian carcinoma cells, the effect of p38MAPK inhibitor SB203580 on cell apoptosis was examined by using Hoechst 33258 staining. The intracellular Rh123 (Rhodamine 123) accumulation was detected by the flow cytometry (FCM). The 50% inhibition concentration (IC50) of paclitaxel for A2780/Taxol cells was determined by MTT method. Electrophoretic motility shift assay (EMSA) was employed to examine the EGR-1DNA binding activity. MDR1 and EGR-1 mRNA were assessed by RT-PCR. The expressed of p-gp, phosphorylated p53 and p38 were detected by Western blotting. SB203580 could remarkably promote the apoptosis of A2780/Taxol cells, and the cell apoptosis was in a time-dependent manner. Cellular Rh123 accumulation was increased, and the IC50 of paclitaxel for A2780/Taxol cells was decreased significantly. A2780/Taxol cell line after SB203580 treatment was shown to have a significantly higher level of EGR-1 DNA binding activity. SB203580 down-regulated the activity of p38MAPK pathway, but up-regulated EGR-1 expression. SB203580 significantly increased the level of cellular phosphorylated p53 protein, but decreased the p-gp protein level and MDR1 mRNA level in A2780/Taxol cells. There existed a close relationship between p38MAPK pathway and the paclitaxel resistance of ovarian carcinoma cells. The expression of EGR-1 mediated by p38MAPK pathway plays a critical role in paclitaxel resistance of ovarian carcinoma cells.

Calebin-A induces apoptosis and modulates MAPK family activity in drug resistant human gastric cancer cells

This study is the first to investigate Calebin-A, a natural compound present in Curcuma longa, which inhibits cell growth and induce apoptosis in SGC7901/VINCRISTINE cells, a multidrug resistant (MDR) human gastric adenocarcinoma cell line. Our data suggest the drug efflux function of P-glycoprotein was inhibited by Calebin-A treatment, while the expression level of P-glycoprotein was not affected. Additionally, co-treatment of Calebin-A and vincristine resulted in a remarkable reduction in S phase and G2/M phase arrest in SGC7901/VINCRISTINE cells. Calebin-A was also found to modulate the activities of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) family members, which includes decreased c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and increased protein kinase of 38 kDa (p38) activity. These results suggest that Calebin-A might be an effective compound for the treatment of human gastric and other MDR cancers.

Inhibition of the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway results in the down-regulation of P-glycoprotein

The multidrug resistance gene 1 (MDR1) product, P-glycoprotein (P-gp), pumps out a variety of anticancer agents from the cell, including anthracyclines, Vinca alkaloids, and taxanes. The expression of P-gp therefore confers resistance to these anticancer agents. In our present study, we found that FTI-277 (a farnesyltransferase inhibitor), U0126 [an inhibitor of mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) kinase (MEK)], and 17-allylamino-17-demethoxygeldanamycin (an inhibitor of heat shock protein 90) reduced the endogenous expression levels of P-gp in the human colorectal cancer cells, HCT-15 and SW620-14. In contrast, inhibitors of phosphatidylinositol 3-OH kinase, mammalian target of rapamycin, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase, and c-Jun NH(2)-terminal kinase did not affect P-gp expression in these cells. We further found that U0126 down-regulated exogenous P-gp expression in the MDR1-transduced human breast cancer cells, MCF-7/MDR and MDA-MB-231/MDR. However, the MDR1 mRNA levels in these cells were unaffected by this treatment. PD98059 (a MEK inhibitor), ERK small interfering RNA, and p90 ribosomal S6 kinase (RSK) small interfering RNA also suppressed P-gp expression. Conversely, epidermal growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor enhanced P-gp expression, but the MDR1 mRNA levels were unchanged in epidermal growth factor-stimulated cells. Pulse-chase analysis revealed that U0126 promoted P-gp degradation but did not affect the biosynthesis of this gene product. The pretreatment of cells with U0126 enhanced the paclitaxel-induced cleavage of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase and paclitaxel sensitivity. Furthermore, U0126-treated cells showed high levels of rhodamine123 uptake. Hence, our present data show that inhibition of the MEK-ERK-RSK pathway down-regulates P-gp expression levels and diminishes the cellular multidrug resistance.

Efficacy of a nitrogen-containing bisphosphonate, minodronate, in conjunction with a p38 mitogen activated protein kinase inhibitor or doxorubicin against malignant bone tumor cells

PURPOSE

We recently reported the sarcoma-selective antitumor effects of a newly developed nitrogen-containing bisphosphonate, minodronate (MIN), on malignant bone tumors. The aim of this study was to develop efficient combination MIN therapy in malignant bone tumors.

METHODS

We examined downstream molecular events of MIN in osteosarcoma and Ewing's sarcoma cells to search for a partner to combine with MIN. Furthermore, we evaluated the combined effects of MIN and clinically available Doxorubicin (DOX).

RESULTS

We found that MIN inhibited Rap 1A prenylation, and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) or Akt phosphorylation in osteosarcoma (Saos-2) and Ewing's sarcoma (SK-ES-1) cells. Interestingly, MIN activated p38 mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) only in SK-ES-1 cells and a p38 MAPK inhibitor augmented MIN-induced growth inhibition in SK-ES-1 cells. Doxorubicin (DOX) exerted synergistic effects on Saos-2 and SK-ES-1 cell lines. Daily injection of MIN enhanced the growth inhibition of SK-ES-1 xenograft sarcoma treated by DOX in nude mice.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that the inhibition of the p38 MAPK pathway may be attractive in overcoming cellular resistance against MIN. In the light of clinical settings, MIN may have a beneficial adjuvant role in the DOX treatment.

Combined treatment of P-gp-positive L1210/VCR cells by verapamil and all-trans retinoic acid induces down-regulation of P-glycoprotein expression and transport activity

The development of the most common multidrug resistance (MDR) phenotype associated with a massive overexpression of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) in neoplastic cells may result in more than one hundred fold higher resistance of these cells to several drugs. L1210/VCR is a P-gp-positive drug resistant cell line in which P-gp overexpression was achieved by repeated cultivation of parental cells with a stepwise increasing concentration of vincristine. Relatively little is known about regulation of P-gp expression. Therefore, serious efforts have been made to recognize all aspects involved in regulation of P-gp expression. Retinoic acid nuclear receptors are involved in regulating expression of a large number of different proteins. Several authors have described that all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA, ligand of retinoic acid receptors, RARs) may induce alterations in P-gp expression and/or activity in drug resistant malignant cell lines. There are also other nuclear receptors for retinoids--retinoid X receptors (RXRs)--that may be involved in the development of the P-gp-mediated MDR phenotype. The topic of the present paper is a study of the relationship, if any, between the regulatory pathways of nuclear receptors for retinoids and P-glycoprotein expression. Increased levels of mRNAs encoding the retinoic acid nuclear receptors RARalpha and gamma, as well as decreased levels of the mRNAs encoding RARbeta and the retinoid X receptor RXRgamma or slightly decreased levels of RXRbeta mRNA, were observed in L1210/VCR cells in comparison with parental L1210 cells. Neither L1210 cells nor L1210/VCR cells contained measurable amounts of mRNA encoding the RXRalpha receptor. ATRA did not influence the viability of L1210/VCR cells differently from L1210 cells. A combined treatment of L1210/VCR cells with vincristine (1.08 micromol/l) and ATRA induced slightly higher cell death than that observed with ATRA alone. When applied alone, ATRA did not influence P-gp expression (monitored by anti P-gp antibody c219 using western blot analysis) or transport activity (monitored by use of calcein/AM as a P-gp substrate by FACS) in L1210/VCR cells. In contrast, when ATRA was applied together with verapamil (an often used P-gp inhibitor), a significant decrease in P-gp expression and transport activity were observed. However, no significant differences in [11, 12-(3)H]-ATRA uptake were observed in either sensitive or resistant cells, in the latter case in the absence or presence of vincristine. Moreover, verapamil did not influence ATRA uptake under any conditions. Thus, we can conclude that the combined treatment of L1210/VCR cells with ATRA and verapamil is able to depress P-gp expression, and consequently its activity. ATRA is not a P-gp-transportable substance, and thus this effect could not be attributed to verapamil-induced inhibition of P-gp that would allow ATRA to reach retinoic acid nuclear receptors and activate them.

Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Phosphatase-1 Is a Mediator of Breast Cancer Chemoresistance

The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphatase (MKP)-1 is overexpressed in a large proportion of breast cancers, and in some systems interferes with chemotherapy-mediated proapoptotic signaling through c-Jun-NH2-terminal kinase (JNK). We therefore sought to examine whether MKP-1 is a mediator of breast cancer chemoresistance using A1N4-myc human mammary epithelial cells, and BT-474 and MDA-MB-231 breast carcinoma cells. Transient or stable overexpression of MKP-1 reduced caspase activation and DNA fragmentation while enhancing viability in the face of treatment with alkylating agents (mechlorethamine), anthracylines (doxorubicin), and microtubule inhibitors (paclitaxel). This overexpression was associated with suppression of JNK activation, and JNK blockade alone induced similar effects. In contrast, reduction of MKP-1 levels using a small interfering RNA, or its targeted inactivation, enhanced sensitivity to these drugs, and this was associated with increased JNK activity. Pharmacologic reduction of MKP-1 by pretreatment with a novel p38 MAPK inhibitor, SD-282, suppressed MKP-1 activation by mechlorethamine, enhanced active JNK levels, and increased alkylating agent–mediated apoptosis. Combination treatment with doxorubicin and mechlorethamine had similar effects, and the enhanced efficacy of this regimen was abolished by forced overexpression of MKP-1. These results suggest that the clinical efficacy of combinations of alkylating agents and anthracyclines are due to the ability of the latter to target MKP-1. Moreover, they support the hypothesis that MKP-1 is a significant mediator of breast cancer chemoresistance, and provide a rationale for development and translation of other agents targeting MKP-1 into the clinical arena to overcome resistance and induce chemosensitization. [Cancer Res 2007;67(9):4459–66]

LY294,002, a specific inhibitor of PI3K/Akt kinase pathway, antagonizes P-glycoprotein-mediated multidrug resistance

The transmembrane transport pump P-glycoprotein (P-gp) causes the efflux of chemotherapeutic agents from cells and is an important system that secures multidrug resistance (MDR) of neoplastic cells. In the present study drug sensitive L1210 and multidrug resistant L1210/VCR mouse leukemic cell lines were used as an experimental model. We found that LY 294,002, a specific inhibitor of PI3K/Akt kinase pathway, reduced the degree of vincristine resistance in L1210/VCR cells significantly and in a concentration-dependent manner. This was accompanied by decrease in IC(50) value to vincristine from 3.195+/-0.447 to 1.898+/-0.676 micromol/l for 2 micromol/l, to 0.947+/-0.419 micromol/l for 4 micromol/l, and to 0.478+/-0.202 micromol/l for 8 micromol/l LY294,002. The IC(50) value of sensitive cells for vincristine was about 0.010 micromol/l. FACS analysis of the proportion of cells in apoptosis or necrosis by annexin-V apoptosis kit showed the following: (i) vincristine-induced apoptosis in resistant cell to a much lower extent than in sensitive cells; (ii) LY294,002 alone did not induce apoptosis or necrosis in both sensitive and resistant cells; (iii) LY294,002 applied together with vincristine significantly increased the number of apoptotic cells. Transport activity of P-gp in resistant cells was monitored using calcein/AM as substrate and was depressed by LY294,002 in a concentration dependent manner. Significant differences in calcein retention were not observed when cells were preincubated with LY294,002 at different times from 0.5 to 24h. Sensitive and resistant cells contain similar amounts of uncleaved (i.e., unactivated) caspase-3 but in latter cells the activation of caspase-3 by proteolytic cleavage was decreased. The reversal of vincristine resistance by LY294,002 was associated with marked activation of caspase-3. Western blot analysis revealed that the development of MDR phenotype in L1210/VCR cells was also associated with increased level of Bcl-2 protein. All the above findings point to the possible involvement of PI3K/Akt kinase pathway in modulation of P-gp mediated multidrug resistance in L1210/VCR mouse leukemic cell line. MDR reversal effect of LY294,002 is accompanied with this compound's influence on vincristine-induced apoptosis.

Proteasome inhibitors induce a p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-dependent anti-apoptotic program involving MAPK phosphatase-1 and Akt in models of breast cancer

Proteasome inhibitors represent a novel class of anti-tumor agents that have clinical efficacy against hematologic malignancies, but single-agent activity against solid tumors such as breast cancer has been disappointing, perhaps due to activation of anti-apoptotic survival signals. To evaluate a possible role for the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), A1N4-myc human mammary epithelial, and BT-474 and MDA-MB-231 breast carcinoma cells, were studied. Exposure of these lines to pharmacologic p38 blockade enhanced proteasome inhibitor-mediated apoptosis, as did overexpression of dominant negative (DN)-p38-alpha and -beta-MAPK isoforms. Inhibition of p38 resulted in suppression of induction of anti-apoptotic MAPK phosphatase (MKP)-1, in association with enhanced activation of the pro-apoptotic c-Jun-N-terminal kinase (JNK). Moreover, infection of cells treated with a proteasome inhibitor/p38 inhibitor combination with Adenovirus (Ad) inducing over-expression of MKP-1 suppressed apoptosis compared with controls. Further targets of p38 MAPK were also studied, and proteasome inhibition activated phosphorylation of MAPK-activated protein kinase-2, heat shock protein (HSP)-27, and the AKT8 virus oncogene cellular homolog (Akt). Inhibition of p38 MAPK resulted in decreased phospho-HSP-27 and phospho-Akt, while down-regulation of HSP-27 with a small interfering RNA decreased phosphorylation of Akt, directly linking activation of p38 to Akt. Finally, inhibition of Akt with phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase inhibitors increased apoptosis, as did over-expression of DN-Akt. These studies support the hypothesis that proteasome inhibitors activate an anti-apoptotic survival program through p38 MAPK that involves MKP-1 and Akt. Further, they suggest that strategies targeting MKP-1 and Akt could enhance the anti-tumor efficacy of proteasome inhibitors against breast cancer.

Proteasome inhibitors can alter the signaling pathways and attenuate the P-glycoprotein-mediated multidrug resistance

Numerous signaling pathways were reported to be involved in the resistance for conventional cytotoxic drugs, although one of the main reasons is the overexpression of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) in multidrug resistant cancer cells. The overexpression of P-gp has been associated with the resistance to a wide range of anticancer drugs. Doxorubicin and paclitaxel are substrates of this transporter system and have an important role for the various human malignancies. In the present study, drug-sensitive MCF7 and multidrug resistant MCF7/ADR (characterized by overexpression of P-gp) human breast cancer cell lines were used as an experimental model. We have found that PS341 and MG132, proteasome inhibitors, reduced the degree of the multidrug resistance (MDR) in MCF7/ADR cells. This phenomenon was accompanied by a decrease in the IC50 value of doxorubicin and paclitaxel from 55.9 +/- 3.46 to 0.60 +/- 0.08 microM, and from 17.61 +/- 1.77 to 0.59 +/- 0.12 microM, respectively. The IC50 values of sensitive cells for doxorubicin and paclitaxel were about 0.42 and 0.83 microM, respectively. The effect of PS341 and MG132 on MCF7/ADR cells was associated with a significant decrease in both protein and gene levels of P-gp expression. Moreover, with regard to the expression of possible signal transduction pathways of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) related to the activation of mdr1, proteasome inhibitors did significantly influence the activation of these proteins. Western blot analysis revealed that 24 hr exposure of multidrug resistant MCF7/ADR cells with proteasome inhibitors did change the levels of DNA binding activity of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB), pERK1/2, c-Jun, and p-c-Jun. In conclusion, we could remark that proteasome inhibitors (especially PS341) attenuate the resistance of MCF7/ADR cells for P-gp substrate drugs of doxorubicin and paclitaxel. Several proteins are supposed to be associated with the resensitization of the cells to conventional cytotoxic drugs, although decreased activity of P-gp is at least involved in the proteasome inhibitor-related resensitization. And influence with MAPK pathways, which have been reported to be associated with the regulation of P-gp, might be contributed to the resensitization brought by proteasome inhibitors.

Expression of P-glycoprotein in L1210 cells is linked with rise in sensitivity to Ca2+

L1210/VCR cell line (R) was obtained by adaptation of the L1210 mouse leukaemia cells (S) to vincristine and showed P-glycoprotein (P-gp) mediated multidrug resistance (MDR). R cells were observed to be more sensitive to high external calcium as parental S. More pronounced calcium uptake was observed for R cells. Moreover, differences in intracellular calcium cell localization between S and R cells were found ultrastructurally following a calcium precipitating cytochemical method. In S cells, calcium precipitates were found to be localized predominantly along the cell surface coat and within mitochondria delineating the cristae. In R cells, precipitates were also found inside nuclei, at the border of heterochromatin clumps, and scattered within the cytoplasm. High extracellular calcium did not influence the P-gp mediated extrusion of calcein/AM as P-gp substrate. These results indicate that calcium enters and consequently damages the MDR cells to a higher extent than parental cells.

ABC transporters as multidrug resistance mechanisms and the development of chemosensitizers for their reversal

One of the major problems related with anticancer chemotherapy is resistance against anticancer drugs. The ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters are a family of transporter proteins that are responsible for drug resistance and a low bioavailability of drugs by pumping a variety of drugs out cells at the expense of ATP hydrolysis. One strategy for reversal of the resistance of tumor cells expressing ABC transporters is combined use of anticancer drugs with chemosensitizers. In this review, the physiological functions and structures of ABC transporters, and the development of chemosensitizers are described focusing on well-known proteins including P-glycoprotein, multidrug resistance associated protein, and breast cancer resistance protein.

Short-term interleukin-1β increases the release of secreted APPα via MEK1/2-dependent and JNK-dependent α-secretase cleavage in neuroglioma U251 cells

Several lines of neuroimmunological evidence correlate the development of the inflammatory responses of the brain with the formation of amyloid plaques associated with the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. Within this context, we tested the ability of interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) to regulate the processing of beta-amyloid precursor protein (beta-APP) in neuroglioma U251 cells. Our findings have shown that short-term treatment with IL-1beta (2 hr) resulted in a concentration-dependent decrease in the amount of the cell-associated form of beta-APP in U251 cells as compared to untreated cells, whereas a 2-hr treatment with IL-1beta led to increased release of secreted APP(alpha) fragment (sAPP(alpha)) into the conditioned media of the cells. The fact that sAPP(alpha) is an alpha-secretase cleavage metabolite of the cell-associated form of beta-APP, and the observation that IL-1beta-induced sAPP(alpha) release could be blocked by tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases-1 (alpha-secretase inhibitors), suggested that alpha-secretase might be involved in IL-1beta-induced-sAPP(alpha) release. Moreover, to determine whether an intracellular signaling pathway mediates the IL-1beta-induced increase in sAPP(alpha) secretion, we used various specific signaling inhibitors and found that sAPP(alpha) release is significantly blocked by the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MEK1/2) inhibitor PD98059 and the c-Jun N-terminal kinase inhibitor SP600125. These findings suggested that the mechanism of IL-1beta-induced-sAPP(alpha) release is dependent on MEK1/2- and JNK-activated alpha-secretase cleavage in neuroglioma U251 cells.

Inhibition of Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) enhances glucocorticoid receptor-mediated function in mouse hippocampal HT22 cells

Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), including Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), promote inflammatory and proliferative responses to infection and other environmental stimuli including stress. Relevant to negative regulation of inflammatory pathways by glucocorticoids and the development of glucocorticoid resistance (observed in inflammatory disorders as well as certain neuropsychiatric disorders such as major depression), activation of JNK has been reported to inhibit glucocorticoid receptor (GR) function. In this study, the role of JNK pathways in modulating GR function was further investigated. Treatment of mouse hippocampal (HT22) cells with the selective JNK inhibitor, SP-600125 (0.1-10 microM), resulted in dose-dependent induction of GR-mediated MMTV-luciferase activity. SP-600125 also significantly enhanced dexamethasone-induced MMTV-luciferase activity, while increasing GR binding to the glucocorticoid responsive element, both in the presence and absence of Dex. Similar effects were observed in mouse fibroblast cells (LMCAT), and in HT22 cells treated with a JNK specific antisense oligonucleotide. The induction of GR-mediated function by SP-600125 was not due to altered cytosolic GR binding or GR protein expression or enhancement of GR nuclear translocation as determined by Western blot. Taken together, the data indicate that constitutive expression of JNK plays a tonic inhibitory role in GR function, which is consistent with findings that activation of JNK pathways inhibits GR. The data also identify potential pathways involved in the pathogenesis of the glucocorticoid resistance found in certain chronic immune/inflammatory diseases and subgroups of patients with major depression. Moreover, JNK pathways may represent a therapeutic target for normalization of GR function in these disorders.

Regulation of the multidrug resistance transporter P-glycoprotein in multicellular prostate tumor spheroids by hyperthermia and reactive oxygen species

Hyperthermia is an important component of many cancer treatment protocols. In our study the regulation of the multidrug resistance (MDR) transporter P-glycoprotein by hyperthermia was studied in multicellular prostate tumor spheroids. Hyperthermia treatment of small (50-100 microm) tumor spheroids significantly increased P-glycoprotein and mdr-1 mRNA expression with a maximum effect at 42 degrees C, whereas only moderate elevation of P-glycoprotein was found in large (350-450 microm) tumor spheroids. Hyperthermia caused an elevation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). Inhibition of ROS generation with NADPH-oxidase inhibitors diphenylen iodonium (DPI) and 4-(2-aminoethyl)benzenesulfonyl fluoride (AEBSF) abolished P-glycoprotein expression but did not affect its transcript levels following heat treatment. This indicates that P-glycoprotein levels are controlled by regulating its translation rate or stability. Hyperthermia incubation resulted in a differential activation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), extracellular regulated kinase 1,2 (ERK1,2), and c-jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) immediately, 4 hr and 24 hr after treatment. Furthermore, upregulation of hypoxia-inducible factor 1alpha (HIF-1alpha) was observed. Elevation of HIF-1alpha and P-glycoprotein expression following hyperthermia treatment were abolished upon coadministration of the p38 inhibitor SB203580. In contrast the JNK inhibitor SP600125 and the ERK1,2 inhibitor UO126 resulted in increase of HIF-1alpha and P-glycoprotein in the control as well as the hyperthermia-treated samples, indicating negative regulation of intrinsic HIF-1alpha and P-glycoprotein expression by ERK1,2 and JNK signaling cascades. In summary our data demonstrate that hyperthermia-induced upregulation of P-glycoprotein and HIF-1alpha is mediated by activation of p38, whereas ERK1,2 and JNK are involved in repression of P-glycoprotein and HIF-1alpha under control conditions.

Mercury induces multidrug resistance-associated protein gene through p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase

The multidrug resistance-associated protein (MRP1) belongs to a drug efflux membrane pump that confers multidrug resistance to the cells. The MRP1 mediates the cellular efflux of various xenobiotics including heavy metals and mediates cellular resistance to heavy metals. Mercury is a well-known health hazard and an environmental contaminant. Recently, information about the uptake of the heavy metals such as mercury has been suggested. However, little is known regarding molecular mechanisms of exporting mercury. This study was designed to determine if mercury could be extruded by MRP1 in acute myeloid leukemia cells (AML-2). The MRP-1-overexpressing AML-2/DX100 cells showed a higher resistance to mercury than AML-2/WT. Probenecid, which is a specific MRP1 inhibitor, decreased the resistance to mercury. Exposing the AML-2 cells to mercury-induced MRP1 gene expression and production without altering the MRP1 activity. Mercury activated p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and SB 203580, a specific p38 MAPK inhibitor, blocked the mercury-induced MRP1 production. These results suggest that MRP1 can control mercury and p38 MAPK mediates the mercury-induced MRP1 gene expression.

A review of selected anti-tumour therapeutic agents and reasons for multidrug resistance occurrence

It is assumed that proteins from the ABC family (i.e., glycoprotein P (Pgp)) and a multidrug resistance associated protein (MRP) play a main role in the occurrence of multidrug resistance (MDR) in tumour cells. Other factors that influence the rise of MDR are mechanisms connected with change in the effectiveness of the glutathione cycle and with decrease in expression of topoisomerases I and II. The aim of this review is to characterize drugs applied in anti-tumour therapy and to describe the present state of knowledge concerning the mechanisms of MDR occurrence, as well as the pharmacological agents applied in reducing this phenomenon.

Involvement of extracellular signal-regulated kinase/mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway in multidrug resistance induced by HBx in hepatoma cell line

AIM: To investigate the molecular mechanism of the influence of HBx protein on multidrug resistance associated genes: multidrug resistance 1 (MDR-1), multidrug related protein (MRP-1), lung resistance related protein (LRP) in hepatoma cells and the potential role of extracellular signal-regulated kinase/mitogen-activated protein kinase (ERK/MAPK) pathway in this process.

METHODS: A cell model stably expressing the HBx protein was established by liposome-mediated transfection of HBx gene into HepG2 cell line. The expression of multidrug resistance associated genes and proteins was detected by RT-PCR and Western blot. AnnexinV-FITC/PI assay was used to confirm the multidrug resistance (MDR) phenotype of transfected cells by fluorescence cytometry (FACS). The ERK/MAPK pathway activation was measured by Western blot through comparing the ratio of phosphorylation of ERK/MAPK to total ERK/MAPK protein. After treated with the ERK/MAPK pathway inhibitor U0126, the HBx-expressing cells were harvested. Then RT-PCR, Western blot and FACS were used to analyze the alterations in the expression of multidrug resistance associated genes and the MDR phenotype after exposure.

RESULTS: Compared with the control group, the transfected cells showed a higher expression of MDR associated genes and proteins. Marked elevations in MDR-1 (64.3%), MRP-1 (87.5%) and LRP (90.8%) were observed in the transfected cells (P < 0.05). RT-PCR revealed that the over-expression of MDR associated proteins was due to amplification of such genes (MDR1 2.9 fold, MRP1 1.67 fold, LRP1.95 fold). Furthermore, we found that the ERK/MAPK activity was remarkably high in the HBx-expressing cells. The activation of ERK/MAPK, as measured by the ratio of phosphorylated ERK bands normalized to the total ERK bands, was increased by 2.3-fold in HBx-transfected cells compared with cells transfected with the empty vector. After treated with the ERK/MAPK pathway inhibitor, the level of MDR associated genes and proteins in the transfected cells decreased to some extent. Compared with controls, a significant decrease in MDR-1 mRNA (53.3%), MRP-1 mRNA (59.7%) as well as LRP mRNA (56.4%) was observed in the U0126 treated transfected cells after 12 h. Western blot also demonstrated that the protein expression of these MDR associated genes slightly reduced after treated with U0126 for 12 h (MDR-1 40.1%, MRP-1 29.4%, LRP35.7%). This change was accompanied with the rise of cell apoptosis ratio confirmed by Annexin V-PI detection. The apoptosis index of U0126-treated cells increased by 1.28 fold, compared with that of transfected cells. Obviously, the MDR phenotype of these cells was obviously related with increased activities of the ERK/MAPK pathway.

CONCLUSION: HBx protein might be one of the causes for the occurrence of MDR in HCC, and ERK/MAPK pathway might be involved in this change.

Bisphosphonate induced growth inhibition of breast cancer cells is augmented by p38 inhibition

Bisphosphonates (BPs) inhibit osteoclast-mediated bone resorption. They also protect from cancer-induced osteolysis and inhibit breast cancer growth in vitro. Some breast cancer cell lines, however, are relatively resistant to the growth inhibitory effects of BPs. We studied the mechanism of BP resistance in human MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. We show that both pyrophosphate-resembling (p-) and nitrogen-containing (n-) BPs induce activation of p38 mitogen activated protein (MAP) kinase pathway in MDA-MB-231 cells in vitro. MDA-MB-231 cells stably expressing a dominant negative form of the p38 MAP kinase (p38/AF) exhibited a dramatic increase in growth inhibition in response to BPs in vitro, compared to control cells. SB203580, a specific inhibitor of the p38 MAP kinase, also augmented BP-induced growth inhibition of parental MDA-MB-231 cells. Similar results were obtained also in murine macrophage-like J774 cells in vitro. Finally, no BP-induced phosphorylation of p38, or augmentation of BP-induced growth inhibition by SB203580 were detected in MCF-7 or HCC38 breast cancer cells, which are more sensitive than MDA-MB-231 cells especially to n-BP induced growth inhibition. In conclusion, these results suggest that BPs activate the p38 pathway in MDA-MB-231 and J774 cells. This activation may be associated with increased survival or proliferation because inhibition of p38 augments BP-induced growth inhibition. These findings may apply to the development of novel approaches for the treatment of breast cancer.

Reversal of P-glycoprotein mediated vincristine resistance of L1210/VCR cells by analogues of pentoxifylline

In our previous papers we described the ability of methylxanthine pentoxifylline (PTX) to depress the P-glycoprotein (P-gp) mediated multidrug resistance (MDR) of the mouse leukemic cell line L1210/VCR. Other methylxanthines like caffeine and theophylline were found to be ineffective in this respect. In the present paper we have analysed the capability of 25 methylxanthines to depress MDR of L1210/VCR cells. These methylxanthines structurally differ in substituents located in positions N1, N3, N7 and C8. The results indicate that for an effective reversal of P-gp mediated MDR of our cells the existence of a longer polar substituent in the position N1 plays a crucial role. The elongation of the substituent in the positions N3 and N7 (from methyl to propyl) increases and in the position C8 (from H to propyl) decreases the efficacy of xanthines to reverse the vincristine resistance of L1210/VCR cells. The multiple linear regression for effectiveness of methylxanthines in reversal of P-gp mediated MDR of L1210/VCR cells (expressed as respective IC(50r) values) has been computed, with molar weight: M(w), molar volume: V(M), molar refractivity: R(M), crystal density: d and partition coefficient n-octanol/water: logP as descriptors. A high intercorrelation of M(W), V(M) and R(M) was found for the tested group of methylxanthines indicating that only one of these parameters is necessary for testing a potential correlation. The best fit in the multiple linear regression was obtained for R(M) applied together with d and logP and resulted in a QSAR model given by the following equation: IC(50r)=-[(32.3+/-7.2)x10(-3)xR(M)]+[(10.1+/-2.3)xd]+[(0.74+/-0.10)xlogP]-[10.5+/-3.2]. Model revealed that: (i) the molar refractivity influences the effectiveness of xanthine positively; (ii) the crystal density and partition coefficient influence the MDR reversal effectiveness of xanthine negatively.

P-glycoprotein-mediated multidrug resistance phenotype of L1210/VCR cells is associated with decreases of oligo- and/or polysaccharide contents

Multidrug resistance of murine leukaemic cell line L1210/VCR (obtained by adaptation of parental drug-sensitive L1210 cells to vincristine) is associated with overexpression of mdr1 gene product P-glycoprotein (Pgp)-the ATP-dependent drug efflux pump. 31P-NMR spectra of L1210 and L1210/VCR cells (the latter in the presence of vincristine) revealed, besides the decrease of ATP level, a considerable lower level of UDP-saccharides in L1210/VCR cells. Histochemical staining of negatively charged cell surface binding sites (mostly sialic acid) by ruthenium red (RR) revealed a compact layer of RR bound to the external coat of sensitive cells. In resistant cells cultivated in the absence or presence of vincristine, the RR layer is either reduced or absent. Consistently, resistant cells were found to be less sensitive to Concanavalin A (ConA). Moreover, differences in the amount and spectrum of glycoproteins interacting with ConA-Sepharose were demonstrated between sensitive and resistant cells. Finally, the content of glycogen in resistant cells is lower than in sensitive cells. All the above facts indicate that multidrug resistance of L1210/VCR cells mediated predominantly by drug efflux activity of Pgp is accompanied by a considerable depression of oligo- and/or polysaccharides biosynthesis.