Cyclin D1 serves as a cell cycle regulatory switch in actively proliferating cells

Acetylation of ELF5 suppresses breast cancer progression by promoting its degradation and targeting CCND1

E74-like ETS transcription factor 5 (ELF5) is involved in a wide spectrum of biological processes, e.g., mammogenesis and tumor progression. We have identified a list of p300-interacting proteins in human breast cancer cells. Among these, ELF5 was found to interact with p300 via acetylation, and the potential acetylation sites were identified as K130, K134, K143, K197, K228, and K245. Furthermore, an ELF5-specific deacetylase, SIRT6, was also identified. Acetylation of ELF5 promoted its ubiquitination and degradation, but was also essential for its antiproliferative effect against breast cancer, as overexpression of wild-type ELF5 and sustained acetylation-mimicking ELF5 mutant could inhibit the expression of its target gene CCND1. Taken together, the results demonstrated a novel regulation of ELF5 as well as shedding light on its important role in modulation of breast cancer progression.

MicroRNA-130a inhibits proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells by suppressing autophagy via ATG2B

Numerous microRNAs participate in regulating the pathological process of atherosclerosis. We have found miR-130a is one of the most significantly down-regulated microRNAs in arteriosclerosis obliterans. Our research explored the function of miR-130a in regulating proliferation by controlling autophagy in arteriosclerosis obliterans development. A Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis of miR-130a target genes indicated a correlation between miR-130a and cell proliferation. Thus, cell cycle, CCK-8 assays and Western blot analysis were performed, and the results indicated that miR-130a overexpression in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) significantly attenuated cell proliferation, which was validated by an in vivo assay in a rat model. Moreover, autophagy is thought to be involved in the regulation of proliferation. As our results indicated, miR-130a could inhibit autophagy, and ATG2B was predicted to be a target of miR-130a. The autophagy inhibition effect of miR-130a overexpression was consistent with the effect of ATG2B knockdown. The results that ATG2B plasmids and miR-130a mimics were cotransfected in VSMCs further confirmed our conclusion. In addition, by using immunohistochemistry, the positive results of LC3 II/I and ATG2B in the rat model and artery vascular tissues from the patient were in accordance with in vitro data. In conclusion, our data demonstrate that miR-130a inhibits VSMCs proliferation via ATG2B, which indicates that miR-130a could be a potential therapeutic target that regulates autophagy in atherosclerosis obliterans.

MiR-23b-3p functions as a positive factor for osteoporosis progression by targeting CCND1 in MC3T3-E1 cells

MiRNAs have gained tremendous attention as studies have shown that miRNAs play important roles in osteoporosis (OP) progression. This study attempted to explore whether miR-23b-3p is involved in the pathogenesis of OP. We detected the miR-23b-3p and Cyclin D1 (CCND1) expressional patterns in the bone of patients with or without OP relying on the GEO database. β-Glycerophosphate disodium salt and L-ascorbic acid were utilized to stimulate differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells. Cell proliferative, apoptotic abilities, and cell cycle distribution were determined by CCK-8 and flow cytometry experiments. TargetScan and dual-luciferase reporter analysis were employed to predict and verify the targets of miR-23b-3p. Western blot was implemented to detect the expression of CCND1, apoptosis-related proteins, and cell osteogenesis-related proteins. ALP activity of MC3T3-E1 cells was measured using ALP kit. MiR-23b-3p was increased in OP specimens. Gain-/loss-of-function analysis indicated that the miR-23b-3p inhibited proliferation and differentiation and promoted apoptosis of MC3T3-E1 cells. The levels of Bax and cleaved caspase-3 were increased while those of Bcl-2 were decreased. ALP activity was reduced, and the levels of ALP, Runx2, Osterix, and OPN were declined in MC3T3-E1 cells relative to control. Further analyses demonstrated that CCND1 was a putative target gene of miR-23b-3p. Moreover, knockdown of CCND1 could reverse the impacts of miR-23b-3p inhibitor in MC3T3-E1 cells. MiR-23b-3p functioned as an O-positive factor through regulating cell cycle, proliferation, apoptosis, and differentiation via targeting CCND1.

MicroRNA bta-miR-365-3p inhibits proliferation but promotes differentiation of primary bovine myoblasts by targeting the activin A receptor type I

Background

MicroRNAs act as post-transcriptional regulators that repress translation or degrade mRNA transcripts. Each microRNA has many mRNA targets and each mRNA may be targeted by several microRNAs. Skeletal muscles express a plethora of microRNA genes that regulate muscle development and function by controlling the expression of protein-coding target genes. To expand our understanding of the role of microRNA, specifically bta-miR-365-3p, in muscle biology, we investigated its functions in regulating primary bovine myoblast proliferation and differentiation.

Results

Firstly, we found that bta-miR-365-3p was predominantly expressed in skeletal muscle and heart tissue in Chinese Qinchuan beef cattle. Quantitative PCR and western blotting results showed that overexpression of bta-miR-365-3p significantly reduced the expression levels of cyclin D1 (CCND1), cyclin dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) but stimulated the expression levels of muscle differentiation markers, i.e., MYOD1, MYOG at both mRNA and protein level. Moreover, downregulation of bta-miR-365-3p increased the expression of CCND1, CDK2 and PCNA but decreased the expression of MYOD1 and MYOG at both mRNA and protein levels. Furthermore, flow cytometry, EdU proliferation assays and immunostaining results showed that increased levels of bta-miR-365-3p suppressed cell proliferation but promoted myotube formation, whereas decreased levels of bta-miR-365-3p resulted in the opposite consequences. Finally, we identified that activin A receptor type I (ACVR1) could be a direct target of bta-miR-365-3p. It was demonstrated that bta-miR-365-3p can bind to the 3’UTR of ACVR1 gene to regulate its expression based on dual luciferase gene reporter assays. Consistently, knock-down of ACVR1 was associated with decreased expressions of CDK2, CCND1 and PCNA but increased expression of MYOG and MYOD1 both at mRNA and protein level.

Conclusion

Collectively, these data suggested that bta-miR-365-3p represses proliferation but promotes differentiation of bovine myoblasts through several biological mechanisms involving downregulation of ACVR1.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40104-020-00528-0.

Morusin Inhibits Human Osteosarcoma via the PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathway

OBJECTIVE

Osteosarcoma is considered as one of the most common types of bone tumors, which occurs among adolescents and children.

METHODS

Current therapy strategies still have limited effectiveness therefore, the development of new therapies is urgent. Morusin is a compound isolated from Morus australis (Moraceae). Many studies have reported its anti-tumor effect on several tumor types. However, its role in osteosarcoma is still unclear.

RESULTS

In this study, we determined that morusin significantly suppresses the proliferation and promotes the apoptosis of osteosarcoma cells. Furthermore, the migration and invasion of osteosarcoma were reduced after exposure to morusin. The deep mechanism was determined to be the inhibition of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, our study indicates morusin as a potential candidate for osteosarcoma therapy.

Involvement of TRPC1 and Cyclin D1 in Human Pulmonary Artery Smooth Muscle Cells Proliferation Induced by Cigarette Smoke Extract

Cigarette smoking contributes to the development of pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH). As the basic pathological change of PAH, pulmonary vascular remodeling is considered to be related to the abnormal proliferation of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs). However, the molecular mechanism underlying this process remains not exactly clear. The aim of this research was to study the molecular mechanism of PASMCs proliferation induced by smoking. Human PASMCs (HPASMCs) were divided into 6 groups: 0% (control group), cigarette smoking extract (CSE)-treated groups at concentrations of 0.5%, 1%, 2%, 5%, 10% CSE respectively. HPASMCs proliferation was observed after 24 h. HPASMCs were divided into two groups: 0 (control group), 0.5% CSE group. The mRNA and protein expression levels of transient receptor potential channel 1 (TRPC1) and cyclin D1 in HPASMCs after CSE treatment were respectively detected by RT-PCR and Western blotting. The intracellular calcium ion concentration was measured by the calcium probe in each group. In the negative control group and TRPC1-siRNA transfection group, the proliferation of HPASMCs and the expression of cyclin D1 mRNA and protein were detected. Data were compared with one-way ANOVA (for multiple-group comparison) and independent t-test (for two-group comparison) followed by the least significant difference (LSD) test with the computer software SPSS 17.0. It was found that 0.5% and 1% CSE could promote the proliferation of HPASMCs (P<0.05), and the former was more effective than the latter (P<0.05), while 3% and above CSE had inhibitory effect on HPASMCs (P<0.05). The mRNA and protein expression levels of TRPC1 and cyclin D1 in 0.5% and 1% CSE groups were significantly higher than those in the control group (P<0.05), while those in 3% CSE group were significantly decreased (P<0.05). Moreover, the proliferation of HPASMCs and the expression of cyclin D1 mRNA and protein in TRPC1-siRNA transfection group were significantly reduced as compared with those in the negative control group (P<0.05). It was concluded that low concentration of CSE can promote the proliferation of HPASMCs, while high concentrations of CSE inhibit HPASMCs proliferation. These findings suggested that CSE induced proliferation of HPASMCs at least in part via TRPC1-mediated cyclin D1 expression.

Menthol in electronic cigarettes: A contributor to respiratory disease?

Menthol is widely used in tobacco products. This study compared the effects of menthol on human bronchial epithelium using submerged cultures, a VITROCELL® cloud chamber that provides air liquid interface (ALI) exposure without solvents or heating, and a Cultex ALI system that delivers aerosol equivalent to that inhaled during vaping. In submerged culture, menthol significantly increased calcium influx and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) via the TRPM8 receptor, responses that were inhibited by a TRPM8 antagonist. VITROCELL® cloud chamber exposure of BEAS-2B monolayers increased mitochondrial protein oxidation, expression of the antioxidant enzyme SOD2, activation of NF-κB, and secretion of inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and IL-8). Proteomics data collected following ALI exposure of 3D EpiAirway tissue in the Cultex showed upregulation of NRF-2-mediated oxidative stress, oxidative phosphorylation, and IL-8 signaling. Across the three platforms, menthol adversely effected human bronchial epithelium in a manner that could lead to respiratory disease.

Resveratrol: Mechanistic and therapeutic perspectives in pulmonary arterial hypertension

Resveratrol, trans 3,5,4'-trihydroxystilbene, is a stilbenoid polyphenol with a wide range of properties including antioxidant, neuroprotective, cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities. It is found in the skins of grape (50-100 μg/mL), red wine, peanuts, bilberries, blueberries and cranberries. The most important effects of resveratrol have been found in cardiovascular disease, with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) being a major severe and progressive component. Many factors are involved in the pathogenesis of PAH, including enzymes, transcription factors, proteins, chemokines, cytokines, hypoxia, oxidative stress and others. Resveratrol treats PAH through its actions on various signaling pathways. These signaling pathways are mainly suppressed SphK1-mediated NF-κB activation, BMP/SMAD signaling pathway, miR-638 and NR4A3/cyclin D1 pathway, SIRT1 pathway, Nrf-2, HIF-1 α expression, MAPK/ERK1 and PI3K/AKT pathways, and RhoA-ROCK signaling pathway. Resveratrol efficiently inhibits the proliferation of pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells and right ventricular remodeling, which are underlying processes leading to enhanced PAH. While supportive evidence from randomized controlled trials is yet to be available, current in vitro and in vivo studies seem to be convincing and suggest a therapeutic promise for the use of resveratrol in PAH.

Clinicopathologic and Immunohistochemical Correlates of CTNNB1 Mutated Endometrial Endometrioid Carcinoma

Endometrial endometrioid carcinomas (EECs) with exon 3 CTNNB1 mutations characterize a more aggressive subset of tumors in patients with low-grade low-stage disease. Thus, prospectively identifying these cases may be clinically relevant. The aim of this study was to examine the feasibility of β-catenin and Cyclin D1 immunohistochemistry to identify EECs harboring CTNNB1 mutations and to evaluate the clinicopathologic features of EECs with exon 3 CTNNB1 mutations. Thirty-nine CTNNB1 mutated EECs and 40 CTNNB1 wild-type EECs were identified from a cohort of previously sequenced endometrial carcinomas using a targeted next-generation sequencing panel. Immunohistochemistry for β-catenin and Cyclin D1 was performed on all cases. Immunohistochemistry results were correlated with CTNNB1 mutation status and clinicopathologic parameters. Patients with CTNNB1 mutated EECs were younger than those with CTNNB1 wild-type (56.2 vs. 61.5 y; P=0.033). Nuclear β-catenin expression correlated with exon 3 CTNNB1 mutation (P<0.0001) with a sensitivity of 91% and a specificity of 89%. Cyclin D1 expression correlated with CTNNB1 exon 3 mutation with relatively high specificity (90%) but low sensitivity (29%). Recurrence rate in patients with stage IA disease at diagnosis was significantly higher in patients whose tumors were CTNNB1 mutated compared with CTNNB1 wild-type (30% vs. 0%; P=0.025) and included distant metastases; all recurrent tumors in this group harbored exon 3 mutations and were histologically low grade (5 grade 1, 2 grade 2). Nuclear β-catenin expression appears to be an acceptable proxy for CTNNB1 mutation.

Attenuation of benign prostatic hyperplasia by hydrophilic active compounds from pigmented rice in a testosterone implanted rat model

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common chronic disease in aging men. The present study aimed to identify the active fraction of a purple rice extract and determine its anti-prostatic hyperplasia effect in a testosterone implanted rat model. The hexane insoluble fraction (HIF) which mainly contains hydrophilic phytochemicals from the purple rice crude ethanolic extract was defined as the active fraction, due to a potent effect on the downregulation of androgen receptor (AR) expression in malignant prostate cells, in addition to low toxicity for normal fibroblast cells. To induce BPH, subcutaneous implanting of a testosterone containing tube was performed in the castrated rats. Oral administration of HIF of at least 0.1 g kg-1 retarded prostate enlargement and improved histological changes induced by testosterone, without any effects on the serum testosterone levels. A lower proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) labelling index and the downregulated expression of AR, cyclinD1, and fatty acid synthase were clearly observed in the prostates of HIF-fed rats. Additionally, the mRNA levels of inflammation-related cytokines and enzymes in the prostate tissues significantly decreased after HIF treatment. Taken together, these findings demonstrate molecular mechanisms underlying the potential protective effects of the purple rice active fraction against testosterone-induced BPH in rats.

Transforming growth factor-β1 promotes fibrosis but attenuates calcification of valvular tissue applied as a three-dimensional calcific aortic valve disease model

Calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) is characterized by valvular fibrosis and calcification and driven by differentiating valvular interstitial cells (VICs). Expression data from patient biopsies suggest that transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 is implicated in CAVD pathogenesis. However, CAVD models using isolated VICs failed to deliver clear evidence on the role of TGF-β1. Thus, employing cultures of aortic valve leaflets, we investigated effects of TGF-β1 in a tissue-based three-dimensional (3-D) CAVD model. We found that TGF-β1 induced phosphorylation of Mothers against decapentaplegic homolog (SMAD) 3 and expression of SMAD7, indicating effective downstream signal transduction in valvular tissue. Thus, TGF-β1 increased VIC contents of rough endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi, and secretory vesicles as well as tissue levels of RNA and protein. In addition, TGF-β1 raised expression of proliferation marker cyclin D1, attenuated VIC apoptosis, and upregulated VIC density. Moreover, TGF-β1 intensified myofibroblastic VIC differentiation as evidenced by increased α-smooth muscle actin and collagen type I along with diminished vimentin expression. In contrast, TGF-β1 attenuated phosphorylation of SMAD1/5/8 and upregulation of β-catenin while inhibiting osteoblastic VIC differentiation as revealed by downregulation of osteocalcin expression, alkaline phosphatase activity, and extracellular matrix incorporation of hydroxyapatite. Collectively, these effects resulted in blocking of valvular tissue calcification and associated disintegration of collagen fibers. Instead, TGF-β1 induced development of fibrosis. Overall, in a tissue-based 3-D CAVD model, TGF-β1 intensifies expressional and proliferative activation along with myofibroblastic differentiation of VICs, thus triggering dominant fibrosis. Simultaneously, by inhibiting SMAD1/5/8 activation and canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling, TGF-β1 attenuates osteoblastic VIC differentiation, thus blocking valvular tissue calcification. These findings question a general phase-independent CAVD-promoting role of TGF-β1.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Employing aortic valve leaflets as a tissue-based three-dimensional disease model, our study investigates the role of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 in calcific aortic valve disease pathogenesis. We find that, by activating Mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 3, TGF-β1 intensifies expressional and proliferative activation along with myofibroblastic differentiation of valvular interstitial cells, thus triggering dominant fibrosis. Simultaneously, by inhibiting activation of Mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 1/5/8 and canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling, TGF-β1 attenuates apoptosis and osteoblastic differentiation of valvular interstitial cells, thus blocking valvular tissue calcification. These findings question a general phase-independent calcific aortic valve disease-promoting role of TGF-β1.

Guanine nucleotide-binding protein subunit beta-4 promotes gastric cancer progression via activating Erk1/2

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common and lethal malignancies worldwide, and its poor prognosis is mainly due to the rapid tumor progression including tumor invasion, distant metastasis, etc. Understanding the molecular mechanisms regulating GC progression lays the basis for the development of targeted therapeutic agents. Increasing evidence suggests that guanine nucleotide-binding protein subunit beta-4 (GNB4), a key subunit of heterotrimeric G protein, plays a crucial role in the initiation and progression of multiple malignancies. However, whether and how GNB4 promotes GC progression are still unknown. In this study, we found that GNB4 was highly expressed in GC tissues compared to that in non-tumor tissues and was significantly associated with tumor invasion depth, pathological stage and poor survival rate of GC patients. Both gain-of-function and loss-of-function studies revealed that GNB4 significantly enhanced GC cell growth and motility both in vitro and in vivo. Further studies revealed that GNB4 overexpression induced G1-S transition and promoted the process of epithelial-mesenchymal transformation. These tumor promoting effects were mediated by GNB4 which activates the Erk1/2 pathway through upregulating Erk1/2 phosphorylation, as U0126, an Erk1/2 phosphorylation inhibitor, could significantly inhibit GNB4-mediated cell proliferation, migration and invasion. In summary, GNB4 contributes to the proliferation and metastasis of GC cells by activating the Erk1/2 signaling pathway, and it may serve as a potential therapeutic target of GC.

Atypical Teratoid/Rhabdoid Tumor: Revisiting Histomorphology and Immunohistochemistry With Analysis of Cyclin D1 Overexpression and MYC Amplification

Objectives. Atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor (AT/RT) is a rare malignant pediatric brain tumor, characterized by inactivation of INI1/hSNF5 gene and loss of its protein. We studied the histomorphological and immunohistochemical spectrum of this tumor including cyclin D1 expression and MYC gene amplification. Methods. Cases with INI1 loss by immunohistochemistry (IHC; from 2005 to 2018) were retrieved, reviewed, and evaluated for cyclin D1 expression by additional IHC and fluorescence in situ hybridization for MYC genes. Results. A total of 66 cases were identified. Age ranged from 1 to 20 years (≤3 years, 44 cases; >3 years, 22). Male to female ratio was 1.7:1. Tumor locations were as follows: posterior fossa: 30; supratentorial: 31; spinal: 5. AT/RT in patient ≤3 years was frequently located in the posterior fossa, composed of primitive embryonal morphology (P = .02), rarely had ample rhabdoid cells (P = .05), and had a negative impact on overall survival (P = .04). The rhabdoid cells was a conspicuous component of posterior fossa tumors compared with the supratentorial ones (P = .06). The supratentorial tumors (P = .06), absence of rhabdoid cells (P = .06), and the presence of immunological divergent differentiation (P = .11) had a comparatively better outcome. Cyclin D1 overexpression (n = 46) was noted in 32 cases and was frequently seen in the posterior fossa tumors (P = .02). CMYC (n = 42) amplification was seen in 1 case and the NMYC (n = 42) amplification in none. Conclusion. AT/RT can occur in the noninfantile age group, at nonconventional sites and frequently overexpress cyclin D1. The MYC alterations are almost nonexistent in AT/RT.

Tributyltin impaired spermatogenesis and reproductive behavior in male zebrafish

Tributyltin (TBT) was reported to affect sexual behavior and gametogenesis in fish. However, the modes of action involved are largely unclear. In order to elucidate the toxicological mechanisms of TBT in reproduction, zebrafish (Danio rerio) males were exposed to TBT at concentrations of 100 and 500 ng/L for 28 days. After exposure, the sperm count of the treated fish was sharply decreased though the testis weight and gonadosomatic index remained unchanged. Moreover, reduced number of spermatogonia and spermatozoa and increased spermatocytes were observed in TBT-treated fish by histological observation and PCNA-immunostaining. Increased number of apoptotic-positive spermatocytes was also present in TBT-treated fish, indicating an enhanced apoptosis in these cells. Consistent to decreased number of spermatogonia, down-regulated expressions of genes responsible for germ cell proliferation (cyclind1 and pcna) were observed in TBT-treated fish. In contrast, TBT elevated the expressions of genes involved in meiotic entry and maintenance (aldhla2, sycp3 and dmc1) while suppressed the mRNA level of gene responsible for terminus of meiotic entry (cyp26a1), in agreement with arrested meiosis and reduced sperm count. Furthermore, TBT significantly elevated the ratios of bax/bcl-2 and tnfrsf1a/tnfrsf1b in testis, which are markers for intrinsic- and extrinsic-apoptotic pathways, consistent with the enhanced TUNEL positive signals in spermatocytes. Moreover, TBT also significantly affected the parameter of reproductive behaviors in treated fish (reflected by decreased frequency of meeting, visits and time spent in spawning area). Consistently, the expressions of genes responsible for the modulation of reproductive behaviors in brain (such as cyp19a1b, kiss2, gnrh3 and ompb) were significantly down-regulated in treated-fish. Interestingly, disrupted reproductive behaviors of untreated female fish were also observed in the present study. The present study indicated that TBT might affect the reproduction of zebrafish male by disrupting the spermatogenesis and reproductive behavior of the fish.

Direct targeting of HSP90 with daurisoline destabilizes β-catenin to suppress lung cancer tumorigenesis

Lung cancer is the most frequent cancer worldwide with a poor prognosis. Identification of novel cancer targets and useful therapeutic strategies without toxicity are urgently needed. In this study, we screened natural products for anticancer bioactivity in a library consisting of 429 small molecules. We demonstrated for the first time that daurisoline, a constituent of Rhizoma Menispermi, repressed lung cancer cell proliferation by inducing cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase. Furthermore, daurisoline was found not only to suppress the growth of lung tumor xenografts in animals without obvious side effects, but also to inhibit cell migration and invasion. Mechanistically, quantitative proteomics and bioinformatics analyses, Western blotting and qRT-PCR confirmed that daurisoline exerted its anticancer effects by inhibiting the expression levels of β-catenin and its downstream targets c-myc and cyclin D1. Furthermore, our data from Drug Affinity Responsive Target Stability (DARTS), isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) and a series of functional assays demonstrated that daurisoline could target HSP90 directly and disrupt its interaction with β-catenin, therefore increasing the ubiquitin-mediated proteasomal degradation of β-catenin. This study reveals that daurisoline could be a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of lung cancer.

Silencing CCL8 inhibited the proliferation and migration of PDGF-BB-stimulated human aortic smooth muscle cells

C-C motif Chemokine ligand 8 (CCL8) has been found in diseases' pathogenesis. But its molecular mechanism in atherosclerosis (AS) remains to be elucidated. Human aortic smooth muscle cells (HASMCs) were stimulated by PDGF-BB to establish cell model. α-SMA in PDGF-BB-stimulated HASMCs was measured by immunofluorescence staining. Relative gene expressions in PDGF-BB-stimulated HASMCs were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot. HASMCs proliferation, migration, and cell cycle were assessed by cell counting kit-8, wound-healing assay, and flow cytometry. HASMCs viability was increased after PDGF-BB stimulation, with α-SMA downregulation yet CCL8 upregulation. Silencing CCL8 inhibited PDGF-BB-stimulated HASMCs proliferation and migration, and increased cells percentage in G1 phases but decreased those in S phase. Also, silencing CCL8 decreased OPN and cyclinD1 expressions and AKT and ERK1/2 phosphorylation while increased those of α-SMA and Sm22α. However, upregulating CCL8 led to opposite effects, suggesting CCL8 could be an atherosclerosis therapeutic target.

Long Noncoding RNA SOX2-OT Knockdown Inhibits Proliferation and Metastasis of Prostate Cancer Cells Through Modulating the miR-452-5p/HMGB3 Axis and Inactivating Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway

Background: Recent studies have proven that abnormal expression of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) often contributes to growth and invasion of cancer cells. The purpose of this study was to investigate the biological function and regulatory mechanism of lncRNA SOX2 overlapping transcript (SOX2-OT) in prostate cancer (PCa) progression. Materials and Methods: The expression of SOX2-OT, microRNA-452-5p (miR-452-5p), and high mobility group box 3 (HMGB3) was detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Flow cytometry was performed to determine the cell cycle distribution. Western blot assay was conducted to measure the protein levels of cyclin D1, p21, p27, E-cadherin, vimentin, and N-cadherin. The interaction between miR-452-5p and SOX2-OT or HMGB3 was predicted by bioinformatics analysis and verified by dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation assay. The mice xenograft model was established to investigate the role of SOX2-OT in vivo. Results: SOX2-OT and HMGB3 were upregulated, whereas miR-452-5p was downregulated in PCa tissues and cells. Knockdown of SOX2-OT inhibited PCa cell growth and metastasis. MiR-452-5p could directly bind to SOX2-OT and its knockdown reversed the inhibitory effects of SOX2-OT interference on growth and metastasis of PCa cells. HMGB3 was a direct target of miR-452-5p and its knockdown weakened the promotive effects of miR-452-5p silence on growth and metastasis of PCa cells. Moreover, HMGB3 expression was inversely regulated by miR-452-5p and positively modulated by SOX2-OT. Furthermore, SOX2-OT activated the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway through increasing HMGB3 expression. Finally, SOX2-OT knockdown hindered tumor growth in vivo by regulating miR-452-5p/HMGB3 axis. Conclusions: SOX2-OT downregulation limited PCa cell growth and metastasis by regulating miR-452-5p/HMGB3 axis and inactivating Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, which might offer lncRNA-directed diagnosis and therapy for PCa.

β-elemene suppresses the malignant behavior of esophageal cancer cells by regulating the phosphorylation of AKT

BACKGROUND

Esophageal cancer is a digestive tract malignancy, ranking sixth among the world's deadliest tumor incidence. However, the pathogenesis of esophageal cancer is complex and the prognosis remains poor. Therefore, in-depth study of the pathogenesis and developing effective treatments are of great value for esophageal cancer. β-elemene is a natural monomeric compound derived from the Chinese herbal Curcuma wenyujin. β-elemene has been reported to have anti-tumor effects and used as an adjunct to clinical therapy for multiple cancers. This study aims to explore the effects of β-elemene on esophageal cancer and its related molecular mechanisms.

METHODS

TE-1 and KYSE-150 cells were used to evaluate the activity of β-elemene on esophageal cancerin vitro and in vivo. Western blot was performed for protein expression assessment. CCK8 assay and cell cycle analysis were used for proliferation testing. Flow cytometry was performed for apoptosis detection. Wound healing assay was subjected to assess the migration ability. Transwell chamber assay was applied to assess the invasion ability. HE staining, TUNEL staining and immunohistochemical staining were used to evaluate the changes in tumor tissues.

RESULTS

We found that β-elemene treatment suppressed proliferation, as well as induced apoptosis of esophageal cancer cells. In addition, β-elemene inhibited the migration and invasion ability of esophageal cancer cells. Furthermore, β-elemene exerted its effects against esophageal cancer by specifically regulating AKT signaling, thereby controlling the expression of PD-L1.

CONCLUSION

β-elemene inhibits proliferation and metastasis of esophageal cancer cells by regulating the phosphorylation of AKT.

Long noncoding RNA XXYLT1-AS2 regulates proliferation and adhesion by targeting the RNA binding protein FUS in HUVEC

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The endothelium is crucially involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis according to accumulating evidence. Moreover, recent studies have showed that lncRNAs could serve as biomarkers of cardiovascular diseases, in particular atherosclerosis. However, the underlying mechanism of endothelial dysfunction involving lncRNAs in atherosclerosis remains unknown. This study investigated the mechanism of lncRNA XXYLT1-AS2 in endothelial dysfunction in atherosclerosis.

METHODS

The levels of lncRNA XXYLT1-AS2, FUS, VCAM-1, MCP-1, p-AKT, and p-P65 were measured in arteries and HUVEC cell lines via quantitative real-time PCR or Western blot. FISH assay demonstrated that XXYLT1-AS2 and FUS are localized in the nucleus. HUVECs were transfected with si-XXYLT1-AS2 or XXYLT1-AS2 to further assess cell proliferation, migration, and adhesion. Furthermore, bioinformatics analysis, RNA immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence were performed to investigate the target genes of XXYLT1-AS2 and possible signal pathways.

RESULTS

Overexpression of XXYLT1-AS2 inhibited cell proliferation and migration, reduced the expression of adhesion molecules (VCAM-1) and chemoattractant proteins (MCP-1), and restrained monocyte adhesion to endothelial cells. Mechanistic investigations indicated that XXYLT1-AS2 directly interacts with the target gene FUS/cyclin D1 and modulates the proliferation and migration of endothelial cells (ECs). Moreover, XXYLT1-AS2 exerts a protective role against the inflammatory response in atherosclerosis by blocking NF-κB activity. Clinically, the involvement of XXYLT1-AS2/FUS was also observed in human arteries and the results were consistent with the in vitro analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study identified a novel long non-coding RNA (XXYLT1-AS2) and suggests that it might act as an underlying therapeutic target in atherosclerosis-related diseases by regulating ECs functions.

Metabolomic Analysis of Morus Cultivar Root Extracts and Their Ameliorative Effect on Testosterone-Induced Prostate Enlargement in Sprague-Dawley Rats

We investigated the metabolite changes of Morus roots (MRs) according to different cultivar families (Simheung, Daesim, Cheong-il, Sangchon, Daeseong, Suhong, Suwon, and Igsu) using ultra-performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC–QTOF-MS) to understand the relationship between different cultivars and metabolite changes. Data were analyzed by partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), and samples were successfully separated in PLS-DA scores. Eight metabolites in the electrospray ionization (ESI)-positive mode and 16 metabolites in the ESI-negative mode contributed to the separation in PLS-DA. Our data suggest that comparative analysis of MR metabolites according to different cultivars is useful to better understand the relationship between the different cultivars and metabolite changes. Furthermore, we analyzed the MRs for their ability to improve benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). LNCaP cells were used to evaluate the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) inhibitory activity of MRs, and, amongst them, the extract with the highest activity was selected. Igsu demonstrated the highest inhibition effect of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) expression among the MR cultivars. Igsu was also evaluated by administration in a testosterone-induced benign prostatic hyperplasia model in Sprague-Dawley rats. Igsu was shown to ameliorate BPH as evidenced by the prostate index, expression of androgen receptor (AR) signaling-related protein, growth factors, cell proliferation-related proteins, apoptosis-related proteins, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling proteins, and histological analysis. Hence, this study strongly suggests that Igsu may have a beneficial effect of on BPH.

Dissecting the Role of the FGF19-FGFR4 Signaling Pathway in Cancer Development and Progression

Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) receptor 4 (FGFR4) belongs to a family of tyrosine kinase receptor. FGFR4 is highly activated in certain types of cancer and its activation is closely associated with its specific ligand, FGF19. Indeed, FGF19-FGFR4 signaling is implicated in many cellular processes including cell proliferation, migration, metabolism, and differentiation. Since active FGF19-FGFR4 signaling acts as an oncogenic pathway in certain types of cancer, the development and therapeutic evaluation of FGFR4-specific inhibitors in cancer patients is a topic of significant interest. In this review, we aim to provide an updated overview of currently-available FGFR4 inhibitors and their ongoing clinical trials, as well as upcoming potential therapeutics. Further, we examined the possibility of enhancing the therapeutic efficiency of FGFR4 inhibitors in cancer patients. We also discussed the underlying molecular mechanisms of oncogenic activation of FGFR4 by FGF19.

circRNA circ-CCND1 promotes the proliferation of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma through elevating CCND1 expression via interacting with HuR and miR-646

Cyclin D1 (CCND1) is a well‐known proliferation promoter that accelerates G1/S transition in cancer. However, the underlying mechanism by which CCND1 is regulated is still largely unknown. In this study, we identified a novel circular RNA (circRNA) derived from CCND1 (circ‐CCND1, hsa_circ_0023303) as a key regulator for CCND1. circ‐CCND1 was found to be markedly up‐regulated in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) and closely associated with aggressive clinical features and adverse prognosis. Depletion of circ‐CCND1 significantly inhibited LSCC cell proliferation in vitro and retarded tumour growth in vivo. Regarding the mechanism, circ‐CCND1 physically bound to human antigen R (HuR) protein to enhance CCND1 mRNA stability; on the other hand, circ‐CCND1 could act as an effective sponge for miR‐646 to alleviate the repression of miR‐646 on CCND1 mRNA. As a result, circ‐CCND1 post‐transcriptionally elevated CCND1 expression via coordinated avoidance of CCND1 mRNA decay, thereby promoting LSCC tumorigenesis. Taken together, our findings uncover the essential proliferation‐promoting role of circ‐CCND1 through regulation of the stability of CCND1 mRNA in LSCC. Targeting circ‐CCND1 may be a promising treatment for LSCC patients.

Valproic Acid Addresses Neuroendocrine Differentiation of LNCaP Cells and Maintains Cell Survival

Purpose

Neuroendocrine differentiation of prostate cancer, induced by androgen deprivation therapy, is mainly related to advanced disease and poor clinical outcome. Genetic and epigenetic alterations are the key elements of the prostate carcinogenesis. A group of compounds able to induce changes in this sense is inhibitors of histone deacetylase, to which it belongs valproic acid (VPA). In the present paper, we evaluated the role of this molecule on the neuroendocrine differentiation of LNCaP cells together with the effect on proliferation and survival signals.

Methods

Cell growth was analyzed by MTT and flow cytometry, while expression of proteins through Western blot analysis.

Results

Our results have documented that VPA in LNCaP cells reduces cell proliferation, decreases the S phase and Cyclin A, and up-regulates the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors p21waf and p27. The acquisition of androgen-independent condition is consistent with an induction of β-III Tubulin and gamma Enolase, both markers of neuroendocrine phenotype. However, all these features cease with the removal of valproate from the culture medium, demonstrating the transitory nature of the epigenetic event. The VPA treatment does not compromise the survival phosphorylated signals of Akt, ERK1/2 and mTOR/p70S6K that remain up-regulated. Consistently, there is an increase of phospho-FOXO3a, to which corresponds the decreased expression of the corresponding oncosuppressor protein.

Conclusion

Overall, our findings indicate that VPA in LNCaP prostate tumor cells, although it reduces cell proliferation, is able to drive neuroendocrine phenotype and to maintain the survival of these cells. Keeping in mind that neuroendocrine differentiation of prostate cancer appears to be associated with a poor prognosis, it is necessary to develop new treatments that do not induce neurodifferentiation but able to counteract cell survival.

Pharmacological Stimulation of Nurr1 Promotes Cell Cycle Progression in Adult Hippocampal Neural Stem Cells

Nuclear receptor related-1 (Nurr1) protein performs a crucial role in hippocampal neural stem cell (hNSC) development as well as cognitive functions. We previously demonstrated that the pharmacological stimulation of Nurr1 by amodiaquine (AQ) promotes spatial memory by enhancing adult hippocampal neurogenesis. However, the role of Nurr1 in the cell cycle regulation of the adult hippocampus has not been investigated. This study aimed to examine changes in the cell cycle-related molecules involved in adult hippocampal neurogenesis induced by Nurr1 pharmacological stimulation. Fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) analysis showed that AQ improved the progression of cell cycle from G0/G1 to S phase in a dose-dependent manner, and MEK1 or PI3K inhibitors attenuated this progression. In addition, AQ treatment increased the expression of cell proliferation markers MCM5 and PCNA, and transcription factor E2F1. Furthermore, pharmacological stimulation of Nurr1 by AQ increased the expression levels of positive cell cycle regulators such as cyclin A and cyclin-dependent kinases (CDK) 2. In contrast, levels of CDK inhibitors p27KIP1 and p57KIP2 were reduced upon treatment with AQ. Similar to the in vitro results, RT-qPCR analysis of AQ-administered mice brains revealed an increase in the levels of markers of cell cycle progression, PCNA, MCM5, and Cdc25a. Finally, AQ administration resulted in decreased p27KIP1 and increased CDK2 levels in the dentate gyrus of the mouse hippocampus, as quantified immunohistochemically. Our results demonstrate that the pharmacological stimulation of Nurr1 in adult hNSCs by AQ promotes the cell cycle by modulating cell cycle-related molecules.

6-Bromoindirubin-3'-oxime intercepts GSK3 signaling to promote and enhance skeletal muscle differentiation affecting miR-206 expression in mice

Dystrophies are characterized by progressive skeletal muscle degeneration and weakness as consequence of their molecular abnormalities. Thus, new drugs for restoring skeletal muscle deterioration are critically needed. To identify new and alternative compounds with a functional role in skeletal muscle myogenesis, we screened a library of pharmacologically active compounds and selected the small molecule 6-bromoindirubin-3′-oxime (BIO) as an inhibitor of myoblast proliferation. Using C2C12 cells, we examined BIO’s effect during myoblast proliferation and differentiation showing that BIO treatment promotes transition from cell proliferation to myogenic differentiation through the arrest of cell cycle. Here, we show that BIO is able to promote myogenic differentiation in damaged myotubes in-vitro by enriching the population of newly formed skeletal muscle myotubes. Moreover, in-vivo experiments in CTX-damaged TA muscle confirmed the pro-differentiation capability of BIO as shown by the increasing of the percentage of myofibers with centralized nuclei as well as by the increasing of myofibers number. Additionally, we have identified a strong correlation of miR-206 with BIO treatment both in-vitro and in-vivo: the enhanced expression of miR-206 was observed in-vitro in BIO-treated proliferating myoblasts, miR-206 restored expression was observed in a forced miR-206 silencing conditions antagomiR-mediated upon BIO treatment, and in-vivo in CTX-injured muscles miR-206 enhanced expression was observed upon BIO treatment. Taken together, our results highlight the capacity of BIO to act as a positive modulator of skeletal muscle differentiation in-vitro and in-vivo opening up a new perspective for novel therapeutic targets to correct skeletal muscle defects.

Triptolide inhibits PDGF-induced proliferation of ASMCs through G0/G1 cell cycle arrest and suppression of the AKT/NF-κB/cyclinD1 signaling pathway

Abnormal proliferation of airway smooth muscle cells (ASMCs) is a hallmark of airway remodeling. Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) is known to be a major stimulus inducing the proliferation of ASMCs. It has been reported that triptolide demonstrates protective effects against airway remodeling. In this study, we investigated the antiproliferative effects of triptolide on PDGF-induced ASMCs and its underlying mechanisms. Cell proliferation was determined using the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Flow cytometry was used to study the influence of triptolide on cell cycle and apoptosis. Quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot analysis were employed to detect the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), cyclinD1 and cyclin dependent kinase 4 (CDK4). Proteins involved in the protein kinase B (AKT) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathways were evaluated using Western blot analysis. Triptolide could significantly inhibit cell proliferation, induce cell cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase, and reduce the expression of PCNA, cyclinD1, and CDK4 in PDGF-treated ASMCs. Levels of phosphorylated AKT, p65 and NF-κB inhibitor α (IκBα) stimulated by the presence of PDGF were markedly suppressed after triptolide treatment. Moreover, triptolide cotreatment with the phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3k) inhibitor, 2-(4-morpholinyl)-8-phenylchromone (LY294002), could further suppress the proliferation, NF-κB activation and cyclinD1 expression. Similar results were observed after triptolide cotreatment with the NF-κB inhibitor, ammonium pyrrolidinedithiocarbamate (PDTC). Our results suggest that triptolide could inhibit the PDGF-induced proliferation of ASMCs through G0/G1 cell cycle arrest and suppression of the AKT/NF-κB/cyclinD1 signaling pathway.

circ_0003418 Inhibits Tumorigenesis And Cisplatin Chemoresistance Through Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway In Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Background

Accumulating evidences indicate that circRNAs play important roles in the progression and chemoresistance of human cancers. The present study is designated for researching the roles of circ_0003418 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

We detected the expression profile of circ_0003418 in human HCC tissues and cell lines by quantitative real-time-PCR assays. CCK-8 assay, transwell migration assay, transwell invasion assay and drug-sensitivity analysis were carried out to estimate the effects of circ_0003418 on HCC cells' proliferation, migration, invasion and resistance to cisplatin, respectively. Mouse xenograft model was conducted to monitor the role of circ_0003418 in cisplatin resistance in vivo. Western blotting was performed to explore the changes of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway after knockdown of circ_0003418. The rescue experiment was carried out to explore circ_0003418-activated biological functions through Wnt/β-catenin pathway.

Results

The expression level of circ_0003418 was downregulated in HCC tissues and cell lines, and the level correlated with tumor size, TNM stage and HBsAg level in HCC patients. circ_0003418 knockdown promoted HCC cells' proliferation, migration, and invasion. Additionally, suppression of circ_0003418 enhanced cisplatin resistance of HCC cells in vivo and vitro. Knockdown of circ_0003418 activated the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway in HCC cells. The effect of circ-0003418 on sensitivity of HCC cells to cisplatin was reversed after inhibition of Wnt/β-catenin pathway.

Conclusion

circ-0003418 exerts an antitumorigenic role in HCC and advances the sensitivity of HCC cells to cisplatin by restraining the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Thus, circ-0003418 may represent a novel biomarker and provide us a new strategy for the treatment of HCC.

Marine natural compound cyclo(L-leucyl-L-prolyl) peptide inhibits migration of triple negative breast cancer cells by disrupting interaction of CD151 and EGFR signaling

Cyclo (L-Leucyl-L-Prolyl) peptide/CLP is a marine natural metabolite and well recognized as an antimicrobial and antioxidant agent with limited studies on anticancer activity. The current study aims to determine the effect of CLP on migration and growth of triple negative breast cancer cell lines. The anti-growth potential was evaluated by MTT, BrdU and TUNEL assays; DNA damage by γH2AX and Dead green assays; antimigration activity by Boyden chamber invasion and wound healing assays. Interaction of CLP with CD151 was resolved by PatchDock. Effect of CLP on the expression of transmembrane CD151 was evaluated by cell-based ELISA assay. The interaction between CD151 and EGFR was predicted by using FireDoc Web server. Impact of CLP on the interaction of CD151 with EGFR was evaluated by co-immunoprecipitation assay. The effect of CLP on the cell cycle and its controlling proteins was determined by Western blotting. CLP reduced the viability of MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 TNBC cell lines but not human breast healthy epithelial cell line (MCF-12A) similar to eribulin, standard. CLP also inhibited proliferation; cell cycle and migration. It induced DNA strand breaks, DNA damage, and cell death. It showed the most favorable interactions with CD151 in in silico docking and significantly reduced the expression of membrane-bound CD151 proteins. FireDoc Web study predicted the association between CD151 and EGFR with -29.13 kcal/mol of binding energy. CLP reduced the interaction of CD151 with EGFR along with the expression of cyclin D, CDK4, PAK, RAC1, and P27kiP1. This study concludes that CLP suppresses growth and migration by attenuating cell cycle of TNBC cell lines via EGFR and CD151 signaling. Thus, exploring the EGFR and CD151 signaling pathway targeted by CLP may provide a new approach in the treatment of TNBC.

Inhibition of esophageal cancer growth through the suppression of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway

Background

The phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway is implicated in several cancers. AKT allosteric inhibitor MK2206 and dual PI3K and mTOR inhibitor BEZ235 are promising drug candidates with potential anti-tumor effects. 

Purpose

In this study, we aimed to detect the activation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and assess the efficacy of MK2206 and BEZ235 in inhibiting esophageal cancer growth.

Materials and methods

We used three different systems including carcinogen-induced animal model, human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) cell lines, and xenograft mouse model. 

Results

Our data indicated that components of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway were overexpressed and activated in esophageal SCC. MK2206 and BEZ235 inhibited cell proliferation, enhanced apoptosis, and induced cell-cycle arrest through downstream effectors SKP2, MCL-1, and cyclin D1 in esophageal SCC cells. MK2206 and BEZ235 also inhibited tumor growth in xenograft mice through the inhibition of AKT phosphorylation. MK2206/BEZ235 combination showed greater anti-tumor effect than MK2206 or BEZ235 alone. The enhanced efficacy of the combination was associated with the inhibition of phosphorylation ATK on both Thr308 and Ser473. 

Conclusion

The combination of MK2206 and BEZ235 exhibits potent antitumor effects and may have important clinical applications for esophageal SCC treatment.

Effect of lipopolysaccharide addition on the gene transfection of spermine-introduced pullulan-plasmid DNA complexes for human mesenchymal stem cells

The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) addition on the gene transfection of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC). hMSC were treated with the LPS at different concentrations and the complex of spermine-introduced pullulan and luciferase plasmid DNA for 3 h. The maximum level of gene expression was observed for hMSC treated with a certain concentration range of LPS. In addition, the cytotoxicity, cellular internalization of complexes, and cell cycle after LPS treatment were investigated. The cytotoxicity increased with an increase in the LPS concentration treated. On the other hand, the cellular internalization of complexes increased with the increased LPS concentration, although the internalization was sharply reduced at the high concentration. The LPS treatment increased the actin polymerization of cells to allow to spread more. The enhanced cells spreading would enhance the cellular internalization of complexes. In addition, the LPS treatment increased the rate of cell cycle. It is possible that the balance of cytotoxicity, cellular internalization, and cell cycle caused by the LPS addition results in the enhanced gene transfection at a certain LPS concentration. It is concluded that LPS treatment positively modified the cellular internalization and the cell cycle, resulting in the enhanced gene transfection.

Downregulation of TCEAL7 expression induces CCND1 expression in non-small cell lung cancer

Transcription Elongation Factor A-like 7 (TCEAL7) was first reported as a candidate tumor suppressor gene because of its inactivation in ovarian cancer as a result of promoter methylation. Down-regulation of the TCEAL7 gene expression was also associated with other cancers such as endometrial, breast, brain, prostate, gastric cancers, glioblastoma and linked to tumor phenotypes and clinical outcomes. However, there is no report in the literature investigating the role of TCEAL7 in non-small cell lung cancer. Cyclin D1 is an important molecule in the transition from G1 to S phase of the cell cycle, and is frequently deregulated in cancers. Cylin D1 (CCND1) gene is amplified or overexpressed in a variety of tumors. In our previous study we reported that CCND1 over-expression was not associated with amplification in non-small cell lung cancer. Recently, it has been reported that TCEAL7 regulates CCND1 expression through myc-binding E-box sequences. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of TCEAL7 gene in non-small cell lung cancer and to determine its effect on the CCND1 expression level. For this purpose, expression levels of TCEAL7 and CCND1 genes were investigated in 50 patients with non-small cell lung cancer by quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). TCEAL7 was under-expressed (68%) in non-small cell lung cancer tumor tissues while CCND1 was over-expressed (42%). The TCEAL7 levels negatively correlated with increased CCND1 expression (p = 0.002).

Paper/polymer composited microfluidic platform for screening cell viability and protein expression under a chemical gradient environment

Culturing cells in three-dimensional (3D) environment can obtain a better clinical prediction for evaluating chemotherapy protocols and become a standard culture practice in cancer research. However, it involves tedious and time consuming operation. In the current work, a paper/polymer composited microfluidic platform was developed for screening cell viability and protein expression under chemical gradient environment. Cells were cultured in a paper sheet and expressed cell properties in 3D environment. The paper sheet was encapsulated in the microfluidic platform generating chemical gradient. After the culture course, investigations of cell viability and protein expression were respectively achieved by directly adding reagent and conducting on-paper immunoassay. Activation of respective signaling pathway could be identified and responded to different stimulations including nutrient gradient, IL-6 cytokine gradient, and anti-cancer drug gradient. On-paper analysis of protein expression could be completed within 1.5 h. The present technique integrates tedious operations on a single paper substrate. It provides a first-tier screening tool for cellular response under chemical gradient.

ProNGF Is a Cell-Type-Specific Mitogen for Adult Hippocampal and for Induced Neural Stem Cells

The role of proNGF, the precursor of nerve growth factor (NGF), in the biology of adult neural stem cells (aNSCs) is still unclear. Here, we analyzed adult hippocampal neurogenesis in AD11 transgenic mice, in which the constitutive expression of anti-NGF antibody leads to an imbalance of proNGF over mature NGF. We found increased proliferation of progenitors but a reduced neurogenesis in the AD11 dentate gyrus (DG)-hippocampus (HP). Also in vitro, AD11 hippocampal neural stem cells (NSCs) proliferated more, but were unable to differentiate into morphologically mature neurons. By treating wild-type hippocampal progenitors with the uncleavable form of proNGF (proNGF-KR), we demonstrated that proNGF acts as mitogen on aNSCs at low concentration. The mitogenic effect of proNGF was specifically addressed to the radial glia-like (RGL) stem cells through the induction of cyclin D1 expression. These cells express high levels of p75^NTR , as demonstrated by immunofluorescence analyses performed ex vivo on RGL cells isolated from freshly dissociated HP-DG or selected in vitro from NSCs by leukemia inhibitory factor. Clonogenic assay performed in the absence of mitogens showed that RGLs respond to proNGF-KR by reactivating their proliferation and thus leading to neurospheres formation. The mitogenic effect of proNGF was further exploited in the expansion of mouse-induced neural stem cells (iNSCs). Chronic exposure of iNSCs to proNGF-KR increased their proliferation. Altogether, we demonstrated that proNGF acts as mitogen on hippocampal and iNSCs. Stem Cells 2019;37:1223-1237.

OTUD6B-AS1 Might Be a Novel Regulator of Apoptosis in Systemic Sclerosis

Antisense long non-coding RNAs (AS lncRNAs) have increasingly been recognized as important regulators of gene expression and they have been found to play key roles in several diseases. However, very little is known about the role of AS lncRNAs in fibrotic diseases such as systemic sclerosis (SSc). Our recent screening experiments by RNA sequencing showed that ovarian tumor domain containing 6B antisense RNA1 (OTUD6B-AS1) and its sense gene OTUD6B were significantly downregulated in SSc skin biopsies. Therefore, we aimed to identify key regulators of OTUD6B-AS1 and to analyze the functional relevance of OTUD6B-AS1 in SSc. OTUD6B-AS1 and OTUD6B expression in SSc and healthy control (HC) dermal fibroblasts (Fb) after stimulation with transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ), Interleukin (IL)-4, IL-13, and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) was analyzed by qPCR. To identify the functional role of OTUD6B-AS1, dermal Fb or human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (HPASMC) were transfected with a locked nucleic acid antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) targeting OTUD6B-AS1. Proliferation was measured by BrdU and real-time proliferation assay. Apoptosis was measured by Caspase 3/7 assay and Western blot for cleaved caspase 3. While no difference was recorded at the basal level between HC and SSc dermal Fb, the expression of OTUD6B-AS1 and OTUD6B was significantly downregulated in both SSc and HC dermal Fb after PDGF stimulation in a time-dependent manner. Only mild and inconsistent effects were observed with TGFβ, IL-4, and IL-13. OTUD6B-AS1 knockdown in Fb and HPASMC did not affect extracellular matrix or pro-fibrotic/proinflammatory cytokine production. However, OTUD6B-AS1 knockdown significantly increased Cyclin D1 expression at the mRNA and protein level. Moreover, silencing of OTUD6B-AS1 significantly reduced proliferation and suppressed apoptosis in both dermal Fb and HPASMC. OTUD6B-AS1 knockdown did not affect OTUD6B expression at the mRNA level and protein level. Our data suggest that OTUD6B-AS1 regulates proliferation and apoptosis via cyclin D1 expression in a sense gene independent manner. This is the first report investigating the function of OTUD6B-AS1. Our data shed light on a novel apoptosis resistance mechanism in Fb and vascular smooth muscle cells that might be relevant for pathogenesis of SSc.

Changes in DNA Damage Repair Gene Expression and Cell Cycle Gene Expression Do Not Explain Radioresistance in Tamoxifen-Resistant Breast Cancer

Tamoxifen-induced radioresistance, reported in vitro, might pose a problem for patients who receive neoadjuvant tamoxifen treatment and subsequently receive radiotherapy after surgery. Previous studies suggested that DNA damage repair or cell cycle genes are involved, and could therefore be targeted to preclude the occurrence of cross-resistance. We aimed to characterize the observed cross-resistance by investigating gene expression of DNA damage repair genes and cell cycle genes in estrogen receptor-positive MCF-7 breast cancer cells that were cultured to tamoxifen resistance. RNA sequencing was performed, and expression of genes characteristic for several DNA damage repair pathways was investigated, as well as expression of genes involved in different phases of the cell cycle. The association of differentially expressed genes with outcome after radiotherapy was assessed in silico in a large breast cancer cohort. None of the DNA damage repair pathways showed differential gene expression in tamoxifen-resistant cells compared to wild-type cells. Two DNA damage repair genes were more than two times upregulated (NEIL1 and EME2), and three DNA damage repair genes were more than two times downregulated (PCNA, BRIP1, and BARD1). However, these were not associated with outcome after radiotherapy in the TCGA breast cancer cohort. Genes involved in G₁, G₁/S, G₂, and G₂/M phases were lower expressed in tamoxifen-resistant cells compared to wild-type cells. Individual genes that were more than two times upregulated (MAPK13) or downregulated (E2F2, CKS2, GINS2, PCNA, MCM5, and EIF5A2) were not associated with response to radiotherapy in the patient cohort investigated. We assessed the expression of DNA damage repair genes and cell cycle genes in tamoxifen-resistant breast cancer cells. Though several genes in both pathways were differentially expressed, these could not explain the cross-resistance for irradiation in these cells, since no association to response to radiotherapy in the TCGA breast cancer cohort was found.

HULC functions as an oncogene in ovarian carcinoma cells by negatively modulating miR-125a-3p

The aberrant expression of highly upregulated in liver cancer (HULC) has been reported to participate in ovarian cancer development. A recent research has revealed that HULC-modulated microRNAs (miRNAs) in tumorigenesis. To confirm the functions of HULC on tumorigenesis of ovarian, we explored the effects of HULC expression on ovarian cancer cell development, as well as the underlying mechanism. We transfected SKOV3 cells with pEX-HULC, sh-HULC, and miR-125a-3p mimic as well as their corresponding negative controls (pEX-3, sh-NC, and NC) to alter the expression of HULC and miR-125a-3p, which were analyzed by quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR). Expression of proteins associated with cell cycle, apoptosis, and signaling pathways was determined by Western blot assay. The proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion were explored by bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation assay, Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)/propidium iodide (PI) method, and transwell migration and invasion assays, respectively. HULC overexpression promoted proliferation, migration, and invasion, while inhibited apoptosis of SKOV3 cells. In addition, HULC negatively regulated the expression of miR-125a-3p. Besides, miR-125a-3p mimic reversed the effects of HULC on proliferation, migration, and invasion as well as apoptosis of SKOV3 cells. Moreover, we found that HULC enhanced phosphorylated expression of regulatory factors in phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian targets of rapamycin (PI3K/AKT/mTOR) signaling pathway by downregulating expression of miR-125a-3p. Overexpression of HULC promoted ovarian carcinoma development by activating PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway via downregulating miR-125a-3p.

Effects of RNAi-induced Skp2 inhibition on cell cycle, apoptosis and proliferation of endometrial carcinoma cells

The aim of the current study was to investigate the underlying mechanism of S-phase kinase associated protein 2 (Skp2) gene inhibition by lentivirus-mediated RNA interference (RNAi) on the cell cycle, apoptosis and proliferation of endometrial carcinoma HEC-1-A cells. A lentivirus shRNA vector targeting Skp2 was constructed and transfected into HEC-1-A cells. HEC-1-A cells transfected with a scramble sequence were used as negative controls. The mRNA and protein expression of Skp2, p27, cyclin D1 and caspase-3 were detected via reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting, respectively. The effects of Skp2 inhibition on the cell cycle, apoptosis and proliferation of HEC-1-A cells were detected using flow cytometry and a cell counting kit-8. Skp2 co-expression data was analyzed using Oncomine and TCGA databases. The positive recombinant viral clones were identified via PCR and confirmed via sequencing. The mRNA and protein expression of Skp2 were significantly decreased in HEC-1-A cells transfected with the lentiviral vectors compared with the negative control. In addition, there were no significant changes in the mRNA expression of p27 and cyclin D1; however, the protein levels of p27 and cyclin D1 were upregulated and downregulated, respectively, in HEC-1-A cells transfected with lentiviral vectors compared with negative controls. RNAi-induced Skp2 inhibition exerted an anti-proliferative effect by inducing cell cycle arrest, however cell apoptosis was not significantly affected. In the TCGA database, Skp2 expression positively associated with IGF2R, IGF2BP3, IGFBP1 and CCNF, while Skp2 expression negatively associated with IGF2, IGFBP6, IGFBP7 and IGFBP3. RNAi-induced Skp2 inhibition upregulated the protein expression of p27 and downregulated the protein expression of cyclin D1. The expression of Skp2 in endometrial cancer may therefore be regulated by the insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor signaling pathway.

Aberrant Wnt Signaling Pathway in the Hematopoietic Stem/Progenitor Compartment in Experimental Leukemic Animal

The evolutionarily conserved Wnt signaling pathway regulates physiological hematopoiesis, a process of formation of blood cells and has been shown to play crucial role in the development of both myeloid and lymphoid malignancies. The Wnt signaling pathway can be broadly divided into canonical and non-canonical pathways. In the present study, we investigated the pathobiology of leukemia by studying the expression profile of Wnt proteins, receptors, key signaling intermediates and endogenous Wnt antagonist involved in canonical and non-canonical pathways in the bone marrow (BM) hematopoietic stem/progenitor cell (HSPC) compartment of experimental leukemic mice. Cell adhesion molecule N-Cadherin and leukemic BM microenvironment with reference to Wnt were also studied. We used ENU, a potent carcinogen, to induce leukemia in wild type Swiss albino mice and malignant transformation was cofirmed by peripheral blood and BM studies. Flow cytometric expression analysis revealed profound up-regulation of canonical Wnt3a/β-catenin/CyclinD1 signaling axis along with N-Cadherin whereas down-regulation of non-canonical Wnt5a/Ca2+/CaMKII signaling axis in the leukemic HSPC compartment. Subsequent use of anti-Wnt3a antibody in the in vitro clonogenicity assay uncovered that anti-Wnt3a antibody preferentially inhibited the growth and number of the primitive leukemic hematopoietic CFU-GEMM and BFU-E colonies. Stromal cells derived from the leukemic BM also exhibited aberrant Wnt3a and Wnt5a protein expression. Taken together, alteration of canonical and non-canonical Wnt signaling pathways in the HSPC compartment along with classical Wnt protein expression pattern in the leukemic stromal microenvironment resulted in progression of leukemia.

Fluoxetine Induces Apoptosis through Extrinsic/Intrinsic Pathways and Inhibits ERK/NF-κB-Modulated Anti-Apoptotic and Invasive Potential in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells In Vitro

The aim of the present study was to verify the effects of fluoxetine on dysregulation of apoptosis and invasive potential in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) SK-Hep1 and Hep3B cells. Cells were treated with different concentrations of fluoxetine for different times. MTT (3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide) assays were used for testing the effects of fluoxetine on cell viability. The regulation of apoptosis signaling, and anti-apoptotic, proliferation, and metastasis-associated proteins after fluoxetine treatment were assayed by flow cytometry and Western blotting assay. The detection of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) activation after fluoxetine treatment was performed by NF-κB reporter gene assay. The results demonstrated that fluoxetine significantly reduced cell viability, cell migration/invasion, NF-κB, extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK) activation, and expression of anti-apoptotic (Cellular FLICE (FADD-like IL-1β-converting enzyme)-inhibitory protein (C-FLIP), Myeloid cell leukemia-1 (MCL-1), X-Linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XAIP), and Survivin), proliferation (Cyclin-D1), angiogenesis (vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)), and metastasis-associated proteins (matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9)). Fluoxetine also significantly induced apoptosis, unregulated extrinsic (activation of first apoptosis signal protein and ligand (Fas/FasL), and caspase-8) and intrinsic (loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) pathways and increased Bcl-2 homologous antagonist killer (BAK) apoptosis signaling. Taken together, these results demonstrated that fluoxetine induced apoptosis through extrinsic/intrinsic pathways and diminished ERK/NF-κB-modulated anti-apoptotic and invasive potential in HCC cells in vitro.

MIIP is downregulated in gastric cancer and its forced expression inhibits proliferation and invasion of gastric cancer cells in vitro and in vivo

Background

MIIP is associated with cancer progression in various cancers. However, its expression pattern, and associated molecular mechanisms in gastric cancer (GC) progression are still mysterious. We aimed to explore the role of MIIP in proliferation and invasion of GC.

Materials and methods

MIIP expression was evaluated in human GC tissues and cell lines. Public clinical database of GC patients was used to probe the correlation between MIIP expression and prognosis of patients. The effects of forced MIIP expression on GC cells were determined by MTT, cell cycle distribution, colony formation, wound-healing and Transwell assays in vitro, as well as in vivo growth of subcutaneous tumor xenografts and metastasis of xenografted tumors to the lungs in mice. The expressions of GC progression-associated genes, including HOTAIR, MALAT1, HDAC6, AC-tubulin, and cyclin D1, were assessed by Western blotting or qRT-PCR.

Results

Both GC tissues and GC cell lines had lower MIIP expression. Higher level of MIIP in GC tissues predicts better survival in patients. Ectopic expression of MIIP in GC cell lines BGC823 and HGC27 induced G₀/G₁ cell cycle arrest and inhibited cell proliferation, colony formation, migration and invasion in vitro, as well as the growth of GC xenografts and metastasis of tumors in vivo. Furthermore, overexpression of MIIP suppressed mRNA expressions of HOTAIR and MALAT1, decreased protein expression of HDAC6 and cyclin D1, and elevated AC-tubulin protein expression.

Conclusion

MIIP is a suppressor for GC progression and is a potential therapeutic target for treating GC.

Trichlorfon inhibits proliferation and promotes apoptosis of porcine trophectoderm and uterine luminal epithelial cells

Trichlorfon is an organophosphate insecticide widely used in agriculture. Additionally, it is applied to pigs for control of endo- and ectoparasites. Previous studies have shown the effects of trichlorfon in pigs during late stages of gestation; however, little is known about its effects during early pregnancy, including implantation and placentation. We investigated whether trichlorfon affects proliferation and apoptosis of porcine trophectoderm (pTr) and uterine luminal epithelial (pLE) cells. Trichlorfon inhibited the proliferation of pTr and pLE cells, as evidenced by cell cycle arrest, and altered the expression of proliferation-related proteins. In addition, trichlorfon induced cell death and apoptotic features, such as loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and DNA fragmentation, in pTr and pLE cells. Moreover, trichlorfon treatment decreased concentrations of Ca²⁺ in the cytoplasm in both cell lines and increased concentrations of Ca²⁺ in mitochondria of pTr cells. Trichlorfon inhibited the activation of phosphoinositide 3-kinase/AKT and mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathways in pTr and pLE cells. Therefore, we suggest that trichlorfon-treated pTr and pLE cells exhibited abnormal cell physiology which might lead to early pregnancy failure.

A Pre-Clinical Large Animal Model of Sustained Liver Injury and Regeneration Stimulus

A feasible large animal model to evaluate regenerative medicine techniques is vital for developing clinical applications. One such appropriate model could be to use retrorsine (RS) together with partial hepatectomy (PH). Here, we have developed the first porcine model using RS and PH. RS or saline control was administered intraperitoneally to Göttingen miniature pigs twice, two weeks apart. Four weeks after the second dose, animals underwent PH. Initially, we tested different doses of RS and resection of different amounts of liver, and selected 50 mg/kg RS with 60% hepatectomy as our model for further testing. Treated animals were sacrificed 3, 10, 17 or 28 days after PH. Blood samples and resected liver were collected. Serum and liver RS content was determined by Liquid Chromatograph-tandem Mass Spectrometer. Blood analyses demonstrated liver dysfunction after PH. Liver regeneration was significantly inhibited 10 and 17 days after PH in RS-treated animals, to the extent of 20%. Histological examination indicated hepatic injury and regenerative responses after PH. Immunohistochemical staining demonstrated accumulation of Cyclin D1 and suppression of Ki-67 and PCNA in RS-treated animals. We report the development of the first large animal model of sustained liver injury with suppression of hepatic regeneration.

SR-B1 involvement in keratinocytes in vitro wound closure

Skin represents the most extended organ of human body, having as main function the protection of our body from outdoor stressors. Its protective ability is compromised when the skin is disrupted as a consequence of mechanical insults. For this purpose, cutaneous tissue is equipped with an efficient and fine mechanism involved in repairing the wounded area. Among the numerous players that take part in the wound healing process, SR-B1 has been recently shown to have a role in keratinocyte re-epithelialization. SR-B1 is a mediator of cholesterol uptake from HDLs, whereas it is implicated in other cellular processes such as vitamins absorption, vesicle trafficking or pathogen identification. The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanisms involved in SR-B1 role in skin wound closure. Our in vitro data demonstrated that SR-B1 influenced keratinocyte proliferation and migration through a downregulation of nuclear cyclin D1 levels and active MMP9 expression respectively possibly in an NF-kB-dependent mechanism. In addition, SR-B1 was also able to modulate keratinocyte morphology into a pro-migratory cytoskeleton rearrangement. The present in vitro study suggests a new role of SRB1 as a possible new key player in cutaneous wound healing mechanism.

Ethanol extracts from the branch of Taxillus yadoriki parasitic to Neolitsea sericea induces cyclin D1 proteasomal degradation through cyclin D1 nuclear export

Background

Although the inhibitory effect of mistletoe on cancer cell growth has been reported, the underlying mechanisms to explain its anti-proliferative activity are not fully studied. Thus, we elucidated the potential molecular mechanism of the branch from Taxillus yadoriki (TY) parasitic to Neolitsea sericea (NS) (TY-NS-B) for the anti-proliferative effect.

Methods

Anti-cell proliferative effect was evaluated by MTT assay. The change of cyclin D1 protein or mRNA level was evaluated by Western blot and RT-RCR, respectively.

Results

In comparison of anti-proliferative effect of TY from the host trees such as Cryptomeria japonica (CJ), Neolitsea sericea (NS), Prunus serrulata (PS), Cinnamomum camphora (CC) and Quercus acutissima (QA), TY-NS showed higher anti-cell proliferative effect than TY-CJ, TY-PS, TY-CC or TY-QA. In addition, the anti-proliferative effect of branch from TY from all host trees was better than leaves. Thus, we selected the branch from Taxillus yadoriki parasitic to Neolitsea sericea (TY-NS-B) for the further study. TY-NS-B inhibited the cell proliferation in the various cancer cells and downregulated cyclin D1 protein level. MG132 treatment attenuated cyclin D1 downregulation of cyclin D1 protein level by TY-NS-B. In addition, TY-NS-B increased threonine-286 (T286) phosphorylation of cyclin D1, and the mutation of T286 to alanine (T286A) blocked cyclin D1 proteasomal degradation by TY-NS-B. But the upstream factors related to cyclin D1 degradation such as ERK1/2, p38, JNK, GSK3β, PI3K, IκK or ROS did not affect cyclin D1 degradation by TY-NS-B. However, LMB treatment was observed to inhibit cyclin D1 degradation by TY-NS-B, and T286A blocked cyclin D1 degradation through suppressing cyclin D1 redistribution from nucleus to cytoplasm by TY-NS-B. In addition, TY-NS-B activated CRM1 expression.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that TY-NS-B may suppress cell proliferation by downregulating cyclin D1 protein level through proteasomal degradation via T286 phosphorylation-dependent cyclin D1 nuclear export. These findings will provide the evidence that TY-NS-B has potential to be a candidate for the development of chemoprevention or therapeutic agents for human cancer.

Mathematical modelling of reversible transition between quiescence and proliferation

Cells switch between quiescence and proliferation states for maintaining tissue homeostasis and regeneration. At the restriction point (R-point), cells become irreversibly committed to the completion of the cell cycle independent of mitogen. The mechanism involving hyper-phosphorylation of retinoblastoma (Rb) and activation of transcription factor E2F is linked to the R-point passage. However, stress stimuli trigger exit from the cell cycle back to the mitogen-sensitive quiescent state after Rb hyper-phosphorylation but only until APC/CCdh1 inactivation. In this study, we developed a mathematical model to investigate the reversible transition between quiescence and proliferation in mammalian cells with respect to mitogen and stress signals. The model integrates the current mechanistic knowledge and accounts for the recent experimental observations with cells exiting quiescence and proliferating cells. We show that Cyclin E:Cdk2 couples Rb-E2F and APC/CCdh1 bistable switches and temporally segregates the R-point and the G1/S transition. A redox-dependent mutual antagonism between APC/CCdh1 and its inhibitor Emi1 makes the inactivation of APC/CCdh1 bistable. We show that the levels of Cdk inhibitor (CKI) and mitogen control the reversible transition between quiescence and proliferation. Further, we propose that shifting of the mitogen-induced transcriptional program to G2-phase in proliferating cells might result in an intermediate Cdk2 activity at the mitotic exit and in the immediate inactivation of APC/CCdh1. Our study builds a coherent framework and generates hypotheses that can be further explored by experiments.