Membrane estrogen receptor-alpha levels predict estrogen-induced ERK1/2 activation in MCF-7 cells

Nongenomic signaling pathways of estrogen toxicity

Xenoestrogens can affect the healthy functioning of a variety of tissues by acting as potent estrogens via nongenomic signaling pathways or by interfering with those actions of multiple physiological estrogens. Collectively, our and other studies have compared a wide range of estrogenic compounds, including some closely structurally related subgroups. The estrogens that have been studied include environmental contaminants of different subclasses, dietary estrogens, and several prominent physiological metabolites. By comparing the nongenomic signaling and functional responses to these compounds, we have begun to address the structural requirements for their actions through membrane estrogen receptors in the pituitary, in comparison to other tissues, and to gain insights into their typical non-monotonic dose-response behavior. Their multiple inputs into cellular signaling begin processes that eventually integrate at the level of mitogen-activated protein kinase activities to coordinately regulate broad cellular destinies, such as proliferation, apoptosis, or differentiation.

A peptide fragment of azurin induces a p53-mediated cell cycle arrest in human breast cancer cells

We report that amino acids 50 to 77 of azurin (p28) preferentially enter the human breast cancer cell lines MCF-7, ZR-75-1, and T47D through a caveolin-mediated pathway. Although p28 enters p53 wild-type MCF-7 and the isogenic p53 dominant-negative MDD2 breast cancer cell lines, p28 only induces a G(2)-M-phase cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in MCF-7 cells. p28 exerts its antiproliferative activity by reducing proteasomal degradation of p53 through formation of a p28:p53 complex within a hydrophobic DNA-binding domain (amino acids 80-276), increasing p53 levels and DNA-binding activity. Subsequent elevation of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors p21 and p27 reduces cyclin-dependent kinase 2 and cyclin A levels in a time-dependent manner in MCF-7 cells but not in MDD2 cells. These results suggest that p28 and similar peptides that significantly reduce proteasomal degradation of p53 by a MDM2-independent pathway(s) may provide a unique series of cytostatic and cytotoxic (apoptotic) chemotherapeutic agents.

Proliferative and anti-proliferative effects of dietary levels of phytoestrogens in rat pituitary GH3/B6/F10 cells - the involvement of rapidly activated kinases and caspases

Background

Phytoestogens are a group of lipophillic plant compounds that can have estrogenic effects in animals; both tumorigenic and anti-tumorigenic effects have been reported. Prolactin-secreting adenomas are the most prevalent form of pituitary tumors in humans and have been linked to estrogen exposures. We examined the proliferative effects of phytoestrogens on a rat pituitary tumor cell line, GH₃/B₆/F₁₀, originally subcloned from GH₃ cells based on its ability to express high levels of the membrane estrogen receptor-α.

Methods

We measured the proliferative effects of these phytoestrogens using crystal violet staining, the activation of several mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and their downstream targets via a quantitative plate immunoassay, and caspase enzymatic activities.

Results

Four phytoestrogens (coumestrol, daidzein, genistein, and trans-resveratrol) were studied over wide concentration ranges. Except trans-resveratrol, all phytoestrogens increased GH₃/B₆/F₁₀ cell proliferation at some concentration relevant to dietary levels. All four phytoestrogens attenuated the proliferative effects of estradiol when administered simultaneously. All phytoestrogens elicited MAPK and downstream target activations, but with time course patterns that often differed from that of estradiol and each other. Using selective antagonists, we determined that MAPKs play a role in the ability of these phytoestrogens to elicit these responses. In addition, except for trans-resveratrol, a serum removal-induced extrinsic apoptotic pathway was blocked by these phytoestrogens.

Conclusion

Phytoestrogens can block physiological estrogen-induced tumor cell growth in vitro and can also stimulate growth at high dietary concentrations in the absence of endogenous estrogens; these actions are correlated with slightly different signaling response patterns. Consumption of these compounds should be considered in strategies to control endocrine tumor cell growth, such as in the pituitary.

Growth factor receptors and apoptosis regulators: signaling pathways, prognosis, chemosensitivity and treatment outcomes of breast cancer

Biomarkers of breast cancer are necessary for prognosis and prediction to chemotherapy. Prognostic biomarkers provide information regarding outcome irrespective of therapy, while predictive biomarkers provide information regarding response to therapy. Candidate prognostic biomarkers for breast cancers are growth factor receptors, steroid receptors, Ki-67, cyclins, urokinase plasminogen activator, p53, p21, pro- and anti-apoptotic factors, BRCA1 and BRCA2. But currently, the predictive markers are Estrogen and Progesterone receptors responding to endocrine therapy, and HER-2 responding to herceptin. But there are numerous breast cancer cases, where tamoxifen is ineffective even after estrogen receptor positivity. This lead to search of new prognostic and predictive markers and the number of potential markers is constantly increasing due to proteomics and genomics studies. However, most biomarkers individually have poor sensitivity or specificity, or other clinical value. It can be resolved by studying various biomarkers simultaneously, which will help in better prognosis and increasing sensitivity for chemotherapeutic agents. This review is focusing on growth factor receptors, apoptosis markers, signaling cascades, and their correlation with other associated biomarkers in breast cancers. As our knowledge regarding molecular biomarkers for breast cancer increases, prognostic indices will be developed that combine the predictive power of individual molecular biomarkers with specific clinical and pathologic factors. Rigorous comparison of these existing as well as emerging markers with current treatment selection is likely to see an escalation in an era of personalized medicines to ensure the breast cancer patients receive optimal treatment. This will also solve the treatment modalities and complications related to chemotherapeutic regimens.

Responses of PhIP (2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine) in MCF-7 cells are culture condition dependent

To compare the effects of the food toxin 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenyl-imidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP) and estradiol in hormone-responsive MCF-7 cells, the cells were exposed to different concentrations of either PhIP or estradiol. The effect of various culture conditions (e.g. phenol red, FBS, vehicle (DMSO/EtOH) and seeding density) on responses was studied. Cells were continuously grown with steroid-containing or -deprived medium, or switched from steroid-containing to -deprived medium for the experiments to minimize the effect of background estrogenicity. Effects of PhIP and estradiol on cell viability and proliferation were determined by ATP analysis and Ki-67 immunocytochemistry. Expression of estrogen receptor alpha, cell stress markers (p53 and ERK) and estrogen responsive proteins (c-myc and ERK) were immunoblotted. All concentrations of estradiol induced cell proliferation, viability and changes in protein expression, typical for estrogenic responses. PhIP, however, increased viability only at low concentrations and depending on culture conditions. No changes in protein expressions by PhIP were noted, not even when switching cells from steroid-containing to -deprived medium which down-regulated the expression of proteins at basal level. Vehicle affected significantly viability, especially after exposure to PhIP, but not protein expression while medium changes affected both. In conclusion, the effects of PhIP and estradiol in MCF-7 cells are dependent on culture conditions. The detected PhIP-induced changes are weaker compared to those induced by estradiol.

Nongenomic mechanisms of physiological estrogen-mediated dopamine efflux

Background

Neurological diseases and neuropsychiatric disorders that vary depending on female life stages suggest that sex hormones may influence the function of neurotransmitter regulatory machinery such as the dopamine transporter (DAT).

Results

In this study we tested the rapid nongenomic effects of several physiological estrogens [estradiol (E₂), estrone (E₁), and estriol (E₃)] on dopamine efflux via the DAT in a non-transfected, NGF-differentiated, rat pheochromocytoma (PC12) cell model that expresses membrane estrogen receptors (ERs) α, β, and GPR30. We examined kinase, ionic, and physical interaction mechanisms involved in estrogenic regulation of the DAT function. E₂-mediated dopamine efflux is DAT-specific and not dependent on extracellular Ca²⁺-mediated exocytotic release from vesicular monoamine transporter vesicles (VMATs). Using kinase inhibitors we also showed that E₂-mediated dopamine efflux is dependent on protein kinase C and MEK activation, but not on PI3K or protein kinase A. In plasma membrane there are ligand-independent associations of ERα and ERβ (but not GPR30) with DAT. Conditions which cause efflux (a 9 min 10^-9 M E₂ treatment) cause trafficking of ERα (stimulatory) to the plasma membrane and trafficking of ERβ (inhibitory) away from the plasma membrane. In contrast, E₁ and E₃ can inhibit efflux with a nonmonotonic dose pattern, and cause DAT to leave the plasma membrane.

Conclusion

Such mechanisms explain how gender biases in some DAT-dependent diseases can occur.

Delayed activation of extracellular-signal-regulated kinase 1/2 is involved in genistein- and equol-induced cell proliferation and estrogen-receptor-alpha-mediated transcription in MCF-7 breast cancer cells

The aim of this study was to determine whether the extracellular-signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) pathway is involved in genistein- and equol-induced cell proliferation and estrogen receptor (ER) alpha transactivation. For MCF-7 human breast cells, low concentrations of genistein and equol enhanced proliferation and induced MCF-7 cells to enter the S-phase. Genistein- and equol-induced cell proliferation and S-phase entry were blocked by the ERalpha antagonists 4-hydroxytamoxifen and ICI 182,780 and by the mitogen-activated protein kinase 1/2 inhibitor U0126. These data indicated that ERalpha and mitogen-activated protein extracellular kinase/ERK signaling were required for the effects of genistein/equol on cell growth and cell cycle progression. Genistein and equol induced delayed and prolonged activation of ERK1/2. Inhibition of ERK1/2 phosphorylation by U0126 led to complete suppression of genistein- and equol-induced estrogen response element reporter activity and to suppression of the estrogen-responsive gene pS2. The anti-estrogen ICI had no effect on genistein- and equol-induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation. These results suggest that activation of ERK1/2 lies upstream of ER-mediated transcription, and that ERK1/2 activation is necessary for the transactivation of ERalpha. In conclusion, genistein and equol elicit a delayed activation of ERK1/2, and this activation appears to be involved in the proliferation of breast cancer cells and estrogen-dependent transcriptional activation.

Beneficial effects of estrogen in a mouse model of cerebrovascular insufficiency

BACKGROUND

The M(5) muscarinic acetylcholine receptor is known to play a crucial role in mediating acetylcholine dependent dilation of cerebral blood vessels. Previously, we reported that male M(5) muscarinic acetylcholine knockout mice (M5R(-/-) mice) suffer from a constitutive constriction of cerebral arteries, reduced cerebral blood flow, dendritic atrophy, and short-term memory loss, without necrosis and/or inflammation in the brain.

METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

We employed the Magnetic Resonance Angiography to study the area of the basilar artery in male and female M5R(-/-) mice. Here we show that female M5R(-/-) mice did not show the reduction in vascular area observed in male M5R(-/-) mice. However, ovariectomized female M5R(-/-) mice displayed phenotypic changes similar to male M5R(-/-) mice, strongly suggesting that estrogen plays a key role in the observed gender differences. We found that 17beta-estradiol (E2) induced nitric oxide release and ERK activation in a conditional immortalized mouse brain cerebrovascular endothelial cell line. Agonists of ERalpha, ERbeta, and GPR30 promoted ERK activation in this cell line. Moreover, in vivo magnetic resonance imaging studies showed that the cross section of the basilar artery was restored to normal in male M5R(-/-) mice treated with E2. Treatment with E2 also improved the performance of male M5R(-/-) mice in a cognitive test and reduced the atrophy of neural dendrites in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus. M5R(-/-) mice also showed astrocyte swelling in cortex and hippocampus using the three-dimensional reconstruction of electron microscope images. This phenotype was reversed by E2 treatment, similar to the observed deficits in dendrite morphology and the number of synapses.

CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE

Our findings indicate that M5R(-/-) mice represent an excellent novel model system to study the beneficial effects of estrogen on cerebrovascular function and cognition. E2 may offer new therapeutic perspectives for the treatment of cerebrovascular insufficiency related memory dysfunction.

A positive feedback between activated extracellularly regulated kinase and cyclooxygenase/lipoxygenase maintains proliferation and migration of breast cancer cells

Metastasis of breast cancer cells is the leading cause of death in breast cancer patients. Why do breast cancer cells with high metastatic potential always keep in high proliferation and migration? The endogenous signaling pathways associated with tumor metastasis remain unclear. In the present study, we address whether a link between ERK and the enzymes associated with arachidonic acid (AA) metabolism contributes to the proliferation and migration of breast cancer cells. To identify endogenous signaling pathways involved in sustaining proliferation and migration of breast cancer cells, we performed parallel studies of human breast cancer cell lines that differ in their metastatic potential. Our data showed that cell lines with high metastatic potential, including LM-MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231, exhibited significantly high, sustained levels of phosphorylated ERK (pERK) 1/2 relative to MCF-7 cells. Our findings showed that beta-catenin, cyclin D1, and survivin serve downstream effectors of pERK1/2, whereas Gi/o proteins, phospholipase C, and protein kinase C serve upstream activators of pERK1/2. In addition, AA metabolites were able to activate Gi/o proteins, phospholipase C, protein kinase C, and pERK1/2 cascades through cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase. In contrast, activated ERK1/2 promoted AA metabolism through a positive feedback loop, which conduces to a high proliferative potential and the migration of the breast cancer cells. Together, our data provide new mechanistic insights into possible endogenous signaling metastatic signaling pathways involved in maintaining proliferation and migration of breast cancer cells.

Effects of cadmium on estrogen receptor mediated signaling and estrogen induced DNA synthesis in T47D human breast cancer cells

Cadmium (Cd) has been shown to bind to the human estrogen receptor (ER), yet studies on Cd's estrogenic effects have yielded inconsistent results. In this study, we investigated the effects of Cd on DNA synthesis and its simultaneous effects on both genomic (mediated by nuclear ER (nER)) and non-genomic (mediated by membrane-bound ER (mER)) signaling in human breast cancer derived T47D cells. No effects on DNA synthesis were observed for non-cytotoxic concentrations of CdCl(2) (0.1-1000 nM), and Cd did not increase progesterone receptor (PgR) or pS2 mRNA levels. However, Cd stimulated phosphorylation of ERK1/2 MAPK, detectable following 10 min and 18 h of treatment. The sustained Cd-induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation was inhibited by the ER antagonist ICI 182,780, suggesting the involvement of ER. In addition, Cd enhanced DNA synthesis and pS2 mRNA levels in estrogen (10 pM estradiol) treated T47D cells. The MEK1/2 specific inhibitor U0126 blocked DNA synthesis stimulated by estradiol (E2) and the E2-Cd mixtures. These findings indicate that the ERK1/2 signaling is critical in E2-related DNA synthesis. The sustained ERK1/2 phosphorylation may contribute to the Cd-induced enhancement of DNA synthesis and pS2 mRNA in mixture with low-concentration E2.

Autocrine regulation of cell proliferation by estrogen receptor-alpha in estrogen receptor-alpha-positive breast cancer cell lines

BACKGROUND

Estrogen receptor-alpha (ERalpha) is essential for mammary gland development and is a major oncogene in breast cancer. Since ERalpha is not colocalized with the cell proliferation marker Ki-67 in the normal mammary glands and the majority of primary breast tumors, it is generally believed that paracrine regulation is involved in ERalpha mediated cell proliferation. In the paracrine model, ERalpha-positive cells don't proliferate but will release some paracrine growth factors to stimulate the neighboring cells to proliferate. In a subpopulation of cancer cells in some primary breast tumors, however, ERalpha does colocalize with the cell proliferation marker Ki-67, suggesting an autocrine regulation by ERalpha in some primary breast tumors.

METHODS

Colocalization of ERalpha with Ki-67 in ERalpha-positive breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7, T47D, and ZR75-1) was evaluated by immunofluorescent staining. Cell cycle phase dependent expression of ERalpha was determined by co-immunofluorescent staining of ERalpha and the major cyclins (D, E, A, B), and by flow cytometry analysis of ERalphahigh cells. To further confirm the autocrine action of ERalpha, MCF-7 cells were growth arrested by ICI182780 treatment, followed by treatment with EGFR inhibitor, before estrogen stimulation and analyses for colocalization of Ki-67 and ERalpha and cell cycle progression.

RESULTS

Colocalization of ERalpha with Ki-67 was present in all three ERalpha-positive breast cancer cell lines. Unlike that in the normal mammary glands and the majority of primary breast tumors, ERalpha is highly expressed throughout the cell cycle in MCF-7 cells. Without E2 stimulation, MCF-7 cells released from ICI182780 treatment remain at G1 phase. E2 stimulation of ICI182780 treated cells, however, promotes the expression and colocalization of ERalpha and Ki-67 as well as the cell cycle progressing through the S and G2/M phases. Inhibition of EGFR signaling does not inhibit the autocrine action of ERalpha.

CONCLUSION

Our data indicate that ERalpha can mediate estrogen-induced cell proliferation in an autocrine mode in ERalpha-positive breast cancer cell lines. All of the three ERalpha-positive cell lines used in our study showed colocalization of ERalpha and Ki-67, indicating that these cell lines might be originated from primary tumor cells with autocrine regulation.

STEAP1 is over-expressed in breast cancer and down-regulated by 17beta-estradiol in MCF-7 cells and in the rat mammary gland

Six transmembrane epithelial antigen of the prostate 1 (STEAP1) was identified as a prostate-specific cell-surface antigen over-expressed in prostate cancer, and in human cancer cell lines obtained from several other tissues. Its cell surface location in all tumor types analyzed so far, and its absence in most vital organs in humans, turned STEAP1 into a potential target for anti-tumor immunotherapy. This study provides experimental evidence that STEAP1 is also over-expressed in human breast cancer cases, and in normal breast tissue adjacent to breast tumors, where it is localized in the cell membrane of epithelial cells. It is also demonstrated that STEAP1 transcription correlates negatively with estrogen receptor (ER) immunoreactivity, and positively with tumor grading in breast cancer cases. As estrogens are involved in breast cancer onset and progression, the response of STEAP1 to 17beta-estradiol (E2) was investigated in the mammary gland of rats, and in the human breast cancer cell line, MCF-7. These experiments demonstrated that STEAP1 is down-regulated by E2 in both models. The mechanisms underlying the STEAP1 response to E2 in vitro were further investigated in MCF-7 cells, and the results obtained suggest an effect mediated by the membrane-bound ERalpha (mbERalpha).

Human myeloblastic leukemia cells (HL-60) express a membrane receptor for estrogen that signals and modulates retinoic acid-induced cell differentiation

Estrogen receptors are historically perceived as nuclear ligand activated transcription factors. An estrogen receptor has now been found localized to the plasma membrane of human myeloblastic leukemia cells (HL-60). Its expression occurs throughout the cell cycle, progressively increasing as cells mature from G(1) to S to G(2)/M. To ascertain that the receptor functioned, the effect of ligands, including a non-internalizable estradiol-BSA conjugate and tamoxifen, an antagonist of nuclear estrogen receptor function, were tested. The ligands caused activation of the ERK MAPK pathway. They also modulated the effect of retinoic acid, an inducer of MAPK dependent terminal differentiation along the myeloid lineage in these cells. In particular the ligands inhibited retinoic acid-induced inducible oxidative metabolism, a functional marker of terminal myeloid cell differentiation. To a lesser degree they also diminished retinoic acid-induced earlier markers of cell differentiation, namely CD38 and CD11b. However, they did not regulate retinoic acid-induced G(0) cell cycle arrest. There is thus a membrane localized estrogen receptor in HL-60 myeloblastic leukemia cells that can cause ERK activation and modulates the response of these cells to retinoic acid, indicating crosstalk between the membrane estrogen and retinoic acid evoked pathways relevant to propulsion of cell differentiation.

Viral vector-mediated delivery of estrogen receptor-alpha to the hippocampus improves spatial learning in estrogen receptor-alpha knockout mice

Estrogen, which influences both classical genomic and rapid membrane-associated signaling cascades, has been implicated in the regulation of hippocampal function, including spatial learning. Gene mutation studies suggest that estrogen effects are mediated by estrogen receptor-alpha (ER-alpha); however, because gonadal steroids influence the organization of the hippocampus during development, it has been difficult to distinguish developmental effects from those specific to adults. In this study we show that lentiviral delivery of the gene encoding ER-alpha to the hippocampus of adult ER-alpha-knockout (ER-alphaKO) mice restores hippocampal responsiveness to estrogen and rescues spatial learning. We propose that constitutive estrogen receptor activity is important for maintaining hippocampus-dependent memory function in adults.

Nongenomic actions of estradiol compared with estrone and estriol in pituitary tumor cell signaling and proliferation

Physiological estrogens, including estrone (E(1)), estradiol (E(2)), and estriol (E(3)), fluctuate with life stage, suggesting specific roles for them in biological and disease processes. We compared their nongenomic signaling and functional actions in GH3/B6/F10 rat pituitary tumor cells. All hormones caused prolactin release at 1 min; the lowest effective concentrations were 10(-11) M E(2), 10(-10) M E(1), and 10(-7) M E(3). All estrogens increased the oscillation frequency of calcium (Ca) spikes, with the same time delay (approximately 200 s) at all levels (10(-15) to 10(-9) M). At some concentrations, E(1) and E(3) provoked more Ca-responding cells than E(2). The amplitude and volume of Ca peaks were elevated by all hormones at > or = 10(-15) M. All hormones caused cell proliferation, with the lowest effective concentrations of E(2) (10(-15) M) > E(1) (10(-12) M) > E(3) (10(-10) M); E(2) caused higher maximal cell numbers at most concentrations. All estrogens caused oscillating extracellular-regulated kinase (ERK) activations, with relative potencies of E(1) and E(2) > E(3). All estrogens were ineffective in activation of ERKs or causing proliferation in a subline expressing low levels of membrane estrogen receptor-alpha. Dose-response patterns were frequently nonmonotonic. Therefore, the hormones E(1) and E(3), which have been designated "weak" estrogens in genomic actions, are strong estrogens in the nongenomic signaling pathways and functional responses in the pituitary.

Non-genomic actions of estrogens and their interaction with genomic actions in the brain

Ligands for the nuclear receptor superfamily have at least two mechanisms of action: (a) classical transcriptional regulation of target genes (genomic mechanisms); and (b) non-genomic actions, which are initiated at the cell membrane, which could also impact transcription. Though transcriptional mechanisms are increasingly well understood, membrane-initiated actions of these ligands are incompletely understood. This has led to considerable debate over the physiological relevance of membrane-initiated actions of hormones versus genomic actions of hormones, with genomic actions predominating in the endocrine field. There is good evidence that the membrane-limited actions of hormones, particularly estrogens, involve the rapid activation of kinases and the release of calcium and that these are linked to physiologically relevant scenarios in the brain. We show evidence in this review, that membrane actions of estrogens, which activate these rapid signaling cascades, can also potentiate nuclear transcription in both the central nervous system and in non-neuronal cell lines. We present a theoretical scenario which can be used to understand this phenomenon. These signaling cascades may occur in parallel or in series but subsequently, converge at the modification of transcriptionally relevant molecules such as nuclear receptors and/or coactivators. In addition, other non-cognate hormones or neurotransmitters may also activate cascades to crosstalk with estrogen receptor-mediated transcription, though the relevance of this is less clear. The idea that coupling between membrane-initiated and genomic actions of hormones is a novel idea in neuroendocrinology and provides us with a unified view of hormone action in the central nervous system.

Androgens act synergistically to enhance estrogen-induced upregulation of human tissue kallikreins 10, 11, and 14 in breast cancer cells via a membrane bound androgen receptor

The regulation of gene expression by steroid hormones plays an important role in the normal development and function of many organs, as well as in the pathogenesis of endocrine-related cancers, especially breast cancer. However, clinical data suggest that combined testosterone and estrogen treatments on post-menopausal women increase the risk of breast cancer. Experiments have shown that many, if not all kallikreins are under steroid hormone regulation in breast cancer cell lines. Their implication as prognostic and diagnostic markers has also been well-documented. Thus, we investigated the effect of combined hormone stimulation with androgens and 17beta-estradiol on the ductal caricinoma cell line BT474. This cell line has been shown to be sensitive to both, androgens (secreting PSA) and estrogens (secreting a number of kallikreins including KLK10, 11, and KLK14). We found that PSA expression was downregulated upon combined hormone stimulation, confirming reports that estrogen can antagonize and block the activity of the androgen receptor. Upon analysis of estrogen-sensitive kallikreins 10, 11, and 14, all showed to be synergistically enhanced in their expression three- to fourfold, upon joint hormone treatment versus individual hormone stimulation. The enhancement is dependent upon the action of androgens as treatment with the androgen receptor antagonist cyproterone actetate normalized the expression of KLK10, 11, and KLK14 to estrogen-stimulation levels. The synergistic effects between estrogens and androgens on estrogen-sensitive genes may have implications on the role of the kallikreins in associated risk of breast cancer and progression.

Molecular markers and targets for colorectal cancer prevention

Colorectal cancer is the third most prevalent cancer in the world. If detected at an early stage, treatment often might lead to cure. As prevention is better than cure, epidemiological studies reveal that having a healthy diet often protects from promoting/ developing cancer. An important consideration in evaluating new drugs and devices is determining whether a product can effectively treat a targeted disease. There are quite a number of biomarkers making their way into clinical trials and few are awaiting the preclinical efficacy and safety results to enter into clinical trials. Researchers are facing challenges in modifying trial design and defining the right control population, validating biomarker assays from the biological and analytical perspective and using biomarker data as a guideline for decision making. In spite of following all guidelines, the results are disappointing from many of the large clinical trials. To avoid these disappointments, selection of biomarkers and its target drug needs to be evaluated in appropriate animal models for its toxicities and efficacies. The focus of this review is on the few of the potential molecular targets and their biomarkers in colorectal cancers. Strengths and limitations of biomarkers/surrogate endpoints are also discussed. Various pathways involved in tumor cells and the specific agents to target the altered molecular biomarker in biomolecular pathway are elucidated. Importance of emerging new platforms siRNAs and miRNAs technology for colorectal cancer therapeutics is reviewed.

Oestrogen mediates the growth of human thyroid carcinoma cells via an oestrogen receptor-ERK pathway

OBJECTIVES

Although thyroid cancer occurs much more frequently in females, the role of sex hormones in thyroid carcinogenesis is unknown. In this study, it has been investigated how 17beta-oestradiol (E2) influenced proliferation and growth of thyroid cancer cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cell proliferation and its related molecules were examined in thyroid papillary carcinoma cells (KAT5), follicular thyroid carcinoma cells (FRO) and anaplastic carcinoma cells (ARO). Levels of oestrogen receptor (ER) alpha and beta were regulated by their agonists (PPT and DPN), antagonists and siRNA.

RESULTS

E2 promoted cell proliferation. Such an effect was positively related to ERalpha but negatively to ERbeta; PPT enhanced cell proliferation while DPN inhibited it. PPT increased Bcl-2 expression while DPN decreased it. DPN also elevated Bax expression. PPT elevated the level of phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (pERK1/2), suggesting a positive role of ERK1/2 in E2-induced cell proliferation. Knockdown of ERalpha significantly attenuated E2-mediated Bcl-2 and pERK1/2 expression. In contrast, knockdown of ERbeta markedly enhanced them.

CONCLUSIONS

Oestrogen stimulates proliferation of thyroid cancer cells, associated with increase in Bcl-2 and decrease in Bax levels in an ERK1/2-related pathway. Imbalance between ERalpha and ERbeta may contribute to thyroid carcinogenesis.

Regulation of estrogen receptor (ER) levels in MCF-7 cells by progesterone metabolites

Estradiol-17beta (E2) may participate in carcinoma of mammary cells containing estradiol receptors (ER) at sufficient levels. Hence, the regulation of ER levels may be important for the progression of estrogen-dependent mammary carcinomas. Our previous findings that the progesterone metabolite, 5alpha-pregnane-3,20-dione (5alphaP), exhibits marked mitogenic and metastatic properties, whereas the progesterone metabolites, 4-pregnen-3alpha-ol-20-one (3alphaHP) and 4-pregnen-20alpha-ol-3-one (20alphaHP), oppose these actions, prompted examination of the possible effects of these progesterone metabolites on ER concentration in MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Cells were exposed for 24h to 0 (control) or 10(-10) to 10(-6)M E2, 5alphaP, 3alphaHP, 20alphaHP or combinations of these steroids, and ER concentrations were determined for intracellular estrogen receptors by specific binding of [(3)H]E2. The total ER number (nuclear plus cytosolic) in control samples was 2551+/-164 per cell. E2 and 5alphaP resulted in significant dose-dependent increases in total ER numbers ( approximately 1.6-fold and approximately 2.2-fold at 10(-6)M, respectively). In combination, E2+5alphaP resulted in additive increases in ER numbers. Individually, 3alphaHP and 20alphaHP each resulted in dose-dependent decreases (43% and 54% at 10(-6)M, respectively) in total ER numbers and inhibited the E2- or 5alphaP-induced increases in ER levels. In combination, 3alphaHP+20alphaHP resulted in dose-dependent additive suppression of ER levels. Treatment with cycloheximide or actinomycin D indicated that both transcription and translation are involved in 5alphaP and 3alphaHP action on ER numbers. Real time RT-PCR showed increases in expression of ERalpha transcripts due to 5alphaP and increases in expression of ERbeta due to 3alphaHP; expression levels of either ERalpha or ERbeta were not significantly altered when cells were treated with 5alphaP+3alphaHP. The results are the first to show that the pro- and anti-cancer progesterone metabolites also have marked selective (up or down) regulatory effects on ER levels in MCF-7 breast cancer cells.

IGF-I plus E2 induces proliferation via activation of ROS-dependent ERKs and JNKs in human breast carcinoma cells

Induction of 17beta-estradiol (E2) and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) has been detected in breast carcinoma, however the interaction between E2 and IGF-I in the proliferation of breast carcinoma cells is still unclear. In the present study, we found that IGF-I enhances the E2-induced proliferation in MCF-7 human breast carcinoma cells in accordance with stimulation of colony formation via a soft agar assay. Activation of insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) protein and extracellular signal-related kinases (ERKs) and c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNKs), but not p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), via phosphorylation induction was detected in MCF-7 cells treated with IGF-I plus E2 (E2/IGF-I). E2/IGF-I-induced proliferation was blocked by chemical inhibitors of ERKs (PD98059) and JNKs (SP600125). An increase in the expression of c-Jun protein was detected in E2/IGF-I-treated MCF-7 cells, and this was inhibited by PD98059 and SP600125. Transfection of the dominant negative MEKK and JNK plasmids significantly reduced E2/IGF-I-induced proliferation with suppression of c-Jun protein expression. An increase in peroxide production was detected in E2/IGF-I-treated cells, and N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) and Tiron (TIR) addition significantly inhibited E2/IGF-I-induced cell proliferation with blocking of the phosphorylation of ERKs and JNKs, and the expression of c-Jun protein. Additionally, 3-OH flavone, baicalein, and quercetin showed effective inhibitory activities against E2/IGF-I-induced proliferation through suppressing proliferative events such as phosphorylation of IRS-1, ERKs, and JNKs proteins, and induction of c-Jun protein and colony formation. These results indicate that IGF-I interacts with E2 to promote the proliferation of breast carcinoma cells via ROS-dependent MAPK activation and c-Jun protein expression. The structure-related inhibition of E2/IGF-I-induced proliferative events by flavonoids is elucidated.

Role of endothelin-1 in tamoxifen resistance: Mechanism for a new possible treatment strategy in breast cancer

Breast cancer is the prevalent cancer worldwide. Excessive exposure to endogenous estrogen across a woman's lifespan contributes to and may be a causal factor in breast cancer. Tamoxifen is a mixed estrogen agonist and antagonist, which is used in treatment and prevention of breast cancer as an estrogen antagonist. Many patients experience resistance to tamoxifen for which many mechanisms have been suggested. Endothelin-1 acts as a mitogen for human breast fibroblasts and it affects tumor cell proliferation, invasion, angiogenesis, neovascularization, mitogenesis, and apoptosis inhibition. Previous studies have shown that estradiol is effective in inhibiting endothelin synthesis in breast tissue and cardiovascular system. Tamoxifen as an estrogen receptor (ER) agonist in cardiovascular system has a cardioprotective effect and decreases endothelin level as a vasoconstrictor in cardiovascular system. But in breast tissue tamoxifen acts as an ER antagonist. According to the role of endothelin in breast cancer and inhibitory effect of estrogen on endothelin, we hypothesized that tamoxifen causes increasing in endothelin level or endothelin receptors probably by inhibitory effect on ER in breast tissue, leading to tamoxifen resistance. Therefore a combination of tamoxifen with endothelin antagonist seems to be a reasonable therapeutic strategy.

Demethylation of promoter C region of estrogen receptor alpha gene is correlated with its enhanced expression in estrogen-ablation resistant MCF-7 cells

Long-term estrogen deprivation (LTED) MCF-7 cells showing estrogen-independent growth, express estrogen receptor (ER) alpha at a much higher level than wild-type MCF-7 cells. Enhanced expression of ERalpha associated with partial localization of ERalpha to the plasma membranes in LTED cells is thought to be an important step for acquisition of estrogen-ablation resistance. In this study, we compared the regulation of ERalpha gene expression between wild type and LTED cells, examining the usage of the promoters A and C as well as their methylation status. We found that transcription from the promoter C was drastically enhanced in LTED cells, compared with that in wild-type cells. Furthermore, the promoter C region was highly unmethylated in LTED cells, but partially methylated in wild-type cells. Our findings imply that demethylation of promoter C region in the ERalpha gene is in part responsible for the enhanced expression of ERalpha gene in LTED cells.

Membrane-initiated actions of estrogens in neuroendocrinology: emerging principles

Hormonal ligands for the nuclear receptor superfamily have at least two interacting mechanisms of action: 1) classical transcriptional regulation of target genes (genomic mechanisms); and 2) nongenomic actions that are initiated at the cell membrane, which could impact transcription. Although transcriptional mechanisms are increasingly well understood, membrane-initiated actions of these ligands are incompletely understood. Historically, this has led to a considerable divergence of thought in the molecular endocrine field. We have attempted to uncover principles of hormone action that are relevant to membrane-initiated actions of estrogens. There is evidence that the membrane-limited actions of hormones, particularly estrogens, involve the rapid activation of kinases and the release of calcium. Membrane actions of estrogens, which activate these rapid signaling cascades, can also potentiate nuclear transcription. These signaling cascades may occur in parallel or in series but subsequently converge at the level of modification of transcriptionally relevant molecules such as nuclear receptors and/or coactivators. In addition, other hormones or neurotransmitters may also activate cascades to crosstalk with estrogen receptor-mediated transcription. The idea of synergistic coupling between membrane-initiated and genomic actions of hormones fundamentally revises the paradigms of cell signaling in neuroendocrinology.

Signaling by estrogens

By regulating activities and expression levels of key signaling molecules, estrogens control mechanisms that are responsible for crucial cellular functions. Ligand binding to estrogen receptor (ER) leads to conformational changes that regulate the receptor activity, its interaction with other proteins and DNA. In the cytoplasm, receptor interactions with kinases and scaffolding molecules regulate cell signaling cascades (extranuclear/nongenomic action). In the nucleus, estrogens control a repertoire of coregulators and other auxiliary proteins that are associated with ER, which in turn determines the nature of regulated genes and level of their expression (genomic action). The combination of genomic and nongenomic actions of estrogens ultimately confers the cell-type and tissue-type selectivity. Recent studies have revealed some important new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying ER action, which may help to explain the functional basis of existing selective ER modulators (SERMs) and provide evidence into how ER might be selectively targeted to achieve specific therapeutic goals. In this review, we will summarize some new molecular details that relate to estrogen signaling. We will also discuss some new strategies that may potentially lead to the development of functionally selective ER modulators that can separate between the beneficial, prodifferentiative effects in bone, the cardiovascular system and the CNS as well as the "detrimental," proliferative effects in reproductive tissues and organs.

Xenoestrogens are potent activators of nongenomic estrogenic responses

Studies of the nuclear transcriptional regulatory activities of non-physiological estrogens have not explained their actions in mediating endocrine disruption in animals and humans at the low concentrations widespread in the environment. However, xenoestrogens have rarely been tested for their ability to participate in the plethora of nongenomic steroid signaling pathways elucidated over the last several years. Here we review what is known about such responses in comparison to our recent evidence that xenoestrogens can rapidly and potently elicit signaling through nongenomic pathways culminating in functional endpoints. Both estradiol (E(2)) and compounds representing various classes of xenoestrogens (diethylstilbestrol, coumestrol, bisphenol A, DDE, nonylphenol, endosulfan, and dieldrin) act via a membrane version of the estrogen receptor-alpha on pituitary cells, and can provoke Ca(2+) influx via L-type channels, leading to prolactin (PRL) secretion. These hormones and mimetics can also cause the oscillating activation of extracellular regulated kinases (ERKs). However, individual estrogen mimetics differ in their potency and temporal phasing of these activations compared to each other and to E(2). It is perhaps in these ways that they disrupt some endocrine functions when acting in combination with physiological estrogens. Our quantitative assays allow comparison of these outcomes for each mimetic, and let us build a detailed picture of alternative signaling pathway usage. Such an understanding should allow us to determine the estrogenic or antiestrogenic potential of different types of xenoestrogens, and help us to develop strategies for preventing xenoestrogenic disruption of estrogen action in many tissues.

Estradiol effects on the dopamine transporter - protein levels, subcellular location, and function

Background

The effects of estrogens on dopamine (DA) transport may have important implications for the increased incidence of neurological disorders in women during life stages when hormonal fluctuations are prevalent, e.g. during menarche, reproductive cycling, pregnancy, and peri-menopause.

Results

The activity of the DA transporter (DAT) was measured by the specific uptake of ³H-DA. We found that low concentrations (10^-14 to 10^-8 M) of 17β-estradiol (E₂) inhibit uptake via the DAT in PC12 cells over 30 minutes, with significant inhibition taking place due to E₂ exposure during only the last five minutes of the uptake period. Such rapid action suggests a non-genomic, membrane-initiated estrogenic response mechanism. DAT and estrogen receptor-α (ERα) were elevated in cell extracts by a 20 ng/ml 2 day NGFβ treatment, while ERβ was not. DAT, ERα and ERβ were also detectable on the plasma membrane of unpermeabilized cells by immunocytochemical staining and by a fixed cell, quantitative antibody (Ab)-based plate assay. In addition, PC12 cells contained RNA coding for the alternative membrane ER GPR30; therefore, all 3 ER subtypes are candidates for mediating the rapid nongenomic actions of E₂. At cell densities above 15,000 cells per well, the E₂-induced inhibition of transport was reversed. Uptake activity oscillated with time after a 10 nM E₂ treatment; in a slower room temperature assay, inhibition peaked at 9 min, while uptake activity increased at 3 and 20–30 min. Using an Ab recognizing the second extracellular loop of DAT (accessible only on the outside of unpermeabilized cells), our immunoassay measured membrane vs. intracellular/nonvesicular DAT; both were found to decline over a 5–60 min E₂ treatment, though immunoblot analyses demonstrated no total cellular loss of protein.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that physiological levels of E₂ may act to sequester DAT in intracellular compartments where the transporter's second extramembrane loop is inaccessible (inside vesicles) and that rapid estrogenic actions on this differentiated neuronal cell type may be regulated via membrane ERs of several types.

Effects of caveolin-1 on the 17beta-estradiol-mediated inhibition of VSMC proliferation induced by vascular injury

Estrogen has a protective effect on the cardiovascular system. Yet the mechanism of how estrogen inhibits vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation after vascular injury and the role of caveolin-1 in this process are not clear. To understand the protection effect of estrogen and caveolin-1, we employed a vascular balloon-injury model. Sixteen New Zealand White rabbits with or without estrogen were tested. 17beta-estradiol is able to inhibit VSMC proliferation in a range from 10(-10)-10(-5) mol/L, with an optimal concentration of 10(-8) mol/L. Estrogen exerted its effect through suppressing the activity of p42/44 MAPK, which can be blocked by tamoxifen. Moreover, in estrogen pretreated cells as well as in common carotid arteries of the balloon injury model, expression of caveolin-1 is enhanced compared to the estrogen-deficient group, as assessed by both western blotting and RT-PCR and morphological studies. Our results showed that the inhibition effect of estrogen in VSMCs is mediated by p42/44 MAPK. Caveolin-1 plays an important role in this protective process.

Provasopressin expression by breast cancer cells: implications for growth and novel treatment strategies

The arginine vasopressin (AVP) gene is expressed in certain cancers such as breast cancer, where it is believed to act as an autocrine growth factor. However, little is known about the regulation of the AVP protein precursor (proAVP) or AVP-mediated signaling in breast cancer and this study was undertaken to address some of the basic issues. The cultured cell lines examined (Mcf7, Skbr3, BT474, ZR75, Mcf10a) and human breast cancer tissue extract were found to express proAVP mRNA. Western analysis revealed multiple forms of proAVP protein were present in cell lysates, corresponding to those detected in human hypothalamus extracts. Monoclonal antibodies directed against different regions of proAVP bound to intact live Mcf7 and Skbr3 cells. Dexamethasone increased the amount of proAVP-associated glycopeptide (VAG) secreted by Skbr3 cells and a combination of dexamethasone, IBMX and 8br-cAMP increased cellular levels of VAG. Exogenous AVP (1, 10, and 100 nM) elevated phospho-ERK1/2 levels, and increased cell proliferation was observed in the presence of 10 nM AVP. Concurrent treatment with the V1a receptor antagonist SR49059 reduced the effects of AVP on proliferation in Mcf7 cells, and abolished it in Skbr3 cells. Results here show that proAVP components are found at the surface of Skbr3 and Mcf7 cells and are also secreted from these cells. In addition, they show that AVP promotes cancer cell growth, apparently through a V1-type receptor-mediated pathway and subsequent ERK1/2 activation. Thus, strategies for targeting proAVP should be examined for their effectiveness in diagnosing and treating breast cancer.

Membrane estrogen receptor-alpha levels in MCF-7 breast cancer cells predict cAMP and proliferation responses

Introduction

17β-estradiol (E₂) can rapidly induce cAMP production, but the conditions under which these cAMP levels are best measured and the signaling pathways responsible for the consequent proliferative effects on breast cancer cells are not fully understood. To help resolve these issues, we compared cAMP mechanistic responses in MCF-7 cell lines selected for low (mER^low) and high (mER^high) expression of the membrane form of estrogen receptor (mER)-α, and thus addressed the receptor subform involved in cAMP signaling.

Methods

MCF-7 cells were immunopanned and subsequently separated by fluorescence activated cell sorting into mER^high (mER-α-enriched) and mER^low (mER-α-depleted) populations. Unique (compared with previously reported) incubation conditions at 4°C were found to be optimal for demonstrating E₂-induced cAMP production. Time-dependent and dose-dependent effects of E₂ on cAMP production were determined for both cell subpopulations. The effects of forskolin, 8-CPT cAMP, protein kinase A inhibitor (H-89), and adenylyl cyclase inhibitor (SQ 22,536) on E₂-induced cell proliferation were assessed using the crystal violet assay.

Results

We demonstrated a rapid and transient cAMP increase after 1 pmol/l E₂ stimulation in mER^high cells; at 4°C these responses were much more reliable and robust than at 37°C (the condition most often used). The loss of cAMP at 37°C was not due to export. 3-Isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX; 1 mmol/l) only partially preserved cAMP, suggesting that multiple phosphodiesterases modulate its level. The accumulated cAMP was consistently much higher in mER^high cells than in mER^low cells, implicating mER-α levels in the process. ICI172,780 blocked the E₂-induced response and 17α-estradiol did not elicit the response, also suggesting activity through an estrogen receptor. E₂ dose-dependent cAMP production, although biphasic in both cell types, was responsive to 50-fold higher E₂ concentrations in mER^high cells. Proliferation of mER^low cells was stimulated over the whole range of E₂concentrations, whereas the number of mER^high cells was greatly decreased at concentrations above 1 nmol/l, suggesting that estrogen over-stimulation can lead to cell death, as has previously been reported, and that mER-α participates. E₂-mediated activation of adenylyl cyclase and downstream participation of protein kinase A were shown to be involved in these responses.

Conclusion

Rapid mER-α-mediated nongenomic signaling cascades generate cAMP and downstream signaling events, which contribute to the regulation of breast cancer cell number.