51
|
Bhateja P, Cherian M, Majumder S, Ramaswamy B. The Hedgehog Signaling Pathway: A Viable Target in Breast Cancer? Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11081126. [PMID: 31394751 PMCID: PMC6721501 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11081126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The hedgehog (Hh) pathway plays a key role in embryonic development and stem cell programs. Deregulation of the Hh pathway is a key driver of basal cell carcinoma, and therapeutic targeting led to approval of Hh inhibitor, vismodegib, in the management of this cancer. The Hh pathway is implicated in other malignancies including hormone receptor (HR+) positive and triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). Hh signaling, which is activated in human mammary stem cells, results in activation of glioma-associated oncogene (GLI) transcription factors. High GLI1 expression correlates with worse outcomes in breast cancer. Non-canonical GLI1 activation is one mechanism by which estrogen exposure promotes breast cancer stem cell proliferation and epithelial–mesenchymal transition. Tamoxifen resistant cell lines show aberrant activation of Hh signaling, and knockdown of Hh pathway inhibited growth of tamoxifen resistant cells. As in other cancers Hh signaling is activated by the PI3K/AKT pathway in these endocrine resistant cell lines. Hh pathway activation has also been reported to mediate chemotherapy resistance in TNBC via various mechanisms including paracrine signaling to tumor micro-environment and selective proliferation of cancer stem cells. Co-activation of Hh and Wnt signaling pathways is a poor prognostic marker in TNBC. Early phase clinical trials are evaluating the combination of smoothened (SMO) inhibitors and chemotherapy in TNBC. In addition to SMO inhibitors like vismodegib and sonidegib, which are in clinical use for basal cell carcinoma, GLI1 inhibitors like GANT58 and GANT61 are in preclinical drug development and might be an effective mechanism to overcome drug resistance in breast cancer. Gene signatures predictive of Hh pathway activation could enrich for patients likely to respond to these agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Bhateja
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal medicine, James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Mathew Cherian
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal medicine, James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Sarmila Majumder
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal medicine, James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Bhuvaneswari Ramaswamy
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal medicine, James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
52
|
Carpenter RL, Ray H. Safety and Tolerability of Sonic Hedgehog Pathway Inhibitors in Cancer. Drug Saf 2019; 42:263-279. [PMID: 30649745 DOI: 10.1007/s40264-018-0777-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The hedgehog pathway, for which sonic hedgehog (Shh) is the most prominent ligand, is highly conserved and is tightly associated with embryonic development in a number of species. This pathway is also tightly associated with the development of several types of cancer, including basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and acute promyelocytic leukemia, among many others. Inactivating mutations in Patched-1 (PTCH1), leading to ligand-independent pathway activation, are frequent in several cancer types, but most prominent in BCC. This has led to the development of several compounds targeting this pathway as a cancer therapeutic. These compounds target the inducers of this pathway in Smoothened (SMO) and the GLI transcription factors, although targeting SMO has had the most success. Despite the many attempts at targeting this pathway, only three US FDA-approved drugs for cancers affect the Shh pathway. Two of these compounds, vismodegib and sonidegib, target SMO to suppress signaling from either PTCH1 or SMO mutations that lead to upregulation of the pathway. The other approved compound is arsenic trioxide, which can suppress this pathway at the level of the GLI proteins, although current evidence suggests it also has other targets. This review focuses on the safety and tolerability of these clinically approved drugs targeting the Shh pathway, along with a discussion on other Shh pathway inhibitors being developed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard L Carpenter
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1001 E. 3rd St, Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA. .,Medical Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1001 E. 3rd St, Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA. .,Simon Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, 535 Barnhill Dr., Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA.
| | - Haimanti Ray
- Medical Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1001 E. 3rd St, Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA
| |
Collapse
|
53
|
Lee HJ, Jeong JH, Ryu JH. Anti-pancreatic cancer activity of Z-ajoene from garlic: An inhibitor of the Hedgehog/Gli/FoxM1 axis. J Funct Foods 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2019.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
|
54
|
Riaz SK, Ke Y, Wang F, Kayani MA, Malik MFA. Influence of SHH/GLI1 axis on EMT mediated migration and invasion of breast cancer cells. Sci Rep 2019; 9:6620. [PMID: 31036836 PMCID: PMC6488587 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-43093-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Sonic Hedgehog signaling is critical for breast morphogenesis and cancer. The present study was conducted to explore the influence of SHH/GLI1 axis on epithelial mesenchymal transition and invasion in breast cancer cells. SHH/GLI1 positive samples demonstrated high expression of Snail and Vimentin with relatively low expression of E-cadherin. Overexpression of Vimentin and Snail in SHH/GLI1 positive patients was also associated with poor overall survival. Interestingly, GANT61 (GLI1 inhibitor) exposure significantly reduced cell viability and induced apoptosis at 10 µM. Suppression of Hedgehog pathway either by CRISPR mediated SHH knock out or GANT61 altered regulation of EMT markers in breast cancer cells. Moreover, in-activation of SHH/GLI1 axis also significantly restricted cell migration and invasiveness. These findings suggest that targeting SHH/GLI1 axis alters expression of EMT markers and abrogates neoplastic invasion in breast cancer cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Syeda Kiran Riaz
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan
- Centre for Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M Health Science Centre, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yuepeng Ke
- Centre for Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M Health Science Centre, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Fen Wang
- Centre for Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M Health Science Centre, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
55
|
Role of Hedgehog Signaling in Breast Cancer: Pathogenesis and Therapeutics. Cells 2019; 8:cells8040375. [PMID: 31027259 PMCID: PMC6523618 DOI: 10.3390/cells8040375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Revised: 04/22/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in women, only followed by lung cancer. Given the importance of BC in public health, it is essential to identify biomarkers to predict prognosis, predetermine drug resistance and provide treatment guidelines that include personalized targeted therapies. The Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway plays an essential role in embryonic development, tissue regeneration, and stem cell renewal. Several lines of evidence endorse the important role of canonical and non-canonical Hh signaling in BC. In this comprehensive review we discuss the role of Hh signaling in breast development and homeostasis and its contribution to tumorigenesis and progression of different subtypes of BC. We also examine the efficacy of agents targeting different components of the Hh pathway both in preclinical models and in clinical trials. The contribution of the Hh pathway in BC tumorigenesis and progression, its prognostic role, and its value as a therapeutic target vary according to the molecular, clinical, and histopathological characteristics of the BC patients. The evidence presented here highlights the relevance of the Hh signaling in BC, and suggest that this pathway is key for BC progression and metastasis.
Collapse
|
56
|
Girardi D, Barrichello A, Fernandes G, Pereira A. Targeting the Hedgehog Pathway in Cancer: Current Evidence and Future Perspectives. Cells 2019; 8:cells8020153. [PMID: 30759860 PMCID: PMC6406365 DOI: 10.3390/cells8020153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2018] [Revised: 02/10/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The Hedgehog pathway (HhP) plays an important role in normal embryonic development and its abnormal function has been linked to a variety of neoplasms. Recently, the complex mechanisms involved in this pathway have been deciphered and the cross talks with other important pathways involved in carcinogenesis have been characterized. This knowledge has led to the development of targeted therapies against key components of HhP, which culminated in the approval of vismodegib for the treatment of advanced basal cell carcinoma in 2012. Since then, other compounds have been developed and evaluated in preclinical and clinical studies with interesting results. Today, several medications against components of the HhP have demonstrated clinical activity as monotherapies and in combination with cytotoxic treatment or other targeted therapies against mitogenic pathways that are linked to the HhP. This review aims to clarify the mechanism of the HhP and the complex crosstalk with others pathways involved in carcinogenesis and to discuss both the evidence associated with the growing number of medications and combined therapies addressing this pathway and future perspectives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Girardi
- Division of Medical Oncology, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, Brasilia, 70200-730, Brazil.
| | - Adriana Barrichello
- Division of Medical Oncology, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, Brasilia, 70200-730, Brazil.
| | - Gustavo Fernandes
- Division of Medical Oncology, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, Brasilia, 70200-730, Brazil.
| | - Allan Pereira
- Division of Medical Oncology, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, Brasilia, 70200-730, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
57
|
Gli Proteins: Regulation in Development and Cancer. Cells 2019; 8:cells8020147. [PMID: 30754706 PMCID: PMC6406693 DOI: 10.3390/cells8020147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2019] [Revised: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 02/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Gli proteins are transcriptional effectors of the Hedgehog signaling pathway. They play key roles in the development of many organs and tissues, and are deregulated in birth defects and cancer. We review the molecular mechanisms of Gli protein regulation in mammals, with special emphasis on posttranslational modifications and intracellular transport. We also discuss how Gli proteins interact with co-activators and co-repressors to fine-tune the expression of Hedgehog target genes. Finally, we provide an overview of the regulation of developmental processes and tissue regeneration by Gli proteins and discuss how these proteins are involved in cancer progression, both through canonical regulation via the Hedgehog pathway and through cross-talk with other signaling pathways.
Collapse
|
58
|
Wang N, Wang S, Li MY, Hu BG, Liu LP, Yang SL, Yang S, Gong Z, Lai PBS, Chen GG. Cancer stem cells in hepatocellular carcinoma: an overview and promising therapeutic strategies. Ther Adv Med Oncol 2018; 10:1758835918816287. [PMID: 30622654 PMCID: PMC6304707 DOI: 10.1177/1758835918816287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The poor clinical outcome of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients is ascribed to the resistance of HCC cells to traditional treatments and tumor recurrence after curative therapies. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been identified as a small subset of cancer cells which have high capacity for self-renewal, differentiation and tumorigenesis. Recent advances in the field of liver CSCs (LCSCs) have enabled the identification of CSC surface markers and the isolation of CSC subpopulations from HCC cells. Given their central role in cancer initiation, metastasis, recurrence and therapeutic resistance, LCSCs constitute a therapeutic opportunity to achieve cure and prevent relapse of HCC. Thus, it is necessary to develop therapeutic strategies to selectively and efficiently target LCSCs. Small molecular inhibitors targeting the core stemness signaling pathways have been actively pursued and evaluated in preclinical and clinical studies. Other alternative therapeutic strategies include targeting LCSC surface markers, interrupting the CSC microenvironment, and altering the epigenetic state. In this review, we summarize the properties of CSCs in HCC and discuss novel therapeutic strategies that can be used to target LCSCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nuozhou Wang
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of
Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR,
China
| | - Shanshan Wang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck
Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of
Wales Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ming-Yue Li
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, The
Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong,
China
- Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese
University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Bao-guang Hu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The
Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, Shandong,
China
| | - Li-ping Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreas
Surgery, The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University (Shenzhen
People’s Hospital), Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Sheng-li Yang
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical
College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shucai Yang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Pingshan
District People’s Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province,
China
| | - Zhongqin Gong
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of
Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR,
China
| | - Paul B. S. Lai
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University
of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
SAR, China
| | - George G. Chen
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University
of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
SAR, China
- Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese
University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| |
Collapse
|
59
|
Xu X, Ye J, Huang C, Yan Y, Li J. M2 macrophage-derived IL6 mediates resistance of breast cancer cells to hedgehog inhibition. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2018; 364:77-82. [PMID: 30578886 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2018.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Revised: 12/15/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Hedgehog (Hh) pathway hyperactivation has been observed in various tumors, including breast cancer, and Hh pathway inhibitors have demonstrated antitumor activity in breast cancer. The tumor microenvironment (TME) has been shown to play an important role in modulating cancer cell drug sensitivity, but the TME response to Hh pathway inhibitors is unclear. In the current study, we observed increased TME infiltration of macrophages in breast cancer tissue, and specifically, M2 polarized macrophages after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Furthermore, we observed an enhanced tolerance to Hh pathway inhibitors in MDA-MB-231 cells after co-culturing with M2 macrophages. In addition, we demonstrated that Hh pathway inhibition significantly induced IL6 expression, and validated that the tolerance to Hh pathway inhibitors was IL6-dependent. This study demonstrates a role of macrophages in Hh pathway inhibition resistance and a role of macrophage-derived IL6 in this resistance of breast cancer cells to Hh inhibition. These data indicate that antagonizing IL6 together with Hh pathway inhibitors may be a novel therapeutic strategy for breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojun Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Jiabao Ye
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Cheng Huang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Yunwen Yan
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Jun Li
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China.
| |
Collapse
|
60
|
GPCR Modulation in Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19123840. [PMID: 30513833 PMCID: PMC6321247 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19123840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2018] [Revised: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer found in women living in developed countries. Endocrine therapy is the mainstay of treatment for hormone-responsive breast tumors (about 70% of all breast cancers) and implies the use of selective estrogen receptor modulators and aromatase inhibitors. In contrast, triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), a highly heterogeneous disease that may account for up to 24% of all newly diagnosed cases, is hormone-independent and characterized by a poor prognosis. As drug resistance is common in all breast cancer subtypes despite the different treatment modalities, novel therapies targeting signaling transduction pathways involved in the processes of breast carcinogenesis, tumor promotion and metastasis have been subject to accurate consideration. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the largest family of cell-surface receptors involved in the development and progression of many tumors including breast cancer. Here we discuss data regarding GPCR-mediated signaling, pharmacological properties and biological outputs toward breast cancer tumorigenesis and metastasis. Furthermore, we address several drugs that have shown an unexpected opportunity to interfere with GPCR-based breast tumorigenic signals.
Collapse
|
61
|
Park S, Kim H, Kim K, Roh S. Sonic hedgehog signalling regulates the self-renewal and proliferation of skin-derived precursor cells in mice. Cell Prolif 2018; 51:e12500. [PMID: 30151845 PMCID: PMC6528853 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.12500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The sonic hedgehog (Shh) signalling pathway has an important role in the maintenance of various stem cells and organogenesis during development. However, the effect of Shh in skin-derived precursors (SKPs), which have the capacity for multipotency and self-renewal, is not yet clear. The present study investigated the effects of the Shh signalling pathway on the proliferation and self-renewal of murine SKPs (mSKPs). METHODS The Shh signalling pathway was activated by treatment with purmorphamine (Shh agonist) or recombinant Shh in mSKPs. Cyclopamine (Shh antagonist) or GANT-61 (Gli inhibitor) was used to inhibit the pathway. Western blot, qPCR, and immunofluorescence were used to analyse the expression of genes related to self-renewal, stemness, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the Shh signalling pathway. In addition, cell proliferation and apoptosis were examined. RESULTS Inhibiting the Shh signalling pathway reduced mSKP proliferation and sphere formation, but increased apoptosis. Activating this signalling pathway produced opposite results. The Shh signalling pathway also controlled the EMT phenotype in mSKPs. Moreover, purmorphamine recovered the self-renewal and proliferation of aged mSKPs. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that the Shh signalling pathway has an important role in the proliferation, self-renewal and apoptosis of mSKPs. These findings also provide a better understanding of the cellular mechanisms underlying SKP self-renewal and apoptosis that allow more efficient expansion of SKPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sangkyu Park
- Cellular Reprogramming and Embryo Biotechnology LaboratoryDental Research Institute, BK21, Seoul National University School of DentistrySeoulKorea
| | - Hyewon Kim
- Cellular Reprogramming and Embryo Biotechnology LaboratoryDental Research Institute, BK21, Seoul National University School of DentistrySeoulKorea
| | - Kichul Kim
- Cellular Reprogramming and Embryo Biotechnology LaboratoryDental Research Institute, BK21, Seoul National University School of DentistrySeoulKorea
| | - Sangho Roh
- Cellular Reprogramming and Embryo Biotechnology LaboratoryDental Research Institute, BK21, Seoul National University School of DentistrySeoulKorea
| |
Collapse
|
62
|
Benvenuto M, Mattera R, Sticca JI, Rossi P, Cipriani C, Giganti MG, Volpi A, Modesti A, Masuelli L, Bei R. Effect of the BH3 Mimetic Polyphenol (-)-Gossypol (AT-101) on the in vitro and in vivo Growth of Malignant Mesothelioma. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:1269. [PMID: 30459622 PMCID: PMC6232343 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.01269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignant mesothelioma (MM) is a primary tumor arising from mesothelial cells. The survival of MM patients following traditional chemotherapy is poor, thus innovative treatments for MM are needed. (-)-gossypol (AT-101) is a BH3 mimetic compound which possesses anti-tumoral activity by targeting multiple signaling transduction pathways. Several clinical trials employing AT-101 have been performed and some of them are still ongoing. Accordingly, we investigated the in vitro effects of AT-101 on cell proliferation, cell cycle regulation, pro-survival signaling pathways, apoptosis and autophagy of human (MM-B1, H-Meso-1, and MM-F1) and mouse (#40a) MM cell lines. In addition, we explored the in vivo anti-tumor activities of AT-101 in a mouse model, in which the transplantation of MM cells induces ascites in the peritoneal space. AT-101 inhibited in vitro MM cells survival in a dose- and time-dependent manner and triggered autophagy, but the process was then blocked and was coincident with apoptosis activation. To confirm the effect of AT-101 in inducing the apoptosis of MM cells, MM cells were simultaneously treated with AT-101 and with the caspase inhibitor, Z-VAD-FMK. Z-VAD-FMK was able to significantly reduce the number of cells in the subG1 phase compared to the treatment with AT-101 alone. This result corroborates the induction of cell death by apoptosis following treatment with AT-101. Indeed, Western blotting results showed that AT-101 increases Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, modulates p53 expression, activates caspase 9 and the cleavage of PARP-1. In addition, the treatment with AT-101 was able to: (a) decrease the ErbB2 protein expression; (b) increase the EGFR protein expression; (c) affect the phosphorylation of ERK1/2, p38 and AKT; (d) stimulate JNK1/2 and c-jun phosphorylation. Our in vivo results showed that the intraperitoneal administration of AT-101 increased the median survival of C57BL/6 mice intraperitoneally transplanted with #40a cells and reduced the risk of developing tumors. Our findings may have important implications for the design of MM therapies by employing AT-101 as an anticancer agent in combination with standard therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monica Benvenuto
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosanna Mattera
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Joshua Ismaele Sticca
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Piero Rossi
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Cipriani
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Gabriella Giganti
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Volpi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Modesti
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Masuelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Bei
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
63
|
Qin YX, Yang ZH, Du XH, Zhao H, Liu YB, Guo Z, Wang Q. Inhibition of the Hedgehog Signaling Pathway Depresses the Cigarette Smoke-Induced Malignant Transformation of 16HBE Cells on a Microfluidic Chip. Chin Med J (Engl) 2018; 131:1191-1198. [PMID: 29722338 PMCID: PMC5956770 DOI: 10.4103/0366-6999.231525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The hedgehog signaling system (HHS) plays an important role in the regulation of cell proliferation and differentiation during the embryonic phases. However, little is known about the involvement of HHS in the malignant transformation of cells. This study aimed to detect the role of HHS in the malignant transformation of human bronchial epithelial (16HBE) cells. Methods In this study, two microfluidic chips were designed to investigate cigarette smoke extract (CSE)-induced malignant transformation of cells. Chip A contained a concentration gradient generator, while chip B had four cell chambers with a central channel. The 16HBE cells cultured in chip A were used to determine the optimal concentration of CSE for inducing malignant transformation. The 16HBE cells in chip B were cultured with 12.25% CSE (Group A), 12.25% CSE + 5 μmol/L cyclopamine (Group B), or normal complete medium as control for 8 months (Group C), to establish the in vitro lung inflammatory-cancer transformation model. The transformed cells were inoculated into 20 nude mice as cells alone (Group 1) or cells with cyclopamine (Group 2) for tumorigenesis testing. Expression of HHS proteins was detected by Western blot. Data were expressed as mean ± standard deviation. The t-test was used for paired samples, and the difference among groups was analyzed using a one-way analysis of variance. Results The optimal concentration of CSE was 12.25%. Expression of HHS proteins increased during the process of malignant transformation (Group B vs. Group A, F = 7.65, P < 0.05). After CSE exposure for 8 months, there were significant changes in cellular morphology, which allowed the transformed cells to grow into tumors in 40 days after being inoculated into nude mice. Cyclopamine could effectively depress the expression of HHS proteins (Group C vs. Group B, F = 6.47, P < 0.05) and prevent tumor growth in nude mice (Group 2 vs. Group 1, t = 31.59, P < 0.01). Conclusions The activity of HHS is upregulated during the CSE-induced malignant transformation of 16HBE cells. Cyclopamine can effectively depress expression of HHS proteins in vitro and prevent tumor growth of the transformed cells in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Xin Qin
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University; Department of Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 116021, China
| | - Zhi-Hui Yang
- Department of Scientific Research Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 116027, China
| | - Xiao-Hui Du
- Department of Scientific Research Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 116027, China
| | - Hui Zhao
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 116027, China
| | - Yuan-Bin Liu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 116027, China
| | - Zhe Guo
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 116027, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning 116027, China
| |
Collapse
|
64
|
Amarante MK, Vitiello GAF, Rosa MH, Mancilla IA, Watanabe MAE. Potential use of CXCL12/CXCR4 and sonic hedgehog pathways as therapeutic targets in medulloblastoma. Acta Oncol 2018; 57:1134-1142. [PMID: 29771176 DOI: 10.1080/0284186x.2018.1473635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common malignant brain tumor occurring in children, and although high long-term survival rates have been reached with current therapeutic protocols, several neurological injuries are still observed among survivors. It has been shown that the development of MB is highly dependent on the microenvironment surrounding it and that the CXCL12 chemokine and its receptor, CXCR4 and the Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) pathway are crucial for cerebellar development, coordinating proliferation and migration of embryonic cells and malfunctions in these axes can lead to MB development. Indeed, the concomitant overactivation of these axes was suggested to define a new MB molecular subgroup. New molecules are being studied, aiming to inhibit either CXCR4 or the SHH pathways and have been tested in preclinical settings for the treatment of cancers. The use of these molecules could improve MB treatment and save patients from aggressive surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy regimens, which are responsible for severe neurological consequences. This review aims to summarize current data about the experimental inhibition of CXCR4 and SHH pathways in MB and its potential implications in treatment of this cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Marcos Henrique Rosa
- Department of Pathological Sciences, Londrina State University, Londrina, Brazil
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
65
|
Sabol M, Trnski D, Musani V, Ozretić P, Levanat S. Role of GLI Transcription Factors in Pathogenesis and Their Potential as New Therapeutic Targets. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E2562. [PMID: 30158435 PMCID: PMC6163343 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19092562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2018] [Revised: 08/17/2018] [Accepted: 08/25/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
GLI transcription factors have important roles in intracellular signaling cascade, acting as the main mediators of the HH-GLI signaling pathway. This is one of the major developmental pathways, regulated both canonically and non-canonically. Deregulation of the pathway during development leads to a number of developmental malformations, depending on the deregulated pathway component. The HH-GLI pathway is mostly inactive in the adult organism but retains its function in stem cells. Aberrant activation in adult cells leads to carcinogenesis through overactivation of several tightly regulated cellular processes such as proliferation, angiogenesis, EMT. Targeting GLI transcription factors has recently become a major focus of potential therapeutic protocols.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maja Sabol
- Laboratory for Hereditary Cancer, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička cesta 54, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Diana Trnski
- Laboratory for Hereditary Cancer, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička cesta 54, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Vesna Musani
- Laboratory for Hereditary Cancer, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička cesta 54, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Petar Ozretić
- Laboratory for Hereditary Cancer, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička cesta 54, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Sonja Levanat
- Laboratory for Hereditary Cancer, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička cesta 54, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| |
Collapse
|
66
|
Zeng X, Ju D. Hedgehog Signaling Pathway and Autophagy in Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E2279. [PMID: 30081498 PMCID: PMC6121518 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19082279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Revised: 07/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Hedgehog (Hh) pathway controls complex developmental processes in vertebrates. Abnormal activation of Hh pathway is responsible for tumorigenesis and maintenance of multiple cancers, and thus addressing this represents promising therapeutic opportunities. In recent years, two Hh inhibitors have been approved for basal cell carcinoma (BCC) treatment and show extraordinary clinical outcomes. Meanwhile, a series of novel agents are being developed for the treatment of several cancers, including lung cancer, leukemia, and pancreatic cancer. Unfortunately, Hh inhibition fails to show satisfactory benefits in these cancer types compared with the success stories in BCC, highlighting the need for better understanding of Hh signaling in cancer. Autophagy, a conserved biological process for cellular component elimination, plays critical roles in the initiation, progression, and drug resistance of cancer, and therefore, implied potential to be targeted. Recent evidence demonstrated that Hh signaling interplays with autophagy in multiple cancers. Importantly, modulating this crosstalk exhibited noteworthy capability to sensitize primary and drug-resistant cancer cells to Hh inhibitors, representing an emerging opportunity to reboot the efficacy of Hh inhibition in those insensitive tumors, and to tackle drug resistance challenges. This review will highlight recent advances of Hh pathway and autophagy in cancers, and focus on their crosstalk and the implied therapeutic opportunities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xian Zeng
- Department of Microbiological and Biochemical Pharmacy & The Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery MOE, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China.
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117543, Singapore.
| | - Dianwen Ju
- Department of Microbiological and Biochemical Pharmacy & The Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery MOE, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China.
| |
Collapse
|
67
|
Franchini V, Regalbuto E, De Amicis A, De Sanctis S, Di Cristofaro S, Coluzzi E, Marinaccio J, Sgura A, Ceccuzzi S, Doria A, Gallerano GP, Giovenale E, Ravera GL, Bei R, Benvenuto M, Modesti A, Masuelli L, Lista F. Genotoxic Effects in Human Fibroblasts Exposed to Microwave Radiation. HEALTH PHYSICS 2018; 115:126-139. [PMID: 29787439 DOI: 10.1097/hp.0000000000000871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
In the last decades, technological development has led to an increasing use of devices and systems based on microwave radiation. The increased employment of these devices has elicited questions about the potential long-term health consequences associated with microwave radiation exposure. From this perspective, biological effects of microwave radiation have been the focus of many studies, but the reported scientific data are unclear and contradictory. The aim of this study is to evaluate the potential genotoxic and cellular effects associated with in vitro exposure of human fetal and adult fibroblasts to microwave radiation at the frequency of 25 GHz. For this purpose, several genetic and biological end points were evaluated. Results obtained from comet assay, phosphorylation of H2AX histone, and antikinetochore antibody (CREST)-negative micronuclei frequency excluded direct DNA damage to human fetal and adult fibroblasts exposed to microwaves. No induction of apoptosis or changes in prosurvival signalling proteins were detected. Moreover, CREST analysis showed for both the cell lines an increase in the total number of micronuclei and centromere positive micronuclei in exposed samples, indicating aneuploidy induction due to chromosome loss.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Franchini
- Scientific Department of Army Medical Center of Rome, Via Santo Stefano Rotondo, 4-00184, Rome, Italy
- University of Rome Roma Tre, Department of Science, Viale Guglielmo Marconi, 446, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisa Regalbuto
- Scientific Department of Army Medical Center of Rome, Via Santo Stefano Rotondo, 4-00184, Rome, Italy
- University of Rome Roma Tre, Department of Science, Viale Guglielmo Marconi, 446, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea De Amicis
- Scientific Department of Army Medical Center of Rome, Via Santo Stefano Rotondo, 4-00184, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania De Sanctis
- Scientific Department of Army Medical Center of Rome, Via Santo Stefano Rotondo, 4-00184, Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Di Cristofaro
- Scientific Department of Army Medical Center of Rome, Via Santo Stefano Rotondo, 4-00184, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisa Coluzzi
- University of Rome Roma Tre, Department of Science, Viale Guglielmo Marconi, 446, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Jessica Marinaccio
- University of Rome Roma Tre, Department of Science, Viale Guglielmo Marconi, 446, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Sgura
- University of Rome Roma Tre, Department of Science, Viale Guglielmo Marconi, 446, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvio Ceccuzzi
- Radiation Sources, Antennas and Diagnostics Laboratory, ENEA Research Center, Frascati, Italy
| | - Andrea Doria
- Radiation Sources, Antennas and Diagnostics Laboratory, ENEA Research Center, Frascati, Italy
| | - Gian Piero Gallerano
- Radiation Sources, Antennas and Diagnostics Laboratory, ENEA Research Center, Frascati, Italy
| | - Emilio Giovenale
- Radiation Sources, Antennas and Diagnostics Laboratory, ENEA Research Center, Frascati, Italy
| | - Gian Luca Ravera
- Radiation Sources, Antennas and Diagnostics Laboratory, ENEA Research Center, Frascati, Italy
| | - Roberto Bei
- University of Rome Tor Vergata, Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Rome, Italy
| | - Monica Benvenuto
- University of Rome Tor Vergata, Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Modesti
- University of Rome Tor Vergata, Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Masuelli
- University of Rome La Sapienza, Department of Experimental Medicine, Rome, Italy
| | - Florigio Lista
- Scientific Department of Army Medical Center of Rome, Via Santo Stefano Rotondo, 4-00184, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
68
|
Kurebayashi J, Kanomata N, Koike Y, Ohta Y, Saitoh W, Kishino E. Comprehensive immunohistochemical analyses on expression levels of hedgehog signaling molecules in breast cancers. Breast Cancer 2018; 25:759-767. [PMID: 29946869 DOI: 10.1007/s12282-018-0884-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Accepted: 06/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway plays important roles in cell proliferation, malignant progression, invasion and metastasis, and the expansion of cancer stem cells (CSCs). Comprehensive immunohistochemical (IHC) analyses have not yet been conducted on the expression levels of Hh signaling molecules in breast cancer tissues. METHODS A total of 204 patients with invasive breast cancer treated in our institute were study subjects. IHC analyses on the expression levels of the Hh signaling molecules, sonic Hh (SHH), PTCH1, GLI1, GLI2, and GLI3 and the CSC-related factor, SOX2, were investigated. RESULTS Positive correlations were observed among all of the Hh signaling molecules tested. SOX2 expression correlated with the expression levels of all Hh signaling molecules. SHH expression positively correlated with tumor size, the Ki-67 labeling index, histological grade, estrogen receptor negativity, progesterone receptor negativity, and HER2 positivity. GLI1 expression positively correlated with the histological grade. GLI2 expression positively correlated with the histological grade, Ki-67 labeling index, and HER2 positivity. Univariate analyses revealed that a younger age, larger tumor size, positive lymph node metastasis, higher histological grade, positive lymphatic invasion, and higher Ki-67 labeling index were related to poor relapse-free survival (RFS). The positivity of all Hh signaling molecules and SOX2 did not correlate with poor RFS. A multivariate analysis revealed that positive lymphatic invasion and a younger age were independent worse prognostic factors for RFS. CONCLUSIONS This comprehensive analysis demonstrated for the first time that SHH, GLI1, and GLI2 expression levels positively correlated with the malignant phenotypes of tumor cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junichi Kurebayashi
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Kawasaki Medical School, 577 Matsushima, Kurashiki, Okayama, 701-0192, Japan.
| | - Naoki Kanomata
- Department of Pathology 2, Kawasaki Medical School, 577 Matsushima, Kurashiki, Okayama, 701-0192, Japan
| | - Yoshikazu Koike
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Kawasaki Medical School, 577 Matsushima, Kurashiki, Okayama, 701-0192, Japan
| | - Yusuke Ohta
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Kawasaki Medical School, 577 Matsushima, Kurashiki, Okayama, 701-0192, Japan
| | - Wataru Saitoh
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Kawasaki Medical School, 577 Matsushima, Kurashiki, Okayama, 701-0192, Japan
| | - Emi Kishino
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Kawasaki Medical School, 577 Matsushima, Kurashiki, Okayama, 701-0192, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
69
|
Glioma-Associated Oncogene Homolog Inhibitors Have the Potential of Suppressing Cancer Stem Cells of Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19051375. [PMID: 29734730 PMCID: PMC5983844 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19051375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2018] [Revised: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Overexpression of Sonic Hedgehog signaling (Shh) pathway molecules is associated with invasiveness and recurrence in breast carcinoma. Therefore, inhibition of the Shh pathway downstream molecule Glioma-associated Oncogene Homolog (Gli) was investigated for its ability to reduce progression and invasiveness of patient-derived breast cancer cells and cell lines. Human primary breast cancer T2 cells with high expression of Shh signaling pathway molecules were compared with breast cancer line MDA-MB-231 cells. The therapeutic effects of Gli inhibitors were examined in terms of the cell proliferation, apoptosis, cancer stem cells, cell migration and gene expression. Blockade of the Shh signaling pathway could reduce cell proliferation and migration only in MDA-MB-231 cells. Hh pathway inhibitor-1 (HPI-1) increased the percentages of late apoptotic cells in MDA-MB-231 cells and early apoptotic cells in T2 cells. It reduced Bcl2 expression for cell proliferation and increased Bim expression for apoptosis. In addition, Gli inhibitor HPI-1 decreased significantly the percentages of cancer stem cells in T2 cells. HPI-1 worked more effectively than GANT-58 against breast carcinoma cells. In conclusion, HPI-1 could inhibit cell proliferation, reduce cell invasion and decrease cancer stem cell population in breast cancer cells. To target Gli-1 could be a potential strategy to suppress breast cancer stem cells.
Collapse
|
70
|
Targeting GLI Transcription Factors in Cancer. Molecules 2018; 23:molecules23051003. [PMID: 29695137 PMCID: PMC6100584 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23051003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2018] [Revised: 04/19/2018] [Accepted: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant activation of hedgehog (Hh) signaling has been observed in a wide variety of tumors and accounts for more than 25% of human cancer deaths. Inhibitors targeting the Hh signal transducer Smoothened (SMO) are widely used and display a good initial efficacy in patients suffering from basal cell carcinoma (BCC); however, a large number of patients relapse. Though SMO mutations may explain acquired therapy resistance, a growing body of evidence suggests that the non-canonical, SMO-independent activation of the Hh pathway in BCC patients can also account for this adverse effect. In this review, we highlight the importance of glioma-associated oncogene (GLI) transcription factors (the main downstream effectors of the canonical and the non-canonical Hh cascade) and their putative role in the regulation of multiple oncogenic signaling pathways. Moreover, we discuss the contribution of the Hh signaling to malignant transformation and propose GLIs as central hubs in tumor signaling networks and thus attractive molecular targets in anti-cancer therapies.
Collapse
|
71
|
Masuelli L, Benvenuto M, Di Stefano E, Mattera R, Fantini M, De Feudis G, De Smaele E, Tresoldi I, Giganti MG, Modesti A, Bei R. Curcumin blocks autophagy and activates apoptosis of malignant mesothelioma cell lines and increases the survival of mice intraperitoneally transplanted with a malignant mesothelioma cell line. Oncotarget 2018; 8:34405-34422. [PMID: 28159921 PMCID: PMC5470978 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.14907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant mesothelioma (MM) is a primary tumor arising from the serous membranes. The resistance of MM patients to conventional therapies, and the poor patients’ survival, encouraged the identification of molecular targets for MM treatment. Curcumin (CUR) is a “multifunctional drug”. We explored the in vitro effects of CUR on cell proliferation, cell cycle regulation, pro-survival signaling pathways, apoptosis, autophagy of human (MM-B1, H-Meso-1, MM-F1), and mouse (#40a) MM cells. In addition, we evaluated the in vivo anti-tumor activities of CUR in C57BL/6 mice intraperitoneally transplanted with #40a cells forming ascites. CUR in vitro inhibited MM cells survival in a dose- and time-dependent manner and increased reactive oxygen species’intracellular production and induced DNA damage. CUR triggered autophagic flux, but the process was then blocked and was coincident with caspase 8 activation which activates apoptosis. CUR-mediated apoptosis was supported by the increase of Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, increase of p53 expression, activation of caspase 9, cleavage of PARP-1, increase of the percentage of cells in the sub G1 phase which was reduced (MM-F1 and #40a) or abolished (MM-B1 and H-Meso-1) after MM cells incubation with the apoptosis inhibitor Z-VAD-FMK. CUR treatment stimulated the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and p38 MAPK, inhibited that of p54 JNK and AKT, increased c-Jun expression and phosphorylation and prevented NF-κB nuclear translocation. Intraperitoneal administration of CUR increased the median survival of C57BL/6 mice intraperitoneally transplanted with #40a cells and reduced the risk of developing tumors. Our findings may have important implications for the design of MM treatment using CUR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Masuelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Monica Benvenuto
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Enrica Di Stefano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Rosanna Mattera
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Fantini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | | | - Enrico De Smaele
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Ilaria Tresoldi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Gabriella Giganti
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Modesti
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy.,Center for Regenerative Medicine, (CIMER), University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Bei
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy.,Center for Regenerative Medicine, (CIMER), University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
72
|
Pindiprolu SKSS, Krishnamurthy PT, Chintamaneni PK. Pharmacological targets of breast cancer stem cells: a review. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2018; 391:463-479. [PMID: 29476201 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-018-1479-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2017] [Accepted: 02/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancers contain small population of tumor-initiating cells called breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs), which are spared even after chemotherapy. Recently, BCSCs are implicated to be a cause of metastasis, tumor relapse, and therapy resistance in breast cancer. BCSCs have unique molecular mechanisms, which can be targeted to eliminate them. These include surface biomarkers, proteins involved in self-renewal pathways, drug efflux transporters, apoptotic/antiapoptotic proteins, autophagy, metabolism, and microenvironment regulation. The complex molecular mechanisms behind the survival of BCSCs and pharmacological targets for elimination of BCSCs are described in this review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sai Kiran S S Pindiprolu
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy (Jagadguru Sri Shivarathreeshwara University), Rocklands, Udhagamandalam, Tamil Nadu, 643001, India
| | - Praveen T Krishnamurthy
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy (Jagadguru Sri Shivarathreeshwara University), Rocklands, Udhagamandalam, Tamil Nadu, 643001, India.
| | - Pavan Kumar Chintamaneni
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy (Jagadguru Sri Shivarathreeshwara University), Rocklands, Udhagamandalam, Tamil Nadu, 643001, India
| |
Collapse
|
73
|
Magistri P, Battistelli C, Strippoli R, Petrucciani N, Pellinen T, Rossi L, Mangogna L, Aurello P, D'Angelo F, Tripodi M, Ramacciato G, Nigri G. SMO Inhibition Modulates Cellular Plasticity and Invasiveness in Colorectal Cancer. Front Pharmacol 2018; 8:956. [PMID: 29456503 PMCID: PMC5801594 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2017] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
HIGHLIGHTS Preliminary results of this work were presented at the 2016 Academic Surgical Congress, Jacksonville (FL), February 2-4 2016 (Original title: Selective Smo-Inhibition Interferes With Cellular Energetic Metabolism In Colorectal Cancer)This study was funded by "Sapienza-University of Rome" (Funds for young researchers) and "AIRC" (Italian Association for Cancer Research)Hedgehog inhibitor was kindly provided by Genentech, Inc.®. Colon Cancer (CC) is the fourth most frequently diagnosed tumor and the second leading cause of death in the USA. Abnormalities of Hedgehog pathway have been demonstrated in several types of human cancers, however the role of Hedgehog (Hh) in CC remain controversial. In this study, we analyzed the association between increased mRNA expression of GLI1 and GLI2, two Hh target genes, and CC survival and recurrence by gene expression microarray from a cohort of 382 CC patients. We found that patients with increased expression of GLI1 showed a statistically significant reduction in survival. In order to demonstrate a causal role of Hh pathway activation in the pathogenesis of CC, we treated HCT 116, SW480 and SW620 CC cells lines with GDC-0449, a pharmacological inhibitor of Smoothened (SMO). Treatment with GDC-0449 markedly reduced expression of Hh target genes GLI1, PTCH1, HIP1, MUC5AC, thus indicating that this pathway is constitutively active in CC cell lines. Moreover, GDC-0449 partially reduced cell proliferation, which was associated with upregulation of p21 and downregulation of CycD1. Finally, treatment with the same drug reduced migration and three-dimensional invasion, which were associated with downregulation of Snail1, the EMT master gene, and with induction of the epithelial markers Cytokeratin-18 and E-cadherin. These results were confirmed by SMO genetic silencing. Notably, treatment with 5E1, a Sonic Hedgehog-specific mAb, markedly reduced the expression of Hedgehog target genes, as well as inhibited cell proliferation and mediated reversion toward an epithelial phenotype. This suggests the existence of a Hedgehog autocrine signaling loop affecting cell plasticity and fostering cell proliferation and migration/invasion in CC cell lines. These discoveries encourage future investigations to better characterize the role of Hedgehog in cellular plasticity and invasion during the different steps of CC pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Magistri
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza-University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Cecilia Battistelli
- Molecular Genetics Section, Department of Cellular Biotechnology and Hematology, Sapienza-University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Raffaele Strippoli
- Molecular Genetics Section, Department of Cellular Biotechnology and Hematology, Sapienza-University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Niccolò Petrucciani
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza-University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Teijo Pellinen
- FIMM Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Lucia Rossi
- Molecular Genetics Section, Department of Cellular Biotechnology and Hematology, Sapienza-University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Livia Mangogna
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza-University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Aurello
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza-University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco D'Angelo
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza-University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Tripodi
- Molecular Genetics Section, Department of Cellular Biotechnology and Hematology, Sapienza-University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Ramacciato
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza-University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Nigri
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza-University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
74
|
Wang J, Huang S, Tian R, Chen J, Gao H, Xie C, Shan Y, Zhang Z, Gu S, Xu M. The protective autophagy activated by GANT-61 in MYCN amplified neuroblastoma cells is mediated by PERK. Oncotarget 2018; 9:14413-14427. [PMID: 29581853 PMCID: PMC5865679 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.24214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2016] [Accepted: 11/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The proto-oncogene MYC can trigger the unfolded protein response (UPR). The double-stranded RNA-activated protein kinase-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK), one of three primary branches of the UPR, is a key regulator of autophagy, promoting tumorigenesis. Upon activation of PERK, there is an increase in phosphorylation of the eukaryotic initiation factor-2 alpha (eIF2α), which in turn, activates the transcription factor-4 (ATF4), responsible for an increased expression of LC3, a common autophagy marker. PERK is repressed upon GLI1 and GLI2 induction. GANT-61 is an inhibitor of GLI1 and GLI2, known to reduce autophagy in MYCN non-amplified, but not in MYCN amplified neuroblastoma (NB) cells. In our study, we tested the effect of the joint administration of a PERK inhibitor (GSK2606414) and the GLI inhibitor GANT-61 to MYCN amplified and MYCN non-amplified NB cells. Our results suggest that inhibition of PERK impairs GANT-61 induced autophagy in NB cells with MYCN amplification, but had no effect on the MYCN non-amplified NB cells. In summary, PERK seems to be a good therapeutic target for NB. Inhibition of PERK reduces autophagy in MYCN amplified NB cells, thus amplifying the efficacy of the GLI inhibitor GANT-61 in reducing proliferation of this type of cancer cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- Department of Surgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Siqi Huang
- Department of Surgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Ruicheng Tian
- Department of Surgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Surgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Hongxiang Gao
- Department of Surgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Chenjie Xie
- Department of Surgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Yuhua Shan
- Department of Surgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Zhen Zhang
- Pediatric Translational Medicine Institute, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, 200127, China.,Shanghai Pediatric Congenital Heart Disease Institute, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Song Gu
- Department of Surgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Min Xu
- Department of Surgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| |
Collapse
|
75
|
Riaz SK, Khan JS, Shah STA, Wang F, Ye L, Jiang WG, Malik MFA. Involvement of hedgehog pathway in early onset, aggressive molecular subtypes and metastatic potential of breast cancer. Cell Commun Signal 2018; 16:3. [PMID: 29329585 PMCID: PMC5795292 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-017-0213-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2017] [Accepted: 12/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Dysregulation of hedgehog pathway is observed in numerous cancers. Relevance of hedgehog pathway genes in cancer cohort and inhibition of its downstream effector (GLI1) towards metastasis in cell lines are explored in the study. Method One hundred fifty fresh tumours of breast cancer patients were collected for the study. Based on differential expression, panel of 6 key regulators of the pathway (SHH, DHH, IHH, PTCH1, SMO and GLI1) in microarray datasets were identified. Expressional profiles of aforementioned genes were later correlated with clinico-pathological parameters in Pakistani breast cancer cohort at transcript and protein levels. In addition, GLI1 over expressing breast cancer cell lines (MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7) were treated with GANT61 to explore its probable effects on metastasis. Result SHH, DHH, PTCH1 and GLI1 were significantly over-expressed in tumours as compared with respective normal mammary tissues. A significant correlation of SHH, DHH and GLI1 expression with advanced tumour size, stages, grades, nodal involvement and distant metastasis was observed (p < 0.05). Over-expression of SHH, DHH and GLI1 was significantly related with patients having early onset and pre-menopausal status. Of note, hedgehog pathway was frequently up regulated in luminal B and triple negative breast cancer affected women. In addition, positive correlations were observed among aforementioned members of pathway and Ki67 (r-value: 0.63–0.78) emphasizing their role towards disease progression. Exposure of GANT61 (inhibitor for GLI1) significantly restricted cell proliferation, reduced cell motility and invasion. Conclusion Role of activated hedgehog pathway in breast cancer metastasis provides a novel target for cancer therapy against aggressive cancer subtypes. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12964-017-0213-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Syeda Kiran Riaz
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Park Road, Islamabad, Zip code: 44000, Pakistan
| | - Jahangir Sarwar Khan
- Department of Surgery, Holy Family Hospital, Rawalpindi Medical University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Syed Tahir Abbas Shah
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Park Road, Islamabad, Zip code: 44000, Pakistan
| | - Fen Wang
- Center for Cancer and Stem Cell Biology, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Houston, USA
| | - Lin Ye
- Cardiff China Medical Research Collaborative, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Wen G Jiang
- Cardiff China Medical Research Collaborative, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Muhammad Faraz Arshad Malik
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Park Road, Islamabad, Zip code: 44000, Pakistan.
| |
Collapse
|
76
|
Bao C, Kramata P, Lee HJ, Suh N. Regulation of Hedgehog Signaling in Cancer by Natural and Dietary Compounds. Mol Nutr Food Res 2017; 62. [PMID: 29164817 DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.201700621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2017] [Revised: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The aberrant Hedgehog (Hh) signaling induced by mutations or overexpression of the signaling mediators has been implicated in cancer, associated with processes including inflammation, tumor cell growth, invasion, and metastasis, as well as cancer stemness. Small molecules targeting the regulatory components of the Hh signaling pathway, especially Smoothened (Smo), have been developed for the treatment of cancer. However, acquired resistance to a Smo inhibitor vismodegib observed in clinical trials suggests that other Hh signaling components need to be explored as potential anticancer targets. Natural and dietary compounds provide a resource for the development of potent agents affecting intracellular signaling cascades, and numerous studies have been conducted to evaluate the efficacy of natural products in targeting the Hh signaling pathway. In this review, we summarize the role of Hh signaling in tumorigenesis, discuss results from recent studies investigating the effect of natural products and dietary components on Hh signaling in cancer, and provide insight on novel small molecules as potential Hh signaling inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Bao
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, South Korea
| | - Pavel Kramata
- Department of Chemical Biology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Hong Jin Lee
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, South Korea
| | - Nanjoo Suh
- Department of Chemical Biology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA.,Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| |
Collapse
|
77
|
Ni W, Yang Z, Qi W, Cui C, Cui Y, Xuan Y. Gli1 is a potential cancer stem cell marker and predicts poor prognosis in ductal breast carcinoma. Hum Pathol 2017; 69:38-45. [DOI: 10.1016/j.humpath.2017.08.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2017] [Revised: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
|
78
|
Wang B, Yu T, Hu Y, Xiang M, Peng H, Lin Y, Han L, Zhang L. Prognostic role of Gli1 expression in breast cancer: a meta-analysis. Oncotarget 2017; 8:81088-81097. [PMID: 29113369 PMCID: PMC5655264 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.19080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioma-associated oncogene 1 (Gli1) is a critical transcriptional factor of Sonic hedgehog pathway which has been proved to participate in the initiation and progression of tumor in mammalians. However, its clinical value in breast cancer remains unknown. Thus, a meta-analysis was performed to clarify the association of Gli1 over-expression, clinic-pathological characteristics, molecular subtypes and prognosis in breast cancer. According to included criteria, 13 eligible studies containing 2816 patients all around the world were selected in this study. Our results indicated no significant association of Gli1 expression and histological grade (RR = 1.20, 95% CI: [0.98, 1.47]), T stage (RR = 1.05, 95% CI: [0.87, 1.27]), clinical stage (RR = 1.04, 95% CI: [0.93, 1.18]) and lymph node metastasis (RR = 1.12, 95% CI: [0.92, 1.37]). In addition, pooled RR showed no correlation of Gli1 expression and progesterone receptor (PR) (RR = 0.92, 95% CI: [0.70, 1.21]), estrogen receptor (ER) (RR = 1.03, 95% CI: [0.74, 1.42]), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2) (RR = 1.12, 95% CI: [0.90, 1.39]). Nonetheless, up-regulated Gli1 expression predicts shorter disease-free survival (DFS) (HR = 1.38, 95% CI: [1.05, 1.81]), 3-year survival (HR = 1.74, 95% CI: [1.28, 2.36]), 5-year survival (HR = 2.04, 95% CI: [1.62, 2.57]) and overall survival (OS) (HR = 2.05, 95% CI: [1.60, 2.64]). In conclusion, over-expression of Gli1 tends to progressive stages and is related to unfavorable prognosis of breast cancer, which may become a potential prognosis indicator and therapy target in breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bilan Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
- Evidence-Based Pharmacy Center, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
| | - Ting Yu
- Cancer Center, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
| | - Yuzhu Hu
- Cancer Center, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
| | - Mengmeng Xiang
- Cancer Center, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
| | - Haoning Peng
- Cancer Center, West China Hospital, West China Medical School, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
| | - Yunzhu Lin
- Department of Pharmacy, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
- Evidence-Based Pharmacy Center, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
| | - Lu Han
- Department of Pharmacy, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
- Evidence-Based Pharmacy Center, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
| | - Lingli Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
- Evidence-Based Pharmacy Center, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
79
|
Pharmacological targeting of GLI1 inhibits proliferation, tumor emboli formation and in vivo tumor growth of inflammatory breast cancer cells. Cancer Lett 2017; 411:136-149. [PMID: 28965853 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2017.09.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Revised: 09/15/2017] [Accepted: 09/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Activation of the Hedgehog (Hh) pathway effector GLI1 is linked to tumorigenesis and invasiveness in a number of cancers, with targeting of GLI1 by small molecule antagonists shown to be effective. We profiled a collection of GLI antagonists possessing distinct mechanisms of action for efficacy in phenotypic models of inflammatory and non-inflammatory breast cancer (IBC and non-IBC) that we showed expressed varying levels of Hh pathway mediators. Compounds GANT61, HPI-1, and JK184 decreased cell proliferation, inhibited GLI1 mRNA expression and decreased the number of colonies formed in TN-IBC (SUM149) and TNBC (MDA-MB-231 and SUM159) cell lines. In addition, GANT61 and JK184 significantly down-regulated GLI1 targets that regulate cell cycle (cyclin D and E) and apoptosis (Bcl2). GANT61 reduced SUM149 spheroid growth and emboli formation, and in orthotopic SUM149 tumor models significantly decreased tumor growth. We successfully utilized phenotypic profiling to identify a subset of GLI1 antagonists that were prioritized for testing in in vivo models. Our results indicated that GLI1 activation in TN-IBC as in TNBC, plays a vital role in promoting cell proliferation, motility, tumor growth, and formation of tumor emboli.
Collapse
|
80
|
Bakshi A, Chaudhary SC, Rana M, Elmets CA, Athar M. Basal cell carcinoma pathogenesis and therapy involving hedgehog signaling and beyond. Mol Carcinog 2017; 56:2543-2557. [PMID: 28574612 DOI: 10.1002/mc.22690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Revised: 05/23/2017] [Accepted: 06/01/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) of the skin is driven by aberrant hedgehog signaling. Thus blocking this signaling pathway by small molecules such as vismodegib inhibits tumor growth. Primary cilium in the epidermal cells plays an integral role in the processing of hedgehog signaling-related proteins. Recent genomic studies point to the involvement of additional genetic mutations that might be associated with the development of BCCs, suggesting significance of other signaling pathways, such as WNT, NOTCH, mTOR, and Hippo, aside from hedgehog in the pathogenesis of this human neoplasm. Some of these pathways could be regulated by noncoding microRNA. Altered microRNA expression profile is recognized with the progression of these lesions. Stopping treatment with Smoothened (SMO) inhibitors often leads to tumor reoccurrence in the patients with basal cell nevus syndrome, who develop 10-100 of BCCs. In addition, the initial effectiveness of these SMO inhibitors is impaired due to the onset of mutations in the drug-binding domain of SMO. These data point to a need to develop strategies to overcome tumor recurrence and resistance and to enhance efficacy by developing novel single agent-based or multiple agents-based combinatorial approaches. Immunotherapy and photodynamic therapy could be additional successful approaches particularly if developed in combination with chemotherapy for inoperable and metastatic BCCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anshika Bakshi
- Department of Dermatology and Skin Diseases Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama.,Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, New Jersey
| | - Sandeep C Chaudhary
- Department of Dermatology and Skin Diseases Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Mehtab Rana
- Department of Dermatology and Skin Diseases Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Craig A Elmets
- Department of Dermatology and Skin Diseases Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Mohammad Athar
- Department of Dermatology and Skin Diseases Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| |
Collapse
|
81
|
Pindiprolu SKSS, Krishnamurthy PT, Chintamaneni PK, Karri VVSR. Nanocarrier based approaches for targeting breast cancer stem cells. ARTIFICIAL CELLS NANOMEDICINE AND BIOTECHNOLOGY 2017; 46:885-898. [PMID: 28826237 DOI: 10.1080/21691401.2017.1366337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) are heterogeneous subpopulation of tumour initiating cells within breast tumours. They are spared even after chemotherapy and responsible for tumour relapse. Targeting BCSCs is, therefore, necessary to achieve radical cure in breast cancer. Despite the availability of agents targeting BCSCs, their clinical application is limited due to their off-target effects and bioavailability issues. Nanotechnology based drug carriers (nanocarriers) offer various advantages to deliver anti-BCSCs agents specifically to their target sites by overcoming their bioavailability issues. In this review, we describe various strategies for targeting BCSCs using nanocarriers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sai Kiran S S Pindiprolu
- a Department of Pharmacology , JSS College of Pharmacy (A Constituent College of Jagadguru Sri Shivarathreeshwara University) , Ootacamund , Tamil Nadu , India
| | - Praveen T Krishnamurthy
- a Department of Pharmacology , JSS College of Pharmacy (A Constituent College of Jagadguru Sri Shivarathreeshwara University) , Ootacamund , Tamil Nadu , India
| | - Pavan Kumar Chintamaneni
- a Department of Pharmacology , JSS College of Pharmacy (A Constituent College of Jagadguru Sri Shivarathreeshwara University) , Ootacamund , Tamil Nadu , India
| | - Veera Venkata Satyanarayana Reddy Karri
- b Department of Pharmaceutics , JSS College of Pharmacy (A Constituent College of Jagadguru Sri Shivarathreeshwara University) , Ootacamund , Tamil Nadu , India
| |
Collapse
|
82
|
Abstract
Taste cells undergo constant turnover throughout life; however, the molecular mechanisms governing taste cell generation are not well understood. Using RNA-Seq, we systematically surveyed the transcriptome landscape of taste organoids at different stages of growth. Our data show the staged expression of a variety of genes and identify multiple signaling pathways underlying taste cell differentiation and taste stem/progenitor cell proliferation. For example, transcripts of taste receptors appear only or predominantly in late-stage organoids. Prior to that, transcription factors and other signaling elements are upregulated. RNA-Seq identified a number of well-characterized signaling pathways in taste organoid cultures, such as those involving Wnt, bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), Notch, and Hedgehog (Hh). By pharmacological manipulation, we demonstrate that Wnt, BMPs, Notch, and Hh signaling pathways are necessary for taste cell proliferation, differentiation and cell fate determination. The temporal expression profiles displayed by taste organoids may also lead to the identification of currently unknown transducer elements underlying sour, salt, and other taste qualities, given the staged expression of taste receptor genes and taste transduction elements in cultured organoids.
Collapse
|
83
|
Masuelli L, Benvenuto M, Mattera R, Di Stefano E, Zago E, Taffera G, Tresoldi I, Giganti MG, Frajese GV, Berardi G, Modesti A, Bei R. In Vitro and In Vivo Anti-tumoral Effects of the Flavonoid Apigenin in Malignant Mesothelioma. Front Pharmacol 2017; 8:373. [PMID: 28674496 PMCID: PMC5474957 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2017] [Accepted: 05/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignant mesothelioma (MM) is a tumor arising from mesothelium. MM patients’ survival is poor. The polyphenol 4′,5,7,-trihydroxyflavone Apigenin (API) is a “multifunctional drug”. Several studies have demonstrated API anti-tumoral effects. However, little is known on the in vitro and in vivo anti-tumoral effects of API in MM. Thus, we analyzed the in vitro effects of API on cell proliferation, cell cycle regulation, pro-survival signaling pathways, apoptosis, and autophagy of human and mouse MM cells. We evaluated the in vivo anti-tumor activities of API in mice transplanted with MM #40a cells forming ascites. API inhibited in vitro MM cells survival, increased reactive oxygen species intracellular production and induced DNA damage. API activated apoptosis but not autophagy. API-induced apoptosis was sustained by the increase of Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, increase of p53 expression, activation of both caspase 9 and caspase 8, cleavage of PARP-1, and increase of the percentage of cells in subG1 phase. API treatment affected the phosphorylation of ERK1/2, JNK and p38 MAPKs in a cell-type specific manner, inhibited AKT phosphorylation, decreased c-Jun expression and phosphorylation, and inhibited NF-κB nuclear translocation. Intraperitoneal administration of API increased the median survival of C57BL/6 mice intraperitoneally transplanted with #40a cells and reduced the risk of tumor growth. Our findings may have important implications for the design of MM treatment using API.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Masuelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Sapienza",Rome, Italy
| | - Monica Benvenuto
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata",Rome, Italy
| | - Rosanna Mattera
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata",Rome, Italy
| | - Enrica Di Stefano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Sapienza",Rome, Italy
| | - Erika Zago
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Sapienza",Rome, Italy
| | - Gloria Taffera
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata",Rome, Italy
| | - Ilaria Tresoldi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata",Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Gabriella Giganti
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata",Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Vanni Frajese
- Department of Sports Science, Human and Health, University of Rome "Foro Italico",Rome, Italy
| | - Ginevra Berardi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Rome "Sapienza",Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Modesti
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata",Rome, Italy.,Center for Regenerative Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata",Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Bei
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata",Rome, Italy.,Center for Regenerative Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata",Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
84
|
Henno P, Grassin-Delyle S, Belle E, Brollo M, Naline E, Sage E, Devillier P, Israël-Biet D. In smokers, Sonic hedgehog modulates pulmonary endothelial function through vascular endothelial growth factor. Respir Res 2017; 18:102. [PMID: 28535764 PMCID: PMC5442874 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-017-0590-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Accepted: 05/17/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Tobacco-induced pulmonary vascular disease is partly driven by endothelial dysfunction. The Sonic hedgehog (SHH) pathway is involved in vascular physiology. We sought to establish whether the SHH pathway has a role in pulmonary endothelial dysfunction in smokers. Methods The ex vivo endothelium-dependent relaxation of pulmonary artery rings in response to acetylcholine (Ach) was compared in 34 current or ex-smokers and 8 never-smokers. The results were expressed as a percentage of the contraction with phenylephrine. We tested the effects of SHH inhibitors (GANT61 and cyclopamine), an SHH activator (SAG) and recombinant VEGF on the Ach-induced relaxation. The level of VEGF protein in the pulmonary artery ring was measured in an ELISA. SHH pathway gene expression was quantified in reverse transcriptase–quantitative polymerase chain reactions. Results Ach-induced relaxation was much less intense in smokers than in never-smokers (respectively 24 ± 6% and 50 ± 7% with 10−4M Ach; p = 0.028). All SHH pathway genes were expressed in pulmonary artery rings from smokers. SHH inhibition by GANT61 reduced Ach-induced relaxation and VEGF gene expression in the pulmonary artery ring. Recombinant VEGF restored the ring’s endothelial function. VEGF gene and protein expression levels in the pulmonary artery rings were positively correlated with the degree of Ach-induced relaxation and negatively correlated with the number of pack-years. Conclusion SHH pathway genes and proteins are expressed in pulmonary artery rings from smokers, where they modulate endothelial function through VEGF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Priscilla Henno
- Sorbonne Paris Cité, Université Paris-Descartes, Paris, France. .,AP-HP, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Service de Physiologie, Explorations Fonctionnelles Respiratoires et du Sommeil, 75015, Paris, France. .,UPRES EA220, Université Versailles Saint-Quentin, Université Paris-Saclay, F-92150, Suresnes, France.
| | - Stanislas Grassin-Delyle
- Plateforme de Spectrométrie de Masse & INSERM UMR1173, UFR Sciences de la Santé Simone Veil, Université Versailles Saint Quentin, Université Paris-Saclay, 78180, Montigny-le-Bretonneux, France.,Département des Maladies des Voies Respiratoires, Hôpital Foch, F-92150, Suresnes, France
| | - Emeline Belle
- UPRES EA220, Université Versailles Saint-Quentin, Université Paris-Saclay, F-92150, Suresnes, France
| | - Marion Brollo
- UPRES EA220, Université Versailles Saint-Quentin, Université Paris-Saclay, F-92150, Suresnes, France
| | - Emmanuel Naline
- UPRES EA220, Université Versailles Saint-Quentin, Université Paris-Saclay, F-92150, Suresnes, France.,Département des Maladies des Voies Respiratoires, Hôpital Foch, F-92150, Suresnes, France
| | - Edouard Sage
- Service de Chirurgie Thoracique, Département des Maladies des Voies Respiratoires, Hôpital Foch, F-92150, Suresnes, France
| | - Philippe Devillier
- UPRES EA220, Université Versailles Saint-Quentin, Université Paris-Saclay, F-92150, Suresnes, France.,Département des Maladies des Voies Respiratoires, Hôpital Foch, F-92150, Suresnes, France
| | - Dominique Israël-Biet
- Sorbonne Paris Cité, Université Paris-Descartes, Paris, France.,AP-HP; Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Service de Pneumologie, 75015, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
85
|
Kurebayashi J, Koike Y, Ohta Y, Saitoh W, Yamashita T, Kanomata N, Moriya T. Anti-cancer stem cell activity of a hedgehog inhibitor GANT61 in estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer cells. Cancer Sci 2017; 108:918-930. [PMID: 28211214 PMCID: PMC5448645 DOI: 10.1111/cas.13205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2016] [Revised: 01/09/2017] [Accepted: 02/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Estradiol (E2) increases not only the cell growth but also the cancer stem cell (CSC) proportion in estrogen receptor (ER)‐positive breast cancer cells. It has been suggested that the non‐canonical hedgehog (Hh) pathway activated by E2 plays an important role in the regulation of CSC proportion in ER‐positive breast cancer cells. We studied anti‐CSC activity of a non‐canonical Hh inhibitor GANT61 in ER‐positive breast cancer cells. Effects of GANT61 on the cell growth, cell cycle progression, apoptosis and CSC proportion were investigated in four ER‐positive breast cancer cell lines. CSC proportion was measured using either the mammosphere assay or CD44/CD24 assay. Expression levels of pivotal molecules in the Hh pathway were measured. Combined effects of GANT61 with antiestrogens on the anti‐cell growth and anti‐CSC activities were investigated. E2 significantly increased the cell growth and CSC proportion in all ER‐positive cell lines. E2 increased the expression levels of glioma‐associated oncogene (GLI) 1 and/or GLI2. GANT61 decreased the cell growth in association with a G1‐S cell cycle retardation and increased apoptosis. GANT61 decreased the E2‐induced CSC proportion measured by the mammosphere assay in all cell lines. Antiestrogens also decreased the E2‐induced cell growth and CSC proportion. Combined treatments of GANT61 with antiestrogens additively enhanced anti‐cell growth and/or anti‐CSC activities in some ER‐positive cell lines. In conclusion, the non‐canonical Hh inhibitor GANT61 inhibited not only the cell growth but also the CSC proportion increased by E2 in ER‐positive breast cancer cells. GANT61 enhanced anti‐cell growth and/or anti‐CSC activities of antiestrogens in ER‐positive cell lines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junichi Kurebayashi
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Kawasaki Medical School, Kurashiki, Okayama, Japan
| | - Yoshikazu Koike
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Kawasaki Medical School, Kurashiki, Okayama, Japan
| | - Yusuke Ohta
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Kawasaki Medical School, Kurashiki, Okayama, Japan
| | - Wataru Saitoh
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Kawasaki Medical School, Kurashiki, Okayama, Japan
| | - Tetsumasa Yamashita
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Kawasaki Medical School, Kurashiki, Okayama, Japan
| | - Naoki Kanomata
- Department of Pathology 2, Kawasaki Medical School, Kurashiki, Okayama, Japan
| | - Takuya Moriya
- Department of Pathology 2, Kawasaki Medical School, Kurashiki, Okayama, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
86
|
HER2 in Breast Cancer Stemness: A Negative Feedback Loop towards Trastuzumab Resistance. Cancers (Basel) 2017; 9:cancers9050040. [PMID: 28445439 PMCID: PMC5447950 DOI: 10.3390/cancers9050040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Revised: 04/10/2017] [Accepted: 04/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
HER2 receptor tyrosine kinase that is overexpressed in approximately 20% of all breast cancers (BCs) is a poor prognosis factor and a precious target for BC therapy. Trastuzumab is approved by FDA to specifically target HER2 for treating HER2+ BC. However, about 60% of patients with HER2+ breast tumor develop de novo resistance to trastuzumab, partially due to the loss of expression of HER2 extracellular domain on their tumor cells. This is due to shedding/cleavage of HER2 by metalloproteinases (ADAMs and MMPs). HER2 shedding results in the accumulation of intracellular carboxyl-terminal HER2 (p95HER2), which is a common phenomenon in trastuzumab-resistant tumors and is suggested as a predictive marker for trastuzumab resistance. Up-regulation of the metalloproteinases is a poor prognosis factor and is commonly seen in mesenchymal-like cancer stem cells that are risen during epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) of tumor cells. HER2 cleavage during EMT can explain why secondary metastatic tumors with high percentage of mesenchymal-like cancer stem cells are mostly resistant to trastuzumab but still sensitive to lapatinib. Importantly, many studies report HER2 interaction with oncogenic/stemness signaling pathways including TGF-β/Smad, Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, JAK/STAT and Hedgehog. HER2 overexpression promotes EMT and the emergence of cancer stem cell properties in BC. Increased expression and activation of metalloproteinases during EMT leads to proteolytic cleavage and shedding of HER2 receptor, which downregulates HER2 extracellular domain and eventually increases trastuzumab resistance. Here, we review the hypothesis that a negative feedback loop between HER2 and stemness signaling drives resistance of BC to trastuzumab.
Collapse
|
87
|
Nault JC, Couchy G, Balabaud C, Morcrette G, Caruso S, Blanc JF, Bacq Y, Calderaro J, Paradis V, Ramos J, Scoazec JY, Gnemmi V, Sturm N, Guettier C, Fabre M, Savier E, Chiche L, Labrune P, Selves J, Wendum D, Pilati C, Laurent A, De Muret A, Le Bail B, Rebouissou S, Imbeaud S, Bioulac-Sage P, Letouzé E, Zucman-Rossi J. Molecular Classification of Hepatocellular Adenoma Associates With Risk Factors, Bleeding, and Malignant Transformation. Gastroenterology 2017; 152:880-894.e6. [PMID: 27939373 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2016.11.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 245] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Revised: 11/17/2016] [Accepted: 11/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Hepatocellular adenomas (HCAs) are benign liver tumors that can be assigned to molecular subtypes based on inactivating mutations in hepatocyte nuclear factor 1A, activating mutations in β-catenin, or activation of inflammatory signaling pathways. We aimed to update the classification system for HCA and associate the subtypes with disease risk factors and complications. METHODS We analyzed expression levels of 20 genes and sequenced exon regions of 8 genes (HNF1A, IL6ST, CTNNB1, FRK, STAT3, GNAS, JAK1, and TERT) in 607 samples of 533 HCAs from 411 patients, collected from 28 centers mainly in France from 2000 and 2014. We performed gene expression profile, RNA sequence, whole-exome and genome sequence, and immunohistochemical analyses of select samples. Molecular data were associated with risk factors, histopathology, bleeding, and malignant transformation. RESULTS Symptomatic bleeding occurred in 14% of the patients (85% of cases were female, median age, 38 years); 7% of the nodules were borderline between HCA and hepatocellular carcinoma, and 3% of patients developed hepatocellular carcinoma from HCA. Based on molecular features, we classified HCA into 8 subgroups. One new subgroup, composed of previously unclassified HCA, represented 4% of HCAs overall and was associated with obesity and bleeding. These tumors were characterized by activation of sonic hedgehog signaling, due to focal deletions that fuse the promoter of INHBE with GLI1. Analysis of genetic heterogeneity among multiple HCAs, from different patients, revealed a molecular subtype field effect; multiple tumors had different mutations that deregulated similar pathways. Specific molecular subtypes of HCA associated with various HCA risk factors, including imbalances in estrogen or androgen hormones. Specific molecular subgroup of HCA with β-catenin and sonic hedgehog activation associated with malignant transformation and bleeding, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Using sequencing and gene expression analyses, we identified a subgroup of HCA characterized by fusion of the INHBE and GLI1 genes and activation of sonic hedgehog pathway. Molecular subtypes of HCAs associated with different patients' risk factors for HCA, disease progression, and pathology features of tumors. This classification system might be used to select treatment strategies for patients with HCA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Charles Nault
- Unité Mixte de Recherche 1162, Génomique Fonctionnelle des Tumeurs Solides, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Université Paris Descartes, Université Paris Diderot, Paris, France; Liver Unit, Hôpital Jean Verdier, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris-Seine-Saint-Denis, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Bondy, France; Unité de Formation et de Recherche Santé Médecine et Biologie Humaine, Université Paris 13, Communauté d'Universités et Etablissements Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Gabrielle Couchy
- Unité Mixte de Recherche 1162, Génomique Fonctionnelle des Tumeurs Solides, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Université Paris Descartes, Université Paris Diderot, Paris, France
| | - Charles Balabaud
- Université Bordeaux, Bordeaux Research in Translational Oncology, Bordeaux, France
| | - Guillaume Morcrette
- Unité Mixte de Recherche 1162, Génomique Fonctionnelle des Tumeurs Solides, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Université Paris Descartes, Université Paris Diderot, Paris, France
| | - Stefano Caruso
- Unité Mixte de Recherche 1162, Génomique Fonctionnelle des Tumeurs Solides, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Université Paris Descartes, Université Paris Diderot, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Frederic Blanc
- Université Bordeaux, Bordeaux Research in Translational Oncology, Bordeaux, France; Service Hépato-Gastroentérologie et Oncologie Digestive, Centre Medico-Chirurgical Magellan, Hôpital Haut-Lévêque, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Yannick Bacq
- Service d'Hépatogastroentérologie, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Tours, Tours, France
| | - Julien Calderaro
- Unité Mixte de Recherche 1162, Génomique Fonctionnelle des Tumeurs Solides, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Université Paris Descartes, Université Paris Diderot, Paris, France; Service d'Anatomopathologie, Hôpital Henri Mondor, Université Paris Est Créteil, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U955, Institut Mondor de Recherche Biomédicale, Créteil, France
| | - Valérie Paradis
- Service d'Anatomopathologie, Hôpital Beaujon, Clichy, France
| | - Jeanne Ramos
- Service d'Anatomopathologie, Gui de Chauliac, Montpellier, France
| | - Jean-Yves Scoazec
- Service d'Anatomopathologie, Institut Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
| | - Viviane Gnemmi
- Institut de Pathologie, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Lille, UMR-S 1124, Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Center, Lille, France
| | - Nathalie Sturm
- Service d'Anatomopathologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Grenoble, Grenoble, France
| | - Catherine Guettier
- Service d'Anatomopathologie, Hôpitaux Paul Brousse et Bicêtre, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1193 Université Paris-Sud, Orsay, France
| | - Monique Fabre
- Service d'Anatomopathologie, Hôptal Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France
| | - Eric Savier
- Service de Chirurgie Hépato-Bilio-Pancréatique, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Pitié Salpétrière, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Paris, France
| | - Laurence Chiche
- Service de Chirurgie Digestive, Centre Medico-Chirurgical Magellan, Hôpital Haut-Lévêque, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Philippe Labrune
- Assistance Hôpitaux Publique de Paris, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris-Sud, Hôpital Antoine Béclère, Centre de Référence des Maladies Héréditaires du Métabolisme Hépatique, Clamart, and Université Paris-Sud, and Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U 1169, Orsay, France
| | - Janick Selves
- Département d'Anatomopathologie, Institut Universitaire du Cancer-Oncopole, Toulouse, France
| | - Dominique Wendum
- Service d'Anatomie Pathologique, Assistance Hôpitaux Publique de Paris Hôpital St Antoine, Sorbonne Universités, Université Pierre et Marie Curie 06, Paris, France
| | - Camilla Pilati
- Unité Mixte de Recherche 1162, Génomique Fonctionnelle des Tumeurs Solides, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Université Paris Descartes, Université Paris Diderot, Paris, France
| | - Alexis Laurent
- Service de Chirurgie Digestive, Hôpital Henri Mondor, Créteil, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U955, Créteil, France
| | - Anne De Muret
- Service d'anatomopathologie, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Tours, Tours, France
| | - Brigitte Le Bail
- Université Bordeaux, Bordeaux Research in Translational Oncology, Bordeaux, France; Service de Pathologie, Hôpital Pellegrin, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Sandra Rebouissou
- Unité Mixte de Recherche 1162, Génomique Fonctionnelle des Tumeurs Solides, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Université Paris Descartes, Université Paris Diderot, Paris, France
| | - Sandrine Imbeaud
- Unité Mixte de Recherche 1162, Génomique Fonctionnelle des Tumeurs Solides, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Université Paris Descartes, Université Paris Diderot, Paris, France
| | | | - Paulette Bioulac-Sage
- Université Bordeaux, Bordeaux Research in Translational Oncology, Bordeaux, France; Service de Pathologie, Hôpital Pellegrin, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Eric Letouzé
- Unité Mixte de Recherche 1162, Génomique Fonctionnelle des Tumeurs Solides, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Université Paris Descartes, Université Paris Diderot, Paris, France
| | - Jessica Zucman-Rossi
- Unité Mixte de Recherche 1162, Génomique Fonctionnelle des Tumeurs Solides, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Université Paris Descartes, Université Paris Diderot, Paris, France; Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Département d'Oncologie, Paris, France.
| |
Collapse
|
88
|
Smoothened is a poor prognosis factor and a potential therapeutic target in glioma. Sci Rep 2017; 7:42630. [PMID: 28195165 PMCID: PMC5307388 DOI: 10.1038/srep42630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2016] [Accepted: 01/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignant gliomas are associated with a high mortality rate. Thus, there is an urgent need for the development of novel targeted therapeutics. Aberrant Hedgehog signaling has been directly linked to glioma. GDC-0449 is a novel small molecule inhibitor of Hedgehog signaling that blocks the activity of smoothened (Smo). In this study, we evaluated the in vitro and in vivo effects of the smoothened inhibitor GDC-0449 on cell proliferation in human gliomas. We found that high expression of smoothened in glioma is a predictor of short overall survival and poor patient outcome. Our data suggest that GDC-0449 significantly inhibits the proliferation of glioma cells by inducing cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase. Our results demonstrate that GDC-0449 can effectively inhibit the migration and invasion of glioma cells. Furthermore, GDC-0449 treatment significantly suppressed glioma cell xenograft tumorigenesis. Mechanistically, GDC-0449 treatment markedly decreases the expression levels of key Hedgehog pathway component genes (Shh, Patched-1, Patched-2, smoothened, Gli1 and Gli2). These results indicate that GDC-0449 works through targeting the Hedgehog pathway. Taken together, our study suggests that smoothened could be used as a prognostic marker and molecular therapeutic target for glioma.
Collapse
|
89
|
Koike Y, Ohta Y, Saitoh W, Yamashita T, Kanomata N, Moriya T, Kurebayashi J. Anti-cell growth and anti-cancer stem cell activities of the non-canonical hedgehog inhibitor GANT61 in triple-negative breast cancer cells. Breast Cancer 2017; 24:683-693. [DOI: 10.1007/s12282-017-0757-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2016] [Accepted: 01/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
|
90
|
Gonnissen A, Isebaert S, McKee CM, Dok R, Haustermans K, Muschel RJ. The hedgehog inhibitor GANT61 sensitizes prostate cancer cells to ionizing radiation both in vitro and in vivo. Oncotarget 2016; 7:84286-84298. [PMID: 27713179 PMCID: PMC5356662 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.12483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2016] [Accepted: 09/28/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Limited data exists regarding the combination of Hedgehog signaling (Hh) inhibition and radiotherapy, even though there are several indications that this might be a promising treatment strategy. In this study, we evaluated the combination of two Hh inhibitors, the SMO inhibitor GDC-0449 and the GLI inhibitor GANT61 with radiotherapy in different prostate cancer (PCa) models. In vitro, GANT61 was able to sensitize 22Rv1 PCa cells but not PC3 and DU145 PCa cells. The lack of radiosensitization in the latter cell lines was shown to be dependent on the presence of mutated p53. Introduction of WT p53 into PC3 cells resulted in radiosensization following GANT61 treatment, suggesting that the p53 transcription factor plays an important role in the GANT61-induced radiosensitization in vitro. Targeting at the level of SMO (GDC-0449) did not show cytotoxicity or synergy with radiation. Furthermore, we confirmed the radiosensitization effect of GANT61 in two in vivo xenograft PCa models. The decrease in tumor growth was associated with decreased proliferation and increased apoptosis. In conclusion, we provide evidence that GANT61 in combination with radiation treatment might represent a promising therapeutic strategy for enhancing the radiation response of PCa patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annelies Gonnissen
- KU Leuven, University of Leuven, Department of Oncology, Experimental Radiotherapy; University Hospitals Leuven, Radiation Oncology, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sofie Isebaert
- KU Leuven, University of Leuven, Department of Oncology, Experimental Radiotherapy; University Hospitals Leuven, Radiation Oncology, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Chad M McKee
- University of Oxford, Department of Oncology, CRUK/MRC Oxford Institute for Radiation Oncology, Oxford, UK
| | - Rüveyda Dok
- KU Leuven, University of Leuven, Department of Oncology, Experimental Radiotherapy; University Hospitals Leuven, Radiation Oncology, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Karin Haustermans
- KU Leuven, University of Leuven, Department of Oncology, Experimental Radiotherapy; University Hospitals Leuven, Radiation Oncology, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ruth J Muschel
- University of Oxford, Department of Oncology, CRUK/MRC Oxford Institute for Radiation Oncology, Oxford, UK
| |
Collapse
|
91
|
Lin Z, Sheng H, You C, Cai M, Zhang Y, Yu LS, Yu X, Lin J, Zhang N. Inhibition of the CyclinD1 promoter in response to sonic hedgehog signaling pathway transduction is mediated by Gli1. Exp Ther Med 2016; 13:307-314. [PMID: 28123507 PMCID: PMC5244851 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2016.3969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2015] [Accepted: 10/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common malignant tumor of the central nervous system in children. Accumulating evidence suggests a major role for the activation of the sonic hedgehog (SHH) signaling pathway in the development of MB cells; however, the mechanisms underlying the effect of this pathway on tumor survival and growth remain poorly understood. The Gli family zinc finger 1 (Gli1) transcription factor is considered as a mediator of the SHH signaling pathway in MB cells. Therefore, the present study investigated whether the SHH signaling pathway promotes the apoptosis of MB cells via downregulation of Gli1. GANT61, a novel Gli1 inhibitor, is known to have an in vitro activity against tumors. In the current study, Daoy cells were treated with different concentrations of GANT61 for 24 h, and the effect on cell proliferation was assayed by cell counting kit-8 assay. In addition, the cell cycle progression and apoptosis were assayed by flow cytometry analysis and hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. The effects of GANT61 treatment on SHH signaling pathway at the mRNA level were assayed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). To further elucidate the inhibitory effects of GANT61 on the expression of Gli1 and CyclinD1, their protein levels were examined by western blot and immunofluorescence. The results indicated that GANT61 significantly inhibited the proliferation of Daoy cells in a dose-dependent manner, compared with the control group (P<0.05). HE staining revealed that cells had increasingly abnormal protuberance with increasing GANT61 concentration. Flow cytometry analysis also demonstrated that GANT61 induced G1/S arrest and apoptosis of Daoy cells in a dose-dependent manner (P<0.05). Gli1 and CyclinD1 mRNA expression levels were downregulated by GANT61 treatment (P<0.05); similarly, their protein levels were downregulated by GANT61 treatment in a dose-dependent manner (P<0.05). In conclusion, Gli1 expression was significantly associated with CyclinD1 expression in MB. These data demonstrated that Gli1 is an important mediator of the SHH pathway activity in MB, and may be a novel agent for use in combined chemotherapeutic regimens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhongxiao Lin
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Hansong Sheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Chaoguo You
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Ming Cai
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Yiping Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Li Sheng Yu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoming Yu
- Department of Neonatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Jian Lin
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Nu Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
92
|
Wang X, Wei S, Zhao Y, Shi C, Liu P, Zhang C, Lei Y, Zhang B, Bai B, Huang Y, Zhang H. Anti-proliferation of breast cancer cells with itraconazole: Hedgehog pathway inhibition induces apoptosis and autophagic cell death. Cancer Lett 2016; 385:128-136. [PMID: 27810405 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2016.10.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2016] [Revised: 10/13/2016] [Accepted: 10/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Itraconazole is a common antifungal which may have promise for treating various human cancers. We report that itraconazole was cytotoxic to MCF-7 and SKBR-3 breast cancer cell lines via apoptosis by altering mitochondria membrane potential, reducing BCL-2 expression and elevating caspase-3 activity. Itraconazole also induced autophagic cell death via LC3-II expression upregulation, P62/SQSTM1 degradation, autophagosome formation and increases in autophagic puncta. Itraconazole treatment inhibited hedgehog pathway key molecular expression, such as SHH and Gli1, resulting in promotion of apoptosis and autophagy. The anti-proliferation effect of itraconazole-induced apoptosis and autophagy via hedgehog pathway inhibition was confirmed with Gli1 inhibitor GANT61 and SHH siRNA, GANT61 and SHH siRNA synergistically enhanced cytotoxicity induced by itraconazole. A human xenograft nude mouse model corroborated the anti-breast cancer activity as evidenced by reduced tumor size, and increased tumor tissue apoptosis and autophagy. Thus, itraconazole has a potent anti-breast cancer activity that may be improved when combined with hedgehog pathway inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoya Wang
- Laboratory Animal Center, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China; College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China.
| | - Sanhua Wei
- Department of Laboratory and Research Center, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.
| | - Yong Zhao
- Laboratory Animal Center, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.
| | - Changhong Shi
- Laboratory Animal Center, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.
| | - Peijuan Liu
- Laboratory Animal Center, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.
| | - Caiqin Zhang
- Laboratory Animal Center, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.
| | - Yingfeng Lei
- Department of Microbiology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Urology, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.
| | - Bing Bai
- Laboratory Animal Center, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.
| | - Yong Huang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China.
| | - Hai Zhang
- Laboratory Animal Center, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.
| |
Collapse
|
93
|
Maruthanila VL, Elancheran R, Kunnumakkara AB, Kabilan S, Kotoky J. Recent development of targeted approaches for the treatment of breast cancer. Breast Cancer 2016; 24:191-219. [PMID: 27796923 DOI: 10.1007/s12282-016-0732-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2016] [Accepted: 09/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most prominent cause of cancer death in women worldwide. The highlights of this review are to provide an overview of the targeted therapeutic agents, challenges with metastatic breast cancer (MBCa), mechanisms of action through Hedgehog/Gli 1 signaling pathway and future prospective. Over a decade of success, several drugs have been approved and are in the advanced stages of clinical trials that target the receptors such as estrogen receptor, growth factor receptor, receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B, etc. Currently, several monoclonal antibodies are also used for the treatment of breast cancer. Advances in understanding tumor biology, particularly signaling pathways such as Notch signaling pathway, Hedgehog/Gli 1 signaling pathway, and inhibitors are considered to be important for bone metastasis. These studies may provide vital information for the design and development of new strategies with respect to efficacy, reduction of the side effects, and treatment strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- V L Maruthanila
- Life Sciences Division, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology, Guwahati, Assam, 781035, India
| | - R Elancheran
- Life Sciences Division, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology, Guwahati, Assam, 781035, India
| | - A B Kunnumakkara
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, Assam, 781035, India
| | - S Kabilan
- Department of Chemistry, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar, Tamilnadu, 608002, India
| | - Jibon Kotoky
- Life Sciences Division, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology, Guwahati, Assam, 781035, India.
| |
Collapse
|
94
|
Tamoxifen Resistance: Emerging Molecular Targets. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17081357. [PMID: 27548161 PMCID: PMC5000752 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17081357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2016] [Revised: 08/10/2016] [Accepted: 08/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
17β-Estradiol (E2) plays a pivotal role in the development and progression of breast cancer. As a result, blockade of the E2 signal through either tamoxifen (TAM) or aromatase inhibitors is an important therapeutic strategy to treat or prevent estrogen receptor (ER) positive breast cancer. However, resistance to TAM is the major obstacle in endocrine therapy. This resistance occurs either de novo or is acquired after an initial beneficial response. The underlying mechanisms for TAM resistance are probably multifactorial and remain largely unknown. Considering that breast cancer is a very heterogeneous disease and patients respond differently to treatment, the molecular analysis of TAM’s biological activity could provide the necessary framework to understand the complex effects of this drug in target cells. Moreover, this could explain, at least in part, the development of resistance and indicate an optimal therapeutic option. This review highlights the implications of TAM in breast cancer as well as the role of receptors/signal pathways recently suggested to be involved in the development of TAM resistance. G protein—coupled estrogen receptor, Androgen Receptor and Hedgehog signaling pathways are emerging as novel therapeutic targets and prognostic indicators for breast cancer, based on their ability to mediate estrogenic signaling in ERα-positive or -negative breast cancer.
Collapse
|
95
|
Habib JG, O'Shaughnessy JA. The hedgehog pathway in triple-negative breast cancer. Cancer Med 2016; 5:2989-3006. [PMID: 27539549 PMCID: PMC5083752 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2016] [Revised: 05/26/2016] [Accepted: 06/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment of triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) remains challenging due to the underlying heterogeneity of this disease coupled with the lack of predictive biomarkers and effective targeted therapies. Intratumoral heterogeneity, particularly enrichment for breast cancer stem cell‐like subpopulations, has emerged as a leading hypothesis for systemic therapy resistance and clinically aggressive course of poor prognosis TNBC. A growing body of literature supports the role of the stem cell renewal Hedgehog (Hh) pathway in breast cancer. Emerging preclinical data also implicate Hh signaling in TNBC pathogenesis. Herein, we review the evidence for a pathophysiologic role of Hh signaling in TNBC and explore mechanisms of crosstalk between the Hh pathway and other key signaling networks as well as their potential implications for Hh‐targeted interventions in TNBC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joyce G Habib
- Baylor Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Joyce A O'Shaughnessy
- Baylor Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center, Dallas, Texas.
- Texas Oncology, Dallas, Texas.
| |
Collapse
|