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Feliz Morel ÁJ, Hasanovic A, Morin A, Prunier C, Magnone V, Lebrigand K, Aouad A, Cogoluegnes S, Favier J, Pasquier C, Mus-Veteau I. Persistent Properties of a Subpopulation of Cancer Cells Overexpressing the Hedgehog Receptor Patched. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14050988. [PMID: 35631574 PMCID: PMC9146430 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14050988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the development of new therapeutic strategies, cancer remains one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. One of the current major challenges is the resistance of cancers to chemotherapy treatments inducing metastases and relapse of the tumor. The Hedgehog receptor Patched (Ptch1) is overexpressed in many types of cancers. We showed that Ptch1 contributes to the efflux of doxorubicin and plays an important role in the resistance to chemotherapy in adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC), a rare cancer which presents strong resistance to the standard of care chemotherapy treatment. In the present study, we isolated and characterized a subpopulation of the ACC cell line H295R in which Ptch1 is overexpressed and more present at the cell surface. This cell subpopulation is more resistant to doxorubicin, grows as spheroids, and has a greater capability of clonogenicity, migration, and invasion than the parental cells. Xenograft experiments performed in mice and in ovo showed that this cell subpopulation is more tumorigenic and metastatic than the parental cells. These results suggest that this cell subpopulation has cancer stem-like or persistent cell properties which were strengthened by RNA-seq. If present in tumors from ACC patients, these cells could be responsible for therapy resistance, relapse, and metastases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Álvaro Javier Feliz Morel
- Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS, Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IPMC), 06560 Valbonne, France; (Á.J.F.M.); (A.H.); (V.M.); (K.L.); (A.A.); (S.C.)
| | - Anida Hasanovic
- Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS, Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IPMC), 06560 Valbonne, France; (Á.J.F.M.); (A.H.); (V.M.); (K.L.); (A.A.); (S.C.)
| | - Aurélie Morin
- Université de Paris, PARCC, INSERM, Equipe Labellisée par la Ligue Contre le Cancer, CEDEX 15, 75737 Paris, France; (A.M.); (J.F.)
| | - Chloé Prunier
- INOVOTION, Biopolis-5 Av. du Grand Sablon, 38700 La Tronche, France;
| | - Virginie Magnone
- Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS, Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IPMC), 06560 Valbonne, France; (Á.J.F.M.); (A.H.); (V.M.); (K.L.); (A.A.); (S.C.)
| | - Kevin Lebrigand
- Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS, Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IPMC), 06560 Valbonne, France; (Á.J.F.M.); (A.H.); (V.M.); (K.L.); (A.A.); (S.C.)
| | - Amaury Aouad
- Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS, Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IPMC), 06560 Valbonne, France; (Á.J.F.M.); (A.H.); (V.M.); (K.L.); (A.A.); (S.C.)
| | - Sarah Cogoluegnes
- Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS, Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IPMC), 06560 Valbonne, France; (Á.J.F.M.); (A.H.); (V.M.); (K.L.); (A.A.); (S.C.)
| | - Judith Favier
- Université de Paris, PARCC, INSERM, Equipe Labellisée par la Ligue Contre le Cancer, CEDEX 15, 75737 Paris, France; (A.M.); (J.F.)
| | - Claude Pasquier
- Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS-UMR7271, Laboratoire d’Informatique, Signaux et Systèmes de Sophia Antipolis (I3S), 06560 Valbonne, France;
| | - Isabelle Mus-Veteau
- Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS, Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IPMC), 06560 Valbonne, France; (Á.J.F.M.); (A.H.); (V.M.); (K.L.); (A.A.); (S.C.)
- Correspondence:
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Store-Operated Calcium Entry and Its Implications in Cancer Stem Cells. Cells 2022; 11:cells11081332. [PMID: 35456011 PMCID: PMC9032688 DOI: 10.3390/cells11081332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumors are composed by a heterogeneous population of cells. Among them, a sub-population of cells, termed cancer stem cells, exhibit stemness features, such as self-renewal capabilities, disposition to differentiate to a more proliferative state, and chemotherapy resistance, processes that are all mediated by Ca2+. Ca2+ homeostasis is vital for several physiological processes, and alterations in the patterns of expressions of the proteins and molecules that modulate it have recently become a cancer hallmark. Store-operated Ca2+ entry is a major mechanism for Ca2+ entry from the extracellular medium in non-excitable cells that leads to increases in the cytosolic Ca2+ concentration required for several processes, including cancer stem cell properties. Here, we focus on the participation of STIM, Orai, and TRPC proteins, the store-operated Ca2+ entry key components, in cancer stem cell biology and tumorigenesis.
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Zhou Y, Huang J, Jin B, He S, Dang Y, Zhao T, Jin Z. The Emerging Role of Hedgehog Signaling in Viral Infections. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:870316. [PMID: 35464958 PMCID: PMC9023792 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.870316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The hedgehog (HH) signaling pathway is one of the key pathways that is indispensable for many developmental processes and postnatal tissue homeostasis. Dysregulated HH signaling could lead to developmental disorders and tumorigenesis in a variety of tissues via inherited or sporadic mutation, gene overexpression, and crosstalk with other signaling pathways. Recently, accumulating evidence has shown that HH signaling is targeted by viruses to facilitate viral transcription, immune evasion, and uncontrolled growth, leading to effective viral replication and pathogenesis. In this study, we will summarize recent advances in functional interaction between HH signaling and different types of viruses, particularly focusing on the pathological role of HH signaling in viral infections and related diseases.
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54
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Nakamura Y, Onodera S, Takano M, Katakura A, Nomura T, Azuma T. Development of a targeted gene panel for the diagnosis of Gorlin syndrome. Int J Oral Maxillofac Surg 2022; 51:1431-1444. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijom.2022.03.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Kciuk M, Gielecińska A, Budzinska A, Mojzych M, Kontek R. Metastasis and MAPK Pathways. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073847. [PMID: 35409206 PMCID: PMC8998814 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. In many cases, the treatment of the disease is limited due to the metastasis of cells to distant locations of the body through the blood and lymphatic drainage. Most of the anticancer therapeutic options focus mainly on the inhibition of tumor cell growth or the induction of cell death, and do not consider the molecular basis of metastasis. The aim of this work is to provide a comprehensive review focusing on cancer metastasis and the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway (ERK/JNK/P38 signaling) as a crucial modulator of this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateusz Kciuk
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, University of Lodz, Banacha Street 12/16, 90-237 Lodz, Poland
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Genetics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, 12/16 Banacha St., 90-237 Lodz, Poland; (A.G.); (R.K.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Adrianna Gielecińska
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Genetics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, 12/16 Banacha St., 90-237 Lodz, Poland; (A.G.); (R.K.)
| | - Adrianna Budzinska
- Laboratory of Mitochondrial Biochemistry, Department of Bioenergetics, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, 61-614 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Mariusz Mojzych
- Department of Chemistry, Siedlce University of Natural Sciences and Humanities, 3 Maja 54, 08-110 Siedlce, Poland;
| | - Renata Kontek
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Genetics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, 12/16 Banacha St., 90-237 Lodz, Poland; (A.G.); (R.K.)
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Banz-Jansen C, Helweg LP, Kaltschmidt B. Endometrial Cancer Stem Cells: Where Do We Stand and Where Should We Go? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063412. [PMID: 35328833 PMCID: PMC8955970 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometrial cancer is one of the most common malignant diseases in women worldwide, with an incidence of 5.9%. Thus, it is the most frequent cancer of the female genital tract, with more than 34,000 women dying, in Europe and North America alone. Endometrial Cancer Stem Cells (CSC) might be drivers of carcinogenesis as well as metastatic and recurrent disease. Therefore, targeting CSCs is of high interest to improve prognosis of patients suffering of advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer. This review describes the current evidence of molecular mechanisms in endometrial CSCs with special emphasis on MYC and NF-κB signaling as well as mitochondrial metabolism. Furthermore, the current status of immunotherapy targeting PD-1 and PD-L1 in endometrial cancer cells and CSCs is elucidated. The outlined findings encourage novel therapies that target signaling pathways in endometrial CSCs as well as immunotherapy as a promising therapeutic approach in the treatment of endometrial cancer to impede cancer progression and prevent recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constanze Banz-Jansen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, and Perinatal Center, Protestant Hospital of Bethel Foundation, University Medical School OWL at Bielefeld, Bielefeld University, Campus Bielefeld-Bethel, Burgsteig 13, 33617 Bielefeld, Germany;
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33617 Bielefeld, Germany;
| | - Laureen P. Helweg
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33617 Bielefeld, Germany;
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 25, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
- Correspondence:
| | - Barbara Kaltschmidt
- Forschungsverbund BioMedizin Bielefeld, OWL (FBMB e.V.), Maraweg 21, 33617 Bielefeld, Germany;
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstrasse 25, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
- Molecular Neurobiology, Bielefeld University, Universitätsstrasse 25, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
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Ryskalin L, Biagioni F, Morucci G, Busceti CL, Frati A, Puglisi-Allegra S, Ferrucci M, Fornai F. Spreading of Alpha Synuclein from Glioblastoma Cells towards Astrocytes Correlates with Stem-like Properties. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14061417. [PMID: 35326570 PMCID: PMC8946011 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14061417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The present study questions whether cells from glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), which overexpress α-synuclein (α-syn), may alter neighboring non-tumoral astrocyte cell lines. The occurrence of α-syn in GBM correlates with the expression of the stem cell marker nestin. When astrocytes are co-cultured with GBM cells in a trans-well apparatus the occurrence of α-syn and nestin rises remarkably. The increase in α-syn in co-cultured astrocytes is more pronounced at the plasma membrane, which mimics the placement of α-syn in GBM cells. When the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin is administered, GBM-induced expression of α-syn and nestin within co-cultured astrocytes is occluded, and morphological alterations are reverted. In the presence of rapamycin the sub-cellular placement of α-syn is modified being allocated within whorls and vacuoles instead of the plasma membrane. The effects induced by rapamycin occur both in baseline GBM cells and within astrocytes primed by co-cultured GBM cells. Abstract Evidence has been recently provided showing that, in baseline conditions, GBM cells feature high levels of α-syn which are way in excess compared with α-syn levels measured within control astrocytes. These findings are consistent along various techniques. In fact, they are replicated by using antibody-based protein detection, such as immuno-fluorescence, immuno-peroxidase, immunoblotting and ultrastructural stoichiometry as well as by measuring α-syn transcript levels at RT-PCR. The present manuscript further questions whether such a high amount of α-syn may be induced within astrocytes, which are co-cultured with GBM cells in a trans-well system. In astrocytes co-cultured with GBM cells, α-syn overexpression is documented. Such an increase is concomitant with increased expression of the stem cell marker nestin, along with GBM-like shifting in cell morphology. This concerns general cell morphology, subcellular compartments and profuse convolutions at the plasma membrane. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) allows us to assess the authentic amount and sub-cellular compartmentalization of α-syn and nestin within baseline GBM cells and the amount, which is induced within co-cultured astrocytes, as well as the shifting of ultrastructure, which is reminiscent of GBM cells. These phenomena are mitigated by rapamycin administration, which reverts nestin- and α-syn-related overexpression and phenotypic shifting within co-cultured astrocytes towards baseline conditions of naïve astrocytes. The present study indicates that: (i) α-syn increases in astrocyte co-cultured with GBM cells; (ii) α-syn increases in astrocytes along with the stem cell marker nestin; (iii) α-syn increases along with a GBM-like shift of cell morphology; (iv) all these changes are replicated in different GBM cell lines and are reverted by the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin. The present findings indicate that α-syn does occur in high amount within GBM cells and may transmit to neighboring astrocytes as much as a stem cell phenotype. This suggests a mode of tumor progression for GBM cells, which may transform, rather than merely substitute, surrounding tissue; such a phenomenon is sensitive to mTOR inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larisa Ryskalin
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (L.R.); (G.M.); (M.F.)
| | - Francesca Biagioni
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (I.R.C.C.S.) Neuromed, Via Atinense 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy; (F.B.); (C.L.B.); (A.F.); (S.P.-A.)
| | - Gabriele Morucci
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (L.R.); (G.M.); (M.F.)
| | - Carla L. Busceti
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (I.R.C.C.S.) Neuromed, Via Atinense 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy; (F.B.); (C.L.B.); (A.F.); (S.P.-A.)
| | - Alessandro Frati
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (I.R.C.C.S.) Neuromed, Via Atinense 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy; (F.B.); (C.L.B.); (A.F.); (S.P.-A.)
- Neurosurgery Division, Human Neurosciences Department, Sapienza University, 00135 Roma, Italy
| | - Stefano Puglisi-Allegra
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (I.R.C.C.S.) Neuromed, Via Atinense 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy; (F.B.); (C.L.B.); (A.F.); (S.P.-A.)
| | - Michela Ferrucci
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (L.R.); (G.M.); (M.F.)
| | - Francesco Fornai
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (L.R.); (G.M.); (M.F.)
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (I.R.C.C.S.) Neuromed, Via Atinense 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy; (F.B.); (C.L.B.); (A.F.); (S.P.-A.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-050-2218601
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Kovachka S, Malloci G, Simsir M, Ruggerone P, Azoulay S, Mus-Veteau I. Inhibition of the drug efflux activity of Ptch1 as a promising strategy to overcome chemotherapy resistance in cancer cells. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 236:114306. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Arjmand B, Hamidpour SK, Alavi-Moghadam S, Yavari H, Shahbazbadr A, Tavirani MR, Gilany K, Larijani B. Molecular Docking as a Therapeutic Approach for Targeting Cancer Stem Cell Metabolic Processes. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:768556. [PMID: 35264950 PMCID: PMC8899123 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.768556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are subpopulation of cells which have been demonstrated in a variety of cancer models and involved in cancer initiation, progression, and development. Indeed, CSCs which seem to form a small percentage of tumor cells, display resembling characteristics to natural stem cells such as self-renewal, survival, differentiation, proliferation, and quiescence. Moreover, they have some characteristics that eventually can demonstrate the heterogeneity of cancer cells and tumor progression. On the other hand, another aspect of CSCs that has been recognized as a central concern facing cancer patients is resistance to mainstays of cancer treatment such as chemotherapy and radiation. Owing to these details and the stated stemness capabilities, these immature progenitors of cancerous cells can constantly persist after different therapies and cause tumor regrowth or metastasis. Further, in both normal development and malignancy, cellular metabolism and stemness are intricately linked and CSCs dominant metabolic phenotype changes across tumor entities, patients, and tumor subclones. Hence, CSCs can be determined as one of the factors that correlate to the failure of common therapeutic approaches in cancer treatment. In this context, researchers are searching out new alternative or complementary therapies such as targeted methods to fight against cancer. Molecular docking is one of the computational modeling methods that has a new promise in cancer cell targeting through drug designing and discovering programs. In a simple definition, molecular docking methods are used to determine the metabolic interaction between two molecules and find the best orientation of a ligand to its molecular target with minimal free energy in the formation of a stable complex. As a comprehensive approach, this computational drug design method can be thought more cost-effective and time-saving compare to other conventional methods in cancer treatment. In addition, increasing productivity and quality in pharmaceutical research can be another advantage of this molecular modeling method. Therefore, in recent years, it can be concluded that molecular docking can be considered as one of the novel strategies at the forefront of the cancer battle via targeting cancer stem cell metabolic processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babak Arjmand
- Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- *Correspondence: Babak Arjmand, ; Bagher Larijani,
| | - Shayesteh Kokabi Hamidpour
- Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sepideh Alavi-Moghadam
- Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hanieh Yavari
- Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ainaz Shahbazbadr
- Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Kambiz Gilany
- Integrative Oncology Department, Breast Cancer Research Center, Motamed Cancer Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bagher Larijani
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- *Correspondence: Babak Arjmand, ; Bagher Larijani,
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Aramini B, Masciale V, Grisendi G, Bertolini F, Maur M, Guaitoli G, Chrystel I, Morandi U, Stella F, Dominici M, Haider KH. Dissecting Tumor Growth: The Role of Cancer Stem Cells in Drug Resistance and Recurrence. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14040976. [PMID: 35205721 PMCID: PMC8869911 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14040976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cancer is one of the most debated problems all over the world. Cancer stem cells are considered responsible of tumor initiation, metastasis, drug resistance, and recurrence. This subpopulation of cells has been found into the tumor bulk and showed the capacity to self-renew, differentiate, up to generate a new tumor. In the last decades, several studies have been set on the molecular mechanisms behind their specific characteristics as the Wnt/β-catenin signaling, Notch signaling, Hedgehog signaling, transcription factors, etc. The most powerful part of CSCs is represented by the niches as “promoter” of their self-renewal and “protector” from the common oncological treatment as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. In our review article we highlighted the primary mechanisms involved in CSC tumorigenesis for the setting of further targets to control the metastatic process. Abstract Emerging evidence suggests that a small subpopulation of cancer stem cells (CSCs) is responsible for initiation, progression, and metastasis cascade in tumors. CSCs share characteristics with normal stem cells, i.e., self-renewal and differentiation potential, suggesting that they can drive cancer progression. Consequently, targeting CSCs to prevent tumor growth or regrowth might offer a chance to lead the fight against cancer. CSCs create their niche, a specific area within tissue with a unique microenvironment that sustains their vital functions. Interactions between CSCs and their niches play a critical role in regulating CSCs’ self-renewal and tumorigenesis. Differences observed in the frequency of CSCs, due to the phenotypic plasticity of many cancer cells, remain a challenge in cancer therapeutics, since CSCs can modulate their transcriptional activities into a more stem-like state to protect themselves from destruction. This plasticity represents an essential step for future therapeutic approaches. Regarding self-renewal, CSCs are modulated by the same molecular pathways found in normal stem cells, such as Wnt/β-catenin signaling, Notch signaling, and Hedgehog signaling. Another key characteristic of CSCs is their resistance to standard chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatments, due to their capacity to rest in a quiescent state. This review will analyze the primary mechanisms involved in CSC tumorigenesis, with particular attention to the roles of CSCs in tumor progression in benign and malignant diseases; and will examine future perspectives on the identification of new markers to better control tumorigenesis, as well as dissecting the metastasis process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Aramini
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine–DIMES of the Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, G.B. Morgagni-L. Pierantoni Hospital, 47121 Forlì, Italy;
- Thoracic Surgery Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy; (V.M.); (U.M.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Valentina Masciale
- Thoracic Surgery Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy; (V.M.); (U.M.)
| | - Giulia Grisendi
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy; (G.G.); (F.B.); (M.M.); (G.G.); (I.C.); (M.D.)
| | - Federica Bertolini
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy; (G.G.); (F.B.); (M.M.); (G.G.); (I.C.); (M.D.)
| | - Michela Maur
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy; (G.G.); (F.B.); (M.M.); (G.G.); (I.C.); (M.D.)
| | - Giorgia Guaitoli
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy; (G.G.); (F.B.); (M.M.); (G.G.); (I.C.); (M.D.)
| | - Isca Chrystel
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy; (G.G.); (F.B.); (M.M.); (G.G.); (I.C.); (M.D.)
| | - Uliano Morandi
- Thoracic Surgery Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy; (V.M.); (U.M.)
| | - Franco Stella
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Experimental Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine–DIMES of the Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, G.B. Morgagni-L. Pierantoni Hospital, 47121 Forlì, Italy;
| | - Massimo Dominici
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children & Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy; (G.G.); (F.B.); (M.M.); (G.G.); (I.C.); (M.D.)
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Identification, Culture and Targeting of Cancer Stem Cells. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12020184. [PMID: 35207472 PMCID: PMC8879966 DOI: 10.3390/life12020184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemoresistance, tumor progression, and metastasis are features that are frequently seen in cancer that have been associated with cancer stem cells (CSCs). These cells are a promising target in the future of cancer therapy but remain largely unknown. Deregulation of pathways that govern stemness in non-tumorigenic stem cells (SCs), such as Notch, Wnt, and Hedgehog pathways, has been described in CSC pathogenesis, but it is necessary to conduct further studies to discover potential new therapeutic targets. In addition, some markers for the identification and characterization of CSCs have been suggested, but the search for specific CSC markers in many cancer types is still under development. In addition, methods for CSC cultivation are also under development, with great heterogeneity existing in the protocols used. This review focuses on the most recent aspects of the identification, characterization, cultivation, and targeting of human CSCs, highlighting the advances achieved in the clinical implementation of therapies targeting CSCs and remarking those potential areas where more research is still required.
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Zahra MH, Nawara HM, Hassan G, Afify SM, Seno A, Seno M. Cancer Stem Cells Contribute to Drug Resistance in Multiple Different Ways. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1393:125-139. [PMID: 36587305 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-12974-2_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Many tumors are resistant to conventional cancer therapies because a tumor is composed of heterogeneous cell population. Especially, subpopulation of cancer stem cells, which have self-renewal and differentiation properties and responsible for the tumor initiation, is generally considered resistant to chemo-, radio-, and immune therapy. Understanding the mechanism of drug resistance in cancer stem cells should lead to establish more effective therapeutic strategies. Actually, different molecular mechanisms are conceivable for cancer stem cells acquiring drug resistance. These mechanisms include not only cytoplasmic signaling pathways but also the intercellular communications in the tumor microenvironment. Recently, a great deal of successful reports challenged to elucidate the mechanisms of drug resistance and to develop novel treatments targeting cancer stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maram H Zahra
- Laboratory of Nano-Biotechnology, Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University, Okayama, 700-8530, Japan.
| | - Hend M Nawara
- Laboratory of Nano-Biotechnology, Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University, Okayama, 700-8530, Japan.
| | - Ghmkin Hassan
- Department of Genomic Oncology and Oral Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Science, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, 734-8553, Japan
| | - Said M Afify
- Division of Biochemistry, Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Menoufia University, Shebin El Koum-Menoufia, Shebeen El-Kom, 32511, Egypt
| | - Akimasa Seno
- Laboratory of Natural Food & Medicine, Co., Ltd, Okayama University Incubator, Okayama, 700-8530, Japan
| | - Masaharu Seno
- Laboratory of Natural Food & Medicine, Co., Ltd, Okayama University Incubator, Okayama, 700-8530, Japan.
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63
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Ke DYJ, El-Sahli S, Wang L. The Potential of Natural Products in the Treatment of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Curr Cancer Drug Targets 2021; 22:388-403. [PMID: 34970954 DOI: 10.2174/1568009622666211231140623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a subtype of breast cancer that lacks receptors for targeted therapy. Consequently, chemotherapy is currently the mainstay of systemic treatment options. However, the enrichment of cancer stem cells (CSC, a subpopulation with stem-cell characteristics and tumor-initiating propensity) promotes chemo-resistance and tumorigenesis, resulting in cancer recurrence and relapse. Furthermore, toxic side effects of chemotherapeutics reduce patient wellbeing. Natural products, specifically compounds derived from plants, have the potential to treat TNBC and target CSCs by inhibiting CSC signaling pathways. Literature evidence from six promising compounds were reviewed, including sulforaphane, curcumin, genistein, resveratrol, lycopene, and epigallocatechin-3-gallate. These compounds have been shown to promote cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in TNBC cells. They also could inhibit the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) that plays an important role in metastasis. In addition, those natural compounds have been found to inhibit pathways important for CSCs, such as NF-κB, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, Notch 1, Wnt/β-catenin, and YAP. Clinicals trials conducted on these compounds have shown varying degrees of effectiveness. Epidemiological case-control studies for the compounds commonly consumed in certain human populations have also been summarized. While in vivo and in vitro data are promising, further basic and clinical investigations are required. Likely, natural products in combination with other drugs may hold great potential to improve TNBC treatment efficacy and patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danny Yu Jia Ke
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8M5, Ottawa, Canada
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8M5, Canada
- The Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation (CI3), University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Sara El-Sahli
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8M5, Ottawa, Canada
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8M5, Canada
- The Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation (CI3), University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Lisheng Wang
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8M5, Ottawa, Canada
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8M5, Canada
- The Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation (CI3), University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8M5, Canada
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada
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64
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Meerson A, Khatib S, Mahajna J. Natural Products Targeting Cancer Stem Cells for Augmenting Cancer Therapeutics. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222313044. [PMID: 34884848 PMCID: PMC8657727 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222313044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSC) have been identified in several types of solid tumors. In some cases, CSC may be the source of all the tumor cells, the cause of the tumor's resistance to chemotherapeutic agents, and the source of metastatic cells. Thus, a combination therapy targeting non-CSC tumor cells as well as specifically targeting CSCs holds the potential to be highly effective. Natural products (NPs) have been a historically rich source of biologically active compounds and are known for their ability to influence multiple signaling pathways simultaneously with negligible side effects. In this review, we discuss the potential of NPs in targeting multiple signaling pathways in CSC and their potential to augment the efficacy of standard cancer therapy. Specifically, we focus on the anti-CSC activities of flavonoids, FDA-approved drugs originating from natural sources. Additionally, we emphasize the potential of NPs in targeting microRNA-mediated signaling, given the roles of microRNA in the maintenance of the CSC phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ari Meerson
- Department of Natural Products and Nutrition, MIGAL—Galilee Research Institute, Kiryat Shmona 11016, Israel; (A.M.); (S.K.)
- Faculty of Sciences, Tel Hai Academic College, Qiryat Shemona 12208, Israel
| | - Soliman Khatib
- Department of Natural Products and Nutrition, MIGAL—Galilee Research Institute, Kiryat Shmona 11016, Israel; (A.M.); (S.K.)
- Faculty of Sciences, Tel Hai Academic College, Qiryat Shemona 12208, Israel
| | - Jamal Mahajna
- Department of Natural Products and Nutrition, MIGAL—Galilee Research Institute, Kiryat Shmona 11016, Israel; (A.M.); (S.K.)
- Faculty of Sciences, Tel Hai Academic College, Qiryat Shemona 12208, Israel
- Correspondence:
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65
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Villasante A, Godier-Furnemont A, Hernandez-Barranco A, Coq JL, Boskovic J, Peinado H, Mora J, Samitier J, Vunjak-Novakovic G. Horizontal transfer of the stemness-related markers EZH2 and GLI1 by neuroblastoma-derived extracellular vesicles in stromal cells. Transl Res 2021; 237:82-97. [PMID: 34217898 PMCID: PMC9204390 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2021.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Neuroblastoma (NB) is the most common extracranial pediatric solid cancer originating from undifferentiated neural crest cells. NB cells express EZH2 and GLI1 genes that are known to maintain the undifferentiated phenotype of cancer stem cells (CSC) in NB. Recent studies suggest that tumor-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) can regulate the transformation of surrounding cells into CSC by transferring tumor-specific molecules they contain. However, the horizontal transfer of EVs molecules in NB remains largely unknown. We report the analysis of NB-derived EVs in bioengineered models of NB that are based on a collagen 1/hyaluronic acid scaffold designed to mimic the native tumor niche. Using these models, we observed an enrichment of GLI1 and EZH2 mRNAs in NB-derived EVs. As a consequence of the uptake of NB-derived EVs, the host cells increased the expression levels of GLI1 and EZH2. These results suggest the alteration of the expression profile of stromal cells through an EV-based mechanism, and point the GLI1 and EZH2 mRNAs in the EV cargo as diagnostic biomarkers in NB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aranzazu Villasante
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, New York,USA; Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain; Department of Electronics and Biomedical Engineering, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | | | - Alberto Hernandez-Barranco
- Microenvironment and Metastasis Laboratory, Molecular Oncology Programme, Spanish National Cancer Research Center (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Johanne Le Coq
- Electron Microscopy Unit, Structural Biology Programme, Spanish National Cancer Research Center (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jasminka Boskovic
- Electron Microscopy Unit, Structural Biology Programme, Spanish National Cancer Research Center (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Hector Peinado
- Microenvironment and Metastasis Laboratory, Molecular Oncology Programme, Spanish National Cancer Research Center (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jaume Mora
- Oncology Department, Pediatric Cancer Center Barcelona, Hospital Sant Joan de Deu, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep Samitier
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain; Department of Electronics and Biomedical Engineering, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Biomedical Research Networking Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials, and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Gordana Vunjak-Novakovic
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, New York,USA; Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA.
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66
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HIF-1 recruits NANOG as a coactivator for TERT gene transcription in hypoxic breast cancer stem cells. Cell Rep 2021; 36:109757. [PMID: 34592152 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) play essential roles in tumor formation, drug resistance, relapse, and metastasis. NANOG is a protein required for stem cell self-renewal, but the mechanisms by which it performs this function are poorly understood. Here, we show that hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) is required for NANOG-mediated BCSC enrichment. Mechanistically, NANOG is recruited by HIF-1 to cooperatively activate transcription of the TERT gene encoding the telomerase reverse transcriptase that maintains telomere length, which is required for stem cell self-renewal. NANOG stimulates HIF-1 transcriptional activity by recruitment of the deubiquitinase USP9X, which inhibits HIF-1α protein degradation, and by stabilizing HIF-1α interaction with the coactivator p300, which mediates histone acetylation. Our results delineate a cooperative transcriptional mechanism by which HIF-1 and NANOG mediate BCSC self-renewal.
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67
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Chai JY, Sugumar V, Alshanon AF, Wong WF, Fung SY, Looi CY. Defining the Role of GLI/Hedgehog Signaling in Chemoresistance: Implications in Therapeutic Approaches. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:4746. [PMID: 34638233 PMCID: PMC8507559 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13194746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Insight into cancer signaling pathways is vital in the development of new cancer treatments to improve treatment efficacy. A relatively new but essential developmental signaling pathway, namely Hedgehog (Hh), has recently emerged as a major mediator of cancer progression and chemoresistance. The evolutionary conserved Hh signaling pathway requires an in-depth understanding of the paradigm of Hh signaling transduction, which is fundamental to provide the necessary means for the design of novel tools for treating cancer related to aberrant Hh signaling. This review will focus substantially on the canonical Hh signaling and the treatment strategies employed in different studies, with special emphasis on the molecular mechanisms and combination treatment in regard to Hh inhibitors and chemotherapeutics. We discuss our views based on Hh signaling's role in regulating DNA repair machinery, autophagy, tumor microenvironment, drug inactivation, transporters, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and cancer stem cells to promote chemoresistance. The understanding of this Achilles' Heel in cancer may improve the therapeutic outcome for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Yi Chai
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia;
| | - Vaisnevee Sugumar
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia;
| | - Ahmed F. Alshanon
- Center of Biotechnology Researches, University of Al-Nahrain, Baghdad 10072, Iraq;
| | - Won Fen Wong
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia;
| | - Shin Yee Fung
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Chung Yeng Looi
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia;
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68
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Chai JY, Sugumar V, Alshawsh MA, Wong WF, Arya A, Chong PP, Looi CY. The Role of Smoothened-Dependent and -Independent Hedgehog Signaling Pathway in Tumorigenesis. Biomedicines 2021; 9:1188. [PMID: 34572373 PMCID: PMC8466551 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9091188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The Hedgehog (Hh)-glioma-associated oncogene homolog (GLI) signaling pathway is highly conserved among mammals, with crucial roles in regulating embryonic development as well as in cancer initiation and progression. The GLI transcription factors (GLI1, GLI2, and GLI3) are effectors of the Hh pathway and are regulated via Smoothened (SMO)-dependent and SMO-independent mechanisms. The SMO-dependent route involves the common Hh-PTCH-SMO axis, and mutations or transcriptional and epigenetic dysregulation at these levels lead to the constitutive activation of GLI transcription factors. Conversely, the SMO-independent route involves the SMO bypass regulation of GLI transcription factors by external signaling pathways and their interacting proteins or by epigenetic and transcriptional regulation of GLI transcription factors expression. Both routes of GLI activation, when dysregulated, have been heavily implicated in tumorigenesis of many known cancers, making them important targets for cancer treatment. Hence, this review describes the various SMO-dependent and SMO-independent routes of GLI regulation in the tumorigenesis of multiple cancers in order to provide a holistic view of the paradigms of hedgehog signaling networks involving GLI regulation. An in-depth understanding of the complex interplay between GLI and various signaling elements could help inspire new therapeutic breakthroughs for the treatment of Hh-GLI-dependent cancers in the future. Lastly, we have presented an up-to-date summary of the latest findings concerning the use of Hh inhibitors in clinical developmental studies and discussed the challenges, perspectives, and possible directions regarding the use of SMO/GLI inhibitors in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Yi Chai
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University, 1 Jalan Taylors, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia; (J.Y.C.); (P.P.C.)
| | - Vaisnevee Sugumar
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University, 1 Jalan Taylors, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia;
| | | | - Won Fen Wong
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia;
| | - Aditya Arya
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Building 184, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia;
| | - Pei Pei Chong
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University, 1 Jalan Taylors, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia; (J.Y.C.); (P.P.C.)
- Centre for Drug Discovery and Molecular Pharmacology (CDDMP), Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University, 1 Jalan Taylors, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia
| | - Chung Yeng Looi
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University, 1 Jalan Taylors, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia; (J.Y.C.); (P.P.C.)
- Centre for Drug Discovery and Molecular Pharmacology (CDDMP), Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University, 1 Jalan Taylors, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia
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69
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Mani C, Tripathi K, Chaudhary S, Somasagara RR, Rocconi RP, Crasto C, Reedy M, Athar M, Palle K. Hedgehog/GLI1 Transcriptionally Regulates FANCD2 in Ovarian Tumor Cells: Its Inhibition Induces HR-Deficiency and Synergistic Lethality with PARP Inhibition. Neoplasia 2021; 23:1002-1015. [PMID: 34380074 PMCID: PMC8361230 DOI: 10.1016/j.neo.2021.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the most lethal type of cancer in women due to a lack of effective targeted therapies and high rates of treatment resistance and disease recurrence. Recently Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARPi) have shown promise as chemotherapeutic agents; however, their efficacy is limited to a small fraction of patients with BRCA mutations. Here we show a novel function for the Hedgehog (Hh) transcription factor Glioma associated protein 1 (GLI1) in regulation of key Fanconi anemia (FA) gene, FANCD2 in OC cells. GLI1 inhibition in HR-proficient OC cells induces HR deficiency (BRCAness), replication stress and synergistic lethality when combined with PARP inhibition. Treatment of OC cells with combination of GLI1 and PARP inhibitors shows enhanced DNA damage, synergy in cytotoxicity, and strong in vivo anticancer responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chinnadurai Mani
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Kaushlendra Tripathi
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Al 36904, USA
| | - Sandeep Chaudhary
- Department of Dermatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Al 35294, USA
| | - Ranganatha R Somasagara
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Al 36904, USA
| | - Rodney P Rocconi
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Al 36904, USA
| | - Chiquito Crasto
- Center for BioTechnology and Genomics, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA
| | - Mark Reedy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Mohammad Athar
- Department of Dermatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Al 35294, USA
| | - Komaraiah Palle
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Department of Surgery, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
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70
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Ko YC, Choi HS, Liu R, Lee DS. Physalin A, 13,14-Seco-16, 24-Cyclo-Steroid, Inhibits Stemness of Breast Cancer Cells by Regulation of Hedgehog Signaling Pathway and Yes-Associated Protein 1 (YAP1). Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168718. [PMID: 34445421 PMCID: PMC8395918 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The Hedgehog (HH) signaling pathway plays an important role in embryonic development and adult organ homeostasis. Aberrant activity of the Hedgehog signaling pathway induces many developmental disorders and cancers. Recent studies have investigated the relationship of this pathway with various cancers. GPCR-like protein Smoothened (SMO) and the glioma-associated oncogene (GLI1) are the main effectors of Hedgehog signaling. Physalin A, a bioactive substance derived from Physalis alkekengi, inhibits proliferation and migration of breast cancer cells and mammospheres formation. Physalin A-induced apoptosis and growth inhibition of mammospheres, and reduced transcripts of cancer stem cell (CSC) marker genes. Physalin A reduced protein expressions of SMO and GLI1/2. Down-regulation of SMO and GLI1 using siRNA inhibited mammosphere formation. Physalin A reduced mammosphere formation by reducing GLI1 gene expression. Down-regulation of GLI1 reduced CSC marker genes. Physalin A reduced protein level of YAP1. Down-regulation of YAP1 using siRNA inhibited mammosphere formation. Physalin A reduced mammosphere formation through reduction of YAP1 gene expression. Down-regulation of YAP1 reduced CSC marker genes. We showed that treatment of MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells with GLI1 siRNA induced inhibition of mammosphere formation and down-regulation of YAP1, a Hippo pathway effector. These results show that Hippo signaling is regulated by the Hedgehog signaling pathway. Physalin A also inhibits the canonical Hedgehog and Hippo signaling pathways, CSC-specific genes, and the formation of mammospheres. These findings suggest that physalin A is a potential therapeutic agent for targeting CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Chan Ko
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Advanced Convergence Technology and Science, Jeju National University, Jeju 63243, Korea; (Y.-C.K.); (R.L.)
| | - Hack Sun Choi
- Subtropical/Tropical Organism Gene Bank, Jeju National University, Jeju 63243, Korea;
- Bio-Health Materials Core-Facility Center, Jeju National University, Jeju 63243, Korea
| | - Ren Liu
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Advanced Convergence Technology and Science, Jeju National University, Jeju 63243, Korea; (Y.-C.K.); (R.L.)
| | - Dong-Sun Lee
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Advanced Convergence Technology and Science, Jeju National University, Jeju 63243, Korea; (Y.-C.K.); (R.L.)
- Subtropical/Tropical Organism Gene Bank, Jeju National University, Jeju 63243, Korea;
- Bio-Health Materials Core-Facility Center, Jeju National University, Jeju 63243, Korea
- Practical Translational Research Center, Jeju National University, Jeju 63243, Korea
- Faculty of Biotechnology, College of Applied Life Sciences, Jeju National University, Jeju 63243, Korea
- Correspondence:
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71
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Qayoom H, Wani NA, Alshehri B, Mir MA. An insight into the cancer stem cell survival pathways involved in chemoresistance in triple-negative breast cancer. Future Oncol 2021; 17:4185-4206. [PMID: 34342489 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2021-0172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most complex, aggressive and fatal subtype of breast cancer. Owing to the lack of targeted therapy and heterogenic nature of TNBC, chemotherapy remains the sole treatment option for TNBC, with taxanes and anthracyclines representing the general chemotherapeutic regimen in TNBC therapy. But unfortunately, patients develop resistance to the existing chemotherapeutic regimen, resulting in approximately 90% treatment failure. Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) are one of the major causes for the development of chemoresistance in TNBC patients. After surviving the chemotherapy damage, the presence of BCSCs results in relapse and recurrence of TNBC. Several pathways are known to regulate BCSCs' survival, such as the Wnt/β-catenin, Hedgehog, JAK/STAT and HIPPO pathways. Therefore it is imperative to target these pathways in the context of eliminating chemoresistance. In this review we will discuss the novel strategies and various preclinical and clinical studies to give an insight into overcoming TNBC chemoresistance. We present a detailed account of recent studies carried out that open an exciting perspective in relation to the mechanisms of chemoresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hina Qayoom
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar 190006, J&K, India
| | - Nissar A Wani
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Kashmir Nunar Ganderbal 191201, J&K, India
| | - Bader Alshehri
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Majmaah, KSA
| | - Manzoor A Mir
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar 190006, J&K, India
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72
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Disruption of RING and PHD Domains of TRIM28 Evokes Differentiation in Human iPSCs. Cells 2021; 10:cells10081933. [PMID: 34440702 PMCID: PMC8394524 DOI: 10.3390/cells10081933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2021] [Revised: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
TRIM28, a multi-domain protein, is crucial in the development of mouse embryos and the maintenance of embryonic stem cells’ (ESC) self-renewal potential. As the epigenetic factor modulating chromatin structure, TRIM28 regulates the expression of numerous genes and is associated with progression and poor prognosis in many types of cancer. Because of many similarities between highly dedifferentiated cancer cells and normal pluripotent stem cells, we applied human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) as a model for stemness studies. For the first time in hiPSC, we analyzed the function of individual TRIM28 domains. Here we demonstrate the essential role of a really interesting new gene (RING) domain and plant homeodomain (PHD) in regulating pluripotency maintenance and self-renewal capacity of hiPSC. Our data indicate that mutation within the RING or PHD domain leads to the loss of stem cell phenotypes and downregulation of the FGF signaling. Moreover, impairment of RING or PHD domain results in decreased proliferation and impedes embryoid body formation. In opposition to previous data indicating the impact of phosphorylation on TRIM28 function, our data suggest that TRIM28 phosphorylation does not significantly affect the pluripotency and self-renewal maintenance of hiPSC. Of note, iPSC with disrupted RING and PHD functions display downregulation of genes associated with tumor metastasis, which are considered important targets in cancer treatment. Our data suggest the potential use of RING and PHD domains of TRIM28 as targets in cancer therapy.
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73
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Gaggianesi M, Di Franco S, Pantina VD, Porcelli G, D'Accardo C, Verona F, Veschi V, Colarossi L, Faldetta N, Pistone G, Bongiorno MR, Todaro M, Stassi G. Messing Up the Cancer Stem Cell Chemoresistance Mechanisms Supported by Tumor Microenvironment. Front Oncol 2021; 11:702642. [PMID: 34354950 PMCID: PMC8330815 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.702642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the recent advances in cancer patient management and in the development of targeted therapies, systemic chemotherapy is currently used as a first-line treatment for many cancer types. After an initial partial response, patients become refractory to standard therapy fostering rapid tumor progression. Compelling evidence highlights that the resistance to chemotherapeutic regimens is a peculiarity of a subpopulation of cancer cells within tumor mass, known as cancer stem cells (CSCs). This cellular compartment is endowed with tumor-initiating and metastasis formation capabilities. CSC chemoresistance is sustained by a plethora of grow factors and cytokines released by neighboring tumor microenvironment (TME), which is mainly composed by adipocytes, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), immune and endothelial cells. TME strengthens CSC refractoriness to standard and targeted therapies by enhancing survival signaling pathways, DNA repair machinery, expression of drug efflux transporters and anti-apoptotic proteins. In the last years many efforts have been made to understand CSC-TME crosstalk and develop therapeutic strategy halting this interplay. Here, we report the combinatorial approaches, which perturb the interaction network between CSCs and the different component of TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Gaggianesi
- Department of Surgical Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Simone Di Franco
- Department of Surgical Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Davide Pantina
- Department of Surgical Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Gaetana Porcelli
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Caterina D'Accardo
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Francesco Verona
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Veronica Veschi
- Department of Surgical Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Naida Faldetta
- Department of Surgery, Villa Sofia-Cervello Hospital, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Pistone
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Maria Rita Bongiorno
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Matilde Todaro
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giorgio Stassi
- Department of Surgical Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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Cao W, Li Y, Sun H, Yang C, Zhu J, Xie C, Li X, Wu J, Geng S, Wang L, Sun L, Geng G, Han H, Zhong C. Apatinib Suppresses Gastric Cancer Stem Cells Properties by Inhibiting the Sonic Hedgehog Pathway. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:679806. [PMID: 34350176 PMCID: PMC8326764 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.679806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The presence of gastric cancer stem cells (GCSCs) marks the onset of gastric carcinoma. The sonic hedgehog (SHH) pathway plays a vital role in the maintenance of GCSC characteristics. Apatinib has been approved in China for advanced gastric cancer (GC) treatment. However, whether apatinib can target GCSCs and affect the SHH pathway remains unclear. The present study aimed to investigate the underlying mechanism of apatinib’s antitumor effects on GC. The expression levels of GCSC markers and number of CD133+ cells were significantly elevated in the sphere-forming cells. Apatinib effectively suppressed GCSC traits by inhibiting tumorsphere formation and cell proliferation, suppressing GCSC markers expression and CD133+ cell number, and inducing apoptosis. Apatinib downregulated the activation of the SHH pathway; while upregulation of the SHH pathway attenuated the inhibitory effects of apatinib on GCSCs. Moreover, apatinib treatment significantly delayed tumor growth and inhibited GCSC characteristics in the xenograft model. Our data suggested that apatinib exhibited inhibitory effects on GCSCs by suppressing SHH pathway both in vitro and in vivo, thus providing new insights into the therapeutic application of apatinib in GCSC suppression and advanced gastric cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanshuang Cao
- Cancer Research Division, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuan Li
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Hongliang Sun
- Department of Urology, Taikang Xianlin Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Chenying Yang
- Cancer Research Division, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jianyun Zhu
- Suzhou Digestive Diseases and Nutrition Research Center, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Chunfeng Xie
- Cancer Research Division, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoting Li
- Cancer Research Division, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jieshu Wu
- Cancer Research Division, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shanshan Geng
- Cancer Research Division, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Jiangsu Hengrui Medicine Co., Ltd., Lianyungang, China
| | - Liangfei Sun
- Jiangsu Hengrui Medicine Co., Ltd., Lianyungang, China
| | - Guozhu Geng
- Jiangsu Hengrui Medicine Co., Ltd., Lianyungang, China
| | - Hongyu Han
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Department of Clinical Nutrition, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Caiyun Zhong
- Cancer Research Division, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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75
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Raniszewska A, Kwiecień I, Rutkowska E, Rzepecki P, Domagała-Kulawik J. Lung Cancer Stem Cells-Origin, Diagnostic Techniques and Perspective for Therapies. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:2996. [PMID: 34203877 PMCID: PMC8232709 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13122996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer remains one of the most aggressive solid tumors with an overall poor prognosis. Molecular studies carried out on lung tumors during treatment have shown the phenomenon of clonal evolution, thereby promoting the occurrence of a temporal heterogeneity of the tumor. Therefore, the biology of lung cancer is interesting. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are involved in tumor initiation and metastasis. Aging is still the most important risk factor for lung cancer development. Spontaneously occurring mutations accumulate in normal stem cells or/and progenitor cells by human life resulting in the formation of CSCs. Deepening knowledge of these complex processes and improving early recognition and markers of predictive value are of utmost importance. In this paper, we discuss the CSC hypothesis with an emphasis on age-related changes that initiate carcinogenesis. We analyze the current literature in the field, describe our own experience in CSC investigation and discuss the technical challenges with special emphasis on liquid biopsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Raniszewska
- Laboratory of Hematology and Flow Cytometry, Department of Internal Medicine and Hematology, Military Institute of Medicine, 04-141 Warsaw, Poland; (I.K.); (E.R.)
| | - Iwona Kwiecień
- Laboratory of Hematology and Flow Cytometry, Department of Internal Medicine and Hematology, Military Institute of Medicine, 04-141 Warsaw, Poland; (I.K.); (E.R.)
| | - Elżbieta Rutkowska
- Laboratory of Hematology and Flow Cytometry, Department of Internal Medicine and Hematology, Military Institute of Medicine, 04-141 Warsaw, Poland; (I.K.); (E.R.)
| | - Piotr Rzepecki
- Department of Internal Medicine and Hematology, Military Institute of Medicine, 04-141 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Joanna Domagała-Kulawik
- Department of Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Diseases and Allergy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1a Street, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
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Bonandi E, Mori M, Infante P, Basili I, Di Marcotullio L, Calcaterra A, Catti F, Botta B, Passarella D. Design and Synthesis of New Withaferin A Inspired Hedgehog Pathway Inhibitors. Chemistry 2021; 27:8350-8357. [PMID: 33811701 PMCID: PMC8251939 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202100315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Withanolides constitute a well-known family of plant-based alkaloids characterised by widespread biological properties, including the ability of interfering with Hedgehog (Hh) signalling pathway. Following our interest in natural products and in anticancer compounds, we report here the synthesis of a new class of Hh signalling pathway inhibitors, inspired by withaferin A, the first isolated member of withanolides. The decoration of our scaffolds was rationally supported by in silico studies, while functional evaluation revealed promising candidates, confirming once again the importance of natural products as inspiration source for the discovery of novel bioactive compounds. A stereoselective approach, based on Brown chemistry, allowed the obtainment and the functional evaluation of the enantiopure hit compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Bonandi
- Department of Chemistry, Università degli Studi di MilanoVia Golgi 1920133MilanItaly
| | - Mattia Mori
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy Università degli Studi di SienaVia Aldo Moro 253100SienaItaly
| | - Paola Infante
- Istituto Italiano di TecnologiaViale Regina Elena 29100161RomeItaly
| | - Irene Basili
- Department of Molecular MedicineUniversity La Sapienza, RomaViale Regina Elena 29100161RomaItaly
| | - Lucia Di Marcotullio
- Department of Molecular MedicineUniversity La Sapienza, RomaViale Regina Elena 29100161RomaItaly
- Laboratory affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci BolognettiDepartment of Molecular MedicineUniversity La SapienzaViale Regina Elena 29100161RomaItaly
| | - Andrea Calcaterra
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of DrugsUniversity La Sapienza, RomaPiazzale Aldo Moro 500185RomeItaly
| | - Federica Catti
- Arkansas State UniversityCampus Querétaro Carretera Estatal 100, km 17.5. C.P.76270 Municipio de ColónQuerétaroMéxico
| | - Bruno Botta
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of DrugsUniversity La Sapienza, RomaPiazzale Aldo Moro 500185RomeItaly
| | - Daniele Passarella
- Department of Chemistry, Università degli Studi di MilanoVia Golgi 1920133MilanItaly
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Kotulak-Chrząszcz A, Kmieć Z, Wierzbicki PM. Sonic Hedgehog signaling pathway in gynecological and genitourinary cancer (Review). Int J Mol Med 2021; 47:106. [PMID: 33907821 PMCID: PMC8057295 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2021.4939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancers of the urinary tract, as well as those of the female and male reproductive systems, account for a large percentage of malignancies worldwide. Mortality is frequently affected by late diagnosis or therapeutic difficulties. The Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) pathway is an evolutionary conserved molecular cascade, which is mainly associated with the development of the central nervous system in fetal life. The present review aimed to provide an in‑depth summary of the SHH signaling pathway, including the characterization of its major components, the mechanism of its upstream regulation and non‑canonical activation, as well as its interactions with other cellular pathways. In addition, the three possible mechanisms of the cellular SHH cascade in cancer tissue are discussed. The aim of the present review was to summarize significant findings with regards to the expression of the SHH pathway components in kidney, bladder, ovarian, cervical and prostate cancer. Reports associated with common deficits and de‑regulations of the SHH pathway were summarized, despite the differences in molecular and histological patterns among these malignancies. However, currently, neither are SHH pathway elements included in panels of prognostic/therapeutic molecular patterns in any of the discussed cancers, nor have the drugs targeting SMO or GLIs been approved for therapy. The findings of the present review may support future studies on the treatment of and/or molecular targets for gynecological and genitourinary cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Piotr M. Wierzbicki
- Correspondence to: Dr Piotr M. Wierzbicki, Department of Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdansk, ul. Debinki 1, 80211 Gdansk, Poland, E-mail:
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78
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ETV4 promotes breast cancer cell stemness by activating glycolysis and CXCR4-mediated sonic Hedgehog signaling. Cell Death Discov 2021; 7:126. [PMID: 34052833 PMCID: PMC8164634 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-021-00508-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a major cause of tumor treatment resistance, relapse and metastasis. Cancer cells exhibit reprogrammed metabolism characterized by aerobic glycolysis, which is also critical for sustaining cancer stemness. However, regulation of cancer cell metabolism rewiring and stemness is not completely understood. Here, we report that ETV4 is a key transcription factor in regulating glycolytic gene expression. ETV4 loss significantly inhibits the expression of HK2, LDHA as well as other glycolytic enzymes, reduces glucose uptake and lactate release in breast cancer cells. In human breast cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma tissues, ETV4 expression is positively correlated with glycolytic signaling. Moreover, we confirm that breast CSCs (BCSCs) are glycolysis-dependent and show that ETV4 is required for BCSC maintenance. ETV4 is enriched in BCSCs, its knockdown and overexpression suppresses and promotes breast cancer cell stem-like traits, respectively. Mechanistically, on the one hand, we find that ETV4 may enhance glycolysis activity to facilitate breast cancer stemness; on the other, ETV4 activates Sonic Hedgehog signaling by transcriptionally promoting CXCR4 expression. A xenograft assay validates the tumor growth-impeding effect and inhibition of CXCR4/SHH/GLI1 signaling cascade after ETV4 depletion. Together, our study highlights the potential roles of ETV4 in promoting cancer cell glycolytic shift and BCSC maintenance and reveals the molecular basis.
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79
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Keyvani-Ghamsari S, Khorsandi K, Rasul A, Zaman MK. Current understanding of epigenetics mechanism as a novel target in reducing cancer stem cells resistance. Clin Epigenetics 2021; 13:120. [PMID: 34051847 PMCID: PMC8164819 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-021-01107-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
At present, after extensive studies in the field of cancer, cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been proposed as a major factor in tumor initiation, progression, metastasis, and recurrence. CSCs are a subpopulation of bulk tumors, with stem cell-like properties and tumorigenic capabilities, having the abilities of self-renewal and differentiation, thereby being able to generate heterogeneous lineages of cancer cells and lead to resistance toward anti-tumor treatments. Highly resistant to conventional chemo- and radiotherapy, CSCs have heterogeneity and can migrate to different organs and metastasize. Recent studies have demonstrated that the population of CSCs and the progression of cancer are increased by the deregulation of different epigenetic pathways having effects on gene expression patterns and key pathways connected with cell proliferation and survival. Further, epigenetic modifications (DNA methylation, histone modifications, and RNA methylations) have been revealed to be key drivers in the formation and maintenance of CSCs. Hence, identifying CSCs and targeting epigenetic pathways therein can offer new insights into the treatment of cancer. In the present review, recent studies are addressed in terms of the characteristics of CSCs, the resistance thereof, and the factors influencing the development thereof, with an emphasis on different types of epigenetic changes in genes and main signaling pathways involved therein. Finally, targeted therapy for CSCs by epigenetic drugs is referred to, which is a new approach in overcoming resistance and recurrence of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Khatereh Khorsandi
- Department of Photodynamic, Medical Laser Research Center, Yara Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Azhar Rasul
- Department of Zoology, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, 38000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Khatir Zaman
- Department of Biotechnology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan (AWKUM), Mardan, 23200, Pakistan
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80
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Su PH, Huang RL, Lai HC, Chen LY, Weng YC, Wang CC, Wu CC. NKX6-1 mediates cancer stem-like properties and regulates sonic hedgehog signaling in leiomyosarcoma. J Biomed Sci 2021; 28:32. [PMID: 33906647 PMCID: PMC8077933 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-021-00726-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Leiomyosarcoma (LMS), the most common soft tissue sarcoma, exhibits heterogeneous and complex genetic karyotypes with severe chromosomal instability and rearrangement and poor prognosis. Methods Clinical variables associated with NKX6-1 were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). NKX6-1 mRNA expression was examined in 49 human uterine tissues. The in vitro effects of NXK6-1 in LMS cells were determined by reverse transcriptase PCR, western blotting, colony formation, spheroid formation, and cell viability assays. In vivo tumor growth was evaluated in nude mice. Results Using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and human uterine tissue datasets, we observed that NKX6-1 expression was associated with poor prognosis and malignant potential in LMS. NKX6-1 enhanced in vitro tumor cell aggressiveness via upregulation of cell proliferation and anchorage-independent growth and promoted in vivo tumor growth. Moreover, overexpression and knockdown of NKX6-1 were associated with upregulation and downregulation, respectively, of stem cell transcription factors, including KLF8, MYC, and CD49F, and affected sphere formation, chemoresistance, NOTCH signaling and Sonic hedgehog (SHH) pathways in human sarcoma cells. Importantly, treatment with an SHH inhibitor (RU-SKI 43) but not a NOTCH inhibitor (DAPT) reduced cell survival in NKX6-1-expressing cancer cells, indicating that an SHH inhibitor could be useful in treating LMS. Finally, using the TCGA dataset, we demonstrated that LMS patients with high expression of NKX6-1 and HHAT, an SHH pathway acyltransferase, had poorer survival outcomes compared to those without. Conclusions Our findings indicate that NKX6-1 and HHAT play critical roles in the pathogenesis of LMS and could be promising diagnostic and therapeutic targets for LMS patients. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12929-021-00726-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Po-Hsuan Su
- Translational Epigenetics Center, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Rui-Lan Huang
- Translational Epigenetics Center, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Cheng Lai
- Translational Epigenetics Center, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Lin-Yu Chen
- Translational Epigenetics Center, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chun Weng
- Translational Epigenetics Center, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Chien Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Neihu District, No. 325, Sec. 2, Chengong Road, Taipei, 11490, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Chun Wu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Neihu District, No. 325, Sec. 2, Chengong Road, Taipei, 11490, Taiwan.
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81
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Noori S, Rajabi S, Tavirani MR, Shokri B, Zarghi A. Anti-Breast Cancer Activities of Ketoprofen-RGD Conjugate by Targeting Breast Cancer Stem-Like Cells and Parental Cells. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2021; 21:1027-1036. [PMID: 32900351 DOI: 10.2174/1871520620666200908105416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs) play an important role in various stages of cancer development, advancement, and therapy resistance. Ketoprofen-RGD has been revealed to act as an anti-cancer agent against some tumors. OBJECTIVE We aimed to explore the effects of a novel Ketoprofen-RGD compound on the suppression of Breast Cancer Stem-like Cells (BCSCs) and their parental cells. METHODS Mammospheres were developed from MCF-7 cells and assessed by CSC surface markers through flowcytometry. The anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic activities of Ketoprofen-RGD were measured by MTS assay and flowcytometry. The expression levels of stemness markers and JAK2/STAT proteins were measured by quantitative Real Time-PCR (qRT-PCR) and western blotting, respectively. Intracellular Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) was measured using a cell permeable, oxidant-sensitive fluorescence probe (carboxy-H2DCFDA). RESULTS Ketoprofen-RGD significantly reduced the mammosphere formation rate and the expression of three out of six stemness markers and remarkably decreased viability and induced apoptosis of spheroidal and parental cells compared to controls. Further experiments using CD95L, as a death ligand, and ZB4 antibody, as an extrinsic apoptotic pathway blocker, showed that Ketoprofen-RGD induced intrinsic pathway, suggesting a mechanism by which Ketoprofen-RGD triggers apoptosis. ROS production was also another way to induce apoptosis. Results of western blot analysis also revealed a marked diminish in the phosphorylation of JAK2 and STAT proteins. CONCLUSION Our study, for the first time, elucidated an anti-BCSC activity for Ketoprofen-RGD via declining stemness markers, inducing toxicity, and apoptosis in these cells and parental cells. These findings may suggest this compound as a promising anti-breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shokoofe Noori
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sadegh Rajabi
- Traditional Medicine and Materia Medica Research Center (TMRC), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mostafa R Tavirani
- Proteomics Research Center, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bahare Shokri
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Afshin Zarghi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Kovachka S, Malloci G, Vargiu AV, Azoulay S, Mus-Veteau I, Ruggerone P. Molecular insights into the Patched1 drug efflux inhibitory activity of panicein A hydroquinone: a computational study. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2021; 23:8013-8022. [PMID: 33522520 DOI: 10.1039/d0cp05719c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Human Hedgehog receptor Patched1 (PTCH1) is able to efflux chemotherapeutics of different chemical structure out of cancer cells thus contributing to multidrug resistance phenomena in tumor treatment. A screening of natural compounds purified from marine sponges led to the identification of the first PTCH1 efflux inhibitor, panicein A hydroquinone (PAH), demonstrated to increase doxorubicin toxicity in vitro and vemurafenib toxicity in vitro and in vivo. In this work we combined different computational techniques to gain molecular insights of the inhibitory activity of PAH and some of its active and inactive analogues. We first performed a thorough characterization and druggability analysis of the main putative substrate binding pockets known from available cryo-electron microscopy structures. Further, dynamical descriptors of the active and inactive PAH analogues were extracted from microsecond-long all-atom molecular dynamics simulations in water solution. Finally, a blind ensemble docking methodology coupled with the conformational analysis of compounds enabled rationalization of the interaction between PTCH1 and PAH and derivatives in terms of their intrinsic physico-chemical properties. Our results suggest that the Neck pocket is the preferential binding site for PAH analogues on PTCH1, and that compounds assuming an open cylindric-like shape in solution are most likely to be good binders for PTCH1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Kovachka
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, ICN, 28 Avenue Valrose, 06108 Nice, CEDEX 2, France
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Raghav PK, Mann Z. Cancer stem cells targets and combined therapies to prevent cancer recurrence. Life Sci 2021; 277:119465. [PMID: 33831426 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) control the dynamics of tumorigenesis by self-renewal ability and differentiation potential. These properties contribute towards tumor malignancy, metastasis, cellular heterogeneity, and immune escape, which are regulated by multiple signaling pathways. The CSCs are chemoresistant and cause cancer recurrence, generally recognized as a small side-population that eventually leads to tumor relapse. Despite many treatment options available, none can be considered entirely efficient due to a lack of specificity and dose limitation. This review primarily highlights the processes involved in CSCs development and maintenance. Secondly, the current effective therapies based on stem cells, cell-free therapies that involve exosomes and miRNAs, and photodynamic therapy have been discussed. Also, the inhibitors that specifically target various signaling pathways, which can be used in combination to control CSCs kinetics have been highlighted. Conclusively, this comprehensive review is a detailed study of recently developed novel treatment strategies that will facilitate in coming up with better-targeted approaches against CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zoya Mann
- Independent Researcher, New Delhi, India
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84
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Association of sonic hedgehog signaling pathway genes IHH, BOC, RAB23a and MIR195-5p, MIR509-3-5p, MIR6738-3p with gastric cancer stage. Sci Rep 2021; 11:7471. [PMID: 33811245 PMCID: PMC8018955 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-86946-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Given the importance of gastric cancer in public health, identifying biomarkers associated with disease onset is an important part of precision medicine. The hedgehog signaling pathway is considered as one of the most significant widespread pathways of intracellular signaling in the early events of embryonic development. This pathway contributes also to the maintenance of pluripotency of cancer stem cells pluripotency. In this study, we analyzed the expression levels of sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling pathway genes IHH, BOC, RAB23a and their regulatory miRNAs including MIR-195-5p, MIR-509-3-5p, MIR-6738-3p in gastric cancer patients. In addition, the impact of infection status on the expression level of those genes and their regulatory miRNAs was investigated. One hundred samples taken from 50 gastric cancer patients (50 tumoral tissues and their adjacent non-tumoral counterparts) were included in this study. There was a significant difference in all studied genes and miRNAs in tumoral tissues in comparison with their adjacent non-tumoral counterparts. The lower expression of IHH, BOC, RAB23, miR-195-5p, and miR-6738-3p was significantly associated with more advanced cancer stage. Additionally, IHH upregulation was significantly associated with CMV infection (P < 0.001). Also, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis indicated that mir-195 was significantly related to several clinicopathological features including tumor stage, grade, age, gender, and infection status of gastric cancer and can be considered as a potential diagnostic biomarker for gastric cancer. This study confirms the important role of Shh signaling pathway genes in gastric cancer tumorigenesis and their potential as novel molecular biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
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85
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Wang YH, Chan YT, Hung TH, Hung JT, Kuo MW, Wang SH, Huang Y, Lin YJ, Chen SC, Yu JC, Wu JC, Yu J, Yu AL. Transmembrane and coiled-coil domain family 3 (TMCC3) regulates breast cancer stem cell and AKT activation. Oncogene 2021; 40:2858-2871. [PMID: 33742122 PMCID: PMC8062265 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-021-01729-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSC) play a pivotal role in cancer metastasis and resistance to therapy. Previously, we compared the phosphoproteomes of breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) enriched subpopulation and non-BCSCs sorted from breast cancer patient-derived xenograft (PDX), and identified a function unknown protein, transmembrane and coiled-coil domain family 3 (TMCC3) to be a potential enrichment marker for BCSCs. We demonstrated greater expression of TMCC3 in BCSCs than non-BCSCs and higher expression of TMCC3 in metastatic lymph nodes and lungs than in primary tumor of breast cancer PDXs. TMCC3 silencing suppressed mammosphere formation, ALDH activity and cell migration in vitro, along with reduced tumorigenicity and metastasis in vivo. Mechanistically, we found that AKT activation was reduced by TMCC3 silencing, but enhanced by TMCC3 overexpression. We further demonstrated that TMCC3 interacted directly with AKT through its 1-153 a.a. domain by cell-free biochemical assay in vitro and co-immunoprecipitation and interaction domain mapping assays in vivo. Based on domain truncation studies, we showed that the AKT-interacting domain of TMCC3 was essential for TMCC3-induced AKT activation, self-renewal, and metastasis. Clinically, TMCC3 mRNA expression in 202 breast cancer specimens as determined by qRT-PCR assay showed that higher TMCC3 expression correlated with poorer clinical outcome of breast cancer, including early-stage breast cancer. Multivariable analysis identified TMCC3 expression as an independent risk factor for survival. These findings suggest that TMCC3 is crucial for maintenance of BCSCs features through AKT regulation, and TMCC3 expression has independent prognostic significance in breast cancer. Thus, TMCC3 may serve as a new target for therapy directed against CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Hui Wang
- Institute of Stem Cell and Translational Cancer Research, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Tzu Chan
- Institute of Stem Cell and Translational Cancer Research, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Tsai-Hsien Hung
- Institute of Stem Cell and Translational Cancer Research, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Jung-Tung Hung
- Institute of Stem Cell and Translational Cancer Research, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Wei Kuo
- Institute of Stem Cell and Translational Cancer Research, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Sheng-Hung Wang
- Institute of Stem Cell and Translational Cancer Research, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yenlin Huang
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ju Lin
- Institute of Stem Cell and Translational Cancer Research, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Shin-Cheh Chen
- General Surgery Department, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Jyh-Cherng Yu
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jen-Chine Wu
- Institute of Stem Cell and Translational Cancer Research, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - John Yu
- Institute of Stem Cell and Translational Cancer Research, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
- Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
| | - Alice L Yu
- Institute of Stem Cell and Translational Cancer Research, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
- Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California in San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA.
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86
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Sriramulu S, Nandy SK, Ganesan H, Banerjee A, Pathak S. In silico analysis and prediction of transcription factors of the proteins interacting with astrocyte elevated gene-1. Comput Biol Chem 2021; 92:107478. [PMID: 33866140 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiolchem.2021.107478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Multifunctional in nature, the protein Astrocyte Elevated Gene-1 (AEG-1) controls several cancers through protein-protein interactions. Although, specific physiological processes and molecular functions linked with AEG-1 interactors remain unclear. In our present study, we procured the data of AEG-1 interacting proteins and evaluated their biological functions, associated pathways, and interaction networks using bioinformatic tools. A total of 112 proteins experimentally detected to interact with AEG-1 were collected from various public databases. DAVID 6.8 Online tool was utilized to identify the molecular functions, biological processes, cellular components that aid in understanding the physiological function of AEG-1 and its interactors in several cell types. With the help of integrated network analysis of AEG-1 interactors using Cytoscape 3.8.0 software, cross-talk between various proteins, and associated pathways were revealed. Additionally, the Enrichr online tool was used for performing enrichment of transcription factors of AEG-1 interactors' which further revealed a closely associated self-regulated interaction network of a variety of transcription factors that shape the expression of AEG-1 interacting proteins. As a whole, the study calls for better understanding and elucidation of the pathways and biological roles of both AEG-1 and its interactor proteins that might enable their application as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in various diseases in the very near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sushmitha Sriramulu
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education (CARE), Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute (CHRI), Kelambakkam, Chennai, 603 103, India
| | - Suman K Nandy
- Department of Histopathology, Tata Medical Centre, Kolkata, 700160, India.
| | - Harsha Ganesan
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education (CARE), Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute (CHRI), Kelambakkam, Chennai, 603 103, India
| | - Antara Banerjee
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education (CARE), Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute (CHRI), Kelambakkam, Chennai, 603 103, India
| | - Surajit Pathak
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education (CARE), Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute (CHRI), Kelambakkam, Chennai, 603 103, India.
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87
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Lainez-González D, Serrano-López J, Alonso-Domínguez JM. Understanding the Hedgehog Signaling Pathway in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Stem Cells: A Necessary Step toward a Cure. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10040255. [PMID: 33804919 PMCID: PMC8063837 DOI: 10.3390/biology10040255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary The Hedgehog signaling pathway is related to the cell cycle. In particular, it is considered to play a fundamental role in the quiescence of leukemic stem cell (i.e., a temporary resting state without cell replication). Leukemic stem cells are the cells supposed to give rise to the relapses of the leukemia. Therefore, the Hedgehog pathway must be understood to improve the current treatments against acute myeloid leukemia and avoid the relapse of the disease. In this review, we gather the present knowledge about the physiological Hedgehog pathway function, the aberrant activation of Hedgehog in leukemia, and highlight the lack of evidence regarding some aspects of this important pathway. Finally, we summarize the acute myeloid leukemia treatments targeting this signaling pathway. Abstract A better understanding of how signaling pathways govern cell fate is fundamental to advances in cancer development and treatment. The initialization of different tumors and their maintenance are caused by the deregulation of different signaling pathways and cancer stem cell maintenance. Quiescent stem cells are resistant to conventional chemotherapeutic treatments and, consequently, are responsible for disease relapse. In this review we focus on the conserved Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway which is involved in regulating the cell cycle of hematopoietic and leukemic stem cells. Thus, we examine the role of the Hh signaling pathway in normal and leukemic stem cells and dissect its role in acute myeloid leukemia. We explain not only the connection between illness and the signaling pathway but also evaluate innovative therapeutic approaches that could affect the outcome of patients with acute myeloid leukemia. We found that many aspects of the Hedgehog signaling pathway remain unknown. The role of Hh has only been proven in embryo and hematopoietic stem cell development. Further research is needed to elucidate the role of GLI transcription factors for therapeutic targeting. Glasdegib, an SMO inhibitor, has shown clinical activity in acute myeloid leukemia; however, its mechanism of action is not clear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Lainez-González
- Experimental Hematology, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Avenida Reyes Católicos 2, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (D.L.-G.); (J.S.-L.)
| | - Juana Serrano-López
- Experimental Hematology, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Avenida Reyes Católicos 2, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (D.L.-G.); (J.S.-L.)
| | - Juan Manuel Alonso-Domínguez
- Experimental Hematology, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Avenida Reyes Católicos 2, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (D.L.-G.); (J.S.-L.)
- Hematology Department, Hospital Universitario Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Avenida Reyes Católicos 2, 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-918488100-2673
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88
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Alves ALV, Gomes INF, Carloni AC, Rosa MN, da Silva LS, Evangelista AF, Reis RM, Silva VAO. Role of glioblastoma stem cells in cancer therapeutic resistance: a perspective on antineoplastic agents from natural sources and chemical derivatives. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:206. [PMID: 33762015 PMCID: PMC7992331 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02231-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the highest-grade form of glioma, as well as one of the most aggressive types of cancer, exhibiting rapid cellular growth and highly invasive behavior. Despite significant advances in diagnosis and therapy in recent decades, the outcomes for high-grade gliomas (WHO grades III-IV) remain unfavorable, with a median overall survival time of 15–18 months. The concept of cancer stem cells (CSCs) has emerged and provided new insight into GBM resistance and management. CSCs can self-renew and initiate tumor growth and are also responsible for tumor cell heterogeneity and the induction of systemic immunosuppression. The idea that GBM resistance could be dependent on innate differences in the sensitivity of clonogenic glial stem cells (GSCs) to chemotherapeutic drugs/radiation prompted the scientific community to rethink the understanding of GBM growth and therapies directed at eliminating these cells or modulating their stemness. This review aims to describe major intrinsic and extrinsic mechanisms that mediate chemoradioresistant GSCs and therapies based on antineoplastic agents from natural sources, derivatives, and synthetics used alone or in synergistic combination with conventional treatment. We will also address ongoing clinical trials focused on these promising targets. Although the development of effective therapy for GBM remains a major challenge in molecular oncology, GSC knowledge can offer new directions for a promising future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Laura V Alves
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Rua Antenor Duarte Villela, 1331, CEP 14784 400, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Izabela N F Gomes
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Rua Antenor Duarte Villela, 1331, CEP 14784 400, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Adriana C Carloni
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Rua Antenor Duarte Villela, 1331, CEP 14784 400, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcela N Rosa
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Rua Antenor Duarte Villela, 1331, CEP 14784 400, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luciane S da Silva
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Rua Antenor Duarte Villela, 1331, CEP 14784 400, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Adriane F Evangelista
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Rua Antenor Duarte Villela, 1331, CEP 14784 400, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rui Manuel Reis
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Rua Antenor Duarte Villela, 1331, CEP 14784 400, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil.,Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4806-909, Braga, Portugal
| | - Viviane Aline O Silva
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Rua Antenor Duarte Villela, 1331, CEP 14784 400, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil.
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89
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Rodrigues ACBDC, Costa RGA, Silva SLR, Dias IRSB, Dias RB, Bezerra DP. Cell signaling pathways as molecular targets to eliminate AML stem cells. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2021; 160:103277. [PMID: 33716201 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2021.103277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remains the most lethal of leukemias and a small population of cells called leukemic stem cells (LSCs) has been associated with disease relapses. Some cell signaling pathways play an important role in AML survival, proliferation and self-renewal properties and are abnormally activated or suppressed in LSCs. This includes the NF-κB, Wnt/β-catenin, Hedgehog, Notch, EGFR, JAK/STAT, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, TGF/SMAD and PPAR pathways. This review aimed to discuss these pathways as molecular targets for eliminating AML LSCs. Herein, inhibitors/activators of these pathways were summarized as a potential new anti-AML therapy capable of eliminating LSCs to guide future researches. The clinical use of cell signaling pathways data can be useful to enhance the anti-AML therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rafaela G A Costa
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (IGM-FIOCRUZ/BA), Salvador, Bahia, 40296-710, Brazil
| | - Suellen L R Silva
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (IGM-FIOCRUZ/BA), Salvador, Bahia, 40296-710, Brazil
| | - Ingrid R S B Dias
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (IGM-FIOCRUZ/BA), Salvador, Bahia, 40296-710, Brazil
| | - Rosane B Dias
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (IGM-FIOCRUZ/BA), Salvador, Bahia, 40296-710, Brazil
| | - Daniel P Bezerra
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (IGM-FIOCRUZ/BA), Salvador, Bahia, 40296-710, Brazil.
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90
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Abstract
Therapy resistance is a major problem when treating cancer patients as cancer cells develop mechanisms that counteract the effect of therapeutic compounds, leading to fit and more aggressive clones that contribute to poor prognosis. Therapy resistance can be both intrinsic and/or acquired. These are multifactorial events, and some are related to factors including adaptations in cancer stem cells (CSCs), epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), deregulation of key signaling pathways, drug efflux through ABC transporters, acquired mutations, evading apoptosis, and activation of DNA damage response among others. Among these factors, CSCs represent the major source of therapy resistance. CSCs are a subset of tumor cells that are capable of self-renewal and multilineage progenitor expansion that are known to be intrinsically resistant to anticancer treatments. Multiple clones of CSCs pre-exist, and some can adopt and expand easily to changes in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and/or in response to radio- and chemotherapy. A combination of both intrinsic and extrinsic factors contributes to CSC-mediated therapy resistance. In this review, we will focus on CSCs and therapy resistance as well as suggest strategies to eliminate CSCs and, therefore, overcome resistance. Video abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030-4009 USA
- Department of Surgical Oncology and General Surgery, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001 People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhenning Wang
- Department of Surgical Oncology and General Surgery, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001 People’s Republic of China
| | - Jaffer A. Ajani
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030-4009 USA
| | - Shumei Song
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030-4009 USA
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91
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Targeting the purinergic pathway in breast cancer and its therapeutic applications. Purinergic Signal 2021; 17:179-200. [PMID: 33576905 PMCID: PMC7879595 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-020-09760-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most frequent cause of death among women, representing a global public health problem. Here, we aimed to discuss the correlation between the purinergic system and BC, recognizing therapeutic targets. For this, we analyzed the interaction of extracellular nucleotides and nucleosides with the purinergic receptors P1 and P2, as well as the influence of ectonucleotidase enzymes (CD39 and CD73) on tumor progression. A comprehensive bibliographic search was carried out. The relevant articles for this review were found in the PubMed, Scielo, Lilacs, and ScienceDirect databases. It was observed that among the P1 receptors, the A1, A2A, and A2B receptors are involved in the proliferation and invasion of BC, while the A3 receptor is related to the inhibition of tumor growth. Among the P2 receptors, the P2X7 has a dual function. When activated for a short time, it promotes metastasis, but when activated for long periods, it is related to BC cell death. P2Y2 and P2Y6 receptors are related to BC proliferation and invasiveness. Also, the high expression of CD39 and CD73 in BC is strongly related to a worse prognosis. The receptors and ectonucleotidases involved with BC become possible therapeutic targets. Several purinergic pathways have been found to be involved in BC cell survival and progression. In this review, in addition to analyzing the pathways involved, we reviewed the therapeutic interventions already studied for BC related to the purinergic system, as well as to other possible therapeutic targets.
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92
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Gor R, Sampath SS, Lazer LM, Ramalingam S. RNA binding protein PUM1 promotes colon cancer cell proliferation and migration. Int J Biol Macromol 2021; 174:549-561. [PMID: 33508364 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.01.154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Colon cancer is the third leading cause of death worldwide and sixth in India, where it is the cause of 5.8% of the total deaths. Pumilio-1 (PUM1) is an RNA binding protein whose regulatory role is by binding to the consensus 5'UGUANAUA3' sequence on the 3'UTR of the mRNA targets and post-transcriptionally repressing their expression. This study is the first of its kind to report the expression or function of PUM1 in colon cancer. We found that PUM1 mRNA expression is high in primary and metastatic colon cancer cell lines when compared to the normal colon cell line. Immunohistochemistry analysis showed similar trend wherein compared to the normal colon tissue, PUM1 was found to be overexpressed in both adenocarcinoma and in metastatic carcinoma. This confirms the role of PUM1 in colon cancer progression. PUM1 overexpression study in HCT116 revealed that cells transfected with PUM1 plasmid show an increased rate of proliferation, migration and colony formation. Overexpressing PUM1 increases the number and size of spheroids indicating the role of PUM1 in maintaining cancer stem cells. Overall, this is the first study that has shown the role of PUM1 in colon cancer development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravi Gor
- Department of Genetic Engineering, School of Bio-Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, Kanchipuram 603203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Shruthi Sanjitha Sampath
- Department of Genetic Engineering, School of Bio-Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, Kanchipuram 603203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Lizha Mary Lazer
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio-Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, Kanchipuram 603203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Satish Ramalingam
- Department of Genetic Engineering, School of Bio-Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, Kanchipuram 603203, Tamil Nadu, India.
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93
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Iriana S, Asha K, Repak M, Sharma-Walia N. Hedgehog Signaling: Implications in Cancers and Viral Infections. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:1042. [PMID: 33494284 PMCID: PMC7864517 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22031042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The hedgehog (SHH) signaling pathway is primarily involved in embryonic gut development, smooth muscle differentiation, cell proliferation, adult tissue homeostasis, tissue repair following injury, and tissue polarity during the development of vertebrate and invertebrate organisms. GLIoma-associated oncogene homolog (GLI) family of zinc-finger transcription factors and smoothened (SMO) are the signal transducers of the SHH pathway. Both SHH ligand-dependent and independent mechanisms activate GLI proteins. Various transcriptional mechanisms, posttranslational modifications (phosphorylation, ubiquitination, proteolytic processing, SUMOylation, and acetylation), and nuclear-cytoplasmic shuttling control the activity of SHH signaling pathway proteins. The dysregulated SHH pathway is associated with bone and soft tissue sarcomas, GLIomas, medulloblastomas, leukemias, and tumors of breast, lung, skin, prostate, brain, gastric, and pancreas. While extensively studied in development and sarcomas, GLI family proteins play an essential role in many host-pathogen interactions, including bacterial and viral infections and their associated cancers. Viruses hijack host GLI family transcription factors and their downstream signaling cascades to enhance the viral gene transcription required for replication and pathogenesis. In this review, we discuss a distinct role(s) of GLI proteins in the process of tumorigenesis and host-pathogen interactions in the context of viral infection-associated malignancies and cancers due to other causes. Here, we emphasize the potential of the Hedgehog (HH) pathway targeting as a potential anti-cancer therapeutic approach, which in the future could also be tested in infection-associated fatalities.
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94
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Shan NL, Shin Y, Yang G, Furmanski P, Suh N. Breast cancer stem cells: A review of their characteristics and the agents that affect them. Mol Carcinog 2021; 60:73-100. [PMID: 33428807 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The evolving concept that cancer stem cells (CSCs) are the driving element in cancer development, evolution and heterogeneity, has overridden the previous model of a tumor consisting of cells all with similar sequentially acquired mutations and a similar potential for renewal, invasion and metastasis. This paradigm shift has focused attention on therapeutically targeting CSCs directly as a means of eradicating the disease. In breast cancers, CSCs can be identified by cell surface markers and are characterized by their ability to self-renew and differentiate, resist chemotherapy and radiation, and initiate new tumors upon serial transplantation in xenografted mice. These functional properties of CSCs are regulated by both intracellular and extracellular factors including pluripotency-related transcription factors, intracellular signaling pathways and external stimuli. Several classes of natural products and synthesized compounds have been studied to target these regulatory elements and force CSCs to lose stemness and/or terminally differentiate and thereby achieve a therapeutic effect. However, realization of an effective treatment for breast cancers, focused on the biological effects of these agents on breast CSCs, their functions and signaling, has not yet been achieved. In this review, we delineate the intrinsic and extrinsic factors identified to date that control or promote stemness in breast CSCs and provide a comprehensive compilation of potential agents that have been studied to target breast CSCs, transcription factors and stemness-related signaling. Our aim is to stimulate further study of these agents that could become the basis for their use as stand-alone treatments or components of combination therapies effective against breast cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naing L Shan
- Department of Chemical Biology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Yoosub Shin
- Yonsei University, College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ge Yang
- Department of Chemical Biology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Philip Furmanski
- Department of Chemical Biology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA.,Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Nanjoo Suh
- Department of Chemical Biology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA.,Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
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95
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Targeting non-canonical activation of GLI1 by the SOX2-BRD4 transcriptional complex improves the efficacy of HEDGEHOG pathway inhibition in melanoma. Oncogene 2021; 40:3799-3814. [PMID: 33958721 PMCID: PMC8175236 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-021-01783-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Despite the development of new targeted and immune therapies, the prognosis of metastatic melanoma remains bleak. Therefore, it is critical to better understand the mechanisms controlling advanced melanoma to develop more effective treatment regimens. Hedgehog/GLI (HH/GLI) signaling inhibitors targeting the central pathway transducer Smoothened (SMO) have shown to be clinical efficacious in skin cancer; however, several mechanisms of non-canonical HH/GLI pathway activation limit their efficacy. Here, we identify a novel SOX2-BRD4 transcriptional complex driving the expression of GLI1, the final effector of the HH/GLI pathway, providing a novel mechanism of non-canonical SMO-independent activation of HH/GLI signaling in melanoma. Consistently, we find a positive correlation between the expression of GLI1 and SOX2 in human melanoma samples and cell lines. Further, we show that combined targeting of canonical HH/GLI pathway with the SMO inhibitor MRT-92 and of the SOX2-BRD4 complex using a potent Proteolysis Targeted Chimeras (PROTACs)-derived BRD4 degrader (MZ1), yields a synergistic anti-proliferative effect in melanoma cells independently of their BRAF, NRAS, and NF1 mutational status, with complete abrogation of GLI1 expression. Combination of MRT-92 and MZ1 strongly potentiates the antitumor effect of either drug as single agents in an orthotopic melanoma model. Together, our data provide evidence of a novel mechanism of non-canonical activation of GLI1 by the SOX2-BRD4 transcriptional complex, and describe the efficacy of a new combinatorial treatment for a subset of melanomas with an active SOX2-BRD4-GLI1 axis.
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96
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Zhang X, Powell K, Li L. Breast Cancer Stem Cells: Biomarkers, Identification and Isolation Methods, Regulating Mechanisms, Cellular Origin, and Beyond. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E3765. [PMID: 33327542 PMCID: PMC7765014 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12123765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite recent advances in diagnosis and treatment, breast cancer (BC) is still a major cause of cancer-related mortality in women. Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) are a small but significant subpopulation of heterogeneous breast cancer cells demonstrating strong self-renewal and proliferation properties. Accumulating evidence has proved that BCSCs are the driving force behind BC tumor initiation, progression, metastasis, drug resistance, and recurrence. As a heterogeneous disease, BC contains a full spectrum of different BC subtypes, and different subtypes of BC further exhibit distinct subtypes and proportions of BCSCs, which correspond to different treatment responses and disease-specific outcomes. This review summarized the current knowledge of BCSC biomarkers and their clinical relevance, the methods for the identification and isolation of BCSCs, and the mechanisms regulating BCSCs. We also discussed the cellular origin of BCSCs and the current advances in single-cell lineage tracing and transcriptomics and their potential in identifying the origin and lineage development of BCSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, 320B Lincoln Tower, 1800 Cannon Dr., Columbus, OH 43210, USA;
| | | | - Lang Li
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, 320B Lincoln Tower, 1800 Cannon Dr., Columbus, OH 43210, USA;
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97
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He L, Yu A, Deng L, Zhang H. Eradicating the Roots: Advanced Therapeutic Approaches Targeting Breast Cancer Stem Cells. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 26:2009-2021. [PMID: 32183663 DOI: 10.2174/1381612826666200317132949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Accumulating evidences have demonstrated that the existence of breast cancer-initiating cells, which drives the original tumorigenicity, local invasion and migration propensity of breast cancer. These cells, termed as breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs), possess properties including self-renewal, multidirectional differentiation and proliferative potential, and are believed to play important roles in the intrinsic drug resistance of breast cancer. One of the reasons why BCBCs cause difficulties in breast cancer treating is that BCBCs can control both genetic and non-genetic elements to keep their niches safe and sound, which allows BCSCs for constant self-renewal and differentiation. Therapeutic strategies designed to target BCSCs may ultimately result in effective interventions for the treatment of breast cancer. Novel strategies including nanomedicine, oncolytic virus therapy, immunotherapy and induced differentiation therapy are emerging and proved to be efficient in anti-BCSCs therapy. In this review, we summarized breast tumor biology and the current challenges of breast cancer therapies, focused on breast cancer stem cells, and introduced promising therapeutic strategies targeting BCSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili He
- College of Pharmacy, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Anran Yu
- The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 12246, United States
| | - Li Deng
- West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongwei Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, MCPHS University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
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98
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Bahmad HF, Elajami MK, El Zarif T, Bou-Gharios J, Abou-Antoun T, Abou-Kheir W. Drug repurposing towards targeting cancer stem cells in pediatric brain tumors. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2020; 39:127-148. [PMID: 31919619 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-019-09840-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
In the pediatric population, brain tumors represent the most commonly diagnosed solid neoplasms and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. They include low-grade gliomas (LGGs), medulloblastomas (MBs), and other embryonal, ependymal, and neuroectodermal tumors. The mainstay of treatment for most brain tumors includes surgical intervention, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. However, resistance to conventional therapy is widespread, which contributes to the high mortality rates reported and lack of improvement in patient survival despite advancement in therapeutic research. This has been attributed to the presence of a subpopulation of cells, known as cancer stem cells (CSCs), which reside within the tumor bulk and maintain self-renewal and recurrence potential of the tumor. An emerging promising approach that enables identifying novel therapeutic strategies to target CSCs and overcome therapy resistance is drug repurposing or repositioning. This is based on using previously approved drugs with known pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic characteristics for indications other than their traditional ones, like cancer. In this review, we provide a synopsis of the drug repurposing methodologies that have been used in pediatric brain tumors, and we argue how this selective compilation of approaches, with a focus on CSC targeting, could elevate drug repurposing to the next level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hisham F Bahmad
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Bliss Street, DTS Bldg, Room 116-B, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mohamad K Elajami
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Bliss Street, DTS Bldg, Room 116-B, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Talal El Zarif
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Bliss Street, DTS Bldg, Room 116-B, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Jolie Bou-Gharios
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Bliss Street, DTS Bldg, Room 116-B, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Tamara Abou-Antoun
- School of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos Campus, CHSC 6101, Byblos, Lebanon.
| | - Wassim Abou-Kheir
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Bliss Street, DTS Bldg, Room 116-B, Beirut, Lebanon.
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99
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SOX2/SALL4 stemness axis modulates Notch signaling genes to maintain self-renewal capacity of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Mol Cell Biochem 2020; 476:921-929. [PMID: 33098486 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-020-03956-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Stemness phenotype is considered as the centerpiece of cancer biology due to its potential in conventional chemo-radiotherapy resistance and tumor recurrence after clinical intervention. This feature in tumor mass belongs to activation of core regulatory stemness factors and different cell signaling pathways in cancer stem cells. We aimed in this study to elucidate contribution of Notch signaling pathway in stemness state of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) through their relevance with stem cell markers SOX2 and SALL4. 50 ESCC tumor and related margin normal tissues were considered and categorized based on SOX2/SALL4 expression pattern, and mRNA levels of Notch signaling genes including ligands, receptors, target genes, and transcriptional coactivator were analyzed in the selected groups using qRT-PCR. Concomitant overexpression of stem cell markers SOX2 and SALL4 in ESCCs upregulated the involved genes in Notch signaling pathway. Upregulation of Notch pathway genes associated with depth of tumor invasion and lymph node metastasis of ESCC. Based on biological function of SOX2 and SALL4 axis in stemness state potential, our results may suggest contribution of Notch signaling pathway in self-renewal capacity of ESCCs, as well as invasion and metastasis of the disease. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report elucidating the crosstalk between SOX2/SALL4 stemness factors and Notch signaling pathway in cancer research.
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100
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Yao H, Sun L, Li J, Zhou X, Li R, Shao R, Zhang Y, Li L. A Novel Therapeutic siRNA Nanoparticle Designed for Dual-Targeting CD44 and Gli1 of Gastric Cancer Stem Cells. Int J Nanomedicine 2020; 15:7013-7034. [PMID: 33061365 PMCID: PMC7522319 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s260163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Gastric cancer stem cells (CSCs) are important for the initiation, growth, recurrence, and metastasis of gastric cancer, due to their chemo-resistance and indefinite proliferation. Herein, to eliminate gastric CSCs, we developed novel CSC-targeting glioma-associated oncogene homolog 1 (Gli1) small interfering RNA (siRNA) nanoparticles that are specifically guided by a di-stearoyl-phosphatidyl-ethanolamine- hyaluronic-acid (DSPE-HA) single-point conjugate, as an intrinsic ligand of the CD44 receptor. We refer to these as targeting Gli1 siRNA nanoparticles. Methods We used the reductive amination reaction method for attaching amine groups of DSPE to aldehydic group of hyaluronic acid (HA) at the reducing end, to synthesize the DSPE-HA single-point conjugate. Next, targeting Gli1 siRNA nanoparticles were prepared using the layer-by-layer assembly method. We characterized the stem cellular features of targeting Gli1 siRNA nanoparticles, including their targeting efficiency, self-renewal capacity, the migration and invasion capacity of gastric CSCs, and the penetration ability of 3D tumor spheroids. Next, we evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of the targeting Gli1 siRNA nanoparticles by using in vivo relapsed tumor models of gastric CSCs. Results Compared with the multipoint conjugates, DSPE-HA single-point conjugates on the surface of nanoparticles showed significantly higher binding affinities with CD44. The targeting Gli1 siRNA nanoparticles significantly decreased Gli1 protein expression, inhibited CSC tumor spheroid and colony formation, and suppressed cell migration and invasion. Furthermore, in vivo imaging demonstrated that targeting Gli1 siRNA nanoparticles accumulated in tumor tissues, showing significant antitumor recurrence efficacy in vivo. Conclusion In summary, our targeting Gli1 siRNA nanoparticles significantly inhibited CSC malignancy features by specifically blocking Hedgehog (Hh) signaling both in vitro and in vivo, suggesting that this novel siRNA delivery system that specifically eliminates gastric CSCs provides a promising targeted therapeutic strategy for gastric cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongjuan Yao
- Key Laboratory of Antibiotic Bioengineering of National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC), Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology (IMB), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College (CAMS & PUMC), Beijing 100050, People's Republic of China
| | - Lan Sun
- Key Laboratory of Nanopharmacology and Nanotoxicology, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingcao Li
- Key Laboratory of Nanopharmacology and Nanotoxicology, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaofei Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Antibiotic Bioengineering of National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC), Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology (IMB), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College (CAMS & PUMC), Beijing 100050, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui Li
- Key Laboratory of Antibiotic Bioengineering of National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC), Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology (IMB), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College (CAMS & PUMC), Beijing 100050, People's Republic of China
| | - Rongguang Shao
- Key Laboratory of Antibiotic Bioengineering of National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC), Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology (IMB), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College (CAMS & PUMC), Beijing 100050, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingge Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Nanopharmacology and Nanotoxicology, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, People's Republic of China
| | - Liang Li
- Key Laboratory of Antibiotic Bioengineering of National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC), Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology (IMB), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College (CAMS & PUMC), Beijing 100050, People's Republic of China
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