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Sun H, Zhong X, Wang C, Wang S, Lin L, Zou R, Wu Y, Sun N, Sun G, Wen T, Chi ZH, Zhao Y. SNF5 is Involved in Suppression of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression via TGF-Beta 1 Signaling. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2016; 299:869-77. [DOI: 10.1002/ar.23357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2015] [Revised: 02/29/2016] [Accepted: 03/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hongmiao Sun
- Department of Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health, and Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education; China Medical University; Shenyang Liaoning 110122 China
| | - Xinping Zhong
- Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital; China Medical University; Shenyang Liaoning 110001 China
| | - Chunyu Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health, and Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education; China Medical University; Shenyang Liaoning 110122 China
| | - Shengli Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health, and Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education; China Medical University; Shenyang Liaoning 110122 China
| | - Lin Lin
- Department of Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health, and Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education; China Medical University; Shenyang Liaoning 110122 China
| | - Renlong Zou
- Department of Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health, and Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education; China Medical University; Shenyang Liaoning 110122 China
| | - Yi Wu
- Department of Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health, and Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education; China Medical University; Shenyang Liaoning 110122 China
| | - Ning Sun
- Department of Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health, and Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education; China Medical University; Shenyang Liaoning 110122 China
| | - Ge Sun
- Department of Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health, and Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education; China Medical University; Shenyang Liaoning 110122 China
| | - Tao Wen
- Department of Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health, and Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education; China Medical University; Shenyang Liaoning 110122 China
| | - Zhi-Hong Chi
- Department of Pathophysiology; China Medical University; Shenyang Liaoning 110122 China
| | - Yue Zhao
- Department of Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Ministry of Public Health, and Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education; China Medical University; Shenyang Liaoning 110122 China
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102
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Giannelli G, Mikulits W, Dooley S, Fabregat I, Moustakas A, ten Dijke P, Portincasa P, Winter P, Janssen R, Leporatti S, Herrera B, Sanchez A. The rationale for targeting TGF-β in chronic liver diseases. Eur J Clin Invest 2016; 46:349-61. [PMID: 26823073 DOI: 10.1111/eci.12596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2015] [Accepted: 01/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β is a pluripotent cytokine that displays several tissue-specific biological activities. In the liver, TGF-β is considered a fundamental molecule, controlling organ size and growth by limiting hepatocyte proliferation. It is involved in fibrogenesis and, therefore, in worsening liver damage, as well as in triggering the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). TGF-β is known to act as an oncosuppressor and also as a tumour promoter in HCC, but its role is still unclear. DESIGN In this review, we discuss the potential role of TGF-β in regulating the tumoural progression of HCC, and therefore the rationale for targeting this molecule in patients with HCC. RESULTS A considerable amount of experimental preclinical evidence suggests that TGF-β is a promising druggable target in patients with HCC. To support this hypothesis, a phase II clinical trial is currently ongoing using a TGF-β pathway inhibitor, and results will soon be available. CONCLUSIONS The identification of new TGF-β related biomarkers will help to select those patients most likely to benefit from therapy aimed at inhibiting the TGF-β pathway. New formulations that may provide a more controlled and sustained delivery of the drug will improve the therapeutic success of such treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianluigi Giannelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - Wolfgang Mikulits
- Department of Medicine I, Institute of Cancer Research, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Steven Dooley
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty, Mannheim Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Isabel Fabregat
- Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Aristidis Moustakas
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology and Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Biomedical Center, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Peter ten Dijke
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Cancer Genomics Centre Netherlands, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Piero Portincasa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Blanca Herrera
- Dep. Bioquímica y Biología Molecular II, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Aranzazu Sanchez
- Dep. Bioquímica y Biología Molecular II, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
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103
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Yoon JK, Kim HN, Bhang SH, Shin JY, Han J, La WG, Jeong GJ, Kang S, Lee JR, Oh J, Kim MS, Jeon NL, Kim BS. Enhanced Bone Repair by Guided Osteoblast Recruitment Using Topographically Defined Implant. Tissue Eng Part A 2016; 22:654-64. [PMID: 26976076 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2015.0417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The rapid recruitment of osteoblasts in bone defects is an essential prerequisite for efficient bone repair. Conventionally, osteoblast recruitment to bone defects and subsequent bone repair has been achieved using growth factors. Here, we present a methodology that can guide the recruitment of osteoblasts to bone defects with topographically defined implants (TIs) for efficient in vivo bone repair. We compared circular TIs that had microgrooves in parallel or radial arrangements with nonpatterned implants for osteoblast migration and in vivo bone formation. In vitro, the microgrooves in the TIs enhanced both the migration and proliferation of osteoblasts. Especially, the microgrooves with radial arrangement demonstrated a much higher efficiency of osteoblast recruitment to the implants than did the other types of implants, which may be due to the efficient guidance of cell migration toward the cell-free area of the implants. The expression of the intracellular signaling molecules responsible for the cell migration was also upregulated in osteoblasts on the microgrooved TIs. In vivo, the TI with radially defined topography demonstrated much greater bone repair in mouse calvarial defect models than in the other types of implants. Taken together, these results indicate that implants with physical guidance can enhance tissue repair by rapid cell recruitment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong-Kee Yoon
- 1 School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Seoul National University , Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hong Nam Kim
- 2 Center for BioMicrosystems, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) , Seoul, Republic of Korea.,3 School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Seoul National University , Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Suk Ho Bhang
- 4 School of Chemical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University , Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Youn Shin
- 1 School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Seoul National University , Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Han
- 1 School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Seoul National University , Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Wan-Geun La
- 5 Department of Nanobiomedical Science, Dankook University , Chungnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Gun-Jae Jeong
- 1 School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Seoul National University , Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seokyung Kang
- 1 School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Seoul National University , Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ju-Ro Lee
- 1 School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Seoul National University , Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaesur Oh
- 1 School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Seoul National University , Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Sung Kim
- 3 School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Seoul National University , Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Noo Li Jeon
- 3 School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Seoul National University , Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung-Soo Kim
- 1 School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Seoul National University , Seoul, Republic of Korea.,6 Bio-MAX Institute, Institute of Chemical Processes, Seoul National University , Seoul, Republic of Korea
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104
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Fabregat I, Moreno-Càceres J, Sánchez A, Dooley S, Dewidar B, Giannelli G, ten Dijke P. TGF-β signalling and liver disease. FEBS J 2016; 283:2219-32. [DOI: 10.1111/febs.13665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 345] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2015] [Revised: 12/29/2015] [Accepted: 01/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Fabregat
- Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL); L'Hospitalet; Barcelona Spain
- Department of Physiological Sciences II; University of Barcelona; Spain
| | | | - Aránzazu Sánchez
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II; San Carlos Clinical Hospital Health Research Institute (IdISSC); Madrid Spain
| | - Steven Dooley
- Department of Medicine II; Heidelberg University; Mannheim Germany
| | - Bedair Dewidar
- Department of Medicine II; Heidelberg University; Mannheim Germany
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology; Tanta University; Egypt
| | - Gianluigi Giannelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology; University of Bari Medical School; Italy
| | - Peter ten Dijke
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology; Cancer Genomics Centre Netherlands; Leiden The Netherlands
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105
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Transforming growth factor (TGF) β1 acted through miR-130b to increase integrin α5 to promote migration of colorectal cancer cells. Tumour Biol 2016; 37:10763-73. [DOI: 10.1007/s13277-016-4965-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2015] [Accepted: 02/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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106
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Xu J, Sivasubramaniyam T, Yinon Y, Tagliaferro A, Ray J, Nevo O, Post M, Caniggia I. Aberrant TGFβ Signaling Contributes to Altered Trophoblast Differentiation in Preeclampsia. Endocrinology 2016; 157:883-99. [PMID: 26653761 DOI: 10.1210/en.2015-1696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
TGFβ has been implicated in preeclampsia, but its intracellular signaling via phosphorylated mothers against decapentaplegic (SMADs) and SMAD-independent proteins in the placenta remains elusive. Here we show that TGFβ receptor-regulated SMAD2 was activated (Ser(465/467) phosphorylation) in syncytiotrophoblast and proliferating extravillous trophoblast cells of first-trimester placenta, whereas inhibitory SMAD7 located primarily to cytotrophoblast cells. SMAD2 phosphorylation decreased with advancing gestation, whereas SMAD7 expression increased and shifted to syncytiotrophoblasts toward term. Additionally, we found that the TGFβ SMAD-independent signaling via partitioning defective protein 6 (PARD6)/Smad ubiquitylation regulatory factor was activated at approximately 10-12 weeks of gestation in cytotrophoblast and extravillous trophoblast cells comprising the anchoring column. Placentae from early-onset, but not late-onset, preeclampsia exhibited elevated SMAD2 phosphorylation and SMAD7 levels. Whereas PARD6 expression increased and SMURF1 levels decreased in preeclamptic placentae, their association increased. SMAD2 phosphorylation by TGFβ in villous explants and BeWo cells resulted in a reduction of Glial cell missing-1 (GCM1) and fusogenic protein syncytin-1 while increasing cell cycle regulators cyclin E-1 (CCNE1) and cyclin-dependent kinase 4. SMAD7 abrogated the proliferative effects of TGFβ. CCNE1 levels were increased in preeclamptic placentae, whereas GCM1 was markedly reduced. In addition, TGFβ treatment increased the association of PARD6 and SMURF1 and down-regulated Ras homolog gene family, member A (RHOA) GTPase in JEG3 cells. In a wound assay, TGFβ treatment increased the association of PARD6 and SMURF1 and triggered JEG3 cell migration through increased cellular protrusions. Taken together, our data indicate that TGFβ signaling via both SMAD2/7 and PARD6/SMURF1 pathways plays a role in trophoblast growth and differentiation. Altered SMAD regulation of GCM1 and CCNE1 and aberrant expression/activation of PARD6/SMURF1 may contribute to the pathogenesis of preeclampsia by affecting cellular pathways associated with this disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Xu
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute (J.X., T.S., A.T., J.R., I.C.), Mt Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5T 3H7; Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology (Y.Y., O.N., I.C.), Physiology (T.S., J.R., M.P., I.C.), and Pediatrics (M.P.), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; and Institute of Medical Science (M.P.), The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 1X8
| | - Tharini Sivasubramaniyam
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute (J.X., T.S., A.T., J.R., I.C.), Mt Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5T 3H7; Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology (Y.Y., O.N., I.C.), Physiology (T.S., J.R., M.P., I.C.), and Pediatrics (M.P.), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; and Institute of Medical Science (M.P.), The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 1X8
| | - Yoav Yinon
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute (J.X., T.S., A.T., J.R., I.C.), Mt Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5T 3H7; Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology (Y.Y., O.N., I.C.), Physiology (T.S., J.R., M.P., I.C.), and Pediatrics (M.P.), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; and Institute of Medical Science (M.P.), The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 1X8
| | - Andrea Tagliaferro
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute (J.X., T.S., A.T., J.R., I.C.), Mt Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5T 3H7; Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology (Y.Y., O.N., I.C.), Physiology (T.S., J.R., M.P., I.C.), and Pediatrics (M.P.), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; and Institute of Medical Science (M.P.), The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 1X8
| | - Jocelyn Ray
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute (J.X., T.S., A.T., J.R., I.C.), Mt Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5T 3H7; Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology (Y.Y., O.N., I.C.), Physiology (T.S., J.R., M.P., I.C.), and Pediatrics (M.P.), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; and Institute of Medical Science (M.P.), The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 1X8
| | - Ori Nevo
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute (J.X., T.S., A.T., J.R., I.C.), Mt Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5T 3H7; Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology (Y.Y., O.N., I.C.), Physiology (T.S., J.R., M.P., I.C.), and Pediatrics (M.P.), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; and Institute of Medical Science (M.P.), The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 1X8
| | - Martin Post
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute (J.X., T.S., A.T., J.R., I.C.), Mt Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5T 3H7; Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology (Y.Y., O.N., I.C.), Physiology (T.S., J.R., M.P., I.C.), and Pediatrics (M.P.), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; and Institute of Medical Science (M.P.), The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 1X8
| | - Isabella Caniggia
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute (J.X., T.S., A.T., J.R., I.C.), Mt Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5T 3H7; Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology (Y.Y., O.N., I.C.), Physiology (T.S., J.R., M.P., I.C.), and Pediatrics (M.P.), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; and Institute of Medical Science (M.P.), The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 1X8
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107
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Marcucci F, Stassi G, De Maria R. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition: a new target in anticancer drug discovery. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2016; 15:311-25. [PMID: 26822829 DOI: 10.1038/nrd.2015.13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 255] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The conversion of cells with an epithelial phenotype into cells with a mesenchymal phenotype, referred to as epithelial-mesenchymal transition, is a critical process for embryonic development that also occurs in adult life, particularly during tumour progression. Tumour cells undergoing epithelial-mesenchymal transition acquire the capacity to disarm the body's antitumour defences, resist apoptosis and anticancer drugs, disseminate throughout the organism, and act as a reservoir that replenishes and expands the tumour cell population. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition is therefore becoming a target of prime interest for anticancer therapy. Here, we discuss the screening and classification of compounds that affect epithelial-mesenchymal transition, highlight some compounds of particular interest, and address issues related to their clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Marcucci
- Scientific Directorate, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144 Rome, Italy. Present address: Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, via Trentacoste 2, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Giorgio Stassi
- Department of Surgical and Oncological Sciences, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro 131, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Ruggero De Maria
- Scientific Directorate, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144 Rome, Italy
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108
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Wailes EM, Levi-Polyachenko NH. Multi-walled nanotubes for cellular reprogramming of cancer. NANOMEDICINE-NANOTECHNOLOGY BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2015; 12:955-963. [PMID: 26733259 DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2015.12.363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2015] [Revised: 11/14/2015] [Accepted: 12/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Triple negative breast cancer is exceptionally difficult to treat due to the lack of distinguishing biomarkers for drug targeting. An alternative approach based on recent data indicates that these cells may be more susceptible to mechanical influences, such as alterations in the tumor stroma. Three dimensional collagen gels containing co-cultures of mesenchymal cells and MDA-MB-231 cancer cells were utilized to explore the effects of multi-walled nanotubes (MWNT) on cell contraction, invasion, viability, MMP-9 expression, and migration of breast cancer cells. MWNT were able to restrict each of these features for the cancer cells without impeding the associated mesenchymal cells. MWNT-collagen gels are useful tools for cellular reprogramming of cancer cells and should be considered in greater detail as a potential agent for therapeutic treatment of triple-negative breast cancer. FROM THE CLINICAL EDITOR Breast cancer is still a leading cause of death for women worldwide. One subtype of this cancer which is very aggressive is the triple negative breast cancer. The behavior of tumors may be affected by the tumor stromal environment. In this study, the authors investigated the effects of multi-walled nanotubes (MWNT) on tumor cell biology. The positive findings may point a new way in using this modality for treatment of triple-negative breast cancer in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth M Wailes
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, USA; Virginia Tech-Wake Forest School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Wake Forest University, Winston Salem, NC, USA
| | - Nicole H Levi-Polyachenko
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, USA; Virginia Tech-Wake Forest School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Wake Forest University, Winston Salem, NC, USA.
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109
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Silencing of WWP2 inhibits adhesion, invasion, and migration in liver cancer cells. Tumour Biol 2015; 37:6787-99. [DOI: 10.1007/s13277-015-4547-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2015] [Accepted: 11/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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110
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Zhu T, Li X, Luo L, Wang X, Li Z, Xie P, Gao X, Song Z, Su J, Liang G. Reversion of malignant phenotypes of human glioblastoma cells by β-elemene through β-catenin-mediated regulation of stemness-, differentiation- and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition-related molecules. J Transl Med 2015; 13:356. [PMID: 26563263 PMCID: PMC4642639 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-015-0727-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2014] [Accepted: 11/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Glioblastoma is the most common and lethal type of primary brain tumor. β-Elemene, a natural plant drug extracted from Curcuma wenyujin, has shown strong anti-tumor effects in various tumors with low toxicity. However, the effects of β-elemene on malignant phenotypes of human glioblastoma cells remain to be elucidated. Here we evaluated the effects of β-elemene on cell proliferation, survival, stemness, differentiation and the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in vitro and in vivo, and investigated the mechanisms underlying these effects. Methods Human primary and U87 glioblastoma cells were treated with β-elemene, cell viability was measured using a cell counting kit-8 assay, and treated cells were evaluated by flow cytometry. Western blot analysis was carried out to determine the expression levels of stemness markers, differentiation-related molecules and EMT-related effectors. Transwell assays were performed to further determine EMT of glioblastoma cells. To evaluate the effect of β-elemene on glioblastoma in vivo, we subcutaneously injected glioblastoma cells into the flank of nude mice and then intraperitoneally injected NaCl or β-elemene. The tumor xenograft volumes were measured every 3 days and the expression of stemness-, differentiation- and EMT-related effectors was determined by Western blot assays in xenografts. Results β-Elemene inhibited proliferation, promoted apoptosis, impaired invasiveness in glioblastoma cells and suppressed the growth of animal xenografts. The expression levels of the stemness markers CD133 and ATP-binding cassette subfamily G member 2 as well as the mesenchymal markers N-cadherin and β-catenin were significantly downregulated, whereas the expression levels of the differentiation-related effectors glial fibrillary acidic protein, Notch1, and sonic hedgehog as well as the epithelial marker E-cadherin were upregulated by β-elemene in vitro and in vivo. Interestingly, the expression of vimentin was increased by β-elemene in vitro; this result was opposite that for the in vivo procedure. Inhibiting β-catenin enhanced the anti-proliferative, EMT-inhibitory and specific marker expression-regulatory effects of β-elemene. Conclusions β-Elemene reversed malignant phenotypes of human glioblastoma cells through β-catenin-involved regulation of stemness-, differentiation- and EMT-related molecules. β-Elemene represents a potentially valuable agent for glioblastoma therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingzhun Zhu
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of Shenyang Military Area Command, No. 83, Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang, 110840, China.
| | - Xiaoming Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of Shenyang Military Area Command, No. 83, Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang, 110840, China.
| | - Lihan Luo
- Health Care Centre, Shenyang Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau, Shenyang, China.
| | - Xiaogang Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of Shenyang Military Area Command, No. 83, Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang, 110840, China.
| | - Zhiqing Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of Shenyang Military Area Command, No. 83, Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang, 110840, China.
| | - Peng Xie
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of Shenyang Military Area Command, No. 83, Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang, 110840, China.
| | - Xu Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of Shenyang Military Area Command, No. 83, Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang, 110840, China.
| | - Zhenquan Song
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of Shenyang Military Area Command, No. 83, Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang, 110840, China.
| | - Jingyuan Su
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of Shenyang Military Area Command, No. 83, Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang, 110840, China.
| | - Guobiao Liang
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of Shenyang Military Area Command, No. 83, Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang, 110840, China.
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Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major health problem. In human hepatocarcinogenesis, the balance between cell death and proliferation is deregulated, tipping the scales for a situation where antiapoptotic signals are overpowering the death-triggering stimuli. HCC cells harbor a wide variety of mutations that alter the regulation of apoptosis and hence the response to chemotherapeutical drugs, making them resistant to the proapoptotic signals. Considering all these modifications found in HCC cells, therapeutic approaches need to be carefully studied in order to specifically target the antiapoptotic signals. This review deals with the recent relevant contributions reporting molecular alterations for HCC that lead to a deregulation of apoptosis, as well as the challenge of death-inducing chemotherapeutics in current HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joaquim Moreno-Càceres
- Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain.,Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Isabel Fabregat
- Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Physiological Sciences II, University of Barcelona, Spain.,Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Physiological Sciences II, University of Barcelona, Spain
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112
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Park SA, Kim MJ, Park SY, Kim JS, Lim W, Nam JS, Yhong Sheen Y. TIMP-1 mediates TGF-β-dependent crosstalk between hepatic stellate and cancer cells via FAK signaling. Sci Rep 2015; 5:16492. [PMID: 26549110 PMCID: PMC4637930 DOI: 10.1038/srep16492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2015] [Accepted: 10/14/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling plays a key role in progression and metastasis of HCC. This study was undertaken to gain the proof of concept of a small-molecule inhibitor of TGF-β type I receptor kinase, EW-7197 as a potent anti-cancer therapy for HCC. We identified tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases-1 (TIMP-1) as one of the secreted proteins of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and a key mediator of TGF-β-mediated crosstalk between HSCs and HCC cells. TGF-β signaling led to increased expression of TIMP-1, which activates focal adhesion kinase (FAK) signaling via its interaction with CD63. Inhibition of TGF-β signaling using EW-7197 significantly attenuated the progression and intrahepatic metastasis of HCC in an SK-HEP1-Luc orthotopic-xenograft mouse model. In addition, EW-7197 inhibited TGF-β-stimulated TIMP-1 secretion by HSCs as well as the TIMP-1-induced proliferation, motility, and survival of HCC cells. Further, EW-7197 interrupted TGF-β-mediated epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and Akt signaling, leading to significant reductions in the motility and anchorage-independent growth of HCC cells. In conclusion, we found that TIMP-1 mediates TGF-β-regulated crosstalk between HSCs and HCC cells via FAK signaling. In addition, EW-7197 demonstrates potent in vivo anti-cancer therapeutic activity and may be a potential new anti-cancer drug of choice to treat patients with liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang-A Park
- College of Pharmacy, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Min-Jin Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - So-Yeon Park
- College of Pharmacy, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jung-Shin Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Woosung Lim
- Department of Surgery, Ewha Womans University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jeong-Seok Nam
- Laboratory of Tumor Suppressor, Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, Gachon University, Incheon, South Korea.,Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon, South Korea
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113
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Lian JY, Tuo BG. Role of TGFβ signaling pathway in biological behavior of hepatocellular carcinoma. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2015; 23:3874-3881. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v23.i24.3874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a malignant tumor with a high fatality rate and strong invasion, and surgical resection is the most effective treatment for early HCC. However, most patients have lost the chance of operation at diagnosis. Additionally, chemotherapy has a poor effect and drug toxicity. In order to improve the prognosis and treatment of HCC, elucidating the cellular and molecular mechanism of HCC and finding new treatment targets are essential. The transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) pathway is involved in hepatocellular carcinogenesis and regulates tumor cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasion and differentiation. TGFβ exerts a protective effect in early HCC. With the progression of HCC, TGFβ promotes the progress of HCC. Studies suggest that Axl/14-3-3zeta signaling is central for the transforming process. Taken into consideration the crucial role of the TGFβ pathway in the development and progression of HCC, it might become an important therapeutic target for HCC in the future.
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114
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Herbertz S, Sawyer JS, Stauber AJ, Gueorguieva I, Driscoll KE, Estrem ST, Cleverly AL, Desaiah D, Guba SC, Benhadji KA, Slapak CA, Lahn MM. Clinical development of galunisertib (LY2157299 monohydrate), a small molecule inhibitor of transforming growth factor-beta signaling pathway. Drug Des Devel Ther 2015; 9:4479-99. [PMID: 26309397 PMCID: PMC4539082 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s86621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 248] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling regulates a wide range of biological processes. TGF-β plays an important role in tumorigenesis and contributes to the hallmarks of cancer, including tumor proliferation, invasion and metastasis, inflammation, angiogenesis, and escape of immune surveillance. There are several pharmacological approaches to block TGF-β signaling, such as monoclonal antibodies, vaccines, antisense oligonucleotides, and small molecule inhibitors. Galunisertib (LY2157299 monohydrate) is an oral small molecule inhibitor of the TGF-β receptor I kinase that specifically downregulates the phosphorylation of SMAD2, abrogating activation of the canonical pathway. Furthermore, galunisertib has antitumor activity in tumor-bearing animal models such as breast, colon, lung cancers, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Continuous long-term exposure to galunisertib caused cardiac toxicities in animals requiring adoption of a pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic-based dosing strategy to allow further development. The use of such a pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic model defined a therapeutic window with an appropriate safety profile that enabled the clinical investigation of galunisertib. These efforts resulted in an intermittent dosing regimen (14 days on/14 days off, on a 28-day cycle) of galunisertib for all ongoing trials. Galunisertib is being investigated either as monotherapy or in combination with standard antitumor regimens (including nivolumab) in patients with cancer with high unmet medical needs such as glioblastoma, pancreatic cancer, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The present review summarizes the past and current experiences with different pharmacological treatments that enabled galunisertib to be investigated in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - J Scott Sawyer
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Anja J Stauber
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | | | - Kyla E Driscoll
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, New York, NY, USA
| | - Shawn T Estrem
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Ann L Cleverly
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Windlesham, Surrey, UK
| | - Durisala Desaiah
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Susan C Guba
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Karim A Benhadji
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | | | - Michael M Lahn
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA
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115
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Zhong D, He G, Zhao S, Li J, Lang Y, Ye W, Li Y, Jiang C, Li X. LRG1 modulates invasion and migration of glioma cell lines through TGF-β signaling pathway. Acta Histochem 2015; 117:551-8. [PMID: 26049667 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2015.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2015] [Revised: 05/06/2015] [Accepted: 05/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Studies have shown that the abnormal expression of leucine-rich α2 glycoprotein 1 (LRG1) is associated with multiple malignancies, yet its role in glioma pathology remains to be elucidated. In this study, we investigated the role of LRG1 in regulating proliferation, migration and invasion of glioma cells by establishing glioma cell strains with constitutively silenced or elevated LRG1 expression. LRG1 overexpression and silenced cell lines demonstrated modulation of glioma cellular proliferation, migration and invasion through MTT, cell scratching and Transwell assays. Furthermore, overexpression of LRG1 led to augmented activation of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling pathway as well as downregulation of E-cadherin and resultant enhanced invasiveness, which was reversed by TGF-β signaling pathway inhibitor SB431542. In summary, our findings suggest that LRG1 promotes invasion and migration of glioma cells through TGF-β signaling pathway.
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Li Y, Tu M, Cheng C, Tian J, Zhang F, Deng Z, Li X, Li Z, Liu Y, Lei G. Wogonoside induces apoptosis in Bel-7402, a hepatocellular carcinoma cell line, by regulating Bax/Bcl-2. Oncol Lett 2015; 10:1831-1835. [PMID: 26622760 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2015.3408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2014] [Accepted: 04/15/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The anticancer effect of Scutellaria baicalensis extract has recently become a topic of interest. In this study, the anticancer effects and underlying mechanisms of wogonoside, the main constituent of Scutellaria baicalensis, were investigated in a human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell line in vitro. The effects of wogonoside on the proliferation, cell cycle progression and apoptosis of hepatocellular carcinoma cells were examined. Western blotting was employed to analyze the proteins associated with the biological effects of wogonoside. Wogonoside exerted anti-proliferation properties in vitro. HCC cell growth was attenuated by wogonoside (8 µM) treatment. Cell cycle progression analysis and DNA ladder assay revealed that apoptosis was enhanced in wogonoside-treated cells and that cell cycle arrest occurred in the G2/M phase. It was also demonstrated that increased apoptosis was accompanied by increased levels of Bax protein and decreased levels of Bcl-2 protein. The results of this study suggest that wogonoside may represent a potential therapeutic agent against HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusheng Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Min Tu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Second People's Hospital of Jingmen, Jingmen, Hubei 448000, P.R. China
| | - Chao Cheng
- Department of Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Jian Tian
- Department of Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Fangjie Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Zhenhan Deng
- Department of Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Xuan'an Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Zhongkui Li
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Yanping Liu
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Guanghua Lei
- Department of Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
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Downregulation of the DNA repair enzyme apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease 1 stimulates transforming growth factor-β1 production and promotes actin rearrangement. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2015; 461:35-41. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2015.03.163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2015] [Accepted: 03/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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118
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Fu R, Zhang XR, Liao M, Fu DY. Proteomic identification of differentially expressed proteins in rat hepatocarcinogenesis using iTRAQ technology. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2015; 23:1873-1882. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v23.i12.1873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To identify differentially expressed proteins in rat hepatocarcinogenesis.
METHODS: Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into a diethylinitrosamine (DEN) group and a normal control group. The DEN group was administrated 0.01% DEN solution in water for 18 wk, and the control group was given vehicle. The animals were sacrificed at the end of the 4th, 10th, 12th, or 18th week. Liver tissue proteins were quantified and identified using the isobaric tags for relative an absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) technology with two dimensional liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (2DLC-MS/MS). The functions of differentially expressed proteins were analyzed by bioinformatics.
RESULTS: A total of 530 proteins were identified by MS, and the numbers of differentially expressed proteins at the four time points were 128, 113, 106 and 127, respectively. Forty-nine proteins were identified simultaneously at two or more time points, of which 37 were up-regulated and 12 down-regulated. Bioinformatics analysis indicated that differentially expressed proteins are associated with post-translational modification, transcription, recombination and signal transduction pathways.
CONCLUSION: The protein changes in the process of rat hepatocarcinogenesis can be observed dynamically by iTRAQ combined with LC-ESI-MS/MS. Six proteins (peroxiredoxin-1, peroxiredoxin-2, thiosulfate sulfurtransferase, eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 subunit b, alpha-2-HS-glycoprotein, and superoxide dismutase 1) are associated closely with hepatic fibrosis or hepatic carcinoma, and they may play critical roles in hepatocarcinogenesis.
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119
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Tissue invasion and metastasis: Molecular, biological and clinical perspectives. Semin Cancer Biol 2015; 35 Suppl:S244-S275. [PMID: 25865774 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2015.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 327] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2014] [Revised: 03/17/2015] [Accepted: 03/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is a key health issue across the world, causing substantial patient morbidity and mortality. Patient prognosis is tightly linked with metastatic dissemination of the disease to distant sites, with metastatic diseases accounting for a vast percentage of cancer patient mortality. While advances in this area have been made, the process of cancer metastasis and the factors governing cancer spread and establishment at secondary locations is still poorly understood. The current article summarizes recent progress in this area of research, both in the understanding of the underlying biological processes and in the therapeutic strategies for the management of metastasis. This review lists the disruption of E-cadherin and tight junctions, key signaling pathways, including urokinase type plasminogen activator (uPA), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/v-akt murine thymoma viral oncogene (PI3K/AKT), focal adhesion kinase (FAK), β-catenin/zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB-1) and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), together with inactivation of activator protein-1 (AP-1) and suppression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) activity as key targets and the use of phytochemicals, or natural products, such as those from Agaricus blazei, Albatrellus confluens, Cordyceps militaris, Ganoderma lucidum, Poria cocos and Silybum marianum, together with diet derived fatty acids gamma linolenic acid (GLA) and eicosapentanoic acid (EPA) and inhibitory compounds as useful approaches to target tissue invasion and metastasis as well as other hallmark areas of cancer. Together, these strategies could represent new, inexpensive, low toxicity strategies to aid in the management of cancer metastasis as well as having holistic effects against other cancer hallmarks.
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120
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Kawai T, Yasuchika K, Ishii T, Katayama H, Yoshitoshi EY, Ogiso S, Kita S, Yasuda K, Fukumitsu K, Mizumoto M, Hatano E, Uemoto S. Keratin 19, a Cancer Stem Cell Marker in Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Clin Cancer Res 2015; 21:3081-91. [PMID: 25820415 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-14-1936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2014] [Accepted: 03/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Keratin 19 (K19) is a known marker of poor prognosis and invasion in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the relationship between K19 and cancer stem cells (CSCs) is unclear. Here, we determined whether K19 can be used as a new CSC marker and therapeutic target in HCC. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN HCC cell lines were transfected with a K19 promoter-driven enhanced green fluorescence protein gene. CSC characteristics, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and TGFb/Smad signaling were examined in FACS-isolated K19(+)/K19(-) cells. K19 and TGFb receptor 1 (TGFbR1) expression in 166 consecutive human HCC surgical specimens was examined immunohistochemically. RESULTS FACS-isolated single K19(+) cells showed self-renewal and differentiation into K19(-) cells, whereas single K19(-) cells did not produce K19(+) cells. K19(+) cells displayed high proliferation capacity and 5-fluorouracil resistance in vitro. Xenotransplantation into immunodeficient mice revealed that K19(+) cells reproduced, differentiated into K19(-) cells, and generated large tumors at a high frequency in vivo. K19(+) cells were found to be involved in EMT and the activation of TGFb/Smad signaling, and these properties were suppressed by K19 knockdown or treatment with a TGFbR1 inhibitor. The TGFbR1 inhibitor also showed high therapeutic effect against K19(+) tumor in the mouse xenograft model. Immunohistochemistry of HCC specimens showed that compared with K19(-) patients, K19(+) patients had significantly poorer recurrence-free survival and higher tumor TGFbR1 expression. CONCLUSIONS K19 is a new CSC marker associated with EMT and TGFb/Smad signaling, and it would thus be a good therapeutic target for TGFbR1 inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takayuki Kawai
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kentaro Yasuchika
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.
| | - Takamichi Ishii
- Department of Surgery, Nishikobe Medical Center, Kobe, Japan
| | - Hokahiro Katayama
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | | | - Satoshi Ogiso
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Sadahiko Kita
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Katsutaro Yasuda
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Ken Fukumitsu
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Masaki Mizumoto
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Etsuro Hatano
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Shinji Uemoto
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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121
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Calvisi DF. When good transforming growth factor-β turns bad in hepatocellular carcinoma: Axl takes the stage. Hepatology 2015; 61:759-61. [PMID: 25429775 DOI: 10.1002/hep.27624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2014] [Accepted: 11/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Diego F Calvisi
- Institut für Pathologie, Universitätsmedizin Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
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122
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Jeng KS, Chang CF, Jeng WJ, Sheen IS, Jeng CJ. Heterogeneity of hepatocellular carcinoma contributes to cancer progression. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2015; 94:337-47. [PMID: 25680939 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2015.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2014] [Revised: 10/24/2014] [Accepted: 01/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly heterogeneous disease displaying differences in angiogenesis, extracellular matrix proteins, the immune microenvironment and tumor cell populations. Additionally, genetic variations and epigenetic changes of HCC cells could lead to aberrant signaling pathways, induce cancer stem cells and enhance tumor progression. Thus, the heterogeneity in HCC contributes to disease progression and a better understanding of its heterogeneity will greatly aid in the development of strategies for the HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuo-Shyang Jeng
- Department of Surgery, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan; Department of Medical Research, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan.
| | - Chiung-Fang Chang
- Department of Medical Research, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Juei Jeng
- Department of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital, LinKou Medical Center, Chang Gung University, Taiwan
| | - I-Shyan Sheen
- Department of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital, LinKou Medical Center, Chang Gung University, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Juei Jeng
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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123
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Maier A, Peille AL, Vuaroqueaux V, Lahn M. Anti-tumor activity of the TGF-β receptor kinase inhibitor galunisertib (LY2157299 monohydrate) in patient-derived tumor xenografts. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2015; 38:131-44. [PMID: 25573078 PMCID: PMC4412926 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-014-0210-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling pathway is known to play a critical role in promoting tumor growth. Consequently, blocking this pathway has been found to inhibit tumor growth. In order to achieve an optimal anti-tumor effect, however, it remains to be established whether blocking the TGF-β signaling pathway alone is sufficient, or whether the tumor microenvironment plays an additional, possibly synergistic, role. Methods To investigate the relevance of blocking TGF-β signaling in tumor cells within the context of their respective tissue microenvironments, we treated a panel of patient-derived xenografts (PDX) with the selective TGF-β receptor kinase inhibitor LY2157299 monohydrate (galunisertib) and assessed both the in vitro and in vivo effects. Results Galunisertib was found to inhibit the growth in an in vitro clonogenic assay in 6.3 % (5/79) of the examined PDX. Evaluation of the expression profiles of a number of genes, representing both canonical and non-canonical TGF-β signaling pathways, revealed that most PDX exhibited expression changes affecting TGF-β downstream signaling. Next, we subjected 13 of the PDX to an in vivo assessment and, by doing so, observed distinct response patterns. These results suggest that, next to intrinsic, also extrinsic or microenvironmental factors can affect galunisertib response. pSMAD2 protein expression and TGF-βRI mRNA expression levels were found to correlate with the in vivo galunisertib effects. Conclusions From our data we conclude that intrinsic, tumor-dependent TGF-β signaling does not fully explain the anti-tumor effect of galunisertib. Hence, in vivo xenograft models may be more appropriate than in vitro clonogenic assays to assess the anti-tumor activity of TGF-β inhibitors such as galunisertib. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s13402-014-0210-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armin Maier
- In Vitro Screening, Oncotest GmbH, Am Flughafen 12-14, 79108, Freiburg, Germany,
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Li Q, Liu G, Shao D, Wang J, Yuan H, Chen T, Zhai R, Ni W, Tai G. Mucin1 mediates autocrine transforming growth factor beta signaling through activating the c-Jun N-terminal kinase/activator protein 1 pathway in human hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2014; 59:116-25. [PMID: 25526895 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2014.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2014] [Revised: 11/06/2014] [Accepted: 11/25/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In a previous study, we observed by global gene expression analysis that oncogene mucin1 (MUC1) silencing decreased transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling in the human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell line SMMC-7721. In this study, we report that MUC1 overexpression enhanced the levels of phosphorylated Smad3 linker region (p-Smad3L) (Ser-213) and its target gene MMP-9 in HCC cells, suggesting that MUC1 mediates TGF-β signaling. To investigate the effect of MUC1 on TGF-β signaling, we determined TGF-β secretion in MUC1 gene silencing and overexpressing cell lines. MUC1 expression enhanced not only TGF-β1 expression at the mRNA and protein levels but also luciferase activity driven by a TGF-β promoter, as well as elevated the activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and c-Jun, a member of the activation protein 1 (AP-1) transcription factor family. Furthermore, pharmacological reduction of TGF-β receptor (TβR), JNK and c-Jun activity inhibited MUC1-induced autocrine TGF-β signaling. Moreover, a co-immunoprecipitation assay showed that MUC1 directly bound and activated JNK. In addition, both MUC1-induced TGF-β secretion and exogenous TGF-β1 significantly increased Smad signaling and cell migration, which were markedly inhibited by either TβR inhibitor or small interfering RNA silencing of TGF-β1 gene in HCC cells. The high correlation between MUC1 and TGF-β1 or p-Smad3L (Ser-213) expression was shown in tumor tissues from HCC patients by immunohistochemical staining analysis. Collectively, these results indicate that MUC1 mediates autocrine TGF-β signaling by activating the JNK/AP-1 pathway in HCC cells. Therefore, MUC1 plays a key role in HCC progression and could serve as an attractive target for HCC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiongshu Li
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Guomu Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Dan Shao
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Juan Wang
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Hongyan Yuan
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Tanxiu Chen
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Ruiping Zhai
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Weihua Ni
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Guixiang Tai
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
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Zou Y, Xiong H, Xiong H, Lu T, Zhu F, Luo Z, Yuan X, Wang Y. A polysaccharide from mushroom Huaier retards human hepatocellular carcinoma growth, angiogenesis, and metastasis in nude mice. Tumour Biol 2014; 36:2929-36. [PMID: 25492485 DOI: 10.1007/s13277-014-2923-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2014] [Accepted: 11/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mushroom Huaier has become a focus of interest in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Presently, we isolated and purified one polysaccharide from this mushroom. This study aimed to investigate the effects of SP1 on tumor growth and metastasis in a HCC xenograft model and explore its possible mechanism of action. Our results showed that SP1 not only significantly inhibited the proliferation of SMMC-7721 cells in vitro at the concentration ranging from 0 to 800 μg/ml but also suppressed the HCC tumor growth and metastatic nodules to the lung in SMMC-7721-bearing mice by oral administration at three doses of 30, 60, and 120 mg/kg. Concomitantly, immunohistochemistry analysis of tumor tissues identified that SP1 administration at three doses significantly inhibited the in vivo cancer cell proliferation and microvessel density (MVD) formation, evidenced by a low proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and CD34 expression, but increased the percentage of terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL)-positive cells. Keeping in line with this observation, SP1 treatment decreased serum matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 2 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels, downregulated the protein expression of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1alpha, VEGF, MMP2, bcl-2, N-cadherin, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), and metadherin (MTDH), and upregulated bax and NE-cadherin protein expression in tumor tissues. Taken together, our data suggest that SP1 appears to be a promising chemopreventive agent for the tumorigenesis and metastasis in patients with HCC, especially at advanced stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanmei Zou
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
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Neuzillet C, de Gramont A, Tijeras-Raballand A, de Mestier L, Cros J, Faivre S, Raymond E. Perspectives of TGF-β inhibition in pancreatic and hepatocellular carcinomas. Oncotarget 2014; 5:78-94. [PMID: 24393789 PMCID: PMC3960190 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.1569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are non-curable diseases with a particularly poor prognosis. Over the last decade, research has increasingly focused on the microenvironment surrounding cancer cells, and its role in tumour development and progression. PDAC and HCC differ markedly regarding their pathological features: PDAC are typically stromal-predominant, desmoplastic, poorly vascularized tumours, whereas HCC are cellular and highly vascularized. Despite these very different settings, PDAC and HCC share transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) as a common key-signalling mediator, involved in epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, invasion, and stroma-tumour dialogue. Recently, novel drugs blocking the TGF-β pathway have entered clinical evaluation demonstrating activity in patients with advanced PDAC and HCC. TGF-β signalling is complex and mediates both pro- and anti-tumoural activities in cancer cells depending on their context, in space and time, and their microenvironment. In this review we provide a comprehensive overview of the role of the TGF-β pathway and its deregulation in PDAC and HCC development and progression at the cellular and microenvironment levels. We also summarize key preclinical and clinical data on the role of TGF-β as a target for therapeutic intervention in PDAC and HCC, and explore perspectives to optimize TGF-β inhibition therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy Neuzillet
- INSERM U728 and U773 and Department of Medical Oncology, Beaujon University Hospital (AP-HP - PRES Paris 7 Diderot), 100 boulevard du Général Leclerc, Clichy, France
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Rodon J, Carducci MA, Sepulveda-Sánchez JM, Azaro A, Calvo E, Seoane J, Braña I, Sicart E, Gueorguieva I, Cleverly AL, Pillay NS, Desaiah D, Estrem ST, Paz-Ares L, Holdhoff M, Blakeley J, Lahn MM, Baselga J. First-in-human dose study of the novel transforming growth factor-β receptor I kinase inhibitor LY2157299 monohydrate in patients with advanced cancer and glioma. Clin Cancer Res 2014; 21:553-60. [PMID: 25424852 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-14-1380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 184] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE TGFβ signaling plays a key role in tumor progression, including malignant glioma. Small-molecule inhibitors such as LY2157299 monohydrate (LY2157299) block TGFβ signaling and reduce tumor progression in preclinical models. To use LY2157299 in the treatment of malignancies, we investigated its properties in a first-in-human dose (FHD) study in patients with cancer. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Sixty-five patients (58 with glioma) with measurable and progressive malignancies were enrolled. Oral LY2157299 was given as a split dose morning and evening on an intermittent schedule of 14 days on and 14 days off (28-day cycle). LY2157299 monotherapy was studied in dose escalation (part A) first and then evaluated in combination with standard doses of lomustine (part B). Safety was assessed using Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 3.0, echocardiography/Doppler imaging, serum troponin I, and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels. Antitumor activity was assessed by RECIST and Macdonald criteria. RESULTS In part A, 16.6% (5/30) and in part B, 7.7% (2/26) of evaluable patients with glioma had either a complete (CR) or a partial response (PR). In both parts, 15 patients with glioma had stable disease (SD), 5 of whom had SD ≥ 6 cycles of treatment. Therefore, clinical benefit (CR+PR+SD ≥ 6 cycles) was observed in 12 of 56 patients with glioma (21.4%). LY2157299 was safe, with no cardiac adverse events. CONCLUSIONS On the basis of the safety, pharmacokinetics, and antitumor activity in patients with glioma, the intermittent administration of LY2157299 at 300 mg/day is safe for future clinical investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Rodon
- Medical Oncology, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital and Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | | | | | - Analia Azaro
- Medical Oncology, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital and Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Emiliano Calvo
- Medical Oncology, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital and Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Joan Seoane
- Medical Oncology, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital and Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Irene Braña
- Medical Oncology, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital and Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elisabet Sicart
- Medical Oncology, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital and Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jaishri Blakeley
- Department of Neurology/Neurosurgery/and Oncology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | | | - Jose Baselga
- Medical Oncology, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital and Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Ding ZY, Jin GN, Wang W, Chen WX, Wu YH, Ai X, Chen L, Zhang WG, Liang HF, Laurence A, Zhang MZ, Datta PK, Zhang B, Chen XP. Reduced expression of transcriptional intermediary factor 1 gamma promotes metastasis and indicates poor prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatology 2014; 60:1620-36. [PMID: 24954480 DOI: 10.1002/hep.27273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2014] [Accepted: 06/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Transcriptional intermediary factor 1 gamma (TIF1γ) may play either a potential tumor-suppressor or -promoter role in cancer. Here we report on a critical role of TIF1γ in the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Reduced expression of TIF1γ was detected in HCC, especially in advanced HCC tissues, compared to adjacent noncancerous tissues. HCC patients with low TIF1γ expression had shorter overall survival times and higher recurrence rates than those with high TIF1γ expression. Reduced TIF1γ expression was an independent and significant risk factor for recurrence and survival after curative resection. In HCC cells, TIF1γ played a dual role: It promoted tumor growth in early-stage HCC, but not in advanced-stage HCC, whereas it inhibited invasion and metastasis in both early- and advanced-stage HCC. Mechanistically, we confirmed that TIF1γ inhibited transforming growth factor-β/ Drosophila mothers against decapentaplegic protein (TGF-β/Smad) signaling through monoubiquitination of Smad4 and suppressed the formation of Smad2/3/4 complex in HCC cells. TGF-β-inducing cytostasis and metastasis were both inhibited by TIF1γ in HCC. We further proved that TIF1γ suppressed cyotstasis-related TGF-β/Smad downstream c-myc down-regulation, as well as p21/cip1 and p15/ink4b up-regulation in early-stage HCC. Meanwhile, TGF-β inducible epithelial-mesenchymal transition and TGF-β/Smad downstream metastatic cascades, including phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome ten down-regulation, chemokine (CXC motif) receptor 4 and matrix metalloproteinase 1 induction, and epidermal growth factor receptor- and protein kinase B-signaling transactivation, were inhibited by TIF1γ. In addition, we found that the down-regulation of TIF1γ in HCC was caused by hypermethylation of CpG islands in the TIF1γ promoter, and demonstrated that the combination of TIF1γ and phosphorylated Smad2 was a more powerful predictor of poor prognosis. CONCLUSION TIF1γ regulates tumor growth and metastasis through inhibition of TGF-β/Smad signaling and may serve as a novel prognostic biomarker in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ze-yang Ding
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Jiang XM, Zhang JB, Xiong J, Huang XX, Ren ZG. Altered distribution and expression pattern of E-cadherin in hepatocellular carcinomas: correlations with prognosis and clinical features. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2014; 13:6455-61. [PMID: 23464474 DOI: 10.7314/apjcp.2012.13.12.6455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE E-cadherin has been identified as a tumor suppressor in many types of carcinoma. However, some studies recently suggested that the role and expression of E-cadherin might be more complex and diverse. In the present study, we evaluated the prognostic value of E-cadherin expression with reference to levels in membranes and cytoplasm, and the membrane/cytoplasm ratio, in hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) after curative hepatectomy. METHODS The expression of E-cadherin was assessed by immunohistochemistry in HCC tissue microarrays from 125 patients, and its prognostic values and other clinicopathlogical data were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were followed for a median period of 43.7 months (range 1 to 126 months). RESULTS Univariate analysis demonstrated that a high membrane/cytoplasm (M/C) ratio of E-cadherin expression was associated with poor overall survival (OS) (P =0.001) and shorter time to recurrence (TTR) (P =0.038), as well as tumor size, intrahepatic metastasis, and TNM stage. In contrast, neither membrane nor cytoplasmic expression of E-cadherin was related with OS and TTR. Furthermore, multivariate analysis confirmed the M/C ratio to be an independent predictor of OS (P =0.031). ?2 tests additionally showed that the M/C ratio of E-cadherin expression was related with early stage recurrence (P =0.012), rather than later stage recurrence. CONCLUSION The M/C ratio of E-cadherin expression is a strong predictor of postoperative survival and is associated with early stage recurrence in patients with HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Mei Jiang
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
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Abstract
Targeting prostate cancer metastasis has very high therapeutic potential. Prostate cancer is the second most common cause of cancer death among men in the USA, and death results from the development of metastatic disease. In order to metastasize, cancer cells must complete a series of steps that together constitute the metastatic cascade. Each step therefore offers the opportunity for therapeutic targeting. However, practical limitations have served as limiting roadblocks to successfully targeting the metastatic cascade. They include our still-emerging understanding of the underlying biology, as well as the fact that many of the dysregulated processes have critical functionality in otherwise normal cells. We provide a discussion of the underlying biology, as it relates to therapeutic targeting. Therapeutic inroads are rapidly being made, and we present a series of case studies to highlight key points. Finally, future perspectives related to drug discovery for antimetastatic agents are discussed.
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Zhu W, Li W, Yang G, Fu C, Jiang G, Hu Q. Vitronectin silencing inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma in vitro and in vivo. Future Oncol 2014; 11:251-8. [PMID: 25179307 DOI: 10.2217/fon.14.202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To explore if inhibition of vitronectin can be used for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. MATERIALS & METHODS RNAi technology was used to silence the expression of VTN in HepG2 and SMMC 7721 cells. Change of growth characteristics in these cells was evaluated. RESULTS VTN silencing does not affect growth characteristics of cancer cells in monolayer cell culture, but could suppress the colonized growth of cells in soft agar. VTN-siRNA suppresses colony formation more than 80% compared with that of control in SMMC7721cells and leads to the inhibition of colony formation of over 70% in HepG2 cells. In addition, VTN silencing decreases the size of tumor xenografts in nude mice, particularly in male mice, with an inhibition rate of 46.6%. CONCLUSION VTN plays a significant role in the malignant growth of tumor. Inhibition of VTN could potentially be applied for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhu
- Department of Toxicology, Guangzhou Center for Disease Control & Prevention, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, PR China
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132
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Han LL, Lv Y, Guo H, Ruan ZP, Nan KJ. Implications of biomarkers in human hepatocellular carcinoma pathogenesis and therapy. World J Gastroenterol 2014; 20:10249-10261. [PMID: 25132742 PMCID: PMC4130833 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i30.10249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2013] [Revised: 03/21/2014] [Accepted: 04/29/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most frequent tumors worldwide and accounts for approximately one-third of all malignancies. In the past decade, advances have been made to improve the prognosis of HCC, including improvement in the clinical diagnosis of early-stage HCC using molecular biomarkers and molecular-targeted therapy to treat advanced HCC. However, the diagnosis, pathogenesis and targeted therapy of HCC are not completely independent, and should be comprehensively studied. For example, a number of tumor markers provide useful clinical information not only for prognosis, but also in pathogenesis and treatment efficacy. Therefore, this review will focus on the role of several specific biomarkers implicated in the pathogenesis of HCC and several promising molecular-targeted drugs that target the biomarkers of HCC.
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Chen F, Zhuang M, Peng J, Wang X, Huang T, Li S, Lin M, Lin H, Xu Y, Li J, Chen Z, Huang Y. Baicalein inhibits migration and invasion of gastric cancer cells through suppression of the TGF-β signaling pathway. Mol Med Rep 2014; 10:1999-2003. [PMID: 25109410 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2014.2452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2013] [Accepted: 06/17/2014] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling pathway exhibits an important role in cancer invasion and metastasis. Excessive expression of TGF-β activates Smad4, leading to the upregulation of downstream metastasis-associated genes. Thus, the inhibition of the TGF-β/Smad4 signaling pathway may be a novel strategy for treatment of cancer metastasis. Baicalein, a flavonoid derived from the root of Scutellaria baicalensis, has been reported to exert strong anti-tumor activity towards various types of cancer. In the present study the effect of baicalein on migration and invasion of cancer cells was evaluated using wound-healing and Transwell assays. In order to investigate the possible molecular mechanisms of the anti-metastatic effects of baicalein, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and western blot analyses were performed to examine the effect on the expression of TGF‑β, Smad4, N-cadherin, vimentin, ZEB1 and ZEB2. It was determined that baicalein inhibited the migration and invasion of AGS cells by suppressing the TGF-β/Smad4 signaling pathway. In addition, baicalein treatment reduced the expression of the metastasis-associated N-cadherin, vimentin, ZEB1 and ZEB2, downstream target genes of the TGF‑β/Smad4 signaling pathway. Collectively, these results suggest that inhibition of the metastasis of cancer cells via inactivation of TGF-β/Smad4 signaling is one of the mechanisms by which baicalein may treat cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fenglin Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
| | - Mingkai Zhuang
- College of Union Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
| | - Jun Peng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine Biomedical Research Center, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
| | - Xiaozhong Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
| | - Tingxuan Huang
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
| | - Sanmei Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
| | - Manqiang Lin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
| | - Hongming Lin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
| | - Yating Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
| | - Jianying Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
| | - Zhixin Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
| | - Yuehong Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
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Fernando J, Malfettone A, Cepeda EB, Vilarrasa-Blasi R, Bertran E, Raimondi G, Fabra À, Alvarez-Barrientos A, Fernández-Salguero P, Fernández-Rodríguez CM, Giannelli G, Sancho P, Fabregat I. A mesenchymal-like phenotype and expression of CD44 predict lack of apoptotic response to sorafenib in liver tumor cells. Int J Cancer 2014; 136:E161-72. [PMID: 25053293 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.29097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2014] [Accepted: 07/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The multikinase inhibitor sorafenib is the only effective drug in advanced cases of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, response differs among patients and effectiveness only implies a delay. We have recently described that sorafenib sensitizes HCC cells to apoptosis. In this work, we have explored the response to this drug of six different liver tumor cell lines to define a phenotypic signature that may predict lack of response in HCC patients. Results have indicated that liver tumor cells that show a mesenchymal-like phenotype, resistance to the suppressor effects of transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) and high expression of the stem cell marker CD44 were refractory to sorafenib-induced cell death in in vitro studies, which correlated with lack of response to sorafenib in nude mice xenograft models of human HCC. In contrast, epithelial-like cells expressing the stem-related proteins EpCAM or CD133 were sensitive to sorafenib-induced apoptosis both in vitro and in vivo. A cross-talk between the TGF-β pathway and the acquisition of a mesenchymal-like phenotype with up-regulation of CD44 expression was found in the HCC cell lines. Targeted CD44 knock-down in the mesenchymal-like cells indicated that CD44 plays an active role in protecting HCC cells from sorafenib-induced apoptosis. However, CD44 effect requires a TGF-β-induced mesenchymal background, since the only overexpression of CD44 in epithelial-like HCC cells is not sufficient to impair sorafenib-induced cell death. In conclusion, a mesenchymal profile and expression of CD44, linked to activation of the TGF-β pathway, may predict lack of response to sorafenib in HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan Fernando
- Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
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Yu W, Huang C, Wang Q, Huang T, Ding Y, Ma C, Ma H, Chen W. MEF2 transcription factors promotes EMT and invasiveness of hepatocellular carcinoma through TGF-β1 autoregulation circuitry. Tumour Biol 2014; 35:10943-51. [PMID: 25087096 DOI: 10.1007/s13277-014-2403-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2014] [Accepted: 07/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Invasion and metastasis is the main causes leading to the death of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. However, the underlying mechanism is still to be explored. Transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) is a stronger inducer of HCC cell invasion. However, the downstream effector of TGF-β1 that promotes HCC invasion is still unknown. In this study, we found that PI3K/Akt activation takes place following the stimulation of TGF-β1. The inhibition of PI3K/Akt activation abolished epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and invasion of HCC cells induced by TGF-β1. Myocyte enhancer factors 2 (MEF2) family proteins were found to be overexpressed in HCC cells under the treatment of TGF-β1 in a PI3K/Akt-dependent way. Silencing the expression of MEF2s was able to prevent the effect of TGF-β1 on HCC EMT and invasion. Unexpectedly, MEF2 proteins were able to promote the expression of TGF-β1 in HCC cells, suggesting the existence of regulatory circuitry consisting of TGF-β1, PI3K/Akt, and MEF2. A natural compound, oleanolic acid, was demonstrated to suppress the invasion and EMT of HCC cells by downregulating MEF2, showing that targeting this pathway is an effective therapeutic strategy for HCC invasion. We believe that our findings can contribute to better understanding of the involved mechanism of HCC invasion and the development of preventive and therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Yu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Cancer Hospital, 127 Dongming Road, 450008, Zhengzhou, China
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136
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Kogure T, Kondo Y, Kakazu E, Ninomiya M, Kimura O, Shimosegawa T. Involvement of miRNA-29a in epigenetic regulation of transforming growth factor-β-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition in hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatol Res 2014; 44:907-19. [PMID: 23789939 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.12188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2013] [Revised: 06/17/2013] [Accepted: 06/18/2013] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
AIM Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a crucial process during cancer invasion and metastasis, which is accompanied by the suppressed expression of E-cadherin initiated by stimuli such as transforming growth factor (TGF)-β. Recent studies have shown that the epigenetic regulation of E-cadherin could be an alternate mechanism of EMT induction in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). miRNA-29a (miR-29a) is involved in the epigenetic regulation of genes by targeting DNA methyltransferases (DNMT), which methylate CpG islands to suppress the transcription of genes. We studied the involvement of miR-29a in TGF-β-induced EMT in HCC cells. METHODS We treated human HCC cell lines with TGF-β to induce EMT. To investigate DNA methylation in EMT, cells were treated with a methylation inhibitor, 5-Aza-2'-deoxycytidine (5-Aza) and methylation status of CpG islands in the E-cadherin promoter was examined using methylation-specific PCR. Precursor miR-29a (pre-miR-29a) was electroporated to force the expression of miR-29a in HCC cells in order to study the role of miR-29a in EMT. RESULTS TGF-β transformed HCC cells into a spindle-shaped morphology accompanied by a decrease of E-cadherin with the induction of methylation of its promoter. Pretreatment of the cells with 5-Aza blocked this suppression of E-cadherin, indicating the involvement of DNA methylation. TGF-β increased DNMT3B and DNMT1 and decreased miR-29a expression. The forced expression of miR-29a abrogated the suppression of E-cadherin induced by TGF-β. CONCLUSION miR-29a could regulate TGF-β-induced EMT by affecting DNA methylation via the suppression of DNMT. These observations reveal the epigenetic regulation of genes by miRNA as a unique mechanism of EMT in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takayuki Kogure
- Division of Gastroenterology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
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137
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Yang JW, Hien TT, Lim SC, Jun DW, Choi HS, Yoon JH, Cho IJ, Kang KW. Pin1 induction in the fibrotic liver and its roles in TGF-β1 expression and Smad2/3 phosphorylation. J Hepatol 2014; 60:1235-41. [PMID: 24530597 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2014.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2013] [Revised: 02/04/2014] [Accepted: 02/05/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Therapeutic management of liver fibrosis remains an unsolved clinical problem. Hepatic accumulation of extracellular matrix, mainly collagen, is mediated by the production of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) in stellate cells. Pin1, a peptidyl-prolyl isomerase, plays an important pathophysiological role in several diseases, including neurodegeneration and cancer. Herein, we determined whether Pin1 regulates liver fibrogenesis and examined its mechanism of action by focusing on TGF-β1 signalling and hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation. METHODS Pin1 expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry, Western blot or real-time-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analyses of human and mouse fibrotic liver samples. The role of Pin1 during HSC activation was estimated using Pin1-null mouse embryonic fibroblast (MEF) cells and Pin1-overexpressing LX-2 human hepatic stellate cells. RESULTS Pin1 expression was elevated in human and mouse fibrotic liver tissues, and Pin1 inhibition improved dimethylnitrosamine (DMN)-induced liver fibrosis in mice. Pin1 inhibition reduced the mRNA or protein expression of TGF-β1 and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) by DMN treatment. Pin1 knockdown suppressed TGFβ1 gene expression in both LX-2 and MEF cells. Pin1-mediated TGFβ1 gene transcription was controlled by extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)- and phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Akt-mediated activator protein-1 (AP-1) activation. Moreover, TGFβ1-stimulated Smad2/3 phosphorylation and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 expression were inhibited by Pin1 knockdown. CONCLUSIONS Pin1 induction during liver fibrosis is involved in hepatic stellate cell activation, TGFβ1 expression, and TGFβ1-mediated fibrogenesis signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Won Yang
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-742, Republic of Korea
| | - Tran Thi Hien
- College of Pharmacy, Chosun University, Gwangju 501-759, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Chul Lim
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Chosun University, Gwangju 501-759, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae Won Jun
- Department of Internal Medicine, Han Yang University, Seoul 133-791, Republic of Korea
| | - Hong Seok Choi
- College of Pharmacy, Chosun University, Gwangju 501-759, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Hoon Yoon
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology, College of Dentistry, Daejeon Dental Hospital, Wonkwang University, Daejeon 302-120, Republic of Korea
| | - Il Je Cho
- Medical Research Center for Globalization of Herbal Formulation, College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Gyeongsan, Gyeongsangbuk-do 712-715, Republic of Korea
| | - Keon Wook Kang
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-742, Republic of Korea.
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Nicolay NH, Sommer E, Perez RL, Wirkner U, Bostel T, Ho AD, Lahn M, Debus J, Saffrich R, Huber PE. Mesenchymal stem cells are sensitive to treatment with kinase inhibitors and ionizing radiation. Strahlenther Onkol 2014; 190:1037-45. [DOI: 10.1007/s00066-014-0686-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2014] [Accepted: 04/28/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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139
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Zhang S, Sun WY, Wu JJ, Wei W. TGF-β signaling pathway as a pharmacological target in liver diseases. Pharmacol Res 2014; 85:15-22. [PMID: 24844437 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2014.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2014] [Revised: 04/22/2014] [Accepted: 05/05/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) belongs to a class of pleiotropic cytokines that are involved in the processes of embryonic development, wound healing, cell proliferation, and differentiation. Moreover, TGF-β is also regarded as a central regulator in the pathogenesis and development of various liver diseases because it contributes to almost all of the stages of disease progression. A range of liver cells are considered to secrete TGF-β ligands and express related receptors and, consequently, play a crucial role in the progression of liver disease via different signal pathways. In this manuscript, we review the role of the TGF-β signaling pathway in liver disease and the potential of targeting the TGF-β signaling in the pharmacological treatment of liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sen Zhang
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, Anhui Province, China
| | - Wu-Yi Sun
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, Anhui Province, China.
| | - Jing-Jing Wu
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, Anhui Province, China
| | - Wei Wei
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, Anhui Province, China.
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140
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Giannelli G, Villa E, Lahn M. Transforming growth factor-β as a therapeutic target in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Res 2014; 74:1890-4. [PMID: 24638984 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-14-0243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 209] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma arises in patients as a consequence of long-standing preexisting liver illnesses, including viral hepatitis, alcohol abuse, or metabolic disease. In such preexisting liver diseases, TGF-β plays an important role in orchestrating a favorable microenvironment for tumor cell growth and promoting epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). TGF-β signaling promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression by two mechanisms: first, via an intrinsic activity as an autocrine or paracrine growth factor and, second, via an extrinsic activity by inducing microenvironment changes, including cancer-associated fibroblasts, T regulatory cells, and inflammatory mediators. Although there is an increasing understanding on how TGF-β signaling is associated with tumor progression in hepatocellular carcinoma, it is not clear whether TGF-β signaling is limited to a certain subgroup of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma or is a key driver of hepatocellular carcinoma during the entire tumorigenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma. Inhibitors of the TGF-β signaling have been shown to block hepatocellular carcinoma growth and progression by modulating EMT in different experimental models, leading to the clinical investigation of the TGF-β inhibitor LY2157299 monohydrate in hepatocellular carcinoma. Preliminary results from a phase II clinical trial have shown improved clinical outcome and also changes consistent with a reduction of EMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianluigi Giannelli
- Authors' Affiliations: Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari Medical School, Bari; Department of Internal Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio, Modena, Italy; and Early Phase Clinical Investigation, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
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141
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Guo C, Zhu K, Sun W, Yang B, Gu W, Luo J, Peng B, Zheng J. The effect of Pokemon on bladder cancer epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2014; 443:1226-31. [PMID: 24393848 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2013.12.115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2013] [Accepted: 12/22/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed at detecting Pokemon expression in bladder cancer cell and investigating the relationship between Pokemon and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Furthermore, we investigated the functions of Pokemon in the carcinogenesis and development of bladder cancer. This study was also designed to observe the inhibitory effects of siRNA expression vector on Pokemon in bladder cancer cell. METHODS The siRNA expression vectors which were constructed to express a short hairpin RNA against Pokemon were transfected to the bladder cancer cells T24 with a liposome. Levels of Pokemon, E-cadherin and β-catenin mRNA and protein were examined by real-time quantitative-fluorescent PCR and Western blot analysis, respectively. The effects of Pokemon silencing on epithelial-mesenchymal transition of T24 cells were evaluated with wound-healing assay. RESULTS Pokemon was strongly inhibited by siRNA treatment, especially siRNA3 treatment group, as it was reflected by Western blot and real-time PCR. The gene and protein of E-cadherin expression level showed increased markedly after Pokemon was inhibited by RNA interference. While there were no differences in the levels of gene and protein of β-catenin among five groups. The bladder cancer cell after Pokemon siRNA interference showed a significantly reduced wound-closing efficiency at 6, 12 and 24h. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest Pokemon may inhibit the expression of E-cadherin. The low expression of E-cadherin lead to increasing the phenotype and apical-base polarity of epithelial cells. These changes of cells may result in the recurrence and progression of bladder cancer at last.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changcheng Guo
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, People's Republic of China.
| | - Kai Zhu
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, People's Republic of China.
| | - Wei Sun
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, People's Republic of China.
| | - Bin Yang
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, People's Republic of China.
| | - Wenyu Gu
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jun Luo
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, People's Republic of China.
| | - Bo Peng
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, People's Republic of China.
| | - Junhua Zheng
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, People's Republic of China.
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142
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Bertran E, Crosas-Molist E, Sancho P, Caja L, Lopez-Luque J, Navarro E, Egea G, Lastra R, Serrano T, Ramos E, Fabregat I. Overactivation of the TGF-β pathway confers a mesenchymal-like phenotype and CXCR4-dependent migratory properties to liver tumor cells. Hepatology 2013; 58:2032-44. [PMID: 23813475 DOI: 10.1002/hep.26597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2013] [Accepted: 06/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) is an important regulatory suppressor factor in hepatocytes. However, liver tumor cells develop mechanisms to overcome its suppressor effects and respond to this cytokine by inducing other processes, such as the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which contributes to tumor progression and dissemination. Recent studies have placed chemokines and their receptors at the center not only of physiological cell migration but also of pathological processes, such as metastasis in cancer. In particular, CXCR4 and its ligand, stromal cell-derived factor 1α (SDF-1α) / chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 12 (CXCL12) have been revealed as regulatory molecules involved in the spreading and progression of a variety of tumors. Here we show that autocrine stimulation of TGF-β in human liver tumor cells correlates with a mesenchymal-like phenotype, resistance to TGF-β-induced suppressor effects, and high expression of CXCR4, which is required for TGF-β-induced cell migration. Silencing of the TGF-β receptor1 (TGFBR1), or its specific inhibition, recovered the epithelial phenotype and attenuated CXCR4 expression, inhibiting cell migratory capacity. In an experimental mouse model of hepatocarcinogenesis (diethylnitrosamine-induced), tumors showed increased activation of the TGF-β pathway and enhanced CXCR4 levels. In human hepatocellular carcinoma tumors, high levels of CXCR4 always correlated with activation of the TGF-β pathway, a less differentiated phenotype, and a cirrhotic background. CXCR4 concentrated at the tumor border and perivascular areas, suggesting its potential involvement in tumor cell dissemination. CONCLUSION A crosstalk exists among the TGF-β and CXCR4 pathways in liver tumors, reflecting a novel molecular mechanism that explains the protumorigenic effects of TGF-β and opens new perspectives for tumor therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Bertran
- Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
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143
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Sadamori H, Yagi T, Shigeyasu K, Umeda Y, Sugihara M, Yokomichi N, Ohara T, Nishida N, Nagasaka T, Goel A, Fujiwara T. Advanced hepatocellular carcinoma with lymph node metastases showing epithelial to mesenchymal transition effectively treated with systemic chemotherapy: Report of a case. Hepatol Res 2013; 43:1368-73. [PMID: 23607775 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.12080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2012] [Revised: 12/27/2012] [Accepted: 01/21/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
We present a case in which combination chemotherapy was used to successfully treat hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with rapid progression of lymph node (LN) metastases after liver resection. In addition, epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers were examined immunohistochemically. A 43-year-old man who had been diagnosed with HCC showed an enlarged LN near the hepatic artery proper. After extended left lobectomy with lymphadenectomy in the hepatoduodenal ligament, he experienced rapid progression of metastases to the para-aortic and mediastinal LN. Partial remission was achieved after induction and maintenance of combination chemotherapy using etoposide, carboplatin, epirubicin and 5-fluorouracil. As a consequence of this treatment, the patient survived 10 months. Immunohistochemical studies demonstrated that HCC cells in the metastatic LN showed low expression of E-cadherin and high expression of N-cadherin and vimentin, indicating EMT. Combination chemotherapy may prove effective for patients with HCC accompanied by LN metastases that show features of EMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Sadamori
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama
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144
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Karki S, Surolia R, Hock TD, Guroji P, Zolak JS, Duggal R, Ye T, Thannickal VJ, Antony VB. Wilms' tumor 1 (Wt1) regulates pleural mesothelial cell plasticity and transition into myofibroblasts in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. FASEB J 2013; 28:1122-31. [PMID: 24265486 DOI: 10.1096/fj.13-236828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Pleural mesothelial cells (PMCs), which are derived from the mesoderm, exhibit an extraordinary capacity to undergo phenotypic changes during development and disease. PMC transformation and trafficking has a newly defined role in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF); however, the contribution of Wilms' tumor 1 (Wt1)-positive PMCs to the generation of pathognomonic myofibroblasts remains unclear. PMCs were obtained from IPF lung explants and healthy donor lungs that were not used for transplantation. Short hairpin Wt1-knockdown PMCs (sh Wt1) were generated with Wt1 shRNA, and morphologic and functional assays were performed in vitro. Loss of Wt1 abrogated the PMC phenotype and showed evidence of mesothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (MMT), with a reduced expression of E-cadherin and an increase in the profibrotic markers α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and fibronectin, along with increased migration and contractility, compared with that of the control. Migration of PMCs in response to active transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 was assessed by live-cell imaging with 2-photon microscopy and 3D imaging, of Wt1-EGFP transgenic mice. Lineage-tracing experiments to map the fate of Wt1(+) PMCs in mouse lung in response to TGF-β1 were also performed by using a Cre-loxP system. Our results, for the first time, demonstrate that Wt1 is necessary for the morphologic integrity of pleural membrane and that loss of Wt1 contributes to IPF via MMT of PMCs into a myofibroblast phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suman Karki
- 2Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL 35294, USA;
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145
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Chen YW, Pan HB, Tseng HH, Chu HC, Hung YT, Yen YC, Chou CP. Differentiated epithelial- and mesenchymal-like phenotypes in subcutaneous mouse xenografts using diffusion weighted-magnetic resonance imaging. Int J Mol Sci 2013; 14:21943-59. [PMID: 24196357 PMCID: PMC3856043 DOI: 10.3390/ijms141121943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2013] [Revised: 10/22/2013] [Accepted: 10/24/2013] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is important for tumor metastasis. Detection of EMT protein expression and observation of morphological changes are commonly used to identify EMT. Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DW-MRI) and measuring apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values are noninvasive techniques for characterizing tumor microenvironments. We investigated the difference in ADC values between epithelial- and mesenchymal-like subcutaneous mouse xenografted tumors using DW-MRI. Epithelial-like MM189 PB-Klf4 and BL322 PB-Klf4 cells were generated from tumor suppressive Kruppel-like factor 4 (Klf4)-expressing mesenchymal-like MM189 and BL322 cells. The ADC values of xenografted tumors from epithelial-like MM189 PB-Klf4 and BL322 PB-Klf4 were significantly lower than those from their mesenchymal-like counterparts (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively). Our results suggested that DW-MRI is a potential tool for observing mesenchymal- or epithelial-like characteristics of subcutaneous xenografted tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Wen Chen
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli 350, Taiwan; E-Mails: (Y.-W.C.); (H.-C.C.); (Y.-C.Y.)
- Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Taichung 404, Taiwan
| | - Huay-Ben Pan
- Department of Radiology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung 813, Taiwan; E-Mails: (H.-B.P.); (Y.-T.H.)
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiological Sciences, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung 824, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 112, Taiwan; E-Mail:
| | - Hui-Hwa Tseng
- School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 112, Taiwan; E-Mail:
- Department of Pathology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung 813, Taiwan
| | - Hsiao-Chien Chu
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli 350, Taiwan; E-Mails: (Y.-W.C.); (H.-C.C.); (Y.-C.Y.)
| | - Yu-Ting Hung
- Department of Radiology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung 813, Taiwan; E-Mails: (H.-B.P.); (Y.-T.H.)
| | - Yi-Chen Yen
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli 350, Taiwan; E-Mails: (Y.-W.C.); (H.-C.C.); (Y.-C.Y.)
| | - Chen-Pin Chou
- Department of Radiology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung 813, Taiwan; E-Mails: (H.-B.P.); (Y.-T.H.)
- School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 112, Taiwan; E-Mail:
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences and Biotechnology, Fooyin University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
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146
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Zucchini-Pascal N, Peyre L, Rahmani R. Crosstalk between beta-catenin and snail in the induction of epithelial to mesenchymal transition in hepatocarcinoma: role of the ERK1/2 pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2013; 14:20768-92. [PMID: 24135872 PMCID: PMC3821642 DOI: 10.3390/ijms141020768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2013] [Revised: 09/23/2013] [Accepted: 10/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an integral process in the progression of many epithelial tumors. It involves a coordinated series of events, leading to the loss of epithelial features and the acquisition of a mesenchymal phenotype, resulting in invasion and metastasis. The EMT of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells is thought to be a key event in intrahepatic dissemination and distal metastasis. In this study, we used 12-O-tet-radecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) to dissect the signaling pathways involved in the EMT of HepG2 hepatocarcinoma cells. The spectacular change in phenotype induced by TPA, leading to a pronounced spindle-shaped fibroblast-like cell morphology, required ERK1/2 activation. This ERK1/2-dependent EMT process was characterized by a loss of E-cadherin function, modification of the cytoskeleton, the acquisition of mesenchymal markers and profound changes to extracellular matrix composition and mobility. Snail was essential for E-cadherin repression, but was not sufficient for full commitment of the TPA-triggered EMT. We found that TPA triggered the formation of a complex between Snail and β-catenin that activated the Wnt pathway. This study thus provides the first evidence for the existence of a complex network governed by the ERK1/2 signaling pathway, converging on the coregulation of Snail and the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and responsible for the onset and the progression of EMT in hepatocellular carcinoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Zucchini-Pascal
- Laboratory of Xenobiotic's Cellular and Molecular Toxicology, INRA, UMR 1331 TOXALIM (Research Centre in Food Toxicology), Sophia Antipolis 06903, France.
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147
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Herrera B, García-Álvaro M, Cruz S, Walsh P, Fernández M, Roncero C, Fabregat I, Sánchez A, Inman GJ. BMP9 is a proliferative and survival factor for human hepatocellular carcinoma cells. PLoS One 2013; 8:e69535. [PMID: 23936038 PMCID: PMC3720667 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0069535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2013] [Accepted: 06/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
TGF-β family members play a relevant role in tumorigenic processes, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but a specific implication of the Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP) subfamily is still unknown. Although originally isolated from fetal liver, little is known about BMP9, a BMP family member, and its role in liver physiology and pathology. Our results show that BMP9 promotes growth in HCC cells, but not in immortalized human hepatocytes. In the liver cancer cell line HepG2, BMP9 triggers Smad1,5,8 phosphorylation and inhibitor of DNA binding 1 (Id1) expression up- regulation. Importantly, by using chemical inhibitors, ligand trap and gene silencing approaches we demonstrate that HepG2 cells autocrinely produce BMP9 that supports their proliferation and anchorage independent growth. Additionally, our data reveal that in HepG2 cells BMP9 triggers cell cycle progression, and strikingly, completely abolishes the increase in the percentage of apoptotic cells induced by long-term incubation in low serum. Collectively, our data unveil a dual role for BMP9, both promoting a proliferative response and exerting a remarkable anti-apoptotic function in HepG2 cells, which result in a robust BMP9 effect on liver cancer cell growth. Finally, we show that BMP9 expression is increased in 40% of human HCC tissues compared with normal human liver as revealed by immunohistochemistry analysis, suggesting that BMP9 signaling may be relevant during hepatocarcinogenesis in vivo. Our findings provide new clues for a better understanding of BMPs contribution, and in particular BMP9, in HCC pathogenesis that may result in the development of effective and targeted therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blanca Herrera
- Dep. Bioquímica y Biología Molecular II, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain.
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148
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Dituri F, Mazzocca A, Fernando J, Peidrò FJ, Papappicco P, Fabregat I, De Santis F, Paradiso A, Sabbà C, Giannelli G. Differential Inhibition of the TGF-β Signaling Pathway in HCC Cells Using the Small Molecule Inhibitor LY2157299 and the D10 Monoclonal Antibody against TGF-β Receptor Type II. PLoS One 2013; 8:e67109. [PMID: 23826206 PMCID: PMC3694933 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0067109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2013] [Accepted: 05/14/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated blocking the TGF-β signaling pathway in HCC using two small molecule inhibitors (LY2157299, LY2109761) and a neutralizing humanized antibody (D10) against TGF-βRII. LY2157299 and LY2109761 inhibited HCC cell migration on Laminin-5, Fibronectin, Vitronectin, Fibrinogen and Collagen-I and de novo phosphorylation of pSMAD2. LY2157299 inhibited HCC migration and cell growth independently of the expression levels of TGF-βRII. In contrast to LY2157299, D10 showed a reduction in pSMAD2 only after a short exposure. This study supports the use of LY2157299 in clinical trials, and presents new insights into TGF-β receptor cycling in cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Dituri
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Section of Internal Medicine Allergology and Immunology, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
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149
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Abstract
The transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) system signals via protein kinase receptors and SMAD mediators to regulate a large number of biological processes. Alterations of the TGF-β signalling pathway are implicated in human cancer. Prior to tumour initiation and early during progression, TGF-β acts as a tumour suppressor; however, at later stages, it is often a tumour promoter. Knowledge about the mechanisms involved in TGF-β signal transduction has allowed a better understanding of cancer progression, invasion, metastasis and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Furthermore, several molecular targets with great potential in therapeutic interventions have been identified. This review discusses the TGF-β signalling pathway, its involvement in cancer and current therapeutic approaches.
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150
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Yang Z, Zhang Y, Wang L. A feedback inhibition between miRNA-127 and TGFβ/c-Jun cascade in HCC cell migration via MMP13. PLoS One 2013; 8:e65256. [PMID: 23762330 PMCID: PMC3676458 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0065256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2013] [Accepted: 04/25/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common cancer worldwide and is increasing in frequency in the U.S. The major reason for the low postoperative survival rate of HCC is widespread intrahepatic metastasis or invasion, and activation of TGFβ signaling is associated with the invasive phenotype. This study aims at determining the novel function of miR-127 in modulating HCC migration. Overexpression of miR-127 inhibits HCC cell migration, invasion and tumor growth in nude mice. MiR-127 directly represses matrix metalloproteinase 13 (MMP13) 3'UTR activity and protein expression, and diminishes MMP13/TGFβ-induced HCC migration. In turn, TGFβ decreases miR-127 expression by enhancing c-Jun-mediated inhibition of miR-127 promoter activity. In contrast, p53 transactivates miR-127 promoter and induces miR-127 expression, which is antagonized by c-Jun. The inhibition of miR-127 by c-Jun is through TGFβ-mediated ERK and JNK pathways. The lower miR-127 expression shows a negative correlation with the higher MMP13 expression in a subset of human HCC specimens. This is the first report elucidating a feedback regulation between miR-127 and the TGFβ/c-Jun cascade in HCC migration via MMP13 that involves a crosstalk between the oncogene c-Jun and tumor suppressor p53.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihong Yang
- Departments of Medicine and Oncological Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Yuxia Zhang
- Departments of Medicine and Oncological Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Li Wang
- Departments of Medicine and Oncological Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
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