151
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Gong L, Zhang Y, Yang Y, Yan Q, Ren J, Luo J, Tiu YC, Fang X, Liu B, Lam RHW, Lam K, Lee AW, Guan X. Inhibition of lysyl oxidase-like 2 overcomes adhesion-dependent drug resistance in the collagen-enriched liver cancer microenvironment. Hepatol Commun 2022; 6:3194-3211. [PMID: 35894804 PMCID: PMC9592791 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is considered to be one of the vital mediators of tumor progression. Extracellular matrix (ECM), infiltrating immune cells, and stromal cells collectively constitute the complex ecosystem with varied biochemical and biophysical properties. The development of liver cancer is strongly tied with fibrosis and cirrhosis that alters the microenvironmental landscape, especially ECM composition. Enhanced deposition and cross-linking of type I collagen are frequently detected in patients with liver cancer and have been shown to facilitate tumor growth and metastasis by epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. However, information on the effect of collagen enrichment on drug resistance is lacking. Thus, the present study has comprehensively illustrated phenotypical and mechanistic changes in an in vitro mimicry of collagen-enriched TME and revealed that collagen enrichment could induce 5-fluorouracil (5FU) and sorafenib resistance in liver cancer cells through hypoxia-induced up-regulation of lysyl oxidase-like 2 (LOXL2). LOXL2, an enzyme that facilitates collagen cross-linking, enhances cell adhesion-mediated drug resistance by activating the integrin alpha 5 (ITGA5)/focal adhesion kinase (FAK)/phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/rho-associated kinase 1 (ROCK1) signaling axis. Conclusion: We demonstrated that inhibition of LOXL2 in a collagen-enriched microenvironment synergistically promotes the efficacy of sorafenib and 5FU through deterioration of focal adhesion signaling. These findings have clinical implications for developing LOXL2-targeted strategies in patients with chemoresistant liver cancer and especially for those patients with advanced fibrosis and cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lanqi Gong
- Department of Clinical OncologyThe University of Hong Kong‐Shenzhen HospitalShenzhenChina,Department of Clinical OncologyLi Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineHong KongChina,State Key Laboratory of Liver ResearchThe University of Hong KongHong KongChina
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Clinical OncologyLi Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineHong KongChina,State Key Laboratory of Liver ResearchThe University of Hong KongHong KongChina,Department of Pediatric OncologySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouChina,State Key Laboratory of Oncology in Southern ChinaSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouChina
| | - Yuma Yang
- Department of Clinical OncologyThe University of Hong Kong‐Shenzhen HospitalShenzhenChina,Department of Clinical OncologyLi Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineHong KongChina
| | - Qian Yan
- Department of Colorectal SurgeryGuangdong Institute Gastroenterology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Jifeng Ren
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringCity University of Hong KongHong KongChina,School of Biomedical EngineeringCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Jie Luo
- Department of Clinical OncologyThe University of Hong Kong‐Shenzhen HospitalShenzhenChina,Department of Clinical OncologyLi Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineHong KongChina
| | - Yuen Chak Tiu
- Department of Clinical OncologyLi Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineHong KongChina
| | - Xiaona Fang
- Department of Clinical OncologyThe University of Hong Kong‐Shenzhen HospitalShenzhenChina,Department of Clinical OncologyLi Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineHong KongChina,State Key Laboratory of Liver ResearchThe University of Hong KongHong KongChina
| | - Beilei Liu
- Department of Clinical OncologyThe University of Hong Kong‐Shenzhen HospitalShenzhenChina,Department of Clinical OncologyLi Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineHong KongChina,State Key Laboratory of Liver ResearchThe University of Hong KongHong KongChina
| | - Raymond Hiu Wai Lam
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringCity University of Hong KongHong KongChina
| | - Ka‐On Lam
- Department of Clinical OncologyThe University of Hong Kong‐Shenzhen HospitalShenzhenChina,Department of Clinical OncologyLi Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineHong KongChina
| | - Anne Wing‐Mui Lee
- Department of Clinical OncologyThe University of Hong Kong‐Shenzhen HospitalShenzhenChina,Department of Clinical OncologyLi Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineHong KongChina,Advanced Energy Science and Technology Guangdong LaboratoryHuizhouChina
| | - Xin‐Yuan Guan
- Department of Clinical OncologyThe University of Hong Kong‐Shenzhen HospitalShenzhenChina,Department of Clinical OncologyLi Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineHong KongChina,State Key Laboratory of Liver ResearchThe University of Hong KongHong KongChina,State Key Laboratory of Oncology in Southern ChinaSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouChina,Advanced Energy Science and Technology Guangdong LaboratoryHuizhouChina
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152
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CircFMN2 Boosts Sorafenib Resistance in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells via Upregulating CNBP by Restraining Ubiquitination. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2022; 2022:2674163. [PMID: 35909906 PMCID: PMC9334069 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2674163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Noncoding RNAs exert critical biological effects in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The role of circFMN2, a newly discovered functional RNA in prostate cancer and colorectal cancer, was investigated for the first time in sorafenib-resistance HCC cells. Methods The level of circFMN2 was assessed via quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Cell proliferation was detected via CCK-8 and colony formation assay. Cell apoptosis was measured via the TUNEL assay and flow cytometry analysis. A Western blot assay was conducted to detect the CCHC-type zinc finger nucleic acid binding protein (CNBP) level and ubiquitination. RNA pull-down assay and RNA immunoprecipitation were carried out to explore the interaction between circFMN2 and CNBP. Results CircFMN2 was highly expressed in multidrug-resistant (MDR) cells. CircFMN2 overexpression exerted pro-proliferation effects in sorafenib-treated HCC cells, while depletion of circFMN2 displayed negative effect on sorafenib-treated MDR cells. Moreover, CNBP was verified as the binding protein of circFMN2. CNBP was upregulated in MDR cells, which was achieved by inhibition of ubiquitination by circFMN2. Besides, CNBP overexpression was found to boost sorafenib resistance in HCC cells. Conclusions CircFMN2 is aberrantly expressed in sorafenib-resistant HCC cells and contributes to sorafenib resistance in HCC cells via upregulation of CNBP by restraining ubiquitination.
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153
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The E3 ubiquitin ligase MG53 inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma by targeting RAC1 signaling. Oncogenesis 2022; 11:40. [PMID: 35858925 PMCID: PMC9300626 DOI: 10.1038/s41389-022-00414-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 (RAC1) overexpressiosn and hyperactivation are correlated with aggressive growth and other malignant characteristics in a wide variety of cancers including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the regulatory mechanism of RAC1 expression and activation in HCC is not fully understood. Here, we demonstrated that E3 ubiquitin ligase MG53 (also known as tripartite motif 72, TRIM72) acted as a direct inhibitor of RAC1, and it catalyzed the ubiquitination of RAC1 and further inhibited RAC1 activity in HCC cells. Mechanistically, MG53 directly bound with RAC1 through its coiled-coil domain and suppressed RAC1 activity by catalyzing the Lys48 (K48)-linked polyubiquitination of RAC1 at Lys5 residue in HCC cells. We further demonstrated that MG53 significantly suppressed the malignant behaviors of HCC cells and enhanced the chemosensitivity of HCC cells to sorafenib treatment by inhibiting RAC1-MAPK signaling axis. In summary, we identified MG53 as a novel RAC1 inhibitor and tumor suppressor in HCC, and it suppressed HCC progression by inducing K48-linked polyubiquitination of RAC1 and further inhibiting the RAC1-MAPK signaling. Altogether, our investigation provided a new therapeutic strategy for RAC1 overactivated tumors by modulating MG53.
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154
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Formulation and therapeutic efficacy of PEG-liposomes of sorafenib for the production of NL-PEG-SOR FUM and NL-PEG-SOR TOS. RESEARCH ON CHEMICAL INTERMEDIATES 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11164-022-04777-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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155
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Mechanisms of resistance to tyrosine kinase inhibitors in liver cancer stem cells and potential therapeutic approaches. Essays Biochem 2022; 66:371-386. [PMID: 35818992 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20220001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The administration of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) for the treatment of advanced-stage patients is common in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, therapy resistance is often encountered, and its emergence eventually curtails long-term clinical benefits. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are essential drivers of tumor recurrence and therapy resistance; thus, the elucidation of key hallmarks of resistance mechanisms of liver CSC-driven HCC may help improve patient outcomes and reduce relapse. The present review provides a comprehensive summary of the intrinsic and extrinsic mechanisms of TKI resistance in liver CSCs, which mediate treatment failure, and discusses potential strategies to overcome TKI resistance from a preclinical perspective.
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156
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Kang X, Huo Y, Jia S, He F, Li H, Zhou Q, Chang N, Liu D, Li R, Hu Y, Zhang P, Xu A. Silenced LINC01134 Enhances Oxaliplatin Sensitivity by Facilitating Ferroptosis Through GPX4 in Hepatocarcinoma. Front Oncol 2022; 12:939605. [PMID: 35875091 PMCID: PMC9304856 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.939605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Recently, long noncoding RNA LINC01134 has been shown to reduce cell viability and apoptosis via the antioxidant stress pathway, thereby enhancing OXA resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma. However, the association of LINC01134 with ferroptosis and the underlying molecular mechanisms remain to be elucidated. Methods Bioinformatics analysis was employed to screen lncRNAs positively correlated with GPX4 and poor clinical prognosis. And Western blot and RT-PCR analysis in HCC cells confirmed the effect of LINC01134 on GPX4 expression. In addition, LINC01134 siRNA was transfected in HCC cells to detect the changes in cell viability, ROS, lipid peroxidation, MDA levels and GSH/GSSG levels. CCK-8, colony formation and apoptosis assays were performed to determine the effect of LINC01134 on cell death. The effect of LINC01134 and OXA on Nrf2 transcriptional binding to GPX4 was analyzed using dual luciferase reporter assay and CHIP. The expression of GPX4 and Nrf2 in HCC tissues was detected by FISH and IHC. Results LINC01134 is a novel lncRNA positively correlated with GPx4 and associated with poor clinical prognosis. Silenced LINC01134 conferred OXA sensitivity by enhancing total ROS, lipid ROS, MDA levels and decreasing GSH/GSSG ratio. Mechanistically, LINC01134 and OXA could promote Nrf2 recruitment to the GPX4 promoter region to exert transcriptional regulation of GPX4. Clinically, LINC01134 was positively correlated with GPX4 or Nrf2, demonstrating the clinical significance of LINC01134, Nrf2 and GPX4 in OXA resistance of HCC. Conclusions We identified LINC01134/Nrf2/GPX4 as a novel and critical axis to regulate HCC growth and progression. Targeting GPX4, knocking down LINC01134 or Nrf2 could be a potential therapeutic strategy for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofeng Kang
- Department of Oncology, The Second Medical Center & National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- International School of Public Health and One Health, Hainan Medical University, Hainan, China
| | - Yan Huo
- Department of Ophthalmology, PLA Rocket Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing, China
| | - Songhao Jia
- Department of Infectious Disease, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Fuliang He
- Department of Liver Research Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital of Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Huizi Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, PLA Rocket Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing, China
| | - Qing Zhou
- Department of gastroenterology, Second Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Nijia Chang
- Department of Oncology, The Second Medical Center & National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Donghui Liu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Rongkuan Li
- Department of Infectious Disease, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- *Correspondence: An Xu, ; Ping Zhang, ; Yi Hu, ; Rongkuan Li,
| | - Yi Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: An Xu, ; Ping Zhang, ; Yi Hu, ; Rongkuan Li,
| | - Ping Zhang
- International School of Public Health and One Health, Hainan Medical University, Hainan, China
- *Correspondence: An Xu, ; Ping Zhang, ; Yi Hu, ; Rongkuan Li,
| | - An Xu
- Department of Oncology, The Second Medical Center & National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: An Xu, ; Ping Zhang, ; Yi Hu, ; Rongkuan Li,
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157
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Xia Z, Kong F, Wang K, Zhang X. Role of N6-Methyladenosine Methylation Regulators in the Drug Therapy of Digestive System Tumours. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:908079. [PMID: 35754499 PMCID: PMC9218687 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.908079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Digestive system tumours, including stomach, colon, esophagus, liver and pancreatic tumours, are serious diseases affecting human health. Although surgical treatment and postoperative chemoradiotherapy effectively improve patient survival, current diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for digestive system tumours lack sensitivity and specificity. Moreover, the tumour's tolerance to drug therapy is enhanced owing to tumour cell heterogeneity. Thus, primary or acquired treatment resistance is currently the main hindrance to chemotherapy efficiency. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) has various biological functions in RNA modification. m6A modification, a key regulator of transcription expression, regulates RNA metabolism and biological processes through the interaction of m6A methyltransferase ("writers") and demethylase ("erasers") with the binding protein decoding m6A methylation ("readers"). Additionally, m6A modification regulates the occurrence and development of tumours and is a potential driving factor of tumour drug resistance. This review systematically summarises the regulatory mechanisms of m6A modification in the drug therapy of digestive system malignancies. Furthermore, it clarifies the related mechanisms and therapeutic prospects of m6A modification in the resistence of digestive system malignancies to drug therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhelin Xia
- Department of Pharmacy, Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital), Taizhou, China
| | - Fanhua Kong
- Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Institute of Hepatobiliary Diseases of Wuhan University, Transplant Center of Wuhan University, National Quality Control Center for Donated Organ Procurement, Hubei Key Laboratory of Medical Technology on Transplantation, Hubei Clinical Research Center for Natural Polymer Biological Liver, Hubei Engineering Center of Natural Polymer-based Medical Materials, Wuhan, China
| | - Kunpeng Wang
- Department of General Surgery Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University, Hospital), Taizhou, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital), Taizhou, China
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158
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Mao D, Xu M, Jiang Q, Sun H, Sun F, Yang R, Chai Y, Li X, Li B, Li Y. A Single Nucleotide Mixture Enhances the Antitumor Activity of Molecular-Targeted Drugs Against Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:951831. [PMID: 35833031 PMCID: PMC9271877 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.951831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
New strategies for molecular-targeted drug therapy for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) ignore the contribution of the nutritional status of patients and nutritional support to improve physical status and immunity. We aimed to elucidate the role of a single nucleotide mixture (SNM) in the anti-tumor therapy of HCC, and to explore the importance of a SNM as adjuvant therapy for HCC. Compared with a lipid emulsion (commonly used nutritional supplement for HCC patients), the SNM could not induce metabolic abnormalities in HCC cells (Warburg effect), and did not affect expression of metabolic abnormality-related factors in HCC cells. The SNM could also attenuate the lymphocyte injury induced by antitumor drugs in vitro and in vivo, and promote the recruitment and survival of lymphocytes in HCC tissues. Using HCC models in SCID (server combined immune-deficiency) mice or BalB/c mice, the SNM had anti-tumor activity, and could significantly upregulate the antitumor activity of molecular-targeted drugs (tyrosine-kinase inhibitors [TKI] and immune-checkpoint inhibitors [ICI]) against HCC. We employed research models in vivo and in vitro to reveal the anti-tumor activity of the SNM on HCC. Our findings expand understanding of the SNM and contribute to HCC (especially nutritional support) therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da Mao
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Division of Chemical Metrology and Analytical Science, National Institute of Metrology, Beijing, China
| | - Meihong Xu
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Qiyu Jiang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Institute of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Huiwei Sun
- Department of Infectious Disease, Institute of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Fang Sun
- Department of Infectious Disease, Institute of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ruichuang Yang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Institute of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yantao Chai
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojuan Li
- Department of Infectious Disease, Institute of Infectious Disease, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Boan Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yong Li, ; Boan Li,
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yong Li, ; Boan Li,
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159
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Li L, Yu S, Chen J, Quan M, Gao Y, Li Y. miR-15a and miR-20b sensitize hepatocellular carcinoma cells to sorafenib through repressing CDC37L1 and consequent PPIA downregulation. Cell Death Dis 2022; 8:297. [PMID: 35760798 PMCID: PMC9237098 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-022-01094-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Sorafenib is a classical targeted drug for the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but intrinsic resistance severely limited its therapeutic effects. In the present study, we aimed to identify crucial genes in HCC cells that affect sorafenib resistance by a CRISPR/Cas9 genome-scale screening. The results indicated that the deficiency of miR-15a and miR-20b contributed to sorafenib resistance, whereas exogenous expression of miR-15a and miR-20b enhanced sorafenib sensitivity of HCC cells by cell viability, colony formation, and flow cytometry analyses. Further analyses revealed that cell division cycle 37 like 1 (CDC37L1) as a common target of miR-15a and 20b, was negatively regulated by the two miRNAs and could enhance sorafenib resistance of HCC cells in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, CDC37L1, as a cochaperone, effectively increased the expression of peptidylprolyl isomerase A (PPIA) through strengthening the binding between heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) and PPIA. The results from immunohistochemical staining of a HCC tissue microarray revealed a positive association between CDC37L1 and PPIA expression, and high expression of CDC37L1 and PPIA predicted worse prognosis of HCC patients after sorafenib therapy. Taken together, our findings reveal crucial roles of miR-15a, miR-20b, CDC37L1, and PPIA in sorafenib response of HCC cells. These factors may serve as therapeutic targets and predict prognosis for HCC treated with sorafenib.
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160
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Sorafenib Chemosensitization by Caryophyllane Sesquiterpenes in Liver, Biliary, and Pancreatic Cancer Cells: The Role of STAT3/ABC Transporter Axis. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14061264. [PMID: 35745837 PMCID: PMC9231089 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14061264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A combination of anticancer drugs and chemosensitizing agents has been approached as a promising strategy to potentiate chemotherapy and reduce toxicity in aggressive and chemoresistant cancers, like hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). In the present study, the ability of caryophyllane sesquiterpenes to potentiate sorafenib efficacy was studied in HCC, CCA, and PDAC cell models, focusing on the modulation of STAT3 signaling and ABC transporters; tolerability studies in normal cells were also performed. Results showed that the combination of sorafenib and caryophyllane sesquiterpenes synergized the anticancer drug, especially in pancreatic Bx-PC3 adenocarcinoma cells; a similar trend, although with lower efficacy, was found for the standard ABC transporter inhibitors. Synergistic effects were associated with a modulation of MDR1 (or Pgp) and MRP transporters, both at gene and protein level; moreover, activation of STAT3 cascade and cell migration appeared significantly affected, suggesting that the STAT3/ABC-transporters axis finely regulated efficacy and chemoresistance to sorafenib, thus appearing as a suitable target to overcome drawbacks of sorafenib-based chemotherapy in hepato-biliary-pancreatic cancers. Present findings strengthen the interest in caryophyllane sesquiterpenes as chemosensitizing and chemopreventive agents and contribute to clarifying drug resistance mechanisms in HCC, CCA, and PDAC cancers and to developing possible novel therapeutic strategies.
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161
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Fan HL, Liu ST, Chang YL, Chiu YL, Huang SM, Chen TW. In Vitro Cell Density Determines the Sensitivity of Hepatocarcinoma Cells to Ascorbate. Front Oncol 2022; 12:843742. [PMID: 35677156 PMCID: PMC9169715 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.843742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the primary histological subtype of liver cancer, and its incidence rates increase with age. Recently, systemic therapies, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, and tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), have been more beneficial than conventional therapies for treating HCC. Nonetheless, the prognosis of late-stage HCC remains dismal because of its high recurrence rates, even with substantial advances in current therapeutic strategies. A new treatment, such as a combination of current systemic therapies, is urgently required. Therefore, we adopted a repurposing strategy and tried to combine ascorbate with TKIs, including lenvatinib and regorafenib, in HepG2 and Hep3B cells. We investigated the potential functional impact of pharmacological concentrations of ascorbate on the cell-cycle profiles, mitochondrial membrane potential, oxidative response, synergistic effects of lenvatinib or regorafenib, and differential responsiveness between HepG2 and Hep3B cells. Our data suggest that the relative level of cell density is an important determinant for ascorbate cytotoxicity in HCC. Furthermore, the data also revealed that the cytotoxic effect of pharmacological concentrations of ascorbate might not be mediated via our proposed elevation of ROS generation. Ascorbate might be involved in redox homeostasis to enhance the efficacy of TKIs in HepG2 and Hep3B cells. The synergistic effects of ascorbate with TKIs (lenvatinib and regorafenib) support their potential as an adjuvant for HCC targeted TKI therapy. This research provides a cheap and new combinatory therapy for HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiu-Lung Fan
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan.,Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Ting Liu
- Department of Biochemistry, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Lung Chang
- Department of Biochemistry, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Lin Chiu
- Department of Biochemistry, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Ming Huang
- Department of Biochemistry, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Teng-Wei Chen
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan.,Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
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162
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Du F, Sun H, Sun F, Yang S, Tan H, Li X, Chai Y, Jiang Q, Han D. Knockdown of TANK-Binding Kinase 1 Enhances the Sensitivity of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells to Molecular-Targeted Drugs. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:924523. [PMID: 35747750 PMCID: PMC9209752 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.924523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The protein kinase, TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1), not only regulates various biological processes but also functions as an important regulator of human oncogenesis. However, the detailed function and molecular mechanisms of TBK1 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), especially the resistance of HCC cells to molecular-targeted drugs, are almost unknown. In the present work, the role of TBK1 in regulating the sensitivity of HCC cells to molecular-targeted drugs was measured by multiple assays. The high expression of TBK1 was identified in HCC clinical specimens compared with paired non-tumor tissues. The high level of TBK1 in advanced HCC was associated with a poor prognosis in patients with advanced HCC who received the molecular-targeted drug, sorafenib, compared to patients with advanced HCC patients and a low level of TBK1. Overexpression of TBK1 in HCC cells induced their resistance to molecular-targeted drugs, whereas knockdown of TBK1 enhanced the cells’ sensitivity to molecular-targeted dugs. Regarding the mechanism, although overexpression of TBK1 enhanced expression levels of drug-resistance and pro-survival-/anti-apoptosis-related factors, knockdown of TBK1 repressed the expression of these factors in HCC cells. Therefore, TBK1 is a promising therapeutic target for HCC treatment and knockdown of TBK1 enhanced sensitivity of HCC cells to molecular-targeted drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengxia Du
- Department of Pharmacy, Medical Support Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Huiwei Sun
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Fang Sun
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Shiwei Yang
- Organ Transplant Center and Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Haidong Tan
- Organ Transplant Center and Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojuan Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Yantao Chai
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Qiyu Jiang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Dongdong Han, ; Qiyu Jiang,
| | - Dongdong Han
- Organ Transplant Center and Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Dongdong Han, ; Qiyu Jiang,
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Luan X, Sun M, Zhao X, Wang J, Han Y, Gao Y. Bisimidazolium Salt Glycosyltransferase Inhibitors Suppress Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression In Vitro and In Vivo. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15060716. [PMID: 35745636 PMCID: PMC9229238 DOI: 10.3390/ph15060716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is a leading cause of cancer death, and the disease progression has been related to glycophenotype modifications. Previously synthesized bisimidazolium salts (C20 and C22) have been shown to selectively inhibit the activity of glycosyltransferases in cultured cancer cell homogenates. The current study investigated the anticancer effects of C20/C22 and the possible pathways through which these effects are achieved. The therapeutic value of C20/C22 in terms of inhibiting cancer cell proliferation, metastasis, and angiogenesis, as well as inducing apoptosis, were examined with hepatic cancer cell line HepG2 and a xenograft mouse model. C20/C22 treatment downregulated the synthesis of SLex and Ley sugar epitopes and suppressed selectin-mediated cancer cell metastasis. C20/C22 inhibited HepG2 proliferation, induced cell-cycle arrest, increased intracellular ROS level, led to ER stress, and eventually induced apoptosis through the intrinsic pathway. Furthermore, C20/C22 upregulated the expressions of death receptors DR4 and DR5, substantially increasing the sensitivity of HepG2 to TRAIL-triggered apoptosis. In vivo, C20/C22 effectively inhibited tumor growth and angiogenesis in the xenograft mouse model without adverse effects on major organs. In summary, C20 and C22 are new promising anti-hepatic cancer agents with multiple mechanisms in controlling cancer cell growth, metastasis, and apoptosis, and they merit further development into anticancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Yin Gao
- Correspondence: ; Fax: +86-431-85168175
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Zheng Z, Liu Z, Zhang H, Guo X, Jia X, Wang J, Meng L, Xin Y, Jiang X. Efficacy and Safety of Apatinib in Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Multicenter Real World Retrospective Study. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:894016. [PMID: 35656302 PMCID: PMC9152289 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.894016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Purpose: Apatinib is a novel antiangiogenic agent that can target vascular endothelial cell growth factor 2. The aim of our study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of apatinib mesylate in the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in the real world. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 178 patients with advanced HCC who had been treated with apatinib mesylate from January 2017 to March 2020. The primary outcome indexes were progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS), and the secondary outcome indexes were overall response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), and incidence of treatment-related adverse reactions. Results: Univariate analysis showed that patients with third-line treatment (p <0.001), alpha fetoprotein (AFP) ≥400 ng/ml (p <0.05), distant metastasis (p <0.05), portal vein tumor thrombus (PVTT) (p <0.05), and apatinib monotherapy (p <0.001) had shorter survival. Multivariate analysis confirmed that third-line drugs, PVTT, and combination therapy were independent prognostic factors for PFS in all patients. Univariate analysis showed that Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) scores (p <0.05), line of apatinib (p <0.001), AFP (p <0.001), tumor progression (p <0.05), PVTT (p <0.05), and combination therapy (p <0.001) may impact the OS. Multivariate analysis proved that AFP, PVTT, and combination therapy were independent prognostic factors for OS. The most common adverse reactions were secondary hypertension (29.21%), symptoms of fatigue (16.85%), hand and foot syndrome (16.29%), vomiting (14.04%), liver dysfunction (6.18%), and proteinuria (6.74%). Most of the adverse reactions were Grade 1 or 2. Conclusion: Apatinib mesylate is an effective treatment for advanced HCC, and its adverse reactions are relatively mild. Line of apatinib, PVTT, AFP level, and combination therapy were independent prognostic factors for patients with advanced HCC who were treated with apatinib.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuangzhuang Zheng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.,Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology and Therapy, Changchun, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology, School of Public Health of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Zijing Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.,Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology and Therapy, Changchun, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology, School of Public Health of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Haifeng Zhang
- Department of Interventional Therapy, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiao Guo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Jilin Cancer Hospital, Changchun, China
| | - Xiaojing Jia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jianfeng Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Lingbin Meng
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, United States
| | - Ying Xin
- Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xin Jiang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.,Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology and Therapy, Changchun, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Radiobiology, School of Public Health of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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165
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Bian R, Zhao J, Yao Z, Cai Y, Shou C, Lou D, Zhou L, Qian Y. Knockdown of Obg-like ATPase 1 enhances sorafenib sensitivity by inhibition of GSK-3β/β-catenin signaling in hepatocellular carcinoma cells. J Gastrointest Oncol 2022; 13:1255-1265. [PMID: 35837205 PMCID: PMC9274060 DOI: 10.21037/jgo-22-458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To clarify the molecular mechanism of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), conducive to developing an effective HCC therapy. Owing to the severe drug resistance, the clinical use of sorafenib, which is approved for HCC treatment, is limited. The precise molecular mechanisms of sorafenib drug resistance remain unclear. In the current work, we evaluated the role of Obg-like ATPase 1 (OLA1) in sorafenib resistance in HCC. METHODS The survival of HCC patients between OLA1 expression and sorafenib treatment was analyzed by Kaplan-Meier plotter. Cell viability was measured by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) and colony formation assays. Cell death was detected by propidium iodide (PI) and trypan blue staining. The mRNA and protein levels were measured by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and western blot (WB), respectively. RESULTS We found that OLA1 was highly correlated with sorafenib resistance of HCC through a public database. Further study showed that knockdown of OLA1 enhanced cell proliferation inhibition and cell death induced by sorafenib, along with a reduction of proliferation-associated proteins (c-Myc and cyclin D1) and increase of apoptosis-related proteins (cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved PARP) in HCC cells. In addition, knockdown of OLA1 reduced the activation of glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK-3β)/β-catenin. CONCLUSIONS Our results proved that OLA1 can be a potential target to enhance sorafenib sensitivity in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Bian
- Medication Department, Zhuji People’s Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Shaoxing, China
| | - Jinkai Zhao
- Medication Department, Zhuji People’s Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Shaoxing, China
| | - Zhongcai Yao
- Medication Department, Zhuji People’s Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Shaoxing, China
| | - Yajun Cai
- Medication Department, Zhuji People’s Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Shaoxing, China
| | - Chenting Shou
- Medication Department, Zhuji People’s Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Shaoxing, China
| | - Dayong Lou
- Medication Department, Zhuji People’s Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Shaoxing, China
| | - Liqin Zhou
- Medication Department, Zhuji People’s Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Shaoxing, China
| | - Yuanyuan Qian
- Basic Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
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166
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Zakaria S, Allam S, El-Sisi AE. Perindopril sensitizes hepatocellular carcinoma to chemotherapy: A possible role of leptin / Wnt/ β-catenin axis with subsequent inhibition of liver cancer stem cells. Saudi Pharm J 2022; 30:1170-1180. [PMID: 36164573 PMCID: PMC9508642 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2022.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death. The major challenge in managing HCC is the resistance to chemotherapy. Leptin hormone is associated with different oncogenic pathways implicated in drug resistance. Angiotensin II was found to decrease the production and secretion of leptin. Objective This study investigated the potential role of an ACEI perindopril as a chemosensitizer agent to sorafenib. Method HCC was induced in mice using a single dose of diethylnitrosamine DENA (200 mg/kg) followed by phenobarbital 0.05% in drinking water for 16 weeks. Mice were then treated with perindopril (1 mg/kg/day), Sorafenib (30 mg/kg/day), or both of them for another four weeks. Leptin, VEGF, MMP-9, Cyclin D1, EpCAM, and β-catenin were measured using immunoassay while Wnt and ALDH1 were assayed using western blotting assay. Results Perindopril whether alone or in combination with sorafenib decrease liver enzymes and preserve the liver architecture. Our study revealed that perindopril significantly increased the antineoplastic, antiangiogenic as well as anti-metastatic effects of sorafenib. This effect was correlated with the downregulation of the leptin / Wnt / β-catenin pathway and overexpression of ALDH1 while downregulation of EpCAM Conclusion This study presents perindopril as a potential chemosensitizer agent that works through decreased expression of the leptin / Wnt / β-catenin pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherin Zakaria
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kaferelsheikh University, 33516, Kaferelsheikh, Egypt
- Corresponding author.at: Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kaferelsheikh University, Kafer elsheikh, Egypt
| | - Shady Allam
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Menoufia University, 32511, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Alaa E. El-Sisi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, 31512, Tanta, Egypt
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167
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Sheng J, Zhang J, Wang L, Tano V, Tang J, Wang X, Wu J, Song J, Zhao Y, Rong J, Cheng F, Wang J, Shen Y, Wen L, He J, Zhang H, Li T, Zhang Q, Bai X, Lu Z, Liang T. Topological analysis of hepatocellular carcinoma tumour microenvironment based on imaging mass cytometry reveals cellular neighbourhood regulated reversely by macrophages with different ontogeny. Gut 2022; 71:1176-1191. [PMID: 34253573 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2021-324339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tumour microenvironment (TME) is highly complex with diverse cellular components organising into various functional units, cellular neighbourhoods (CNs). And we wanted to define CN of HCC while preserving the TME architecture, based on which, potential targets for novel immunotherapy could be identified. DESIGN A highly multiplexed imaging mass cytometry (IMC) panel was designed to simultaneously quantify 36 biomarkers of tissues from 134 patients with HCC and 7 healthy donors to generate 562 highly multiplexed histology images at single-cell resolution. Different function units were defined by topological analysis of TME. CN relevant to the patients' prognosis was identified as specific target for HCC therapy. Transgenic mouse models were used to validate the novel immunotherapy target for HCC. RESULTS Three major types of intratumour areas with distinct distribution patterns of tumorous, stromal and immune cells were identified. 22 cellular metaclusters and 16 CN were defined. CN composed of various types of cells formed regional function units and the regional immunity was regulated reversely by resident Kupffer cells and infiltrating macrophages with protumour and antitumour function, respectively. Depletion of Kupffer cells in mouse liver largely enhances the T cell response, reduces liver tumour growth and sensitises the tumour response to antiprogrammed cell death protein-1 treatment. CONCLUSION Our findings reveal for the first time the various topological function units of HCC TME, which also presents the largest depository of pathological landscape for HCC. This work highlights the potential of Kupffer cell-specific targeting rather than overall myeloid cell blocking as a novel immunotherapy for HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianpeng Sheng
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Junlei Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lin Wang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Vincent Tano
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Jianghui Tang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xun Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiangchao Wu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jinyuan Song
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yaxing Zhao
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jingxia Rong
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fei Cheng
- Pathology Department, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianfeng Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yinan Shen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Liang Wen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Junjun He
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Taohong Li
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xueli Bai
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhimin Lu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China.,Institue of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tingbo Liang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China .,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, Zhejiang University School of Medicine First Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
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168
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Al-Noshokaty TM, Mesbah NM, Abo-Elmatty DM, Abulsoud AI, Abdel-Hamed AR. Selenium nanoparticles overcomes sorafenib resistance in thioacetamide induced hepatocellular carcinoma in rats by modulation of mTOR, NF-κB pathways and LncRNA-AF085935/GPC3 axis. Life Sci 2022; 303:120675. [PMID: 35640776 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The first-line treatment for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the multikinase inhibitor sorafenib (SOR). Sofafenib resistance is linked to protein kinase B/ mammalian target of rapamycin (AKT/mTOR) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) activation, apoptosis inhibition and oxidative stress. This study investigated selenium nanoparticles (SeNps) to overcome SOR resistance in thioacetamide (TAA) induced HCC in rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS TAA (200 mg/kg/twice weekly, i.p.) was administered for 16 weeks to induce HCC.s. Rats were treated with oral SOR (10 mg/Kg daily), selenium, and SeNps (5 mg/kg three times/week) alone or in combination, for two weeks. Apoptosis, proliferation, angiogenesis, metastasis and drug resistance were assessed. Cleaved caspase 3 (C. CASP3), mTOR, and NF-κB were determined by western blotting. Expression of p53 gene and long-noncoding RNA-AF085935 was determined by qRT-PCR. Expression of B- Cell Leukemia/Lymphoma 2 (Bcl2), Bcl associated X protein (Bax)and glypican 3 (GPC3) was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Liver functions, antioxidant capacity, histopathology and CD34 immunohistochemistry were performed. KEY FINDINGS SOR/SeNps reversed TAA-induced HCC in rats, through reduction of oxidative stress, activation of p53, Bax and CASP3, and inhibition of Bcl2. SOR/SeNps ameliorated the HCC-induced effect on cell proliferation and drug resistance by targeting mTOR and NF-κB pathways. SOR/SeNps decreased CD34 immunostaining indicating a decrease in angiogenesis and metastasis. SOR/SeNps regulated HCC epigenetically through the lncRNA-AF085935/GPC3 axis. SIGNIFICANCE SOR/SeNps are a promising combination for tumor suppression and overcoming sorafenib resistance in HCC by modulating apoptosis, AKT/mTOR and NF-κB pathways, as well as CD34 and lncRNA-AF085935/GPC3 axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tohada M Al-Noshokaty
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Heliopolis University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Noha M Mesbah
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt
| | - Dina M Abo-Elmatty
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt
| | - Ahmed I Abulsoud
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Heliopolis University, Cairo, Egypt; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Asmaa R Abdel-Hamed
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt.
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169
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Chen SP, Zhu GQ, Xing XX, Wan JL, Cai JL, Du JX, Song LN, Dai Z, Zhou J. LncRNA USP2-AS1 Promotes Hepatocellular Carcinoma Growth by Enhancing YBX1-Mediated HIF1α Protein Translation Under Hypoxia. Front Oncol 2022; 12:882372. [PMID: 35692750 PMCID: PMC9174509 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.882372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, the role of lncRNAs in tumorigenesis and development has received increasing attention, but the mechanism underlying lncRNAs-mediated tumor growth in the hypoxic microenvironment of solid tumors remains obscure. Using RNA sequencing, 25 hypoxia-related lncRNAs were found to be upregulated in HCC, of which lncRNA USP2-AS1 were significantly increased under hypoxia. We further confirmed that USP2-AS1 was significantly upregulated in liver cancer using FISH assay and that USP2-AS1 was associated with advanced liver cancer and increased tumor size. Furthermore, overexpression of USP2-AS1 under hypoxia dramatically increased HCC proliferation and clone formation, whereas the opposite results were observed after USP2-AS1 knockdown. We also found that overexpression of USP2-AS1 increased migration and invasion of HCC cells, while USP2-AS1 knockdown led to the opposite effect. In addition, USP2-AS1 knockdown can increase the efficacy of lenvatinib in our mice tumor xenograft model. Our findings also suggest that USP2-AS1 could increase the protein level of HIF1α by enhancing YBX1 protein binding to HIF1α mRNA under hypoxia and the therapeutic effect of lenvatinib can be enhanced by combination with HIF1α inhibitors in liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi-Ping Chen
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Gui-Qi Zhu
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao-Xia Xing
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing-Lei Wan
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia-Liang Cai
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun-Xian Du
- Department of General Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Li-Na Song
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhi Dai
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Jian Zhou, ; Zhi Dai,
| | - Jian Zhou
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Jian Zhou, ; Zhi Dai,
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170
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YOKOTA S, YONEZAWA T, MOMOI Y, MAEDA S. Sorafenib inhibits tumor cell growth and angiogenesis in canine transitional cell carcinoma. J Vet Med Sci 2022; 84:666-674. [PMID: 35387955 PMCID: PMC9177404 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.21-0478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [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: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Canine transitional cell carcinoma (cTCC) is the most common naturally occurring bladder cancer and accounts for 1-2% of canine tumors. The prognosis is poor due to the high rate of invasiveness and metastasis at diagnosis. Sorafenib is a multi-kinase inhibitor that targets rapidly accelerated fibrosarcoma (RAF), vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR)-1, VEGFR-2, VEGFR-3, platelet-derived growth factor receptor-β (PDGFR-β), and KIT. In previous studies, a somatic mutation of B-rapidly accelerated fibrosarcoma (BRAF) and expressions of VEGFR-2 and PDGFR-β were observed in over 80% of patients with cTCC. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the anti-tumor effects of sorafenib on cTCC. Five cTCC cell lines were used in the in vitro experiments. All five cTCC cell lines expressed VEGFR-2 and PDGFR-β and sorafenib showed growth inhibitory effect on cTCC cell lines. Cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase and subsequent apoptosis were observed following sorafenib treatment. In the in vivo experiments, cTCC (Sora) cells were subcutaneously injected into nude mice. Mice were orally administered with sorafenib (30 mg/kg daily) for 14 days. Sorafenib inhibited tumor growth compared to vehicle control. The necrotic area in the tumor tissues was increased in the sorafenib-treated group. Sorafenib also inhibited angiogenesis in the tumor microenvironment. Thus, sorafenib may be potential therapeutic agent for cTCC via its direct anti-tumor effect and inhibition of angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shohei YOKOTA
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Pathobiology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomohiro YONEZAWA
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Pathobiology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasuyuki MOMOI
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Pathobiology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shingo MAEDA
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Pathobiology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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171
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He X, Hikiba Y, Suzuki Y, Nakamori Y, Kanemaru Y, Sugimori M, Sato T, Nozaki A, Chuma M, Maeda S. EGFR inhibition reverses resistance to lenvatinib in hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Sci Rep 2022; 12:8007. [PMID: 35568782 PMCID: PMC9107466 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-12076-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Lenvatinib is approved as a first-line treatment for unresectable HCC. The therapeutic duration of lenvatinib is limited by resistance, but the underlying mechanism is unclear. To establish lenvatinib-resistant cells, Hep3B cells were initially treated with 3 µM lenvatinib. The concentration was gradually increased by 1 µM or 0.5 µM per week and it reached to 7.5 µM 2 months after the initial exposure to lenvatinib. The biological characteristics of these cells were analyzed by ERK activation in the MAPK signaling pathway and a human phospho‐receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) antibody array. Factors possibly related to lenvatinib resistance were analyzed using inhibitors, and cell proliferation was analyzed. We established lenvatinib-resistant HCC cells (LR cells) by long-term exposure to lenvatinib. Lenvatinib reduced ERK activation in the parent cells, but not in the LR cells. RTK array analysis showed that the activities of EGFR and insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R)/insulin receptor (INSR) were significantly increased in LR cells, whereas the activities of other RTKs were unchanged. Erlotinib, a widely used EGFR inhibitor, downregulated ERK activation in LR cells. The proliferation of LR cells will also be affected when lenvatinib is combined with erlotinib to treat LR cells. In contrast, inhibition of IGFR/INSR did not affect ERK activation or cell proliferation. Scavenging of reactive oxygen species (ROS) ameliorated the enhanced EGFR activation in LR cells. Lenvatinib resistance was induced by enhanced EGFR activation, possibly via ROS accumulation, in lenvatinib- resistant cells. These findings may enable the development of lenvatinib combination therapies for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoping He
- Department of Gastroenterology, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-9, Fukuura, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama, 236-0004, Japan
| | - Yohko Hikiba
- Department of Gastroenterology, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-9, Fukuura, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama, 236-0004, Japan
| | - Yoshimasa Suzuki
- Department of Gastroenterology, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-9, Fukuura, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama, 236-0004, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Nakamori
- Department of Gastroenterology, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-9, Fukuura, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama, 236-0004, Japan
| | - Yushi Kanemaru
- Department of Gastroenterology, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-9, Fukuura, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama, 236-0004, Japan
| | - Makoto Sugimori
- Department of Gastroenterology, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-9, Fukuura, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama, 236-0004, Japan
| | - Takeshi Sato
- Department of Gastroenterology, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-9, Fukuura, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama, 236-0004, Japan
| | - Akito Nozaki
- Gastroenterological Center, Yokohama City University Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Makoto Chuma
- Gastroenterological Center, Yokohama City University Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Shin Maeda
- Department of Gastroenterology, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-9, Fukuura, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama, 236-0004, Japan.
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172
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PI3K/AKT/mTOR Pathway-Associated Genes Reveal a Putative Prognostic Signature Correlated with Immune Infiltration in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. DISEASE MARKERS 2022; 2022:7545666. [PMID: 35592706 PMCID: PMC9112180 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7545666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Background The dysregulated PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway acts as the main regulator of tumorigenesis in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Aim Here, we identify the prognostic significance of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway-associated genes (PAGs) as well as their putative signature based on PAGs in an HCC patient's cohort. Methods The transcriptomic data and clinical feature sets were queried to extract the putative prognostic signature. Results We identified nine PAGs with different expressions. GO and KEGG indicated that these differentially expressed genes were associated with various carcinogenic pathways. Based on the signature-computed median risk score, we categorized the patients into groups of low risk and high risk. The survival time for the low-risk group is longer than that of the high-risk group in Kaplan-Meier (KM) curves. The prognostic value of risk score (ROC = 0.736) of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves performed better in comparison to that of other clinicopathological features. In both the GEO database and ICGC database, these outcomes were verified. The predictions of the overall survival rates in HCC patients of 1 year, 3 years, and 5 years can be obtained separately from the nomogram. The risk score was associated with the immune infiltrations of CD8 T cells, activated CD4 memory T cells, and follicular helper T cells, and the expression of immune checkpoints (PD-1, TIGIT, TIM-3, BTLA, LAG-3, and CTLA4) was positively relevant to the risk score. The sensitivity to several chemotherapeutic drugs can also be revealed by the signature. CDK1, PITX2, PRKAA2, and SFN were all upregulated in the tumor tissue of clinical samples. Conclusion A putative and differential dataset-validated prognostic signature on the basis of integrated bioinformatic analysis was established in our study, providing the immunotherapeutic targets as well as the personalized treatment in HCC with neoteric insight.
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173
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Diagnosis and Management of Atypical Chronic Myeloid Leukemia with a t(2;13)(q33;q12) Translocation. Case Rep Hematol 2022; 2022:4628183. [PMID: 35571528 PMCID: PMC9095402 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4628183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Atypical chronic myeloid leukemia (aCML) is a rare myeloproliferative disorder that shares clinical features with chronic myeloid leukemia but lacks the classic t(9;22) BCR-ABL1 translocation and features prominent dysgranulopoiesis and granulocytic dysplasia. Challenges of this diagnosis include clinical and biologic heterogeneity, the high risk of transformation to acute myeloid leukemia, and the lack of standard treatment options. Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant is likely the preferred treatment, but this can be limited by patient psychosocial support, age, concomitant medical conditions, and availability of an appropriate donor. We report the case of a 61-year-old male with no significant past medical history diagnosed with aCML with a rare t(2;13)(q33;q12). He presented with weight loss, night sweats, splenomegaly, hyperleukocytosis, a leukoerythroblastic differential with a predominant neutrophilia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia. Subsequent peripheral blood and bone marrow studies lead to the diagnosis of aCML. He was recommended to undergo an allogeneic stem cell transplant evaluation and declined. He was initially treated with hydroxyurea and imatinib to which he responded for approximately three years. After clinical progression, he was treated with sorafenib, a multiprotein kinase inhibitor more commonly used in the treatment of hepatocellular and renal cell carcinoma due to its off target FLT3 inhibition. The patient achieved complete hematologic response which has been sustained for 7 years with tolerable side effects.
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174
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Deng Y, Yu C, Chen L, Zhang X, Lei Q, Liu Q, Cai G, Liu F. ARV-771 Acts as an Inducer of Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis to Suppress Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:858901. [PMID: 35600879 PMCID: PMC9114478 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.858901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most commonly diagnosed liver cancer with limited treatment options and extremely poor prognosis worldwide. Recently, the proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs), which aim to induce proteasome-mediated degradation of interesting proteins via recruiting E3 ligases, have become the advanced tools and attractive molecules for cancer treatment. However, the anticancer effects of PROTACs in HCC remain to be clarified. Here, we evaluate the anticancer activity of ARV-771, a previously reported PROTAC compound designed for bromodomain and extra-terminal domain (BET) proteins, in HCC. We show that ARV-771 suppresses the cell viability and colony formation of HCC cells via arresting cell cycle progression and triggering apoptosis. Further investigations reveal that ARV-771 notably downregulates multiple non-proteasomal deubiquitinases which are critical to the development of cancers. Additionally, HCC cells can decrease their sensitivity to ARV-771 via activating the MEK/ERK and p38 MAPKs. ARV-771 also inhibits HCC progression in vivo. Moreover, we show that ARV-771 and sorafenib, a Raf inhibitor that clinically used for targeted therapy of liver cancer, can synergistically inhibit the growth of HCC cells. Overall, this study not only explores the anticancer activity of ARV-771 and its underlying mechanisms in HCC, but also deepens our understanding of deubiquitinases, MAPKs, cell cycle, and apoptosis induction in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanfei Deng
- Department of Pathology, The First People’s Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, China
- *Correspondence: Yuanfei Deng, ; Gengxi Cai, ; Fang Liu,
| | - Cuifu Yu
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Protein Modification and Degradation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lushi Chen
- Health Management Center, The First People’s Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Pathology, The First People’s Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, China
| | - Qiucheng Lei
- Department of Hepatopancreatic Surgery, The First People’s Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, China
| | - Qing Liu
- Department of Pathology, The First People’s Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, China
| | - Gengxi Cai
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First People’s Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, China
- *Correspondence: Yuanfei Deng, ; Gengxi Cai, ; Fang Liu,
| | - Fang Liu
- Department of Pathology, The First People’s Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, China
- *Correspondence: Yuanfei Deng, ; Gengxi Cai, ; Fang Liu,
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175
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Castven D, Czauderna C, Becker D, Pereira S, Schmitt J, Weinmann A, Shah V, Hajduk J, Keggenhoff F, Binder H, Keck T, Heilmann-Heimbach S, Wörns MA, Thorgeirsson SS, Breuhahn K, Galle PR, Marquardt JU. Acquired Resistance to Antiangiogenic Therapies in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Is Mediated by Yes-Associated Protein 1 Activation and Transient Expansion of Stem-Like Cancer Cells. Hepatol Commun 2022; 6:1140-1156. [PMID: 34817932 PMCID: PMC9035566 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Induction of neoangiogenesis is a hallmark feature during disease progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Antiangiogenetic compounds represent a mainstay of therapeutic approaches; however, development of chemoresistance is observed in the majority of patients. Recent findings suggest that tumor-initiating cells (TICs) may play a key role in acquisition of resistance, but the exact relevance for HCC in this process remains to be defined. Primary and established hepatoma cell lines were exposed to long-term sorafenib treatment to model acquisition of resistance. Treatment effects on TICs were estimated by sphere-forming capacity in vitro, tumorigenicity in vivo, and flow cytometry. Adaptive molecular changes were assessed by whole transcriptome analyses. Compensatory mechanisms of resistance were identified and directly evaluated. Sustained antiproliferative effect following sorafenib treatment was observed in three of six HCC cell lines and was followed by rapid regrowth, thereby mimicking responses observed in patients. Resistant cells showed induction in sphere forming in vitro and tumor-initiating capacity in vivo as well as increased number of side population and epithelial cell adhesion molecule-positive cells. Conversely, sensitive cell lines showed consistent reduction of TIC properties. Gene sets associated with resistance and poor prognosis, including Hippo/yes-associated protein (YAP), were identified. Western blot and immunohistochemistry confirmed increased levels of YAP. Combined treatment of sorafenib and specific YAP inhibitor consistently revealed synergistic antioncogenic effects in resistant cell lines. Conclusion: Resistance to antiangiogenic therapy might be driven by transient expansion of TICs and activation of compensatory pro-oncogenic signaling pathways, including YAP. Specific targeting of TICs might be an effective therapeutic strategy to overcome resistance in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darko Castven
- Department of Medicine ILichtenberg Research Group for Molecular HepatocarcinogenesisUniversity Medical Center Schleswig HolsteinLuebeckGermany.,Department of Medicine IUniversity Medical CenterMainzGermany
| | - Carolin Czauderna
- Department of Medicine ILichtenberg Research Group for Molecular HepatocarcinogenesisUniversity Medical Center Schleswig HolsteinLuebeckGermany.,Department of Medicine IUniversity Medical CenterMainzGermany
| | - Diana Becker
- Department of Medicine IUniversity Medical CenterMainzGermany
| | - Sharon Pereira
- Department of Medicine IUniversity Medical CenterMainzGermany
| | - Jennifer Schmitt
- Institute of PathologyUniversity Hospital HeidelbergHeidelbergGermany
| | - Arndt Weinmann
- Department of Medicine IUniversity Medical CenterMainzGermany
| | - Viral Shah
- Department of HematologyMedical Oncology, and PneumologyUniversity Medical CenterMainzGermany
| | - Jovana Hajduk
- Department of Medicine ILichtenberg Research Group for Molecular HepatocarcinogenesisUniversity Medical Center Schleswig HolsteinLuebeckGermany.,Department of Medicine IUniversity Medical CenterMainzGermany
| | | | - Harald Binder
- Institute for Medical Biometry and StatisticsFaculty of MedicineUniversity of FreiburgFreiburgGermany
| | - Tobias Keck
- Clinic for SurgeryUniversity Medical Center Schleswig HolsteinLuebeckGermany
| | - Stefanie Heilmann-Heimbach
- Institute of Human GeneticsUniversity of Bonn School of MedicineUniversity of BonnBonnGermany.,Department of GenomicsLife and Brain CenterUniversity of BonnBonnGermany
| | - Marcus A Wörns
- Department of Medicine IUniversity Medical CenterMainzGermany
| | - Snorri S Thorgeirsson
- Laboratory of Human CarcinogenesisCenter for Cancer ResearchNational Cancer InstituteNational Institutes of HealthBethesdaMDUSA
| | - Kai Breuhahn
- Institute of PathologyUniversity Hospital HeidelbergHeidelbergGermany
| | - Peter R Galle
- Department of Medicine IUniversity Medical CenterMainzGermany
| | - Jens U Marquardt
- Department of Medicine ILichtenberg Research Group for Molecular HepatocarcinogenesisUniversity Medical Center Schleswig HolsteinLuebeckGermany.,Department of Medicine IUniversity Medical CenterMainzGermany
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176
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Role of Anti-Angiogenic Factors in the Pathogenesis of Breast Cancer: A Review of Therapeutic Potential. Pathol Res Pract 2022; 236:153956. [DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2022.153956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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177
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Oekchuae S, Sirirak J, Charoensuksai P, Wongprayoon P, Chuaypen N, Boonsombat J, Ruchirawat S, Tangkijvanich P, Suksamrarn A, Limpachayaporn P. The Design and Synthesis of a New Series of 1,2,3-Triazole-Cored Structures Tethering Aryl Urea and Their Highly Selective Cytotoxicity toward HepG2. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15050504. [PMID: 35631331 PMCID: PMC9147274 DOI: 10.3390/ph15050504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Target cancer drug therapy is an alternative treatment for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. However, the treatment using approved targeted drugs has encountered a number of limitations, including the poor pharmacological properties of drugs, therapy efficiency, adverse effects, and drug resistance. As a consequence, the discovery and development of anti-HCC drug structures are therefore still in high demand. Herein, we designed and synthesized a new series of 1,2,3-triazole-cored structures incorporating aryl urea as anti-HepG2 agents. Forty-nine analogs were prepared via nucleophilic addition and copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) with excellent yields. Significantly, almost all triazole-cored analogs exhibited less cytotoxicity toward normal cells, human embryonal lung fibroblast cell MRC-5, compared to Sorafenib and Doxorubicin. Among them, 2m’ and 2e exhibited the highest selectivity indexes (SI = 14.7 and 12.2), which were ca. 4.4- and 3.7-fold superior to that of Sorafenib (SI = 3.30) and ca. 3.8- and 3.2-fold superior to that of Doxorubicin (SI = 3.83), respectively. Additionally, excellent inhibitory activity against hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2, comparable to Sorafenib, was still maintained. A cell-cycle analysis and apoptosis induction study suggested that 2m’ and 2e likely share a similar mechanism of action to Sorafenib. Furthermore, compounds 2m’ and 2e exhibit appropriate drug-likeness, analyzed by SwissADME. With their excellent anti-HepG2 activity, improved selectivity indexes, and appropriate druggability, the triazole-cored analogs 2m’ and 2e are suggested to be promising candidates for development as targeted cancer agents and drugs used in combination therapy for the treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sittisak Oekchuae
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Silpakorn University, Nakhon Pathom 73000, Thailand; (S.O.); (J.S.)
- Chulabhorn Research Institute, Bangkok 10210, Thailand; (J.B.); (S.R.)
| | - Jitnapa Sirirak
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Silpakorn University, Nakhon Pathom 73000, Thailand; (S.O.); (J.S.)
| | - Purin Charoensuksai
- Department of Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Silpakorn University, Nakhon Pathom 73000, Thailand; (P.C.); (P.W.)
| | - Pawaris Wongprayoon
- Department of Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Silpakorn University, Nakhon Pathom 73000, Thailand; (P.C.); (P.W.)
| | - Natthaya Chuaypen
- Center of Excellence in Hepatitis and Liver Cancer, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; (N.C.); (P.T.)
| | - Jutatip Boonsombat
- Chulabhorn Research Institute, Bangkok 10210, Thailand; (J.B.); (S.R.)
- Center of Excellence on Environmental Health and Toxicology (EHT), OPS, MHESI, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Somsak Ruchirawat
- Chulabhorn Research Institute, Bangkok 10210, Thailand; (J.B.); (S.R.)
- Center of Excellence on Environmental Health and Toxicology (EHT), OPS, MHESI, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
- Program in Chemical Sciences, Chulabhorn Graduate Institute, Chulabhorn Royal Academy, Bangkok 10210, Thailand
| | - Pisit Tangkijvanich
- Center of Excellence in Hepatitis and Liver Cancer, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; (N.C.); (P.T.)
| | - Apichart Suksamrarn
- Department of Chemistry and Center of Excellence for Innovation in Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Ramkhamhaeng University, Bangkok 10240, Thailand;
| | - Panupun Limpachayaporn
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Silpakorn University, Nakhon Pathom 73000, Thailand; (S.O.); (J.S.)
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +66-34-255797; Fax: +66-34-271356
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178
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Chen Z, Yuan T, Yan F, Ye S, Xie Q, Zhang B, Lin N, He Q, Yang B, Zhu H. CT-707 overcomes hypoxia-mediated sorafenib resistance in Hepatocellular carcinoma by inhibiting YAP signaling. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:425. [PMID: 35440025 PMCID: PMC9020089 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-022-09520-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Sorafenib is the first-line treatment for advanced HCC, but the anti-cancer effects remain to be improved as indicated by its low response rates and failure to prolong the progression-free survival (PFS). Thus, it is urgent to explore approaches to improve the clinical outcome. MATERIALS AND METHODS The effect of Sorafenib in HCC was analyzed by SRB (sulforhodamine B) assay in normoxia and hypoxia, respectively. The different dose combination effect of CT707 and sorafenib was analyzed by SRB assay in hypoxia. Flow cytometry assay was used to detect the cell apoptosis rate with CT707 and sorafenib treatment in hypoxia. Western blotting was used to detect the expression levels of apoptosis -related proteins and the mechanism of CT707 overcome the resistance of sorafenib in hypoxia. RESULTS Our study showed that the characteristic intratumor hypoxia of advanced HCC is one of the major factors which mediated the drug resistance towards sorafenib in HCC. And CT-707, a novel multi-kinase inhibitor, could sensitize the hypoxic HCC cells towards sorafenib. Further studies showed that CT-707 abolished the nuclear translocation of Yes Associate-Protein (YAP), which has been demonstrated as one of mechanism of hypoxia-mediated sorafenib-resistance in HCC. CONCLUSIONS Overall, this study not only favors the development of this novel multi-kinase inhibitor CT-707 as a therapeutic agent against HCC, but also provides a potential strategy to overcome the hypoxia-mediated resistance to sorafenib in HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zibo Chen
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, USA
| | - Tao Yuan
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fangjie Yan
- Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Song Ye
- School of Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qin Xie
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology and Toxicology Research of Zhejiang Province, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Nengmin Lin
- Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology and Toxicology Research of Zhejiang Province, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qiaojun He
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,School of Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bo Yang
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Hong Zhu
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China. .,Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
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179
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Liu H, Zhao L, Wang M, Yang K, Jin Z, Zhao C, Shi G. FNDC5 Causes Resistance to Sorafenib by Activating the PI3K/Akt/Nrf2 Pathway in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells. Front Oncol 2022; 12:852095. [PMID: 35392237 PMCID: PMC8980859 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.852095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we aimed to reveal the resistance mechanism of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells to sorafenib by exploring the effect of FNDC5 on sorafenib-induced ferroptosis in HCC cells. We compared the expression level of FNDC5 between sorafenib-resistant and sorafenib-sensitive HCC cell lines and the level of ferroptosis between the groups after treatment with sorafenib. We knocked down FNDC5 in drug-resistant cell lines and overexpressed it in sorafenib-sensitive HCC cell lines to further demonstrate the role of FNDC5 in sorafenib-induced ferroptosis. Using PI3K inhibitors, we revealed the specific mechanism by which FNDC5 functions. In addition, we verified our findings obtained in in vitro experiments using a subcutaneous tumorigenic nude mouse model. The findings revealed that FNDC5 inhibits sorafenib-induced ferroptosis in HCC cells. In addition, FNDC5 activated the PI3K/Akt pathway, which in turn promoted the nuclear translocation of Nrf2 and increased the intracellular antioxidant response, thereby conferring resistance to ferroptosis. Our study provides novel insights for improving the efficacy of sorafenib.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huayuan Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Qingdao Municipal Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Lei Zhao
- Department of Infection Management, The Affiliated Qingdao Municipal Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Mengya Wang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine, Institute of Brain Science and Disorders, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Kexin Yang
- Department of Gynecology, The Affiliated Qingdao Municipal Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Zhipeng Jin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Qingdao Municipal Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Chengjian Zhao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Qingdao Municipal Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Guangjun Shi
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Qingdao Municipal Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
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180
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Combined Targeting of AKT and mTOR Inhibits Tumor Formation of EpCAM+ and CD90+ Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells in an Orthotopic Mouse Model. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14081882. [PMID: 35454789 PMCID: PMC9024696 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14081882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) and Thy-1 cell surface antigen (CD90) have been implicated as cancer stem cell (CSC) markers in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Expression of EpCAM and CD90 on HCC cells is associated with increased tumorigenicity, metastasis and poor prognosis. In this study, we demonstrate that combined treatment with AKT and mTOR inhibitors—i.e., MK2206 and RAD001—results in a synergistic reduction in proliferation of EpCAM+ and CD90+ HCC cells cultured either as adherent cells or as tumoroids in vitro. In addition, tumor growth was reduced by combined treatment with AKT and mTOR inhibitors in an orthotopic xenograft mouse model of an EpCAM+ HCC cell line (Huh7) and primary patient-derived EpCAM+ HCC cells (HCC1) as well as a CD90+ HCC-related cell line (SK-HEP1) in vivo. However, during AKT/mTOR treatment, outgrowth of therapy-resistant tumors was observed in all mice analyzed within a few weeks. Resistance was associated in most cases with restoration of AKT signaling in the tumors, intrahepatic metastases and distant metastases. In addition, an upregulation of the p38 MAPK pathway was identified in the AKT/mTOR inhibitor-resistant tumor cells by kinome profiling. The development of resistant cells during AKT/mTOR therapy was further analyzed by red-green-blue (RGB) marking of HCC cells, which revealed an outgrowth of a large number of Huh7 cells over a period of 6 months. In summary, our data demonstrate that combined treatment with AKT and mTOR inhibitors exhibits synergistic effects on proliferation of EpCAM+ as well as CD90+ HCC cells in vitro. However, the fast development of large numbers of resistant clones under AKT/mTOR therapy observed in vitro and in the orthotopic xenotransplantation mouse model in vivo strongly suggests that this therapy alone will not be sufficient to eliminate EpCAM+ or CD90+ cancer stem cells from HCC patients.
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181
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Rah B, Rather RA, Bhat GR, Baba AB, Mushtaq I, Farooq M, Yousuf T, Dar SB, Parveen S, Hassan R, Mohammad F, Qassim I, Bhat A, Ali S, Zargar MH, Afroze D. JAK/STAT Signaling: Molecular Targets, Therapeutic Opportunities, and Limitations of Targeted Inhibitions in Solid Malignancies. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:821344. [PMID: 35401182 PMCID: PMC8987160 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.821344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
JAK/STAT signaling pathway is one of the important regulatory signaling cascades for the myriad of cellular processes initiated by various types of ligands such as growth factors, hormones, and cytokines. The physiological processes regulated by JAK/STAT signaling are immune regulation, cell proliferation, cell survival, apoptosis and hematopoiesis of myeloid and non-myeloid cells. Dysregulation of JAK/STAT signaling is reported in various immunological disorders, hematological and other solid malignancies through various oncogenic activation mutations in receptors, downstream mediators, and associated transcriptional factors such as STATs. STATs typically have a dual role when explored in the context of cancer. While several members of the STAT family are involved in malignancies, however, a few members which include STAT3 and STAT5 are linked to tumor initiation and progression. Other STAT members such as STAT1 and STAT2 are pivotal for antitumor defense and maintenance of an effective and long-term immune response through evolutionarily conserved programs. The effects of JAK/STAT signaling and the persistent activation of STATs in tumor cell survival; proliferation and invasion have made the JAK/STAT pathway an ideal target for drug development and cancer therapy. Therefore, understanding the intricate JAK/STAT signaling in the pathogenesis of solid malignancies needs extensive research. A better understanding of the functionally redundant roles of JAKs and STATs may provide a rationale for improving existing cancer therapies which have deleterious effects on normal cells and to identifying novel targets for therapeutic intervention in solid malignancies.
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Chen Z, Du J, Yang C, Si G, Chen Y. circ-CFH promotes the development of HCC by regulating cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasion, and glycolysis through the miR-377-3p/RNF38 axis. Open Life Sci 2022; 17:248-260. [PMID: 35415236 PMCID: PMC8951215 DOI: 10.1515/biol-2022-0029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have previously been confirmed to function as vital regulators in multiple human cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study aimed to clarify the role and underlying molecular mechanisms of circ-CFH in HCC. circ-CFH was overexpressed in HCC tissues and cells, and the downregulation of circ-CFH inhibited the development of HCC by repressing cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and glycolysis while enhancing apoptosis in vitro, as well as inhibited tumor growth in vivo. miR-377-3p was negatively regulated by circ-CFH, and silencing of miR-377-3p abolished circ-CFH knockdown-mediated effects on HCC cells. Moreover, overexpression of miR-377-3p could impede the HCC process by targeting RNF38. Mechanistically, the circ-CFH/miR-377-3p/RNF38 axis regulated the progression of HCC cells, which might provide new diagnostic markers for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zengyin Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Chengyang District People’s Hospital, Qingdao, 266000, Shandong, China
| | - Juan Du
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Chengyang District People’s Hospital, Qingdao, 266000, Shandong, China
| | - Chen Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Qingdao People’s Hospital, No. 600 Changcheng Road, Chengyang District, Qingdao, 266000, Shandong, China
| | - Guangju Si
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Chengyang District People’s Hospital, Qingdao, 266000, Shandong, China
| | - Yuxin Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Chengyang District People’s Hospital, Qingdao, 266000, Shandong, China
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Byun JK, Lee S, Kang GW, Lee YR, Park SY, Song IS, Yun JW, Lee J, Choi YK, Park KG. Macropinocytosis is an alternative pathway of cysteine acquisition and mitigates sorafenib-induced ferroptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2022; 41:98. [PMID: 35287706 PMCID: PMC8919615 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-022-02296-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Macropinocytosis, an important nutrient-scavenging pathway in certain cancer cells, allows cells to compensate for intracellular amino acid deficiency under nutrient-poor conditions. Ferroptosis caused by cysteine depletion plays a pivotal role in sorafenib responses during hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) therapy. However, it is not known whether macropinocytosis functions as an alternative pathway to acquire cysteine in sorafenib-treated HCC, and whether it subsequently mitigates sorafenib-induced ferroptosis. This study aimed to investigate whether sorafenib drives macropinocytosis induction, and how macropinocytosis confers ferroptosis resistance on HCC cells. Methods Macropinocytosis, both in HCC cells and HCC tissues, was evaluated by measuring TMR-dextran uptake or lysosomal degradation of DQ-BSA, and ferroptosis was evaluated via C11-BODIPY fluorescence and 4-HNE staining. Sorafenib-induced ferroptosis and macropinocytosis were validated in tumor tissues taken from HCC patients who underwent ultrasound-guided needle biopsy. Results Sorafenib increased macropinocytosis in human HCC specimens and xenografted HCC tissues. Sorafenib-induced mitochondrial dysfunction was responsible for activation of PI3K-RAC1-PAK1 signaling, and amplified macropinocytosis in HCC. Importantly, macropinocytosis prevented sorafenib-induced ferroptosis by replenishing intracellular cysteine that was depleted by sorafenib treatment; this rendered HCC cells resistant to sorafenib. Finally, inhibition of macropinocytosis by amiloride markedly enhanced the anti-tumor effect of sorafenib, and sensitized resistant tumors to sorafenib. Conclusion In summary, sorafenib induced macropinocytosis, which conferred drug resistance by mitigating sorafenib-induced ferroptosis. Thus, targeting macropinocytosis is a promising therapeutic strategy to facilitate ferroptosis-based therapy for HCC. Graphic Abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13046-022-02296-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Kyu Byun
- Research Institute of Aging and Metabolism, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea.,Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Kyungpook National University Hospital, Daegu, Korea
| | - Seunghyeong Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea.,BK21 FOUR KNU Convergence Educational Program of Biomedical Sciences for Creative Future Talents, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea
| | - Gil Won Kang
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea
| | - Yu Rim Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Kyungpook National University Hospital, Daegu, Korea
| | - Soo Young Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Kyungpook National University Hospital, Daegu, Korea
| | - Im-Sook Song
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, College of Pharmacy, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea
| | - Jae Won Yun
- Veterans Medical Research Institute, Veterans Health Service Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jaebon Lee
- Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yeon-Kyung Choi
- Research Institute of Aging and Metabolism, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea. .,Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Kyungpook National University Hospital, Daegu, Korea.
| | - Keun-Gyu Park
- Research Institute of Aging and Metabolism, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea. .,Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Kyungpook National University Hospital, Daegu, Korea. .,Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea.
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Xu J, Su Z, Cheng X, Hu S, Wang W, Zou T, Zhou X, Song Z, Xia Y, Gao Y, Zheng Q. High PPT1 expression predicts poor clinical outcome and PPT1 inhibitor DC661 enhances sorafenib sensitivity in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:115. [PMID: 35277179 PMCID: PMC8917761 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02508-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Adaptive resistance and side effects of sorafenib treatment result in unsatisfied survival of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Palmitoyl-protein thioesterase 1 (PPT1) plays a critical role in progression of various cancers. However, its role on prognosis and immune infiltrates in HCC remains unclarified.
Methods
By data mining in the Cancer Genome Atlas databases, the role of PPT1 in HCC were initially investigated. Furthermore, HCC cell lines Hep 3B and Hep 1-6 were treated with DC661 or siRNA against PPT1. The biological function of PPT1 was determined by CCK-8 test, colony formation assay, TUNEL staining, immunofluorescence staining, Western blot test, and PI-Annexin V apoptosis assays in vitro. Animal models of subcutaneous injection were applied to investigate the therapeutic role of targeting PPT1.
Results
We found that PPT1 levels were significantly upregulated in HCC tissues compared with normal tissues and were significantly associated with a poor prognosis. Multivariate analysis further confirmed that high expression of PPT1 was an independent risk factor for poor overall survival of HCC patients. We initially found that PPT1 was significantly upregulated in sorafenib-resistant cell lines established in this study. Upon sorafenib treatment, HCC cells acquired adaptive resistance by inducing autophagy. We found that DC661, a selective and potent small-molecule PPT1-inhibitor, induced lysosomal membrane permeability, caused lysosomal deacidification, inhibited autophagy and enhanced sorafenib sensitivity in HCC cells. Interestingly, this sensitization effect was also mediated by the induction mitochondrial pathway apoptosis. In addition, the expression level of PPT1 was associated with the immune infiltration in the HCC tumor microenvironment, and PPT1 inhibitor DC661 significantly enhanced the anti-tumor immune response by promoting dendritic cell maturation and further promoting CD8+ T cell activation. Moreover, DC661 combined with sorafenib was also very effective at treating tumor models in immunized mice.
Conclusions
Our findings suggest that targeting PPT1 with DC661 in combination with sorafenib might be a novel and effective alternative therapeutic strategy for HCC.
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Anwer KE, El-Sattar NEAA, Shamaa MM, Zakaria MY, Beshay BY. Design, Green Synthesis and Tailoring of Vitamin E TPGS Augmented Niosomal Nano-Carrier of Pyrazolopyrimidines as Potential Anti-Liver and Breast Cancer Agents with Accentuated Oral Bioavailability. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15030330. [PMID: 35337128 PMCID: PMC8949375 DOI: 10.3390/ph15030330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
VEGF plays a crucial role in cancer development, angiogenesis and progression, principally liver and breast cancer. It is vital to uncover novel chemical candidates of VEGFR inhibitors to develop more potent anti-breast and anti-liver cancer agents than the currently available candidates, sorafenib and regorafenib, that face resistance obstacles and severe side effects. Herein, nine pyrazolopyrimidine derivatives were designed, synthesized as sorafenib and regorafenib analogues and screened for their in vitro cytotoxic and growth inhibition activities against four human cancer cell lines, namely breast cancer (Michigan Cancer Foundation-7 (MCF-7), hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) type (HepG2), lung carcinoma (A-549) and human colorectal carcinoma-116 (HCT-116)). Among the tested compounds, compounds 1, 2a, 4b and 7 showed the uppermost cytotoxic activities against all aforementioned cell lines with IC50 estimates varying from 6 to 50 µM, among which compound 7 showed the best inhibitory activity on all tested compounds. Stunningly, compound 7 showed the best significant inhibition of the VEGFR-2 protein expression level (72.3%) as compared to the control and even higher than that produced with sorafenib and regorafenib (70.4% and 55.6%, respectively). Modeling studies provided evidence for the possible interactions of the synthesized compounds with the key residues of the ATP binding sites on the hinge region and the “DFG out” motif of VEGFR-2 kinase. Collectively, our present study suggests that pyrazolopyrimidine derivatives are a novel class of anti-cancer drug candidates to inhibit VEGF-VEGFR function. Aspiring to promote constrained aqueous solubility, hence poor oral bioavailability of the developed lead molecule, 7 and 2a-charged D-α-tocopherol polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS) surface-coated niosomes were successfully constructed, adopting a thin film hydration technique striving to overcome these pitfalls. A 23 full factorial design was involved in order to investigate the influence of formulation variables: type of surfactant, either Span 60 or Span 40; surfactant:cholesterol ratio (8:2 or 5:5) along with the amount of TPGS (25 mg or 50 mg) on the characteristics of the nanosystem. F2 and S2 were picked as the optimum formula for compounds 2a and 7 with desirability values of 0.907 and 0.903, respectively. In addition, a distinguished improvement was observed in the compound’s oral bioavailability and cytotoxic activity after being included in the nano-TPGS-coated niosomal system relative to the unformulated compound. The nano-TPGS-coated niosomal system increased the hepatocellular inhibitory activity four times fold of compound 7a (1.6 µM) and two-fold of 2a (3 µM) relative to the unformulated compounds (6 µM and 6.2 µM, respectively).
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurls E. Anwer
- Heterocyclic Synthesis Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt;
| | - Nour E. A. Abd El-Sattar
- Heterocyclic Synthesis Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt;
- Correspondence: (N.E.A.A.E.-S.); or (M.Y.Z.); Tel.: +20-1012277219 (N.E.A.A.E.-S.); +20-1006886853 (M.Y.Z.)
| | - Marium M. Shamaa
- Clinical and Biological Sciences (Biochemistry and Molecular Biology) Department, College of Pharmacy, Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport, Alexandria P.O. Box 1029, Egypt;
| | - Mohamed Y. Zakaria
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Port Said University, Port Said 42526, Egypt
- Correspondence: (N.E.A.A.E.-S.); or (M.Y.Z.); Tel.: +20-1012277219 (N.E.A.A.E.-S.); +20-1006886853 (M.Y.Z.)
| | - Botros Y. Beshay
- Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmaceutical Chemistry) Department, College of Pharmacy, Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport, Alexandria P.O. Box 1029, Egypt;
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Fan Y, Xue H, Zheng H. Systemic Therapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Current Updates and Outlook. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2022; 9:233-263. [PMID: 35388357 PMCID: PMC8977221 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s358082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has emerged the culprit of cancer-related mortality worldwide with its dismal prognosis climbing. In recent years, ground-breaking progress has been made in systemic therapy for HCC. Targeted therapy based on specific signaling molecules, including sorafenib, lenvatinib, regorafenib, cabozantinib, and ramucirumab, has been widely used for advanced HCC (aHCC). Immunotherapies such as pembrolizumab and nivolumab greatly improve the survival of aHCC patients. More recently, synergistic combination therapy has boosted first-line (atezolizumab in combination with bevacizumab) and second-line (ipilimumab in combination with nivolumab) therapeutic modalities for aHCC. This review aims to summarize recent updates of systemic therapy relying on the biological mechanisms of HCC, particularly highlighting the approved agents for aHCC. Adjuvant and neoadjuvant therapy, as well as a combination with locoregional therapies (LRTs), are also discussed. Additionally, we describe the promising effect of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as systemic therapy on HCC. In this setting, the challenges and future directions of systemic therapy for HCC are also explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinjie Fan
- College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110847, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Oncology and Experimental Center, the Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde, Hebei, 067000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hang Xue
- Department of Oncology and Experimental Center, the Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde, Hebei, 067000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Huachuan Zheng
- Department of Oncology and Experimental Center, the Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde, Hebei, 067000, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Huachuan Zheng, Department of Oncology and Experimental Center, the Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde, Hebei, 067000, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86-0314-2279458, Fax +86-0314-2279458, Email
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187
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Antitumor effects ofrhamnazinon sorafenib-treated human hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines via modulation of VEGF signalingand PI3K/NF-κBp38/caspase-3 axes cross talk. Life Sci 2022; 297:120443. [PMID: 35245519 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common livermalignancy,characterized by dysregulation of multiple oncogenicsignaling pathways, including the VEGF/PI3K/NF-κBandp38 MAPKaxes.Sorafenib is a multikinase inhibitor that targetsRaf kinases and receptor tyrosine kinases,which mediateHCC angiogenesis.Rhamnazinis a VEGFR2 signaling inhibitor, whichinhibits the phosphorylation of Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2(VEGFR2) and its downstream signaling regulators. This study was designed toassess the antitumor effects of rhamnazinon human HCC cell lines treated with sorafenib, and to investigate the molecular mechanisms mediating this effect. MAIN METHODS HepG2 and HUH-7 HCC cell lines were used.Cell viability was assessed by MTT assay. NF-κB, p38MAPK, VEGF, VEGFR2, PI3K, and Ki67 levels were assessedusing ELISA. Caspase-3 activity was measuredcolorimetrically. VEGFR2 expression was detected by RT-PCR. KEY FINDINGS MTT assay revealed that the sorafenib-rhamnazin combination showed significant cytotoxicity compared with sorafenib or rhamnazin alone. The sorafenib-rhamnazin combination also showed significant inhibition of the angiogenicVEGF/VEGFR2/PI3K/NF-κBsignaling axis associated with significant upregulation of the apoptotic p38MAPK/caspase-3 axis and inhibition of Ki67, a proliferation marker in HepG2 and HUH-7 cells. SIGNIFICANCE Rhamnazin potentiates the chemotherapeutic effect of sorafenibvia modulation ofthe VEGF/PI3K/NF-κBsignaling axis, downregulation of VEGFR2 expression, and upregulation of the p38MAPK/caspase-3 axisin human HCC cell lines.
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188
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T-box transcription factor 19 promotes hepatocellular carcinoma metastasis through upregulating EGFR and RAC1. Oncogene 2022; 41:2225-2238. [PMID: 35217793 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-022-02249-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The effect of targeted therapy for metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is still unsatisfactory. Exploring the underlying mechanism of HCC metastasis is favorable to provide new therapeutic strategies. T-box (TBX) transcription factor family genes, which are crucial regulators in embryo and organ development, are vital for regulating tumor initiation, growth and metastasis. Here we explored the role of TBX19 in HCC metastasis, which is one of the most upregulated TBX family genes in human HCC tissues. TBX19 expression was markedly upregulated in HCC tissues and elevated TBX19 expression predicted poor prognosis. Overexpression of TBX19 enhanced HCC metastasis through upregulating epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and Rac family small GTPase 1 (RAC1) expression. Downregulation of EGFR and RAC1 inhibited TBX19-mediated HCC metastasis, while upregulation of EGFR and RAC1 restored inhibition of HCC metastasis mediated by TBX19 knockdown. Furthermore, epidermal growth factor (EGF)/EGFR signaling upregulated TBX19 expression via the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)/nuclear factor (NF)-kB axis. Besides, the combined application of EGFR inhibitor Erlotinib and RAC1 inhibitor NSC23766 markedly inhibited TBX19-mediated HCC metastasis. In HCC cohorts, TBX19 expression was positively associated with EGFR and RAC1 expression. Patients with positive coexpression of TBX19/EGFR or TBX19/RAC1 displayed the poorest prognosis. In conclusion, EGF/EGFR signaling upregulated TBX19 expression via ERK/NF-kB pathway and TBX19 fostered HCC metastasis by enhancing EGFR and RAC1 expression, which formed an EGF-TBX19-EGFR positive feedback loop. Targeting this signaling pathway may offer a potential therapeutic strategy to efficiently restrain TBX19-mediated HCC metastasis.
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189
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Park Y, Han Y, Kim D, Cho S, Kim W, Hwang H, Lee HW, Han DH, Kim KS, Yun M, Lee M. Impact of Exogenous Treatment with Histidine on Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14051205. [PMID: 35267513 PMCID: PMC8909034 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Sorafenib (Nexavar@) is the only currently approved anti-cancer drug for patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, despite the development of strategies combining sorafenib with other cytotoxic chemotherapeutic agents to overcome sorafenib resistance, clinical trial results are still disappointing. In this study, we examined the enhancement of tumor responses to sorafenib by exogenous histidine treatment. Abstract Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Sorafenib, a multi-kinase inhibitor, is the first-line therapy for advanced HCC. However, long-term exposure to sorafenib often results in reduced sensitivity and the development of resistance. Although various amino acids have been shown to contribute to cancer initiation and progression, little is known about the effects of histidine, a dietary essential amino acid that is partially taken up via histidine/large neutral amino acid transporter (LAT1), on cancer cells. In this study, we evaluated the effects of histidine on HCC cells and sensitivity to sorafenib. Remarkably, we found that exogenous histidine treatment induced a reduction in the expression of tumor markers related to glycolysis (GLUT1 and HK2), inflammation (STAT3), angiogenesis (VEGFB and VEGFC), and stem cells (CD133). In addition, LAT1 expression was downregulated in HCC tumor regions with high expression of GLUT1, CD133, and pSTAT3, which are known to induce sorafenib resistance. Finally, we demonstrated that combined treatment with sorafenib and histidine could be a novel therapeutic strategy to enhance the sensitivity to sorafenib, thereby improving long-term survival in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusun Park
- Division of Life Sciences, College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Incheon National University, Incheon 22012, Korea; (Y.P.); (Y.H.); (S.C.); (W.K.); (H.H.)
| | - Yeonju Han
- Division of Life Sciences, College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Incheon National University, Incheon 22012, Korea; (Y.P.); (Y.H.); (S.C.); (W.K.); (H.H.)
| | - Dongwoo Kim
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea;
| | - Sua Cho
- Division of Life Sciences, College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Incheon National University, Incheon 22012, Korea; (Y.P.); (Y.H.); (S.C.); (W.K.); (H.H.)
| | - WonJin Kim
- Division of Life Sciences, College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Incheon National University, Incheon 22012, Korea; (Y.P.); (Y.H.); (S.C.); (W.K.); (H.H.)
| | - Hyemin Hwang
- Division of Life Sciences, College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Incheon National University, Incheon 22012, Korea; (Y.P.); (Y.H.); (S.C.); (W.K.); (H.H.)
| | - Hye Won Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea;
| | - Dai Hoon Han
- Department of Surgery, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea; (D.H.H.); (K.S.K.)
| | - Kyung Sik Kim
- Department of Surgery, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea; (D.H.H.); (K.S.K.)
| | - Mijin Yun
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea;
- Correspondence: (M.Y.); (M.L.)
| | - Misu Lee
- Division of Life Sciences, College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Incheon National University, Incheon 22012, Korea; (Y.P.); (Y.H.); (S.C.); (W.K.); (H.H.)
- Institute for New Drug Development, College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Incheon National University, Incheon 22012, Korea
- Correspondence: (M.Y.); (M.L.)
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Bouitbir J, Panajatovic MV, Krähenbühl S. Mitochondrial Toxicity Associated with Imatinib and Sorafenib in Isolated Rat Heart Fibers and the Cardiomyoblast H9c2 Cell Line. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23042282. [PMID: 35216404 PMCID: PMC8878993 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23042282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are associated with cardiac toxicity, which may be caused by mitochondrial toxicity. The underlying mechanisms are currently unclear and require further investigation. In the present study, we aimed to investigate in more detail the role of the enzyme complexes of the electron transfer system (ETS), mitochondrial oxidative stress, and mechanisms of cell death in cardiac toxicity associated with imatinib and sorafenib. Cardiac myoblast H9c2 cells were exposed to imatinib and sorafenib (1 to 100 µM) for 24 h. Permeabilized rat cardiac fibers were treated with both drugs for 15 min. H9c2 cells exposed to sorafenib for 24 h showed a higher membrane toxicity and ATP depletion in the presence of galactose (favoring mitochondrial metabolism) compared to glucose (favoring glycolysis) but not when exposed to imatinib. Both TKIs resulted in a higher dissipation of the mitochondrial membrane potential in galactose compared to glucose media. Imatinib inhibited Complex I (CI)- and CIII- linked respiration under both conditions. Sorafenib impaired CI-, CII-, and CIII-linked respiration in H9c2 cells cultured with glucose, whereas it inhibited all ETS complexes with galactose. In permeabilized rat cardiac myofibers, acute exposure to imatinib and sorafenib decreased CI- and CIV-linked respiration in the presence of the drugs. Electron microscopy showed enlarged mitochondria with disorganized cristae. In addition, both TKIs caused mitochondrial superoxide accumulation and decreased the cellular GSH pool. Both TKIs induced caspase 3/7 activation, suggesting apoptosis as a mechanism of cell death. Imatinib and sorafenib impaired the function of cardiac mitochondria in isolated rat cardiac fibers and in H9c2 cells at plasma concentrations reached in humans. Both imatinib and sorafenib impaired the function of enzyme complexes of the ETS, which was associated with mitochondrial ROS accumulation and cell death by apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamal Bouitbir
- Division of Molecular and Systems Toxicology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology, University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland; (M.V.P.); (S.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +41-61-207-6290
| | - Miljenko V. Panajatovic
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology, University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland; (M.V.P.); (S.K.)
| | - Stephan Krähenbühl
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology, University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland; (M.V.P.); (S.K.)
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191
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Sofer S, Lamkiewicz K, Armoza Eilat S, Partouche S, Marz M, Moskovits N, Stemmer SM, Shlomai A, Sklan EH. A genome-wide CRISPR activation screen reveals Hexokinase 1 as a critical factor in promoting resistance to multi-kinase inhibitors in hepatocellular carcinoma cells. FASEB J 2022; 36:e22191. [PMID: 35147243 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202101507rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is often diagnosed at an advanced stage and is, therefore, treated with systemic drugs, such as tyrosine-kinase inhibitors (TKIs). These drugs, however, offer only modest survival benefits due to the rapid development of drug resistance. To identify genes implicated in TKI resistance, a cluster of regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein 9 activation screen was performed in hepatoma cells treated with regorafenib, a TKI used as second-line therapy for advanced HCC. The screen results show that Hexokinase 1 (HK1), catalyzing the first step in glucose metabolism, is a top candidate for conferring TKI resistance. Compatible with this, HK1 was upregulated in regorafenib-resistant cells. Using several experimental approaches, both in vitro and in vivo, we show that TKI resistance correlates with HK1 expression. Furthermore, an HK inhibitor resensitized resistant cells to TKI treatment. Together, our data indicate that HK1 may function as a critical factor modulating TKI resistance in hepatoma cells and, therefore, may serve as a biomarker for treatment success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Summer Sofer
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Kevin Lamkiewicz
- RNA Bioinformatics and High-Throughput Analysis, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany.,European Virus Bioinformatics Center, Jena, Germany
| | - Shir Armoza Eilat
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Shirly Partouche
- Felsenstein Medical Research Center, Rabin Medical Center, Beilinson Hospital, Petah-Tikva, Israel
| | - Manja Marz
- RNA Bioinformatics and High-Throughput Analysis, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany.,European Virus Bioinformatics Center, Jena, Germany.,Leibniz Institute for Age Research-Fritz Lipmann Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Neta Moskovits
- PDX Laboratory, Felsenstein Medical Research Center and the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Salomon M Stemmer
- PDX Laboratory, Felsenstein Medical Research Center and the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel.,Institute of Oncology, Davidoff Center, Rabin Medical Center, Petah-Tikva, Israel
| | - Amir Shlomai
- Felsenstein Medical Research Center and the Department of Medicine D, Rabin Medical Center, Beilinson Hospital, Petah-Tikva, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Ella H Sklan
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Chang YS, Su CW, Chen SC, Chen YY, Liang YJ, Wu JC. Upregulation of USP22 and ABCC1 during Sorafenib Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Contribute to Development of Resistance. Cells 2022; 11:cells11040634. [PMID: 35203285 PMCID: PMC8870465 DOI: 10.3390/cells11040634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Sorafenib is a small molecule that blocks tumor proliferation by targeting the activity of multi-kinases for the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Increasing sorafenib resistance following long-term treatment is frequently encountered. Mechanisms underlying sorafenib resistance remain not completely clear. To further understand the mechanism of sorafenib resistance in HCC, we established sorafenib-resistant cell lines by slowly increasing sorafenib concentration in cell culture medium. Upregulation of USP22 and ABCC1 were found in Sorafenib-resistant cells. Sorafenib-resistant cells treated with USP22 siRNA showed significant reduction in endogenous mRNA and protein levels of ABCC1. During sorafenib treatment, upregulation of USP22 increases ABCC1 expression and subsequently contributes to sorafenib resistance in HCC cells. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed a positive correlation between USP22 and ABCC1 expression in tissue samples from sorafenib-resistant patients (Pearson’s correlation = 0.59, p = 0.03). Our findings indicate that upregulation of USP22 and ABCC1 expression during treatment contribute to sorafenib resistance in HCC cells and that USP22 has strong potential as a therapeutic target for overcoming sorafenib resistance in HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yung-Sheng Chang
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan; (Y.-S.C.); (S.-C.C.)
| | - Chien-Wei Su
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan;
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan
| | - San-Chi Chen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan; (Y.-S.C.); (S.-C.C.)
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan;
- Department of Oncology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Ying Chen
- Department of Pathology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan;
| | - Yuh-Jin Liang
- Medical Research Department, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan;
| | - Jaw-Ching Wu
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan; (Y.-S.C.); (S.-C.C.)
- Medical Research Department, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan;
- Cancer Progression Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-2-28712121 (ext. 3218)
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193
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Sun B, Zhang W, Chen L, Sun T, Ren Y, Zhu L, Qian K, Zheng C. The safety and efficacy of percutaneous ethanol injection in the treatment of tumor thrombus in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma with portal vein tumor thrombus. Abdom Radiol (NY) 2022; 47:858-868. [PMID: 34820688 DOI: 10.1007/s00261-021-03349-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To compare the efficacy and safety of percutaneous ethanol injection (PEI) combined with transarterial chemoembolization (TACE + PEI) vs. TACE alone for the treatment of patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and portal vein tumor thrombus (PVTT). METHODS A total of 130 HCC patients with PVTT treated from May 2014 to August 2018 were retrospectively evaluated. Among them, 33 patients received TACE + PEI and 97 patients received TACE alone. PVTT was classified according to the Japanese Society of Hepatology; 97 patients had VP3 PVTT. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to reduce selection bias. RESULTS Before PSM, the median overall survival (mOS) was 11 months (95% CI: 7.8-14.2) in the TACE + PEI group and 6 months (95% CI: 5.1-6.9) in the TACE group (p < 0.001), and the median progression-free survival (mPFS) was 5 months (95% CI: 3.7-6.3) in the TACE + PEI group and 2.5 months (95% CI: 2.1-2.9) in the TACE group (p < 0.001). Similar results were seen after PSM. Subgroup analysis showed that in patients with tumors > 5 cm in diameter and the VP3 subgroup, TACE + PEI brought a significant survival advantage over TACE alone before and after PSM. In the adverse event analysis, severe abdominal pain and bleeding after operation were seen in more patients in the TACE + PEI group than in the TACE group before PSM (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS For HCC patients with PVTT (especially those with tumor diameters > 5 cm and grade VP3), TACE combined with PEI for HCC patients with PVTT is safe and may provide better survival outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Sun
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Weihua Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Lei Chen
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Tao Sun
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Yanqiao Ren
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Licheng Zhu
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, 430022, China
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Kun Qian
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, 430022, China.
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
| | - Chuansheng Zheng
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, 430022, China.
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
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Krstic J, Reinisch I, Schindlmaier K, Galhuber M, Riahi Z, Berger N, Kupper N, Moyschewitz E, Auer M, Michenthaler H, Nössing C, Depaoli MR, Ramadani-Muja J, Usluer S, Stryeck S, Pichler M, Rinner B, Deutsch AJA, Reinisch A, Madl T, Chiozzi RZ, Heck AJR, Huch M, Malli R, Prokesch A. Fasting improves therapeutic response in hepatocellular carcinoma through p53-dependent metabolic synergism. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabh2635. [PMID: 35061544 PMCID: PMC8782451 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abh2635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Cancer cells voraciously consume nutrients to support their growth, exposing metabolic vulnerabilities that can be therapeutically exploited. Here, we show in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells, xenografts, and patient-derived organoids that fasting improves sorafenib efficacy and acts synergistically to sensitize sorafenib-resistant HCC. Mechanistically, sorafenib acts noncanonically as an inhibitor of mitochondrial respiration, causing resistant cells to depend on glycolysis for survival. Fasting, through reduction in glucose and impeded AKT/mTOR signaling, prevents this Warburg shift. Regulating glucose transporter and proapoptotic protein expression, p53 is necessary and sufficient for the sorafenib-sensitizing effect of fasting. p53 is also crucial for fasting-mediated improvement of sorafenib efficacy in an orthotopic HCC mouse model. Together, our data suggest fasting and sorafenib as rational combination therapy for HCC with intact p53 signaling. As HCC therapy is currently severely limited by resistance, these results should instigate clinical studies aimed at improving therapy response in advanced-stage HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Krstic
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Isabel Reinisch
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Katharina Schindlmaier
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Markus Galhuber
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Zina Riahi
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Natascha Berger
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria
| | - Nadja Kupper
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Elisabeth Moyschewitz
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Martina Auer
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Helene Michenthaler
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Christoph Nössing
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Glasgow, UK
| | - Maria R. Depaoli
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Division of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Jeta Ramadani-Muja
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Division of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Sinem Usluer
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Division of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Sarah Stryeck
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Division of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
- Institute of Interactive Systems and Data Science, Graz University of Technology, 8010 Graz, Austria
- Know-Center GmbH, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Martin Pichler
- Division of Clinical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Comprehensive Cancer Center Graz, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria
| | - Beate Rinner
- Department for Biomedical Research, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Alexander J. A. Deutsch
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria
| | - Andreas Reinisch
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria
- Division of Hematology, Department of Blood Group Serology and Transfusion Medicine Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria
| | - Tobias Madl
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Division of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed-Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Riccardo Zenezini Chiozzi
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, 3584CH Utrecht, Netherlands
- Netherlands Proteomics Center, 3584CH Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Albert J. R. Heck
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, 3584CH Utrecht, Netherlands
- Netherlands Proteomics Center, 3584CH Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Meritxell Huch
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Roland Malli
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Division of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed-Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Andreas Prokesch
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center for Cell Signaling, Metabolism and Aging, Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed-Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
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Chen ZY, Li J, Zhu SD, Li ZD, Yu JL, Wu J, Zhang C, Zeng LH. Harmine reinforces the effects of regorafenib on suppressing cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis in liver cancer cells. Exp Ther Med 2022; 23:209. [PMID: 35126712 PMCID: PMC8796640 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2022.11132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Yi Chen
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310015, P.R. China
| | - Jie Li
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310015, P.R. China
| | - Shu-Di Zhu
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310015, P.R. China
| | - Zhi-Di Li
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310015, P.R. China
| | - Jia-Lin Yu
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310015, P.R. China
| | - Jie Wu
- School of Pharmaceutical and Materials Engineering and Institute for Advanced Studies, Taizhou University, Taizhou, Zhejiang 318000, P.R. China
| | - Chong Zhang
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310015, P.R. China
| | - Ling-Hui Zeng
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310015, P.R. China
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196
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Zhou K, Nguyen R, Qiao L, George J. Single cell RNA-seq analysis identifies a noncoding RNA mediating resistance to sorafenib treatment in HCC. Mol Cancer 2022; 21:6. [PMID: 34980140 PMCID: PMC8722008 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-021-01473-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Zhou
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney and Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia
| | - Romario Nguyen
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney and Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia
| | - Liang Qiao
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney and Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia.
| | - Jacob George
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney and Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia.
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197
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Feng X, Zou B, Nan T, Zheng X, Zheng L, Lan J, Chen W, Yu J. MiR-25 enhances autophagy and promotes sorafenib resistance of hepatocellular carcinoma via targeting FBXW7. Int J Med Sci 2022; 19:257-266. [PMID: 35165511 PMCID: PMC8795798 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.67352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Sorafenib resistance is a major challenge in the treatment of patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a large family of non-coding RNA molecules, which is an important mechanism of drug resistance. We previously found that knockdown of miR-25 increased the sensitivity of TRAIL-induced apoptosis in liver cancer stem cells. We aimed to study the effects of miR-25 on sorafenib resistance of HCC and the underlying mechanisms. In the present study, we analyzed the expression of miR-25 between HCC and normal tissues and predicted miR-25 target genes through databases. After transfecting miR-25 mimics, inhibitor or FBXW7 Plasmid, CCK-8 and flow cytometry assay was performed to determine the sorafenib resistance. We performed LC3-dual-fluorescence assay and Western blotting to detect the autophagy levels. The expression of miR-25 was upregulated in human HCC tissues and was associated with tumor pathological grade, clinic staging, and lymphatic metastasis. MiR-25 enhanced sorafenib resistance of HCC cells and autophagy. FBXW7 is the direct target of miR-25. Overexpression of FBXW7 could reverse the increase of sorafenib resistance caused by miR-25 mimics. Our results suggested that miR-25 increased the sorafenib resistance of HCC via inducing autophagy. In addition, miR-25 decreases the expression of FBXW7 protein to regulate autophagy. Therefore, miR-25 may represent a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoning Feng
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Bei Zou
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Tianhao Nan
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Zheng
- Cancer Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy Combining Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310012, Zhejiang, China
| | - Li Zheng
- Cancer Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy Combining Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310012, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiahua Lan
- Cancer Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy Combining Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310012, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Cancer Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy Combining Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310012, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jun Yu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
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198
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Cakil YD, Ozunal ZG, Kayali DG, Aktas RG, Saglam E. Anti-proliferative effects of paroxetine alone or in combination with sorafenib in HepG2 cells. BRAZ J PHARM SCI 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/s2175-97902022e201148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
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199
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Woo HY, Rhee H, Yoo JE, Kim SH, Choi GH, Kim DY, Woo HG, Lee HS, Park YN. Lung and lymph node metastases from hepatocellular carcinoma: Comparison of pathological aspects. Liver Int 2022; 42:199-209. [PMID: 34490997 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Extrahepatic metastasis from hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a catastrophic event, yet organ-specific pathological characteristics of metastatic HCC remain unclear. We aimed to characterize the pathological aspects of HCC metastases to various organs. METHODS We collected intrahepatic HCC (cohort 1, n = 322) and extrahepatic metastatic HCC (cohort 2, n = 130) samples. Clinicopathological evaluation and immunostaining for K19, CD34, αSMA, fibroblast-associated protein (FAP), CAIX, VEGF, PD-L1, CD3, CD8, Foxp3, CD163 and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related markers were performed. RESULTS Independent factors for extrahepatic metastasis included BCLC stage B-C, microvascular invasion (MVI), vessels encapsulating tumour clusters (VETC)-HCC, K19 and FAP expression, and CD163+ macrophage infiltration (cohort 1, P < .05 for all). Lung metastases (n = 63) had the highest proportion of VETC-HCC and macrotrabecular-massive (MTM)-HCC. Lymph node metastases (n = 19) showed significantly high rates of EMT-high features, K19 expression, fibrous tumour stroma with αSMA and FAP expression, high immune cell infiltration, PD-L1 expression (combined positive score), CD3+, CD8+, Foxp3+ T cell and CD163+ macrophage infiltration (adjusted P < .05 for all). In both cohorts, EMT-high HCCs showed higher rates of K19 expression, fibrous tumour stroma, high immune cell infiltration, PD-L1 expression and CD3+ T cell infiltration, whereas EMT-low HCCs were more frequent among VETC-HCCs (P < .05 for all). Overall phenotypic features were not significantly different between paired primary-metastatic HCCs (n = 32). CONCLUSIONS Metastatic HCCs to various organs showed different pathological features. VETC and MTM subtypes were related to lung metastasis, whereas K19 expression, EMT-high features with fibrous tumour stroma and high immune cell infiltration were related to lymph node metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ha Young Woo
- Department of Pathology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Pathology, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyungjin Rhee
- Department of Radiology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Eun Yoo
- Department of Pathology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Se Hoon Kim
- Department of Pathology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Gi Hong Choi
- Department of Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Do Young Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Goo Woo
- Department of Physiology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Sun Lee
- Biostatistics Collaboration Unit, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Nyun Park
- Department of Pathology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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200
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Chen S, Zhu JY, Zang X, Zhai YZ. The Emerging Role of Ferroptosis in Liver Diseases. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 9:801365. [PMID: 34970553 PMCID: PMC8713249 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.801365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Ferroptosis is a newly discovered type of cell death mediated by iron-dependent lipid peroxide. The disturbance of iron metabolism, imbalance of the amino acid antioxidant system, and lipid peroxide accumulation are considered distinct fingerprints of ferroptosis. The dysregulation of ferroptosis has been intensively studied in recent years due to its participation in various diseases, including cancer, kidney injury, and neurodegenerative diseases. Notably, increasing evidence indicates that ferroptosis plays different roles in a wide spectrum of liver diseases. On the one hand, inhibiting ferroptosis may counteract the pathophysiological progression of several liver diseases, such as alcoholic liver injury, nonalcoholic steatosis hepatitis and fibrosis. On the other hand, inducing ferroptosis may restrict the emergence of secondary resistance to current medicines, such as sorafenib, for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) therapy. Here, we summarize the biological characteristics and regulatory signalling pathways of ferroptosis involved in liver disease. The current available medical agents targeting ferroptosis, including inducers or inhibitors applied in liver diseases, are also reviewed. This work aims to provide new insight into the emerging role of pathogenesis and therapeutic approaches for liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Chen
- Department of Neurology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Jun-Yao Zhu
- Department of Infectious Disease, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xin Zang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yong-Zhen Zhai
- Department of Infectious Disease, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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