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Economopoulou P, Perisanidis C, Giotakis EI, Psyrri A. The emerging role of immunotherapy in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC): anti-tumor immunity and clinical applications. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2016; 4:173. [PMID: 27275486 DOI: 10.21037/atm.2016.03.34] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) carries a poor prognosis, with low survival rates for advanced stage tumors and minimal improvement in survival trends through the past decades. It is becoming increasingly clear that HNSCC oncogenesis and evolution is characterized by profound immune defects, as cancer cells evade immunosurveillance due to accumulation of genetic mutations and tumor heterogeneity. Improved understanding of the role of the immune system in cancer has led to the identification of novel therapeutic targets, which are being investigated for their potential to provide durable responses. In this review, we will summarize the role of the immune system in HNSCC, the rationale behind immunotherapy strategies and their clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiota Economopoulou
- 1 Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Medical Oncology, Attikon University Hospital, National Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Haidari, Athens, Greece ; 2 Department of Maxillofacial and Oral Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria ; 3 Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Städtisches Klinikum Karlsruhe, 76133 Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Christos Perisanidis
- 1 Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Medical Oncology, Attikon University Hospital, National Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Haidari, Athens, Greece ; 2 Department of Maxillofacial and Oral Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria ; 3 Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Städtisches Klinikum Karlsruhe, 76133 Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Evaggelos I Giotakis
- 1 Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Medical Oncology, Attikon University Hospital, National Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Haidari, Athens, Greece ; 2 Department of Maxillofacial and Oral Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria ; 3 Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Städtisches Klinikum Karlsruhe, 76133 Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Amanda Psyrri
- 1 Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Medical Oncology, Attikon University Hospital, National Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Haidari, Athens, Greece ; 2 Department of Maxillofacial and Oral Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria ; 3 Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Städtisches Klinikum Karlsruhe, 76133 Karlsruhe, Germany
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152
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Ram Kumar RM, Boro A, Fuchs B. Involvement and Clinical Aspects of MicroRNA in Osteosarcoma. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17060877. [PMID: 27271607 PMCID: PMC4926411 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17060877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2016] [Revised: 05/24/2016] [Accepted: 05/27/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common primary bone cancer in children and adolescents, but its pathogenesis has been difficult to establish because of its well-known heterogeneous nature. OS has been associated with genetic and cytogenetic abnormalities, which include function-impairing mutations in tumor suppressors and the activation of oncogenes. OS tumorigenesis has been linked to alterations of several genes characterized by a high level of genetic instability and recurrent DNA amplifications and deletions. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), 18–25-nucleotide noncoding RNAs, are critical for various biological processes like differentiation, cell growth and cell death. Dysregulation of miRNA expression leads to phenotypic and genotypic changes in cells, which leads to cancer. Studies on miRNAs have initiated a significant effect in both diagnosis and treatment of cancer. This review focuses on the current knowledge of clinical applications of miRNAs for the better diagnosis and management of OS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ram Mohan Ram Kumar
- Department of Experimental Pathology, CHUV and University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Aleksandar Boro
- Laboratory for Orthopaedic Research, Department of Orthopaedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, 8008 Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Bruno Fuchs
- Laboratory for Orthopaedic Research, Department of Orthopaedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, 8008 Zurich, Switzerland.
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153
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Masuda M, Wakasaki T, Toh S. Stress-triggered atavistic reprogramming (STAR) addiction: driving force behind head and neck cancer? Am J Cancer Res 2016; 6:1149-1166. [PMID: 27429838 PMCID: PMC4937727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2016] [Accepted: 05/01/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent results of the Cancer Genome Atlas on head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) revealed that HNSCC lacked predominant gain-of-function mutations in oncogenes, whereas an essential role for epigenetics in oncogenesis has become apparent. In parallel, it has gained general acceptance that cancer is considered as complex adaptive system, which evolves responding environmental selective pressures. This somatic evolution appears to proceed concurrently with the acquisition of an atavistic pluripotent state (i.e., "stemness"), which is inducible by intrinsic epigenetic reprogramming program as demonstrated by induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells. This Nobel prize-winning discovery has markedly accelerated and expanded cancer stem cell research from the point of epigenetic reprogramming. Taken together, we hypothesize that stress-triggered atavistic reprogramming (STAR) may be the major driving force of HNSCC evolution. In this perspective, we discuss the possible mechanisms of STAR in HNSCC, focusing on recent topics of epigenetic reprogramming in developmental and cancer cell biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muneyuki Masuda
- Department of Head & Neck Surgery, National Kyushu Cancer Center 3-1-1, Notame, Minamiku, Fukuoka 811-1395, Japan
| | - Takahiro Wakasaki
- Department of Head & Neck Surgery, National Kyushu Cancer Center 3-1-1, Notame, Minamiku, Fukuoka 811-1395, Japan
| | - Satoshi Toh
- Department of Head & Neck Surgery, National Kyushu Cancer Center 3-1-1, Notame, Minamiku, Fukuoka 811-1395, Japan
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154
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GAO JIAN, ZHAO SEN, HALSTENSEN TRONDS. Increased interleukin-6 expression is associated with poor prognosis and acquired cisplatin resistance in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Oncol Rep 2016; 35:3265-74. [PMID: 27108527 PMCID: PMC4869939 DOI: 10.3892/or.2016.4765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2015] [Accepted: 12/31/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Increased expression of interleukin 6 (IL-6) is associated with poor prognosis and chemoresistance in many different carcinomas, but its role in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is still unsettled. Analyzing tumorous mRNA expression data from 399 HNSCC patients revealed that high IL-6 expression predicted poor prognosis. Similar tendency was observed in platinum treated patients, suggesting an IL-6 associated cisplatin resistance. IL-6 increase was also found in two in-house acquired cisplatin‑resistant HNSCC cell lines (both basaloid and conventional squamous cell carcinoma) by using microarray analysis. However, although the in-house acquired cisplatin-resistant cell lines had higher basal and markedly increased cisplatin-induced IL-6 expression, IL-6 did not mediate the cisplatin resistance as neither exogenous IL-6 nor IL-6R/gp130 inhibitors affected cisplatin sensitivity. Moreover, the IL-6/STAT3 pathway was impaired in the resistant cell lines, partly due to decreased IL-6R expression. Thus, high IL-6 expression correlated to poor prognosis and acquired cisplatin resistance, but it did not mediate cisplatin resistance in the HNSCC cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- JIAN GAO
- Department of Oral Biology, University of Oslo, Blindern, Oslo 0316, Norway
| | - SEN ZHAO
- Genome Biology Group, Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Cancer Research, Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo 0424, Norway
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155
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Effect of CD133 overexpression on the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in oral cancer cell lines. Clin Exp Metastasis 2016; 33:487-96. [PMID: 27137188 DOI: 10.1007/s10585-016-9793-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2015] [Accepted: 04/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is one of the most common cancers in the world. In OSCC, CD133 promotes tumor invasion and metastasis by inducing the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). A small subset of cancer cells known as cancer stem cells (CSCs) are thought to give rise to differentiated tumor cells and to predict tumor recurrence and metastases, i.e., CSCs may be metastatic precursors. In this study, we show that ectopic overexpression of CD133 in OSCC cell lines KB, YD9, and YD10B cells significantly promotes the EMT and acquisition of stemness properties. CSC properties were analyzed by colony-formation assay and measurement of OCT4, SOX2, and NANOG expression, and the EMT was monitored by cell migration, a cell invasion assay, and analysis of E-cadherin, N-cadherin, and vimentin expression. CD133 overexpression led to formation of irregular spheroid colonies consistent with a stem cell phenotype and increased the expression of OCT4, SOX2, NANOG, N-cadherin, and vimentin. Taken together, these findings show that elevated levels of CD133 lead to OSCC invasiveness and metastasis, associated with the upregulation of EMT and stemness markers.
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156
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Chanmee T, Ontong P, Itano N. Hyaluronan: A modulator of the tumor microenvironment. Cancer Lett 2016; 375:20-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2016.02.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2015] [Revised: 02/16/2016] [Accepted: 02/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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157
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Bourguignon LYW. Matrix Hyaluronan Promotes Specific MicroRNA Upregulation Leading to Drug Resistance and Tumor Progression. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:517. [PMID: 27070574 PMCID: PMC4848973 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17040517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2016] [Revised: 03/07/2016] [Accepted: 03/30/2016] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Solid tumor invasion, metastasis and therapeutic drug resistance are the common causes for serious morbidity and cancer recurrence in patients. A number of research studies have searched for malignancy-related biomarkers and drug targets that are closely linked to tumor cell properties. One of the candidates is matrix hyaluronan (HA), which is known as one of the major extracellular matrix (ECM) components. HA serves as a physiological ligand for surface CD44 molecule and also functions as a bio-regulator. The binding of HA to CD44 has been shown to stimulate concomitant activation of a number of oncogenic pathways and abnormal cellular processes in cancer cells and cancer stem cells (CSCs). MicroRNAs (miRNAs) belong to a class of small RNAs containing ~20–25 nucleotides and are known to promote aberrant cellular functions in cancer cells. In this article, I have focused on the role of HA interaction with CD44 and several important signaling molecules in the regulation of unique miRNAs (e.g., miR-21, miR-302 and miR-10b) and their downstream targets leading to multiple tumor cell-specific functions (e.g., tumor cell growth, drug resistance and metastasis) and cancer progression. This new knowledge could provide the groundwork necessary for establishing new tumor markers and developing important, novel drugs targeted against HA/CD44-associated tumor progression, which can be utilized in the therapeutic treatment of metastatic cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilly Y W Bourguignon
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Department of Medicine, University of California at San Francisco & Endocrine Unit (111N2), 4150 Clement Street, San Francisco, CA 94121, USA.
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158
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Bourguignon LYW, Wong G, Shiina M. Up-regulation of Histone Methyltransferase, DOT1L, by Matrix Hyaluronan Promotes MicroRNA-10 Expression Leading to Tumor Cell Invasion and Chemoresistance in Cancer Stem Cells from Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. J Biol Chem 2016; 291:10571-85. [PMID: 27002147 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m115.700021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Human head and neck squamous cell carcinoma is a solid tumor malignancy associated with major morbidity and mortality. In this study, we determined that human head and neck squamous cell carcinoma-derived HSC-3 cells contain a subpopulation of cancer stem cells (CSCs) characterized by a high level of CD44v3 and aldehyde dehydrogenase-1 (ALDH1) expression. Importantly, matrix hyaluronan (HA) induces the up-regulation of stem cell markers that display the hallmark CSC properties. Histone methyltransferase, DOT1L, is also up-regulated by HA in CSCs (isolated from HSC-3 cells). Further analyses indicate that the stimulation of microRNA-10b (miR-10b) expression is DOT1L-specific and HA/CD44-dependent in CSCs. This process subsequently results in the overexpression of RhoGTPases and survival proteins leading to tumor cell invasion and cisplatin resistance. Treatment of CSCs with DOT1L-specific small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) effectively blocks HA/CD44-mediated expression of DOT1L, miR-10b production, and RhoGTPase/survival protein up-regulation as well as reduces tumor cell invasion and enhances chemosensitivity. CSCs were also transfected with a specific anti-miR-10b inhibitor to silence miR-10b expression and block its target functions. Our results demonstrate that the anti-miR-10 inhibitor not only decreases RhoGTPase/survival protein expression and tumor cell invasion, but also increases chemosensitivity in HA-treated CSCs. Taken together, these findings strongly support the contention that histone methyltransferase, DOT1L-associated epigenetic changes induced by HA play pivotal roles in miR-10 production leading to up-regulation of RhoGTPase and survival proteins. All of these events are critically important for the acquisition of cancer stem cell properties, including self-renewal, tumor cell invasion, and chemotherapy resistance in HA/CD44-activated head and neck cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilly Y W Bourguignon
- From the Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, University of California at San Francisco and San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, California 94121
| | - Gabriel Wong
- From the Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, University of California at San Francisco and San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, California 94121
| | - Marisa Shiina
- From the Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, University of California at San Francisco and San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, California 94121
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159
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Cleaved CD44 intracellular domain supports activation of stemness factors and promotes tumorigenesis of breast cancer. Oncotarget 2016; 6:8709-21. [PMID: 25909162 PMCID: PMC4496178 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.3325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2014] [Accepted: 02/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
CD44 plays a role in the progression of tumors and is expressed in cancer stem cells (CSCs). However, the mechanisms underlying the crosstalk of CD44 with stemness genes in CSC maintenance remains unclear. In this study, we demonstrated how the cleaved intracellular domain of CD44 (CD44ICD) activates stemness factors such as Nanog, Sox2 and Oct4, and contributes to the tumorigenesis of breast cancer. We have found that the overexpression of CD44ICD increased mammosphere formation in breast cancer cells. Treatment with a γ-secretase inhibitor (GSI), which blocks the cleavage of CD44ICD, interfered with mammosphere formation. Interestingly, CD44ICD decreased the expression levels and nuclear localization of stemness factors, but overexpression of CD44ICD reversed these effects. In addition, we showed that nuclear localization of CD44ICD is important for transcriptional activation of the stemness factors. Furthermore, CD44ICD-overexpressed cells exhibited strong tumorigenecity and greater metastatic potential than did the control cells or CD44-depleted cells in vivo in mice models. Taken together, it was supposed that CD44 promotes tumorigenesis through the interaction and nuclear-translocation of its intracellular domain and stemness factors. We suggest that the prevention of cleavage and nuclear-translocation of CD44ICD is a potential target in treating breast cancer.
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160
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Ren ZH, Zhang CP, Ji T. Expression of SOX2 in oral squamous cell carcinoma and the association with lymph node metastasis. Oncol Lett 2016; 11:1973-1979. [PMID: 26998109 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2016.4207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2015] [Accepted: 12/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCCs) are a growing problem in the world. The various existing treatments have not markedly improved the survival rate of patients with OSCC during the past three decades. Novel treatment strategies are required. Sex determining region Y-box 2 (SOX2) is a transcription factor that is involved in the maintenance of embryonic stem cell pluripotency and in multiple developmental processes. SOX2 expression was indicated to act as a prognostic factor in various types of tumors, including breast, colorectal, gastric and lung cancer and glioblastoma, and as a link between malignancy and stemness. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) may be responsible for the genesis, growth and metastatic spread of tumors. The poor survival outcomes for OSCC patients may be attributable to a poor selection of target cells for treatment, as current oral cancer therapies are generally aimed at the global mass of tumor. Therefore, the consideration that novel approaches to oral cancer may be targeted using SOX2 and CSCs appears reasonable. In order to better understand the oncogenic roles and the corresponding signal transduction pathways of the SOX2 protein, the present study emphasizes the role of SOX2 in OSCC, including the proteins associated with OSCC, and reviews the literature regarding the role of SOX2 in lymph node metastasis. The aim of the present study is to provide a reference for future studies that engage in research on the aforementioned subject.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Hu Ren
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China; Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, P.R. China
| | - Chen-Ping Zhang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
| | - Tong Ji
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
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161
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Dorris ER, Blackshields G, Sommerville G, Alhashemi M, Dias A, McEneaney V, Smyth P, O'Leary JJ, Sheils O. Pluripotency markers are differentially induced by MEK inhibition in thyroid and melanoma BRAFV600E cell lines. Cancer Biol Ther 2016; 17:526-42. [PMID: 26828826 PMCID: PMC4910922 DOI: 10.1080/15384047.2016.1139230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Oncogenic mutations in BRAF are common in melanoma and thyroid carcinoma and drive constitutive activation of the MAPK pathway. Molecularly targeted therapies of this pathway improves survival compared to chemotherapy; however, responses tend to be short-lived as resistance invariably occursCell line models of melanoma and thyroid carcinoma, +/− BRAFV600E activating mutation, were treated with the MEK inhibitor PD0325901. Treated and naive samples were assayed for expression of key members of the MAPK pathway. Global microRNA expression profiling of naive and resistant cells was performed via next generation sequencingand indicated pluripotency pathways in resistance. Parental cell lines were progressed to holoclones to confirm the miRNA stemness profileMembers of the MIR302/373/374/520 family of embryonic stem cell specific cell cycle regulating (ESCC) microRNAs were identified as differentially expressed between resistant BRAFV600E melanoma and thyroid cell lines. Upregulated expression of gene and protein stemness markers, upregulated expression of MAPK pathway genes and downregulation of the ESCC MIR302 cluster in BRAFV600E melanoma indicated an increased stem-like phenotype in resistant BRAFV600E melanoma. Conversely, downregulated expression of gene and protein stemness markers, downregulated expression of MAPK pathway genes, upregulation of the ESCC MIR520 cluster, reeexpression of cell surface receptors, and induced differentiation-associated morphology in resistant BRAFV600E indicate a differentiated phenotype associated with MEK inhibitor resistance in BRAFV600E thyroid cellsThe differential patterns of resistance observed between BRAFV600E melanoma and thyroid cell lines may reflect tissue type or de novo differentiation, but could have significant impact on the response of primary and metastatic cells to MEK inhibitor treatment. This study provides a basis for the investigation of the cellular differentiation/self-renewal access and its role in resistance to MEK inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma R Dorris
- a Department of Histopathology , Sir Patrick Dun Research Lab, Trinity College Dublin , Dublin , Ireland
| | - Gordon Blackshields
- a Department of Histopathology , Sir Patrick Dun Research Lab, Trinity College Dublin , Dublin , Ireland
| | - Gary Sommerville
- a Department of Histopathology , Sir Patrick Dun Research Lab, Trinity College Dublin , Dublin , Ireland
| | - Mohsen Alhashemi
- a Department of Histopathology , Sir Patrick Dun Research Lab, Trinity College Dublin , Dublin , Ireland
| | - Andrew Dias
- a Department of Histopathology , Sir Patrick Dun Research Lab, Trinity College Dublin , Dublin , Ireland
| | - Victoria McEneaney
- a Department of Histopathology , Sir Patrick Dun Research Lab, Trinity College Dublin , Dublin , Ireland
| | - Paul Smyth
- a Department of Histopathology , Sir Patrick Dun Research Lab, Trinity College Dublin , Dublin , Ireland
| | - John J O'Leary
- a Department of Histopathology , Sir Patrick Dun Research Lab, Trinity College Dublin , Dublin , Ireland
| | - Orla Sheils
- a Department of Histopathology , Sir Patrick Dun Research Lab, Trinity College Dublin , Dublin , Ireland
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162
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DC120, a novel AKT inhibitor, preferentially suppresses nasopharyngeal carcinoma cancer stem-like cells by downregulating Sox2. Oncotarget 2016; 6:6944-58. [PMID: 25749514 PMCID: PMC4466661 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.3128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2014] [Accepted: 01/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Side population (SP) contains cancer stem-like cells (CSLCs). In this study, we characterized SP cells from nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) cell lines and found that SP cells had a higher self-renewal ability in vitro and greater tumorigenicity in vivo. The AKT pathway was activated in NPC SP cells. DC120, a 2-pyrimidyl-5-amidothiazole inhibitor of the ATP binding site of AKT, inhibited phosphorylation of FKHRL1 and GSK-3β. DC120 inhibited SP fraction, the sphere-forming ability in vitro and growth of primary xenografts as well as secondary xenografts’ tumor recurrence. This inhibition was accompanied by reduced expression of stem-related gene Sox2 due to induction of p27 and miR-30a. A combination of DC120 and CDDP more effectively inhibited NPC cells compared with monotherapy in vitro and in vivo. Clinical evaluation of DC120 is warranted.
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163
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Xu L, Zhang L, Hu C, Liang S, Fei X, Yan N, Zhang Y, Zhang F. WNT pathway inhibitor pyrvinium pamoate inhibits the self-renewal and metastasis of breast cancer stem cells. Int J Oncol 2016; 48:1175-86. [PMID: 26781188 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2016.3337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2015] [Accepted: 12/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Acquisition of chemoresistance and metastatic phenotype are the major causes of breast cancer treatment failure and cancer-related mortality. Recently, a plethora of experimental and clinical studies points toward a central role of cancer stem cells (CSCs) in the chemoresistance and metastasis. In the present study, we demonstrated that pyrvinium pamoate (PP), an anthelmintic drug, inhibited proliferation of different subtypes of breast cancer cells (luminal: MCF-7, claudin-low: MDA-MB‑231, basal-like: MDA-MB‑468 and Her-2 enriched: SkBr-3) as a novel WNT pathway inhibitor. Additionally, PP was also shown to inhibit self-renewal of breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) and decrease both CD44+CD24-/low and ALDH-positive BCSCs content in a panel of breast cancer cell lines. Besides, the metastatic potential and expression of EMT markers (such as N-cadherin, vimentin, Snail) were also found suppressed by PP. By using a xenograft model, we next tested the efficacy of PP on tumorigenicity of MDA-MB‑231, one of the most aggressive breast cancer cell lines, and we observed PP significantly delayed tumor growth in vivo. Moreover, in-depth analysis revealed that PP caused inhibition of WNT pathway activity and stemness regulator expression including NANOG, SOX2 and OCT4, which were inherently upregulated in the BCSCs as compared with the bulk of cells within the tumor. Collectively, our findings provide direct evidence for PP serving as a promising high-yield agent targeting BCSCs and cancer heterogeneity. Therefore, strategies combining PP with standard chemotherapy drugs which fail to eliminate the BCSCs hold promise to overcome BCSCs associated treatment resistance and achieve a better therapeutic outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Xu
- Department of Oncology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Le Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Chun Hu
- Department of Oncology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Shujing Liang
- Department of Oncology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Xiaochun Fei
- Department of Pathology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Ningning Yan
- Department of Oncology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Yanyun Zhang
- Institute of Health Sciences, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences & SJTUSM, Shanghai 200031, P.R. China
| | - Fengchun Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
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164
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Voutsadakis IA. Pluripotency transcription factors in the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer and implications for prognosis. Biomark Med 2016; 9:349-61. [PMID: 25808439 DOI: 10.2217/bmm.15.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The cancer stem cell hypothesis argues that cancers depend on a specific type of cells, representing usually a small percentage of the total cancer cell population, termed cancer stem cells (or tumor-initiating cells) for their development and propagation. In colorectal cancer these cells express specific surface proteins such as CD133 and CD44 and can recapitulate the whole tumor. Besides expression of these surface markers, stem cells are associated with a network of pluripotency transcription factors, such as Oct4 and Sox2, which is present in them. Pluripotency factors are normally active in early development and characterize primitive cells, able to give rise to all different cell and tissue types of the three embryonic layers. In this review I will discuss the relationship of these factors with pathogenic lesions in colorectal cancer and their prognostic implications.
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165
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Ferreira JA, Peixoto A, Neves M, Gaiteiro C, Reis CA, Assaraf YG, Santos LL. Mechanisms of cisplatin resistance and targeting of cancer stem cells: Adding glycosylation to the equation. Drug Resist Updat 2016; 24:34-54. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2015.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2015] [Revised: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 11/18/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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166
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Abstract
The discovery of small regulatory noncoding RNAs revolutionized our thinking on gene regulation. The class of microRNAs (miRs), a group of small noncoding RNAs (20-22 nt in length) that bind imperfectly to the 3'-untranslated region of target mRNA, has been insistently implicated in several pathological conditions including cancer. Indeed, major hallmarks of cancer, such as cell differentiation, cell proliferation, cell cycle, cell survival, and cell invasion, has been described as being regulated by miRs. Recent studies have also implicated miRs in cancer drug resistance. Regardless of the several studies done until now, drug resistance still is a burden for cancer therapy and patients' outcome, often resulting in more aggressive tumors that tend to metastasize to distant organs. Hence, with this review, we aim to summarize the miRs that influence molecular pathways that are involved in cancer drug resistance, such as drug metabolism, drug influx/efflux, DNA damage response (DDR), epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and cancer stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Costa Gomes
- Centre for Toxicogenomics and Human Health, Genetics, Oncology and Human Toxicology, NOVA Medical School/Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Rua Câmara Pestana 6, Edificio CEDOC II, Room 2.22-2.23, Lisbon, 1150-008, Portugal
| | - José Rueff
- Centre for Toxicogenomics and Human Health, Genetics, Oncology and Human Toxicology, NOVA Medical School/Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Rua Câmara Pestana 6, Edificio CEDOC II, Room 2.22-2.23, Lisbon, 1150-008, Portugal
| | - António Sebastião Rodrigues
- Centre for Toxicogenomics and Human Health, Genetics, Oncology and Human Toxicology, NOVA Medical School/Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Rua Câmara Pestana 6, Edificio CEDOC II, Room 2.22-2.23, Lisbon, 1150-008, Portugal.
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Yan GN, Lv YF, Guo QN. Advances in osteosarcoma stem cell research and opportunities for novel therapeutic targets. Cancer Lett 2016; 370:268-74. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2015.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2015] [Revised: 11/03/2015] [Accepted: 11/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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168
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Todoroki K, Ogasawara S, Akiba J, Nakayama M, Naito Y, Seki N, Kusukawa J, Yano H. CD44v3+/CD24- cells possess cancer stem cell-like properties in human oral squamous cell carcinoma. Int J Oncol 2015; 48:99-109. [PMID: 26647656 PMCID: PMC4734600 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2015.3261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2015] [Accepted: 11/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) or cancer stem cell-like cells (CSC-LCs) are a minority population of cells that relate to tumor progression, metastasis and drug resistance. To identify CSC-LCs in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), we used two OSCC cell lines, SAS and OSC20, and cell surface markers, CD44v3 and CD24. In addition, we examined CD44v3 and CD24 expression immunohistochemically and evaluated the relationship between the expression and clinicopathological parameters in 50 OSCC tissues. In SAS and OSC20, CD44v3+/CD24- cells showed a higher sphere forming ability than the other fractions, i.e., CD44v3+/CD24+, CD44v3-/CD24- and CD44v3-/CD24+ cells. The proportion of CD44v3+/CD24- cells in SAS and OSC20 was 10.7 and 24.1%, respectively. Regarding SAS, CD44v3+/CD24- cells also showed a higher drug resistance for CDDP, 5-FU and cetuximab and expressed higher mRNA levels of CSC property-related genes than the other cell fractions. The tumorigenicity of CD44v3+/CD24- cells was not significantly different from the other fractions in SAS. An immunohistochemical study revealed a significant correlation between CD44v3 expression in the invasive portion and lymph node metastasis. Kaplan Meier analysis revealed cases with CD44v3 expression in the invasive portion tended to show poor overall survival (OS) compared with those without CD44v3, and there was a significant difference in OS between CD44v3+/CD24- and CD44v3-/CD24- immunophenotypes in the invasive portion. In conclusion, the results suggest that the CD44v3+/CD24- cell population displays CSC-LC properties in a human OSCC cell line. Additionally, we present evidence that CD44v3 immunoexpression and CD44v3+/CD24- immunophenotypes could give prognostic information associated with unfavorable clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keita Todoroki
- Department of Pathology, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume 830-0011, Japan
| | - Sachiko Ogasawara
- Department of Pathology, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume 830-0011, Japan
| | - Jun Akiba
- Department of Pathology, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume 830-0011, Japan
| | - Masamichi Nakayama
- Department of Pathology, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume 830-0011, Japan
| | - Yoshiki Naito
- Department of Pathology, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume 830-0011, Japan
| | - Naoko Seki
- Dental and Oral Medical Center, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume 830-0011, Japan
| | - Jingo Kusukawa
- Dental and Oral Medical Center, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume 830-0011, Japan
| | - Hirohisa Yano
- Department of Pathology, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume 830-0011, Japan
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169
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Talebi A, Kianersi K, Beiraghdar M. Comparison of gene expression of SOX2 and OCT4 in normal tissue, polyps, and colon adenocarcinoma using immunohistochemical staining. Adv Biomed Res 2015; 4:234. [PMID: 26645019 PMCID: PMC4647122 DOI: 10.4103/2277-9175.167958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2015] [Accepted: 07/29/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer stem cells have been isolated and characterized in all common cancers. SOX2 and OCT4 are important genes to enhance the self-renewal ability as activate stem cells and inhibit the genes that start differentiation and thus maintain the self-renewal ability of stem cells. Also, the aim of this study is "Comparison of gene expression of SOX2 and OCT4 in normal tissue, polyps, and colon adenocarcinoma using immunohistochemical staining." MATERIALS AND METHODS This cross-sectional study conducted on 20 patients so that for each patient, a sample of healthy tissue, dysplastic polyp tissue, and colon adenocarcinoma were provided as microscopic sections and staining on each tissue was performed through immunohistochemistry method by markers OCT4 and SOX2. The collected data were interred into SPSS version 18.0, (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) software and the level of significance were considered as <0.05. RESULTS The study sample consisted of 20 patients including 11 men (55%) and 9 women (45%) with a mean age of 55.6 ± 9.88 years. There was no association between Oct4 and colorectal cancer (CRC) patients (P > 0.05), but there was a significant correlation between Sox2 expression and CRC (P < 0.05). Patients in many aspects such as race, type of polyp, presence of lymph node, grade and intensity of Sox2 in different types of patients' tissues (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Regarding our findings, the expression of Sox2 would be a liable marker for evaluating of cancer progression and could be a treatment target of CRC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ardeshir Talebi
- Department of Pathology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Kianoosh Kianersi
- Department of Pathology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mozhdeh Beiraghdar
- Department of Pathology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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170
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Selective Activation of Cancer Stem Cells by Size-Specific Hyaluronan in Head and Neck Cancer. Int J Cell Biol 2015; 2015:989070. [PMID: 26448762 PMCID: PMC4581563 DOI: 10.1155/2015/989070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2014] [Revised: 03/12/2015] [Accepted: 03/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We determined that human head and neck cancer cells (HSC-3 cell line) contain a subpopulation displaying cancer stem cell (CSC) properties and are very tumorigenic. Specifically, we investigated whether different sizes of hyaluronan (HA) (e.g., 5 kDa, 20 kDa, 200 kDa, or 700 kDa-HA-sizes) play a role in regulating these CSCs. First, we observed that 200 kDa-HA (but not other sizes of HA) preferentially induces certain stem cell marker expression resulting in self-renewal and clonal formation of these cells. Further analyses indicate that 200 kDa-HA selectively stimulates the expression of a panel of microRNAs (most noticeably miR-10b) in these CSCs. Survival protein (cIAP-1) expression was also stimulated by 200 kDa-HA in these CSCs leading to cisplatin resistance. Furthermore, our results indicate that the anti-miR-10 inhibitor not only decreases survival protein expression, but also increases chemosensitivity of the 200 kDa-HA-treated CSCs. These findings strongly support the contention that 200 kDa-HA plays a pivotal role in miR-10 production leading to survival protein upregulation and chemoresistance in CSCs. Together, our findings suggest that selective activation of oncogenic signaling by certain sizes of HA (e.g., 200 kDa-HA) may be instrumental in the formation of CSC functions leading to tumor cell survival and chemoresistance in head and neck cancer progression.
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171
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Voutsadakis IA. The network of pluripotency, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and prognosis of breast cancer. BREAST CANCER-TARGETS AND THERAPY 2015; 7:303-19. [PMID: 26379447 PMCID: PMC4567227 DOI: 10.2147/bctt.s71163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer is the leading female cancer in terms of prevalence. Progress in molecular biology has brought forward a better understanding of its pathogenesis that has led to better prognostication and treatment. Subtypes of breast cancer have been identified at the genomic level and guide therapeutic decisions based on their biology and the expected benefit from various interventions. Despite this progress, a significant percentage of patients die from their disease and further improvements are needed. The cancer stem cell theory and the epithelial-mesenchymal transition are two comparatively novel concepts that have been introduced in the area of cancer research and are actively investigated. Both processes have their physiologic roots in normal development and common mediators have begun to surface. This review discusses the associations of these networks as a prognostic framework in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis A Voutsadakis
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Sault Area Hospital, Sault Ste Marie, ON, Canada ; Division of Clinical Sciences, Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Sudbury, ON, Canada
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172
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Qian X, Ma C, Nie X, Lu J, Lenarz M, Kaufmann AM, Albers AE. Biology and immunology of cancer stem(-like) cells in head and neck cancer. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2015; 95:337-45. [DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2015.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2013] [Revised: 03/14/2015] [Accepted: 03/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
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173
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Birkeland AC, Owen JH, Prince ME. Targeting Head and Neck Cancer Stem Cells: Current Advances and Future Challenges. J Dent Res 2015; 94:1516-23. [PMID: 26307039 DOI: 10.1177/0022034515601960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs), or tumor-initiating cells, comprise a subset of tumor cells with demonstrated ability for tumor growth, invasion, metastasis, and resistance to chemotherapy and radiation. Targeting of CSCs remains an attractive yet elusive therapeutic option, with the goal of increasing specificity and effectiveness in tumor eradication, as well as decreasing off-target or systemic toxicity. Research into further characterization and targeted therapy toward head and neck CSCs is an active and rapidly evolving field. This review discusses the current state of research into therapy against head and neck CSCs and future directions for targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- A C Birkeland
- Department of Otolaryngology-HNS, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - J H Owen
- Department of Otolaryngology-HNS, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - M E Prince
- Department of Otolaryngology-HNS, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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174
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A critical role of Oct4A in mediating metastasis and disease-free survival in a mouse model of ovarian cancer. Mol Cancer 2015; 14:152. [PMID: 26260289 PMCID: PMC4531496 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-015-0417-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2015] [Accepted: 07/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND High grade epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is commonly characterised by widespread peritoneal dissemination and ascites. Metastatic EOC tumour cells can attach directly to neighbouring organs or alternatively, maintain long term tumourigenicity and chemoresistance by forming cellular aggregates (spheroids). Cancer stem-like cells are proposed to facilitate this mechanism. This study aimed to investigate the role of Oct4A, an embryonic stem cell factor and known master regulator of pluripotency in EOC progression, metastasis and chemoresistance. METHODS To investigate the expression of Oct4A in primary EOC tumours, IHC and qRT-PCR analyses were used. The expression of Oct4A in chemonaive and recurrent EOC patient ascites-derived tumour cells samples was investigated by qRT-PCR. The functional role of Oct4A in EOC was evaluated by generating stable knockdown Oct4A clones in the established EOC cell line HEY using shRNA-mediated silencing technology. Cellular proliferation, spheroid forming ability, migration and chemosensitivty following loss of Oct4A in HEY cells was measured by in vitro functional assays. These observations were further validated in an in vivo mouse model using intraperitoneal (IP) injection of established Oct4A KD clones into Balb/c nu/nu mice. RESULTS We demonstrate that, compared to normal ovaries Oct4A expression significantly increases with tumour dedifferentiation. Oct4A expression was also significantly high in the ascites-derived tumour cells of recurrent EOC patients compared to chemonaive patients. Silencing of Oct4A in HEY cells resulted in decreased cellular proliferation, migration, spheroid formation and increased chemosensitivity to cisplatin in vitro. IP injection of Oct4A knockdown cells in vivo produced significantly reduced tumour burden, tumour size and invasiveness in mice, which overall resulted in significantly increased mouse survival rates compared to mice injected with control cells. CONCLUSIONS This data highlights a crucial role for Oct4A in the progression and metastasis of EOC. Targeting Oct4A may prove to be an effective strategy in the treatment and management of epithelial ovarian tumours.
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175
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Chanmee T, Ontong P, Kimata K, Itano N. Key Roles of Hyaluronan and Its CD44 Receptor in the Stemness and Survival of Cancer Stem Cells. Front Oncol 2015; 5:180. [PMID: 26322272 PMCID: PMC4530590 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2015.00180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2015] [Accepted: 07/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a unique subpopulation of self-renewing oncogenic cells that drive cancer initiation and progression. CSCs often acquire multidrug and oxidative stress resistance and are thereby thought to be responsible for tumor recurrence following treatment and remission. Although the mechanisms responsible for CSC generation, maintenance, and expansion have become a major focus in cancer research, the molecular characteristics of CSCs remain poorly understood. The stemness and subsequent expansion of CSCs are believed to be highly influenced by changes in microenvironmental signals as well as genetic and epigenetic alterations. Hyaluronan (HA), a major component of the extracellular matrix, has recently been demonstrated to provide a favorable microenvironment for the self-renewal and maintenance of stem cells. HA directly and indirectly affects CSC self-renewal by influencing the behavior of both cancer and stromal cells. For instance, HA in the tumor microenvironment modulates the function of tumor-associated macrophages to support CSC self-renewal, and excessive HA production promotes the acquisition of CSC signatures through epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. The importance of HA in mediating CSC self-renewal has been strengthened by the finding that interactions between HA and its receptor, CD44, propagate the stemness of CSCs. HA–CD44 interactions evoke a wide range of signals required for CSC self-renewal and maintenance. CD44 also plays a critical role in the preservation and multidrug resistance (MDR) of CSCs by transmitting survival and anti-apoptotic signals. Thus, a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in HA and CD44 control of CSC stemness may help in the design of more effective therapies for cancer patients. In this review, we address the key roles of HA and CD44 in CSC self-renewal and maintenance. We also discuss the involvement of CD44 in the oxidative stress and MDR of CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theerawut Chanmee
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kyoto Sangyo University , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Pawared Ontong
- Biotechnology, Division of Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto Sangyo University , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Koji Kimata
- Research Complex for Medical Frontiers, Aichi Medical University , Nagakute , Japan
| | - Naoki Itano
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kyoto Sangyo University , Kyoto , Japan ; Biotechnology, Division of Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto Sangyo University , Kyoto , Japan ; Institute of Advanced Technology, Kyoto Sangyo University , Kyoto , Japan
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176
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Burg JM, Link JE, Morgan BS, Heller FJ, Hargrove AE, McCafferty DG. KDM1 class flavin-dependent protein lysine demethylases. Biopolymers 2015; 104:213-46. [PMID: 25787087 PMCID: PMC4747437 DOI: 10.1002/bip.22643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2015] [Revised: 03/02/2015] [Accepted: 03/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Flavin-dependent, lysine-specific protein demethylases (KDM1s) are a subfamily of amine oxidases that catalyze the selective posttranslational oxidative demethylation of methyllysine side chains within protein and peptide substrates. KDM1s participate in the widespread epigenetic regulation of both normal and disease state transcriptional programs. Their activities are central to various cellular functions, such as hematopoietic and neuronal differentiation, cancer proliferation and metastasis, and viral lytic replication and establishment of latency. Interestingly, KDM1s function as catalytic subunits within complexes with coregulatory molecules that modulate enzymatic activity of the demethylases and coordinate their access to specific substrates at distinct sites within the cell and chromatin. Although several classes of KDM1-selective small molecule inhibitors have been recently developed, these pan-active site inhibition strategies lack the ability to selectively discriminate between KDM1 activity in specific, and occasionally opposing, functional contexts within these complexes. Here we review the discovery of this class of demethylases, their structures, chemical mechanisms, and specificity. Additionally, we review inhibition of this class of enzymes as well as emerging interactions with coregulatory molecules that regulate demethylase activity in highly specific functional contexts of biological and potential therapeutic importance.
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177
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Yan Y, Zuo X, Wei D. Concise Review: Emerging Role of CD44 in Cancer Stem Cells: A Promising Biomarker and Therapeutic Target. Stem Cells Transl Med 2015; 4:1033-43. [PMID: 26136504 DOI: 10.5966/sctm.2015-0048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 441] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2015] [Accepted: 05/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED The reception and integration of the plethora of signals a cell receives from its microenvironment determines the cell's fate. CD44 functions as a receptor for hyaluronan and many other extracellular matrix components, as well as a cofactor for growth factors and cytokines, and thus, CD44 is a signaling platform that integrates cellular microenvironmental cues with growth factor and cytokine signals and transduces signals to membrane-associated cytoskeletal proteins or to the nucleus to regulate a variety of gene expression levels related to cell-matrix adhesion, cell migration, proliferation, differentiation, and survival. Accumulating evidence indicates that CD44, especially CD44v isoforms, are cancer stem cell (CSC) markers and critical players in regulating the properties of CSCs, including self-renewal, tumor initiation, metastasis, and chemoradioresistance. Furthermore, there is ample evidence that CD44, especially CD44v isoforms, are valuable prognostic markers in various types of tumors. Therefore, therapies that target CD44 may destroy the CSC population, and this holds great promise for the cure of life-threatening cancers. However, many challenges remain to determining how best to use CD44 as a biomarker and therapeutic target. Here we summarize the current findings concerning the critical role of CD44/CD44v in the regulation of cancer stemness and the research status of CD44/CD44v as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in cancer. We also discuss the current challenges and future directions that may lead to the best use of CD44/CD44v for clinical applications. SIGNIFICANCE Mounting evidence indicates that cancer stem cells (CSCs) are mainly responsible for cancer aggressiveness, drug resistance, and tumor relapse. CD44, especially CD44v isoforms, have been identified as CSC surface markers for isolating and enriching CSCs in different types of cancers. The current findings concerning the critical role of CD44/CD44v in regulation of cancer stemness and the research status of CD44/CD44v as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in cancer are summarized. The current challenges and future directions that may lead to best use of CD44/CD44v for clinical applications are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongmin Yan
- Departments of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition and Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA; School of Medical Sciences and Laboratory Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiangsheng Zuo
- Departments of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition and Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA; School of Medical Sciences and Laboratory Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Daoyan Wei
- Departments of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition and Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA; School of Medical Sciences and Laboratory Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, People's Republic of China
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178
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Murakami S, Ninomiya W, Sakamoto E, Shibata T, Akiyama H, Tashiro F. SRY and OCT4 Are Required for the Acquisition of Cancer Stem Cell-Like Properties and Are Potential Differentiation Therapy Targets. Stem Cells 2015; 33:2652-63. [PMID: 26013162 DOI: 10.1002/stem.2059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2014] [Accepted: 04/20/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The acquisition of stemness is a hallmark of aggressive human hepatocellular carcinoma (hHCC). The stem cell marker OCT4 is frequently expressed in HCCs, and its expression correlates with those of putative cancer stem cell (CSC) markers and CSC properties. Here, we describe a novel mechanism of CSC maintenance by SRY through OCT4. We previously reported that Sry is involved in tumor malignancy in rodent HCCs. However, the oncogenic function of SRY in hHCCs is poorly understood. Ectopic expression of SRY increased multiple stem cell factors, including OCT4 and CD13. The OCT4 promoter contained SRY-binding sites that were directly activated by SRY. In HCC-derived cells, SRY knockdown decreased OCT4 expression and cancer stem-like phenotypes such as self-renewal, chemoresistance, and tumorigenicity. Conversely, OCT4 and SRY overexpression promoted cancer stem-like phenotypes. OCT4 knockdown in SRY clones downregulated the self-renewal capacity and chemoresistance. These data suggest that SRY is involved in the maintenance of cancer stem-like characteristics through OCT4. Moreover, CSCs of HCC-derived cells differentiated into Tuj1-positive neuron-like cells by retinoic acid. Noteworthily, SRY was highly expressed in some hHCC patients. Taken together, our findings imply a novel therapeutic strategy against CSCs of hHCCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigekazu Murakami
- Department of Biological Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Industrial Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, Niijuku, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Wataru Ninomiya
- Department of Biological Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Industrial Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, Niijuku, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Erina Sakamoto
- Department of Biological Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Industrial Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, Niijuku, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tatsuhiro Shibata
- Division of Cancer Genomics, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo Japan
| | - Hirotada Akiyama
- Department of Biological Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Industrial Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, Niijuku, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Fumio Tashiro
- Department of Biological Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Industrial Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, Niijuku, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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179
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Zöller M. CD44, Hyaluronan, the Hematopoietic Stem Cell, and Leukemia-Initiating Cells. Front Immunol 2015; 6:235. [PMID: 26074915 PMCID: PMC4443741 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2015.00235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2015] [Accepted: 04/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
CD44 is an adhesion molecule that varies in size due to glycosylation and insertion of so-called variant exon products. The CD44 standard isoform (CD44s) is highly expressed in many cells and most abundantly in cells of the hematopoietic system, whereas expression of CD44 variant isoforms (CD44v) is more restricted. CD44s and CD44v are known as stem cell markers, first described for hematopoietic stem cells and later on confirmed for cancer- and leukemia-initiating cells. Importantly, both abundantly expressed CD44s as well as CD44v actively contribute to the maintenance of stem cell features, like generating and embedding in a niche, homing into the niche, maintenance of quiescence, and relative apoptosis resistance. This is surprising, as CD44 is not a master stem cell gene. I here will discuss that the functional contribution of CD44 relies on its particular communication skills with neighboring molecules, adjacent cells and, last not least, the surrounding matrix. In fact, it is the interaction of the hyaluronan receptor CD44 with its prime ligand, which strongly assists stem cells to fulfill their special and demanding tasks. Recent fundamental progress in support of this “old” hypothesis, which may soon pave the way for most promising new therapeutics, is presented for both hematopoietic stem cell and leukemia-initiating cell. The contribution of CD44 to the generation of a stem cell niche, to homing of stem cells in their niche, to stem cell quiescence and apoptosis resistance will be in focus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margot Zöller
- Department of Tumor Cell Biology, University Hospital of Surgery , Heidelberg , Germany
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180
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Bayo P, Jou A, Stenzinger A, Shao C, Gross M, Jensen A, Grabe N, Mende CH, Rados PV, Debus J, Weichert W, Plinkert PK, Lichter P, Freier K, Hess J. Loss of SOX2 expression induces cell motility via vimentin up-regulation and is an unfavorable risk factor for survival of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Mol Oncol 2015; 9:1704-19. [PMID: 26040981 DOI: 10.1016/j.molonc.2015.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2014] [Revised: 04/16/2015] [Accepted: 05/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent gain on chromosome 3q26 encompassing the gene locus for the transcription factor SOX2 is a frequent event in human squamous cell carcinoma, including head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Numerous studies demonstrated that SOX2 expression and function is related to distinct aspects of tumor cell pathophysiology. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are not well understood, and the correlation between SOX2 expression and clinical outcome revealed conflicting data. Transcriptional profiling after silencing of SOX2 expression in a HNSCC cell line identified a set of up-regulated genes related to cell motility (e.g. VIM, FN1, CDH2). The inverse regulation of SOX2 and aforementioned genes was validated in 18 independent HNSCC cell lines from different anatomical sites. The inhibition of cell migration and invasion by SOX2 was confirmed by constant or conditional gene silencing and accelerated motility of HNSCC cells after SOX2 silencing was partially reverted by down-regulation of vimentin. In a retrospective study, SOX2 expression was determined by immunohistochemical staining on tissue microarrays containing primary tumor specimens of two independent HNSCC patient cohorts. Low SOX2 expression was found in 19.3% and 44.9% of primary tumor specimens, respectively. Univariate analysis demonstrated a statistically significant correlation between low SOX2 protein levels and reduced progression-free survival (Cohort I 51 vs. 16 months; Cohort II 33 vs. 12 months) and overall survival (Cohort I 150 vs. 37 months; Cohort II 33 vs. 16 months). Multivariate Cox proportional hazard model analysis confirmed that low SOX2 expression serves as an independent prognostic marker for HNSCC patients. We conclude that SOX2 inhibits tumor cell motility in HNSCC cells and that low SOX2 expression serves as a prognosticator to identify HNSCC patients at high risk for treatment failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pilar Bayo
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, D-69120, Germany; Research Group Molecular Mechanisms of Head and Neck Tumors, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, D-69120, Germany.
| | - Adriana Jou
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, D-69120, Germany; Division of Molecular Genetics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, D-69120, Germany; Oral Pathology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, CEP: 90035-003, Brazil.
| | - Albrecht Stenzinger
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, D-69120, Germany.
| | - Chunxuan Shao
- Division of Theoretical Systems Biology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, D-69120, Germany.
| | - Madeleine Gross
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, D-69120, Germany; Division of Molecular Genetics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, D-69120, Germany.
| | - Alexandra Jensen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Heidelberg, D-69120, Germany.
| | - Niels Grabe
- Hamamatsu Tissue Imaging and Analysis Center (TIGA), BIOQUANT, Heidelberg, D-69120, Germany; Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Christel Herold Mende
- Experimental Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany; Molecular Cell Biology Group, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Pantelis Varvaki Rados
- Oral Pathology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, CEP: 90035-003, Brazil.
| | - Juergen Debus
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Heidelberg, D-69120, Germany.
| | - Wilko Weichert
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, D-69120, Germany.
| | - Peter K Plinkert
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, D-69120, Germany.
| | - Peter Lichter
- Division of Molecular Genetics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, D-69120, Germany.
| | - Kolja Freier
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, D-69120, Germany.
| | - Jochen Hess
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, D-69120, Germany; Research Group Molecular Mechanisms of Head and Neck Tumors, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, D-69120, Germany.
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181
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Amino-terminal fragments of laminin γ2 chain stimulate migration of metastatic breast cancer cells by interacting with CD44. Clin Exp Metastasis 2015; 32:405-15. [PMID: 25990436 DOI: 10.1007/s10585-015-9705-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2014] [Accepted: 02/06/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Laminin γ2 (Lmγ2) chain, a subunit of the basement membrane protein laminin-332, is regarded as a typical cancer invasion marker. The overexpression of Lmγ2 chain by invasive cancer cells correlates with poor prognosis of cancer patients, and its forced expression in human cancer cells promotes their invasive growth in a nude mouse model. However, its actual roles in cancer progression, as well as the mechanism of its proinvasive effect, remain unclear. CD44 is known to be an important cancer stem cell marker and support cancer progression and stem cell functions. Here we demonstrate that amino-terminal fragments of Lmγ2 interact with CD44 on the membrane of breast cancer cells. Lmγ2 highly bound to the metastatic cell line MDA-MB-231 but poorly to the benign cell line MCF-7. The membrane receptor for Lmγ2 on MDA-MB-231 cells was identified to be the standard form of CD44 (CD44s) by co-immunoprecipitation, affinity chromatography and direct protein interaction assay. Lmγ2 interacted with CD44s through EGF-like repeat 2/3 in the Lmγ2 amino-terminus. Amino-terminal fragments of Lmγ2 induced the phosphorylation of CD44 cytoplasmic domain and stimulated migration of the cancer cells in a CD44-dependent manner. This migration was blocked by inhibitors of TGF-β receptor I (TGF-βRI) kinase. These results suggest that two important tumor markers, Lmγ2 and CD44, cooperate for cancer progression and possibly for cancer stem cell functions. TGF-βRI may be involved in the Lmγ2/CD44 interaction.
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182
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The pluripotency factor NANOG promotes the formation of squamous cell carcinomas. Sci Rep 2015; 5:10205. [PMID: 25988972 PMCID: PMC4437308 DOI: 10.1038/srep10205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2014] [Accepted: 04/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
NANOG is a key pluripotency factor in embryonic stem cells that is frequently expressed in squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs). However, a direct link between NANOG and SCCs remains to be established. Here, we show that inducible overexpression of NANOG in mouse skin epithelia favours the malignant conversion of skin papillomas induced by chemical carcinogenesis, leading to increased SCC formation. Gene expression analyses in pre-malignant skin indicate that NANOG induces genes associated to epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Some of these genes are directly activated by NANOG, including EMT-associated genes Zeb1, Zeb2, Twist1, Prrx1 and miR-21. Finally, endogenous NANOG binds to the promoters of theses genes in human SCC cells and, moreover, NANOG induces EMT features in primary keratinocytes. These results provide in vivo evidence for the oncogenic role of NANOG in squamous cell carcinomas.
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183
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Hurst RE, Hauser PJ, You Y, Bailey-Downs LC, Bastian A, Matthews SM, Thorpe J, Earle C, Bourguignon LYW, Ihnat MA. Identification of novel drugs to target dormant micrometastases. BMC Cancer 2015; 15:404. [PMID: 25971923 PMCID: PMC4434572 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-015-1409-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2014] [Accepted: 04/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer-specific survival has changed remarkably little over the past half century, mainly because metastases that are occult at diagnosis and generally resistant to chemotherapy subsequently develop months, years or even decades following definitive therapy. Targeting the dormant micrometastases responsible for these delayed or occult metastases would represent a major new tool in cancer patient management. Our hypothesis is that these metastases develop from micrometastatic cells that are suppressed by normal extracellular matrix (ECM). METHODS A new screening method was developed that compared the effect of drugs on the proliferation of cells grown on a normal ECM gel (small intestine submucosa, SISgel) to cells grown on plastic cell culture plates. The desired endpoint was that cells on SISgel were more sensitive than the same cells grown as monolayers. Known cancer chemotherapeutic agents show the opposite pattern. RESULTS Screening 13,000 compounds identified two leads with low toxicity in mice and EC50 values in the range of 3-30 μM, depending on the cell line, and another two leads that were too toxic to mice to be useful. In a novel flank xenograft method of suppressed/dormant cells co-injected with SISgel into the flank, the lead compounds significantly eliminated the suppressed cells, whereas conventional chemotherapeutics were ineffective. Using a 4T1 triple negative breast cancer model, modified for physiological metastatic progression, as predicted, both lead compounds reduced the number of large micrometastases/macrometastases in the lung. One of the compounds also targeted cancer stem cells (CSC) isolated from the parental line. The CSC also retained their stemness on SISgel. Mechanistic studies showed a mild, late apoptotic response and depending on the compound, a mild arrest either at S or G2/M in the cell cycle. CONCLUSIONS In summary we describe a novel, first in class set of compounds that target micrometastatic cells and prevent their reactivation to form recurrent tumors/macrometastases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert E Hurst
- Departments of Urology, Oklahoma University Health Sciences Center, 940 S. L. Young Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA. .,Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Oklahoma University Health Sciences Center, 940 S. L. Young Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA. .,Stephenson Cancer Center, Oklahoma University Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA. .,DormaTarg, Inc., 940 S.L. Young Blvd, Suite 118, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA.
| | - Paul J Hauser
- Departments of Urology, Oklahoma University Health Sciences Center, 940 S. L. Young Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA. .,DormaTarg, Inc., 940 S.L. Young Blvd, Suite 118, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA.
| | - Youngjae You
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oklahoma University Health Sciences Center, 940 S. L. Young Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA.
| | - Lora C Bailey-Downs
- DormaTarg, Inc., 940 S.L. Young Blvd, Suite 118, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA.
| | - Anja Bastian
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oklahoma University Health Sciences Center, 940 S. L. Young Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA.
| | - Stephen M Matthews
- DormaTarg, Inc., 940 S.L. Young Blvd, Suite 118, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA.
| | - Jessica Thorpe
- DormaTarg, Inc., 940 S.L. Young Blvd, Suite 118, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA.
| | - Christine Earle
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco and the VA Medical Center, 4150 Clement St., San Francisco, CA, 94121, USA.
| | - Lilly Y W Bourguignon
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco and the VA Medical Center, 4150 Clement St., San Francisco, CA, 94121, USA.
| | - Michael A Ihnat
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oklahoma University Health Sciences Center, 940 S. L. Young Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA. .,Stephenson Cancer Center, Oklahoma University Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA. .,DormaTarg, Inc., 940 S.L. Young Blvd, Suite 118, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA.
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Zhang GM, Bao CY, Wan FN, Cao DL, Qin XJ, Zhang HL, Zhu Y, Dai B, Shi GH, Ye DW. MicroRNA-302a Suppresses Tumor Cell Proliferation by Inhibiting AKT in Prostate Cancer. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0124410. [PMID: 25922934 PMCID: PMC4414271 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0124410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2014] [Accepted: 03/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Micro (mi) RNAs are important regulators involved in various physical and pathological processes, including cancer. The miRNA-302 family has been documented as playing a critical role in carcinogenesis. In this study, we investigated the role of miRNA-302a in prostate cancer (PCa). MiRNA-302a expression was detected in 44 PCa tissues and 10 normal prostate tissues, and their clinicopathological significance was analyzed. Cell proliferation and cell cycle analysis were performed on PCa cells that stably expressed miRNA-302a. The target gene of miRNA-302a and the downstream pathway were further investigated. Compared with normal prostate tissues, miRNA-302a expression was downregulated in PCa tissues, and was even lower in PCa tissues with a Gleason score ≥8. Overexpression of miRNA-302a induced G1/S cell cycle arrest in PCa cells, and suppressed PCa cell proliferation both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, miRNA-302a inhibits AKT expression by directly binding to its 3΄ untranslated region, resulting in subsequent alterations of the AKT-GSK3β-cyclin D1 and AKT-p27Kip1 pathway. These results reveal miRNA-302a as a tumor suppressor in PCa, suggesting that miRNA-302a may be used as a potential target for therapeutic intervention in PCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gui-Ming Zhang
- Department of Urology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chun-Yang Bao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Fang-Ning Wan
- Department of Urology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Da-Long Cao
- Department of Urology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao-Jian Qin
- Department of Urology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Hai-Liang Zhang
- Department of Urology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Yao Zhu
- Department of Urology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Bo Dai
- Department of Urology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Guo-Hai Shi
- Department of Urology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- * E-mail: (GHS); (DWY)
| | - Ding-Wei Ye
- Department of Urology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- * E-mail: (GHS); (DWY)
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Bourguignon LYW, Shiina M, Li JJ. Hyaluronan-CD44 interaction promotes oncogenic signaling, microRNA functions, chemoresistance, and radiation resistance in cancer stem cells leading to tumor progression. Adv Cancer Res 2015; 123:255-75. [PMID: 25081533 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-800092-2.00010-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hyaluronan (HA), a major component of the extracellular matrix (ECM), is enriched in many types of tumors. There is good evidence linking high levels of HA production in human carcinomas to an aggressive phenotype and tumor metastasis. HA is generally bound to CD44 isoforms (so-called CD44s and CD44v3) which are ubiquitous, abundant, and functionally important cell surface receptors. This chapter describes the evidence for HA/CD44v3-mediated activation of the cytoskeleton (e.g., ankyrin and GTPases) and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) signaling during tumor progression. A special focus is placed on the role of HA-CD44v3 interaction in cancer stem cells (CSCs). Matrix HA is known to be present in CSC niches. Since CD44v3 serves as a CSC marker, it provides an important physical linkage between matrix HA and various transcription factors that regulate tumor cell functions through distinct signaling pathways. CSCs are known to be chemoresistant and/or radiation resistant and to cause cancer relapse. The purpose of this chapter is to review the most current research on the cellular and molecular biology of CSCs. The emphasis will be placed on both CSC niche and matrix HA-induced microRNA signaling plus various CSC functions (e.g., self-renewal, differentiation, and chemoresistance) during cancer progression. Understanding the regulation of CSCs is critically important for designing CSC-specific therapeutic targets to prevent cancer development and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilly Y W Bourguignon
- Department of Medicine, University of California at San Francisco & Endocrine Unit (111N), VA Medical Center, San Francisco, California, USA.
| | - Marisa Shiina
- Department of Medicine, University of California at San Francisco & Endocrine Unit (111N), VA Medical Center, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Jian-Jian Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
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Chien CS, Wang ML, Chu PY, Chang YL, Liu WH, Yu CC, Lan YT, Huang PI, Lee YY, Chen YW, Lo WL, Chiou SH. Lin28B/Let-7 Regulates Expression of Oct4 and Sox2 and Reprograms Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells to a Stem-like State. Cancer Res 2015; 75:2553-65. [PMID: 25858147 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-14-2215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2014] [Accepted: 03/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Lin28, a key factor for cellular reprogramming and generation of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC), makes a critical contribution to tumorigenicity by suppressing Let-7. However, it is unclear whether Lin28 is involved in regulating cancer stem-like cells (CSC), including in oral squamous carcinoma cells (OSCC). In this study, we demonstrate a correlation between high levels of Lin28B, Oct4, and Sox2, and a high percentage of CD44(+)ALDH1(+) CSC in OSCC. Ectopic Lin28B expression in CD44(-)ALDH1(-)/OSCC cells was sufficient to enhance Oct4/Sox2 expression and CSC properties, whereas Let7 co-overexpression effectively reversed these phenomena. We identified ARID3B and HMGA2 as downstream effectors of Lin28B/Let7 signaling in regulating endogenous Oct4 and Sox2 expression. Let7 targeted the 3' untranslated region of ARID3B and HMGA2 and suppressed their expression, whereas ARID3B and HMGA2 increased the transcription of Oct4 and Sox2, respectively, through promoter binding. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays revealed a direct association between ARID3B and a specific ARID3B-binding sequence in the Oct4 promoter. Notably, by modulating Oct4/Sox2 expression, the Lin28B-Let7 pathway not only regulated stemness properties in OSCC but also determined the efficiency by which normal human oral keratinocytes could be reprogrammed to iPSC. Clinically, a Lin28B(high)-Let7(low) expression pattern was highly correlated with high levels of ARID3B, HMGA2, OCT4, and SOX2 expression in OSCC specimens. Taken together, our results show how Lin28B/Let7 regulates key cancer stem-like properties in oral squamous cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chian-Shiu Chien
- Institute of Oral Biology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Mong-Lien Wang
- Institute of Pharmacology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan. Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Pen-Yuan Chu
- School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan. Laryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Otolaryngology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yuh-Lih Chang
- Institute of Pharmacology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan. Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Hsiu Liu
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center and Tri-Service General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Chia Yu
- Institute of Oral Science, School of Dentistry & Oral Medicine Research Center, Chung Shan Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yuan-Tzu Lan
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan. Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Pin-I Huang
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan. Cancer Center, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Yen Lee
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan. Cancer Center, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Wei Chen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan. Cancer Center, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Liang Lo
- Institute of Oral Biology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan. Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Department of Stomatology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Shih-Hwa Chiou
- Institute of Pharmacology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan. Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan. School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan. Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan. Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan.
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187
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Xu RH, Zheng LY, He DL, Meng J, Xia LP, Hao XB, Zhang ZZ. Profiling of differentially expressed microRNAs (miRNAs) during differentiation of rat hepatic oval cells (HOCs) into hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. Clin Transl Oncol 2015; 17:230-7. [PMID: 25257837 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-014-1218-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2014] [Accepted: 08/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the expression profile of miRNAs during differentiation of rat hepatic oval cells (HOCs) into hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HCC). METHODS Proliferation of rat HOCs was induced by chemical carcinogen, 3'-methyl-4-dimethylaminoazobenzene (3'-Me-DAB) in male rats. By using Percoll density gradient centrifugation method, HOCs were isolated, followed by continuous cultivation in vitro. The isolated HOCs were identified via Thy-1 and C-kit detection under laser scanning confocal microscope. Total miRNA was then extracted from HOCs during cell differentiation for microarray hybridization. Differentially expressed miRNAs among the indicated time points were identified. The target genes of identified miRNAs were predicted using PicTar, Target-Scan, and miRanda; then the functions and pathways of the genes were enriched. Y chromosome-specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique was utilized to trace the differentiation of the male HOCs in carcinogen-induced HCC of female rats. RESULTS It was shown that isolated HOCs expressed stem cells markers of Thy-1 and C-kit in cytoplasm and membrane. Among 1,210 miRNAs identified, 22 were differentially expressed (P < 0.05, fold change ≥2), including 19 up-regulated and 3 down-regulated ones. The predicted target genes of these miRNAs were enriched in several functions, including axon guidance, angiogenesis, post-transcriptional protein modification, and small molecular metabolism. For PCR-based SRY detection, HCC genomic DNA of female rats from the experimental group displayed the same PCR product as that from normal male rat. CONCLUSION Differentially expressed miRNAs exerted important roles during the differentiation process of HOCs to HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- R H Xu
- Department of Oncology Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical College, Haikou, 570102, China
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188
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Yang F, Zhang J, Liu Y, Cheng D, Wang H. Structure and functional evaluation of porcine NANOG that is a single-exon gene and has two pseudogenes. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2015; 59:142-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2014.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2014] [Revised: 12/11/2014] [Accepted: 12/15/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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189
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Emich H, Chapireau D, Hutchison I, Mackenzie I. The potential of CD44 as a diagnostic and prognostic tool in oral cancer. J Oral Pathol Med 2015; 44:393-400. [DOI: 10.1111/jop.12308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Helena Emich
- Blizard Institute; Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry; Queen Mary University of London; London UK
| | - David Chapireau
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department; King's College Hospital; London UK
| | - Iain Hutchison
- Dental Institute; Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry; Queen Mary University of London; London UK
| | - Ian Mackenzie
- Blizard Institute; Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry; Queen Mary University of London; London UK
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190
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Cheng P, Sun X, Yin D, Xu F, Yang K, Qin L, Dong Y, Guo F, Chen A, Zhang W, Huang H. Nanog down-regulates the Wnt signaling pathway via β-catenin phosphorylation during epidermal stem cell proliferation and differentiation. Cell Biosci 2015; 5:5. [PMID: 25973172 PMCID: PMC4429823 DOI: 10.1186/2045-3701-5-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2014] [Accepted: 01/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Skin tissue homeostasis is maintained by a balance between the proliferation and differentiation of epidermal stem cells (EpSCs). EpSC proliferation and differentiation are complex processes regulated by many factors and signaling pathways. This study aimed to explore the connection between the Nanog and the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in the proliferation and differentiation of EpSCs. Results Our results demonstrated that during the study period, EpSC underwent differentiation when incubated in the presence neuropeptide substance P (SP), there was an opposing expression trend of Nanog and β-catenin after SP treatment, which could be antagonized by the Wnt antagonist, Dkk-1. The transduced EpSCs had a greater proliferative ability than the SP treatment group and they did not undergo differentiation upon SP treatment. More important, β-catenin expression was down-regulated but phosphorylated β-catenin expression and phosphorylated GSK-3β expression was up-regulated upon Nanog overexpression. Conclusions These results strongly suggest that Nanog plays an important role in maintaining the proliferation and differentiation homeostasis of EpSCs by promoting β-catenin phosphorylation via GSK-3β to inhibit the activity of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. This is important for precise regulation of proliferation and differentiation of EpSC in the application of tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Cheng
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 P.R. China
| | - Xuying Sun
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 P.R. China.,Biological engineering and regenerative medicine center,Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 P.R. China
| | - Delong Yin
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Hospital Affiliated to Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150 P.R. China
| | - Fei Xu
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 P.R. China
| | - Kaixiang Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 P.R. China
| | - Liang Qin
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 P.R. China
| | - Yonghui Dong
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 P.R. China
| | - Fengjing Guo
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 P.R. China
| | - Anmin Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 P.R. China
| | - Weikai Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 P.R. China
| | - Hui Huang
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 P.R. China
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191
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Sun S, Zhang G, Wu Z, Shi W, Yang B, Li Y. MicroRNA-302a functions as a putative tumor suppressor in colon cancer by targeting Akt. PLoS One 2014; 9:e115980. [PMID: 25542007 PMCID: PMC4277419 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0115980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2014] [Accepted: 12/02/2014] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Micro RNAs (miRNAs) are important regulators involved in various physical and pathological processes, including cancer. The miRNA-302 family has been documented as playing a critical role in carcinogenesis. In this study, we investigated the role of miRNA-302a in colon cancer. MiRNA-302a expression was detected in 44 colon cancer tissues and 10 normal colon tissues, and their clinicopathological significance was analyzed. Cell proliferation and cell cycle analysis were performed on colon cancer cells that stably expressed miRNA-302a. The target gene of miRNA-302a and the downstream pathway were further investigated. Compared with normal colon tissues, miRNA-302a expression was downregulated in colon cancer tissues. Overexpression of miRNA-302a induced G1/S cell cycle arrest in colon cancer cells, and suppressed colon cancer cell proliferation both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, miRNA-302a inhibited AKT expression by directly binding to its 3' untranslated region, resulting in subsequent alterations of the AKT-GSK3β-cyclin D1 pathway. These results reveal miRNA-302a as a tumor suppressor in colon cancer, suggesting that miRNA-302a may be used as a potential target for therapeutic intervention in colon cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengjie Sun
- Department of Oncology, General Hospital of People's Liberation Army, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Guoqing Zhang
- Department of Oncology, General Hospital of People's Liberation Army, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Zhiyong Wu
- Department of Oncology, General Hospital of People's Liberation Army, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Weiwei Shi
- Department of Oncology, General Hospital of People's Liberation Army, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Bo Yang
- Department of Oncology, General Hospital of People's Liberation Army, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Ying Li
- Department of Oncology, General Hospital of People's Liberation Army, Beijing, 100853, China
- * E-mail:
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Dong Z, Liu G, Huang B, Sun J, Wu D. Prognostic significance of SOX2 in head and neck cancer: a meta-analysis. Int J Clin Exp Med 2014; 7:5010-5020. [PMID: 25664000 PMCID: PMC4307447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2014] [Accepted: 11/08/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Sex determining region Y-box 2 (SOX2) has been identified as a putative cancer stem cells (CSCs) marker in Head and Neck Cancers (HNC). However, the clinicopathological and prognostic significance of SOX2 in HNC patients remains controversial. We reviewed the literature by performing a meta-analysis based on the data from 7 studies (9 cohorts) to evaluate the association between SOX2 and clinicopathological/prognostic parameters in patients with HNC. Pooled hazard ratio (HR) or odds ratio (OR) with its 95% confidence interval (CI) was used as the effect size estimate. Our analysis results suggested that high SOX2 expression predicted unfavorable OS (HR: 1.54, 95% CI: 1.09-2.18) and DFS (HR: 1.54, 95% CI: 1.13-2.10) of patients with HNC. In addition, increased SOX2 was also significantly associated with high tumor grade (OR: 1.86, 95% CI: 1.06-3.28), advanced TNM stage (OR: 4.22, 95% CI: 2.62-6.80), lymph node metastasis (OR: 2.25, 95% CI: 1.50-3.35) and distant metastasis (OR: 1.99, 95% CI: 1.26-3.15). Our study suggested that SOX2 expression can be served as a candidate unfavorable prognostic biomarker for HNC patients, indicating that it might be a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongyi Dong
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Gengchun Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Xiangtan City Central Hospital Xiangtan 411100, Hunan Province, China
| | - Baqun Huang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Xiangtan City Central Hospital Xiangtan 411100, Hunan Province, China
| | - Jingyuan Sun
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Dehua Wu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
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193
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The molecular mechanisms underlying the therapeutic resistance of cancer stem cells. Arch Pharm Res 2014; 38:389-401. [DOI: 10.1007/s12272-014-0531-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2014] [Accepted: 12/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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194
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Abstract
The cancer stem cell (CSC) hypothesis postulates that there is a hierarchy of cellular differentiation within cancers and that the bulk population of tumor cells is derived from a relatively small population of multi-potent neoplastic stem-like cells (CSCs). This tumor-initiating cell population plays an important role in maintaining tumor growth through their unlimited self-renewal, therapeutic resistance, and capacity to propagate tumors through asymmetric cell division. Recent findings from multiple laboratories show that cancer progenitor cells have the capacity to de-differentiate and acquire a stem-like phenotype in response to either genetic manipulation or environmental cues. These findings suggest that CSCs and relatively differentiated progenitors coexist in dynamic equilibrium and are subject to bidirectional conversion. In this review, we discuss emerging concepts regarding the stem-like phenotype, its acquisition by cancer progenitor cells, and the molecular mechanisms involved. Understanding the dynamic equilibrium between CSCs and cancer progenitor cells is critical for the development of novel therapeutic strategies that focus on depleting tumors of their tumor-propagating cell population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yunqing Li
- Hugo W. Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger, USA; Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - John Laterra
- Hugo W. Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger, USA; Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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195
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Chou MY, Hu FW, Yu CH, Yu CC. Sox2 expression involvement in the oncogenicity and radiochemoresistance of oral cancer stem cells. Oral Oncol 2014; 51:31-9. [PMID: 25456004 DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2014.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2014] [Revised: 09/17/2014] [Accepted: 10/06/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Sox2, a high-mobility-group DNA binding protein, is part of the key set of transcription factors that are involved in the maintenance of pluripotency and self-renewal in undifferentiated stem cells. A recent study has further suggested cancer stem cells (CSCs) are key contributors to radiochemoresistance and are responsible for oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) progression. The aim of this study was to determine the emerging role of Sox2 in radiochemosensitivity of oral CSCs. METHODS We determined the function of Sox2 on oncogenicity and radiochemosensitivity of OSCC by overexpression or silencing Sox2 in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS Initially, Sox2 expression was increased in OSCC cell lines and OSCC specimens. Upregulated Sox2 is correlated with poor survival outcome of OSCC patients. Overexpression of Sox2 was demonstrated to enhance invasiveness, anchorage-independent growth, xenotransplantation tumourigenicity in OSCC cells. Targeting Sox2 to spheroid cells (SC) and ALDH1+CD44+ cells from OSCC significantly inhibited their CSCs and tumorigenic abilities. Down regulation of SOX2 in OSCC-SC was found to repress invasiveness and diminish epithelail-mesenchymal transition (EMT) traits. Furthermore, silencing Sox2 effectively suppressed the expression of drug-resistance and anti-apoptotic genes and increased the sensitivity of the cells to radiation combined cisplatin treatment. Finally, the in vivo therapeutic efficacy of targeting Sox2 synergistically suppressed tumorigenesis and improved the survival rate when used in combination with radiotherapy and cisplatin in OSCC-SC-transplanted immunocompromised mice. CONCLUSION Sox2-mediated CSCs property is associated with the regulation of EMT and Sox2 s as therapeutic target in OSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Yung Chou
- School of Dentistry, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan; Department of Dentistry, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan; Institute of Oral Sciences, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Fang-Wei Hu
- School of Dentistry, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan; Department of Dentistry, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chuan-Hang Yu
- School of Dentistry, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan; Department of Dentistry, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Chia Yu
- School of Dentistry, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan; Department of Dentistry, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan; Institute of Oral Sciences, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
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196
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Tamura R, Yokoyama Y, Yoshida H, Imaizumi T, Mizunuma H. 4-Methylumbelliferone inhibits ovarian cancer growth by suppressing thymidine phosphorylase expression. J Ovarian Res 2014; 7:94. [PMID: 25304388 PMCID: PMC4198731 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-014-0094-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2014] [Accepted: 10/01/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background 4-Methylumbelliferone (4-MU), a hyaluronan (HA) synthesis inhibitor, has antitumor activity in cancer cells. However, few studies have focused on its effects on ovarian cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of 4-MU on ovarian cancer and to elucidate its mechanism of action. Methods The HRA human ovarian serous adenocarcinoma cell line was used in this study. The effects of 4-MU on cell proliferation, migration, and invasion were determined by using in vitro assays as well as an in vivo rat peritoneal carcinomatosis model. The expression of HA synthase (HAS), CD44 HA receptor, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and thymidine phosphorylase (TP) mRNA in HRA cells was analyzed by quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Results 4-MU administration inhibited the growth of peritoneal tumors and significantly prolonged survival. In vitro experiments showed that 4-MU inhibited HRA cell proliferation in a dose-dependent manner, while it did not affect HRA cell invasion and migration. 4-MU significantly decreased TP mRNA expression in HRA cells. On the other hand, since HAS2, CD44, and VEGF endogenous mRNA expression levels were very low in HRA cells, it was impossible to evaluate the effect of 4-MU treatment. Conclusions These results suggest that 4-MU exerts its antitumor effect on ovarian cancer through suppressing TP expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryosuke Tamura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, 5 Zaifu-cho, Hirosaki, 036-8562, Japan.
| | - Yoshihito Yokoyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, 5 Zaifu-cho, Hirosaki, 036-8562, Japan.
| | - Hidemi Yoshida
- Department of Vascular Biology, Institute of Brain Science, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, 5 Zaifu-cho, Hirosaki, 036-8562, Japan.
| | - Tadaatsu Imaizumi
- Department of Vascular Biology, Institute of Brain Science, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, 5 Zaifu-cho, Hirosaki, 036-8562, Japan.
| | - Hideki Mizunuma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, 5 Zaifu-cho, Hirosaki, 036-8562, Japan.
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197
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Lu H, Yan C, Quan XX, Yang X, Zhang J, Bian Y, Chen Z, Van Waes C. CK2 phosphorylates and inhibits TAp73 tumor suppressor function to promote expression of cancer stem cell genes and phenotype in head and neck cancer. Neoplasia 2014; 16:789-800. [PMID: 25379016 PMCID: PMC4212254 DOI: 10.1016/j.neo.2014.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2014] [Revised: 08/21/2014] [Accepted: 08/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSC) and genes have been linked to cancer development and therapeutic resistance, but the signaling mechanisms regulating CSC genes and phenotype are incompletely understood. CK2 has emerged as a key signal serine/threonine kinase that modulates diverse signal cascades regulating cell fate and growth. We previously showed that CK2 is often aberrantly expressed and activated in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC), concomitantly with mutant (mt) tumor suppressor TP53, and inactivation of its family member, TAp73. Unexpectedly, we observed that classical stem cell genes Nanog, Sox2, and Oct4, are overexpressed in HNSCC with inactivated TAp73 and mtTP53. However, the potential relationship between CK2, TAp73 inactivation, and CSC phenotype is unknown. We reveal that inhibition of CK2 by pharmacologic inhibitors or siRNA inhibits the expression of CSC genes and side population (SP), while enhancing TAp73 mRNA and protein expression. Conversely, CK2 inhibitor attenuation of CSC protein expression and the SP by was abrogated by TAp73 siRNA. Bioinformatic analysis uncovered a single predicted CK2 threonine phosphorylation site (T27) within the N-terminal transactivation domain of TAp73. Nuclear CK2 and TAp73 interaction, confirmed by co-immunoprecipitation, was attenuated by CK2 inhibitor, or a T27A point-mutation of this predicted CK2 threonine phospho-acceptor site of TAp73. Further, T27A mutation attenuated phosphorylation, while enhancing TAp73 function in repressing CSC gene expression and SP cells. A new CK2 inhibitor, CX-4945, inhibited CSC related SP cells, clonogenic survival, and spheroid formation. Our study unveils a novel regulatory mechanism whereby aberrant CK2 signaling inhibits TAp73 to promote the expression of CSC genes and phenotype.
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Key Words
- CK2, Casein Kinase 2
- CSC, Cancer Stem Cells
- DMAT, 2-Dimethylamino-4,5,6,7-tetrabromo-1H-benzimidazole
- HEKA, Human epidermal keratinocytes
- HNSCC, Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
- HOK, Human oral keratinocytes
- SP, Side population
- TAp73, Transactivating p73
- TP53, Transforming Protein p53
- UM-SCC, University of Michigan Squamous Cell Carcinoma
- mt, Mutant
- wt, Wild-type
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai Lu
- Tumor Biology Section, Head and Neck Surgery Branch, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
- Orthopaedic Center, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Carol Yan
- Tumor Biology Section, Head and Neck Surgery Branch, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute-NIH Research Scholars Program, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Xin Xin Quan
- Tumor Biology Section, Head and Neck Surgery Branch, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Xinping Yang
- Tumor Biology Section, Head and Neck Surgery Branch, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Jialing Zhang
- Tumor Biology Section, Head and Neck Surgery Branch, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Yansong Bian
- Tumor Biology Section, Head and Neck Surgery Branch, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Zhong Chen
- Tumor Biology Section, Head and Neck Surgery Branch, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Carter Van Waes
- Tumor Biology Section, Head and Neck Surgery Branch, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892
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198
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Afonso J, Santos LL, Miranda-Gonçalves V, Morais A, Amaro T, Longatto-Filho A, Baltazar F. CD147 and MCT1-potential partners in bladder cancer aggressiveness and cisplatin resistance. Mol Carcinog 2014; 54:1451-66. [PMID: 25263481 DOI: 10.1002/mc.22222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2013] [Revised: 07/04/2014] [Accepted: 08/05/2014] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The relapsing and progressive nature of bladder tumors, and the heterogeneity in the response to cisplatin-containing regimens, are the major concerns in the care of urothelial bladder carcinoma (UBC) patients. The metabolic adaptations that alter the tumor microenvironment and thus contribute to chemoresistance have been poorly explored in UBC setting. We found significant associations between the immunoexpressions of the microenvironment-related molecules CD147, monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs) 1 and 4, CD44 and CAIX in tumor tissue sections from 114 UBC patients. The presence of MCT1 and/or MCT4 expressions was significantly associated with unfavorable clinicopathological parameters. The incidence of CD147 positive staining significantly increased with advancing stage, grade and type of lesion, and occurrence of lymphovascular invasion. Similar associations were observed when considering the concurrent expression of CD147 and MCT1. This expression profile lowered significantly the 5-year disease-free and overall survival rates. Moreover, when selecting patients who received platinum-based chemotherapy, the prognosis was significantly worse for those with MCT1 and CD147 positive tumors. CD147 specific silencing by small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) in UBC cells was accompanied by a decrease in MCT1 and MCT4 expressions and, importantly, an increase in chemosensitivity to cisplatin. Our results provide novel insights for the involvement of CD147 and MCTs in bladder cancer progression and resistance to cisplatin-based chemotherapy. We consider that the possible cooperative role of CD147 and MCT1 in determining cisplatin resistance should be further explored as a potential theranostics biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julieta Afonso
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Health Sciences, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Lúcio L Santos
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Portuguese Institute of Oncology (IPO), Porto, Portugal.,Faculty of Health Sciences, University Fernando Pessoa (UFP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Vera Miranda-Gonçalves
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Health Sciences, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - António Morais
- Department of Urology, Portuguese Institute of Oncology (IPO), Porto, Portugal
| | - Teresina Amaro
- Experimental Pathology and Therapeutics Research Center, Portuguese Institute of Oncology (IPO), Porto, Portugal
| | - Adhemar Longatto-Filho
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Health Sciences, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal.,Laboratory of Medical Investigation (LIM 14), Faculty of Medicine, São Paulo State University, São Paulo, Brazil.,Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fátima Baltazar
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Health Sciences, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
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199
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Shigeishi H, Biddle A, Gammon L, Emich H, Rodini CO, Gemenetzidis E, Fazil B, Sugiyama M, Kamata N, Mackenzie IC. Maintenance of stem cell self-renewal in head and neck cancers requires actions of GSK3β influenced by CD44 and RHAMM. Stem Cells 2014; 31:2073-83. [PMID: 23649588 DOI: 10.1002/stem.1418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2012] [Accepted: 04/02/2013] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Cells sorted from head and neck cancers on the basis of their high expression of CD44 have high potency for tumor initiation. These cells are also involved in epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) and we have previously reported that cancer stem cells (CSCs) exist as two biologically distinct phenotypes. Both phenotypes are CD44(high) but one is also ESA(high) and maintains epithelial characteristics, the other is ESA(low) , has mesenchymal characteristics and is migratory. Examining CD44-regulated signal pathways in these cells we show that CD44, and also RHAMM, act to inhibit phosphorylation of glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β). We show that inhibitory phosphorylation reduces the formation of both "tumor spheres" and "holoclone" colonies, functional indicators of stemness. GSK3β inhibition also reduces the expression of stem cell markers such as Oct4, Sox2, and Nanog and upregulates expression of the differentiation markers Calgranulin B and Involucrin in the CD44(high) /ESA(high) cell fraction. Transition of CSCs out of EMT and back to the epithelial CSC phenotype is induced by GSK3β knockdown. These results indicate that GSK3β plays a central role in determining and maintaining the phenotypes and behavior of CSCs in vitro and are likely to be involved in controlling the growth and spread of tumors in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideo Shigeishi
- Blizard Institute Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London United Kingdom; Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Division of Cervico-Gnathostomatology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
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200
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Spiegelberg D, Kuku G, Selvaraju R, Nestor M. Characterization of CD44 variant expression in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas. Tumour Biol 2014; 35:2053-62. [PMID: 24122205 PMCID: PMC3967078 DOI: 10.1007/s13277-013-1272-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2013] [Accepted: 09/25/2013] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
CD44 is a complex family of molecules, associated with aggressive malignancies and cancer stem cells. However, the role of CD44 variants in tumor progression and treatment resistance is not clear. In this study, the expression of CD44 and its variants was assessed in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC). Furthermore, subpopulations of cells expressing high amounts of CD44 variants were identified and characterized, for e.g., cell cycle phase and radioresistance. Results revealed high and homogenous CD44 and CD44v7 expression in four cell lines and CD44v4 and CD44v6 in three cell lines. CD44v3 was highly expressed in two cell lines, whereas CD44v5, CD44v7/8, CD44v10, CD133, and CD24 demonstrated no or moderate expression. Moreover, a subpopulation of very high CD44v4 expression was identified, which is independent of cell phase, demonstrating increased proliferation and radioresistance. In cell starvation experiments designed to enrich for cancer stem cells, a large population with dramatically increased expression of CD44, CD44v3, CD44v6, and CD44v7 was formed. Expression was independent of cell phase, and cells demonstrated increased radioresistance and migration rate. Our results demonstrate that the heterogeneity of tumor cells has important clinical implications for the treatment of HNSCC and that some of the CD44 variants may be associated with increased radioresistance. Highly expressed CD44 variants could make interesting candidates for selective cancer targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- D. Spiegelberg
- Unit of Biomedical Radiation Sciences, Department Radiology, Oncology and Radiation Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Unit of Biomedical Radiation Sciences, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - G. Kuku
- Unit of Biomedical Radiation Sciences, Department Radiology, Oncology and Radiation Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - R. Selvaraju
- Unit of Biomedical Radiation Sciences, Department Radiology, Oncology and Radiation Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - M. Nestor
- Unit of Biomedical Radiation Sciences, Department Radiology, Oncology and Radiation Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Unit of Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, Department of Surgical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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