Wnt signaling in stem and cancer stem cells

PAR1 Scaffolds TGFβRII to Downregulate TGF-β Signaling and Activate ESC Differentiation to Endothelial Cells

We studied the function of the G-protein-coupled receptor PAR1 in mediating the differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) to endothelial cells (ECs) that are capable of inducing neovascularization. We observed that either deletion or activation of PAR1 suppressed mouse embryonic stem cell (mESC) differentiation to ECs and neovascularization in mice. This was mediated by induction of TGFβRII/TGFβRI interaction, forming an active complex, which in turn induced SMAD2 phosphorylation. Inhibition of TGF-β signaling in PAR1-deficient mESCs restored the EC differentiation potential of mESCs. Thus, PAR1 in its inactive unligated state functions as a scaffold for TGFβRII to downregulate TGF-β signaling, and thereby promote ESC transition to functional ECs. The PAR1 scaffold function in ESCs is an essential mechanism for dampening TGF-β signaling and regulating ESC differentiation.

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ESC differentiation to ECs is regulated by PAR1 activity and expression in mESCs

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Deletion of PAR1 suppresses EC generation and neovessel formation

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PAR1 acts as a scaffolding partner for TGFβRII and suppresses TGF-β signaling in ESCs

Cancer stem cell targeted therapy: progress amid controversies

Although cancer stem cells have been well characterized in numerous malignancies, the fundamental characteristics of this group of cells, however, have been challenged by some recent observations: cancer stem cells may not necessary to be rare within tumors; cancer stem cells and non-cancer stem cells may undergo reversible phenotypic changes; and the cancer stem cells phenotype can vary substantially between patients. Here the current status and progresses of cancer stem cells theory is illustrated and via providing a panoramic view of cancer therapy, we addressed the recent controversies regarding the feasibility of cancer stem cells targeted anti-cancer therapy.

Activation/Proliferation-associated Protein 2 (Caprin-2) Positively Regulates CDK14/Cyclin Y-mediated Lipoprotein Receptor-related Protein 5 and 6 (LRP5/6) Constitutive Phosphorylation

Low-density lipoprotein receptor-related proteins 5 and 6 (LRP5/6) are co-receptors for Wnt ligands. Upon ligand binding, LRP5/6 undergo glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3)/casein kinase I (CKI)-mediated phosphorylation at multiple PPP(S/T)P motifs in the intracellular domain, which is essential for canonical Wnt signal transduction. On the other hand, in the Wnt-off state, the mitosis-specific CDK14-Cyclin Y kinase complex phosphorylates Ser-1490 of LRP5/6 at G₂/M, thereby priming the receptor for Wnt-induced phosphorylation. However, it remains unclear how CDK14/Cyclin Y is recruited to LRP5/6 and whether there are other cofactors involved in this process. Previously, we identified Caprin-2 as a positive regulator of canonical Wnt signaling by promoting GSK3-depedent LRP5/6 phosphorylation upon Wnt stimulation. Here we uncovered that Caprin-2 positively regulates constitutive LRP5/6 Ser-1490 phosphorylation by complexing with CDK14/Cyclin Y. Caprin-2-mediated LRP5/6 phosphorylation is cell cycle-dependent in a pattern similar to that of CDK14/Cyclin Y-dependent LRP5/6 phosphorylation. Moreover, knockdown of Caprin-2 disrupts not only the interaction between CDK14 and Cyclin Y but also the interaction between CDK14/Cyclin Y and LRP6. Overall, our findings revealed an unrecognized role of Caprin-2 in facilitating LRP5/6 constitutive phosphorylation at G₂/M through forming a quaternary complex with CDK14, Cyclin Y, and LRP5/6.

ASBEL-TCF3 complex is required for the tumorigenicity of colorectal cancer cells

Wnt/β-catenin signaling plays a key role in the tumorigenicity of colon cancer. Furthermore, it has been reported that lncRNAs are dysregulated in several steps of cancer development. Here we show that β-catenin directly activates the transcription of the long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) ASBEL [antisense ncRNA in the ANA (Abundant in neuroepithelium area)/BTG3 (B-cell translocation gene 3) locus] and transcription factor 3 (TCF3), both of which are required for the survival and tumorigenicity of colorectal cancer cells. ASBEL interacts with and recruits TCF3 to the activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3) locus, where it represses the expression of ATF3. Furthermore, we demonstrate that ASBEL-TCF3-mediated down-regulation of ATF3 expression is required for the proliferation and tumorigenicity of colon tumor cells. ATF3, in turn, represses the expression of ASBEL Our results reveal a pathway involving an lncRNA and two transcription factors that plays a key role in Wnt/β-catenin-mediated tumorigenesis. These results may provide insights into the variety of biological and pathological processes regulated by Wnt/β-catenin signaling.

Wnts Are Expressed in the Ependymal Region of the Adult Spinal Cord

The Wnt family of proteins plays key roles during central nervous system development and in several physiological processes during adulthood. Recently, experimental evidence has linked Wnt-related genes to regulation and maintenance of stem cells in the adult neurogenic niches. In the spinal cord, the ependymal cells surrounding the central canal form one of those niches, but little is known about their Wnt expression patterns. Using microdissection followed by TaqMan® low-density arrays, we show here that the ependymal regions of young, mature rats and adult humans express several Wnt-related genes, including ligands, conventional and non-conventional receptors, co-receptors, and soluble inhibitors. We found 13 genes shared between rats and humans, 4 exclusively expressed in rats and 9 expressed only in humans. Also, we observed a reduction with age on spontaneous proliferation of ependymal cells in rats paralleled by a decrease in the expression of Fzd1, Fzd8, and Fzd9. Our results suggest a role for Wnts in the regulation of the adult spinal cord neurogenic niche and provide new data on the specific differences in this region between humans and rodents.

Reversal effect of ouabain on multidrug resistance in esophageal carcinoma EC109/CDDP cells by inhibiting the translocation of Wnt/β-catenin into the nucleus

The incidence of esophageal carcinoma is increasing throughout the world. A major obstacle to its treatment is acquired multidrug resistance (MDR) which results in the failure of chemotherapy and patient relapse. Here, we identified that ouabain is capable of reversing MDR to cisplatin (CDDP) in EC109/CDDP cells and explore the possible mechanisms of action. The parental and the MDR cell lines were both sensitive to ouabain with 50 % inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of 258.11 and 710.63 nM, respectively. Cisplatin cytotoxicity increased in the EC109/CDDP cells by the addition of ouabain which helps promote CDDP-induced apoptosis. Ouabain at 20 nM effectively reduced the IC50 of CDDP in EC109/CDDP cells from 36.54 to 3.39 μM. This represents a 10.78-fold increase in sensitization to CDDP. We also found that ouabain was capable of down regulating the expression of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and Bcl-2 in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Finally, the results indicated that ouabain suppressed Wnt luciferase report (TOPFlash) activity obviously in EC109/CDDP and depressed the translocation of β-catenin into the nucleus. Moreover, ouabain showed reversal effect of MDR to CDDP in nude mouse xenograft model, and reduced the protein level of β-catenin (Y333) in tumor tissue of CDDP plus ouabain group. All data proved that ouabain has a potent β-catenin-dependent anti-MDR effect.

Regulation of Transdifferentiation and Retrodifferentiation by Inflammatory Cytokines in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Liver cancers are typically inflammation-associated cancers characterized by close communication between the tumor cells and the tumor environment. This supportive inflammatory environment contributes to the establishment of a pathologic niche consisting of transformed epithelial cells, tumor-educated fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and immunosuppressive immature myeloid cells. Stromal and infiltrated immune cells help determine tumor fate, but the tumor cells themselves, including cancer stem cells, also influence the surrounding cells. This bidirectional communication generates an intricate network of signals that promotes tumor growth. Cell plasticity, which includes transdifferentiation and retrodifferentiation of differentiated cells, increases tumor heterogeneity. Plasticity allows non-cancer stem cells to replenish the cancer stem cell pool, initiate tumorigenesis, and escape the effects of therapeutic agents; it also promotes tumor aggressiveness. There is increasing evidence that an inflammatory environment promotes the retrodifferentiation of tumor cells into stem or progenitor cells; this could account for the low efficacies of some chemotherapies and the high rates of cancer recurrence. Increasing our understanding of the signaling network that connects inflammation with retrodifferentiation could identify new therapeutic targets, and lead to combined therapies that are effective against highly heterogeneous tumors.

Active glycolytic metabolism in CD133(+) hepatocellular cancer stem cells: regulation by MIR-122

Although altered metabolic pathway is an important diagnostic maker and therapeutic target in cancer, it is poorly understood in cancer stem cells (CSCs). Here we show that the CD133 (+) hepatocellular CSCs have distinct metabolic properties, characterized by more active glycolysis over oxidative phosphorylation, compared to the CD133 (−) cells. Inhibition of PDK4 and LDHA markedly suppresses CD133 (+) stemness characteristics and overcome resistance to sorafenib (current chemotherapeutic agent for hepatocellular cancer). Addition of glucose or lactate to CD133 (−) cells promotes CSC phenotypes, as evidenced by increased CD133 (+) cell population, elevated stemness gene expression and enhanced spheroid formation. Furthermore, the liver-specific miRNA, miR-122, inhibits CSC phenotypes by regulating glycolysis through targeting PDK4. Our findings suggest that enhanced glycolysis is associated with CD133 (+) stem-like characteristics and that metabolic reprogramming through miR-122 or PDK4 may represent a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of hepatocellular cancer.

Ockham's razor for the MET-driven invasive growth linking idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and cancer

BACKGROUND

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) identifies a specific lung disorder characterized by chronic, progressive fibrosing interstitial pneumonia of unknown etiology, which lacks effective treatment. According to the current pathogenic perspective, the aberrant proliferative events in IPF resemble those occurring during malignant transformation.

MAIN BODY

Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTK) are known to be key players in cancer onset and progression. It has been demonstrated that RTK expression is sometimes also altered and even druggable in IPF. One example of an RTK-the MET proto-oncogene-is a key regulator of invasive growth. This physiological genetic program supports embryonic development and post-natal organ regeneration, as well as cooperating in the evolution of cancer metastasis when aberrantly activated. Growing evidence sustains that MET activation may collaborate in maintaining tissue plasticity and the regenerative potential that characterizes IPF.

CONCLUSION

The present work aims to elucidate-by applying the logic of simplicity-the bio-molecular mechanisms involved in MET activation in IPF. This clarification is crucial to accurately design MET blockade strategies within a fully personalized approach to IPF.

Wnt-signalling pathways and microRNAs network in carcinogenesis: experimental and bioinformatics approaches

Over the past few years, microRNAs (miRNAs) have not only emerged as integral regulators of gene expression at the post-transcriptional level but also respond to signalling molecules to affect cell function(s). miRNAs crosstalk with a variety of the key cellular signalling networks such as Wnt, transforming growth factor-β and Notch, control stem cell activity in maintaining tissue homeostasis, while if dysregulated contributes to the initiation and progression of cancer. Herein, we overview the molecular mechanism(s) underlying the crosstalk between Wnt-signalling components (canonical and non-canonical) and miRNAs, as well as changes in the miRNA/Wnt-signalling components observed in the different forms of cancer. Furthermore, the fundamental understanding of miRNA-mediated regulation of Wnt-signalling pathway and vice versa has been significantly improved by high-throughput genomics and bioinformatics technologies. Whilst, these approaches have identified a number of specific miRNA(s) that function as oncogenes or tumour suppressors, additional analyses will be necessary to fully unravel the links among conserved cellular signalling pathways and miRNAs and their potential associated components in cancer, thereby creating therapeutic avenues against tumours. Hence, we also discuss the current challenges associated with Wnt-signalling/miRNAs complex and the analysis using the biomedical experimental and bioinformatics approaches.

Cancer stem cell signaling pathways

Tissue development and homeostasis are governed by the actions of stem cells. Multipotent cells are capable of self-renewal during the course of one's lifetime. The accurate and appropriate regulation of stem cell functions is absolutely critical for normal biological activity. Several key developmental or signaling pathways have been shown to play essential roles in this regulatory capacity. Specifically, the Janus-activated kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription, Hedgehog, Wnt, Notch, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/phosphatase and tensin homolog, and nuclear factor-κB signaling pathways have all been shown experimentally to mediate various stem cell properties, such as self-renewal, cell fate decisions, survival, proliferation, and differentiation. Unsurprisingly, many of these crucial signaling pathways are dysregulated in cancer. Growing evidence suggests that overactive or abnormal signaling within and among these pathways may contribute to the survival of cancer stem cells (CSCs). CSCs are a relatively rare population of cancer cells capable of self-renewal, differentiation, and generation of serially transplantable heterogeneous tumors of several types of cancer.

Grape compounds suppress colon cancer stem cells in vitro and in a rodent model of colon carcinogenesis

Background

We have previously shown that the grape bioactive compound resveratrol (RSV) potentiates grape seed extract (GSE)-induced colon cancer cell apoptosis at physiologically relevant concentrations. However, RSV-GSE combination efficacy against colon cancer stem cells (CSCs), which play a key role in chemotherapy and radiation resistance, is not known.

Methods

We tested the anti-cancer efficacy of the RSV-GSE against colon CSCs using isolated human colon CSCs in vitro and an azoxymethane-induced mouse model of colon carcinogenesis in vivo.

Results

RSV-GSE suppressed tumor incidence similar to sulindac, without any gastrointestinal toxicity. Additionally, RSV-GSE treatment reduced the number of crypts containing cells with nuclear β-catenin (an indicator of colon CSCs) via induction of apoptosis. In vitro, RSV-GSE suppressed - proliferation, sphere formation, nuclear translocation of β-catenin (a critical regulator of CSC proliferation) similar to sulindac in isolated human colon CSCs. RSV-GSE, but not sulindac, suppressed downstream protein levels of Wnt/β-catenin pathway, c-Myc and cyclin D1. RSV-GSE also induced mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis in colon CSCs characterized by elevated p53, Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and cleaved PARP. Furthermore, shRNA-mediated knockdown of p53, a tumor suppressor gene, in colon CSCs did not alter efficacy of RSV-GSE.

Conclusion

The suppression of Wnt/β-catenin signaling and elevated mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis in colon CSCs support potential clinical testing/application of grape bioactives for colon cancer prevention and/or therapy.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12906-016-1254-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

miR‑483‑5p promotes growth, invasion and self‑renewal of gastric cancer stem cells by Wnt/β‑catenin signaling

Gastric carcinoma (GC) ranks as the second most common cause of cancer‑associated mortality worldwide. Emerging evidence has suggested a potential novel therapeutic strategy based on the ability of cancer stem cells (CSCs) to trigger tumorigenesis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have previously been implicated in CSC formation and regulation of their functional characteristics. In the current study, a significant upregulation of miR‑483‑5p levels was demonstrated in spheroid body‑forming cells (P<0.01) by reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction, which were isolated from the MKN‑45 gastric cancer cell line and possessed gastric CSC (GCSC) properties. An MTT assay demonstrated that overexpression of miR‑483‑5p by transfection with miR‑483‑5p mimics significantly increased cell proliferation and Annexin V‑propidium iodide staining indicated the suppression of cell apoptosis, suggesting that miR‑483‑5p has an important function in GCSC growth. Notably, Transwell and sphere formation assays demonstrated that miR‑483‑5p elevation promoted GCSC invasion and cell self‑renewal ability, respectively. Further western blotting assays demonstrated that miR‑483‑5p upregulation induced an increase in the protein expression levels of β‑catenin and its downstream target molecules, including cyclin D1, Bcl‑2 and matrix metalloproteinase 2, indicating that miR‑483‑5p activates Wnt/β‑catenin signaling. Inhibition of this pathway by β‑catenin small interfering RNA transfection attenuated the miR‑483‑5p‑induced effects on cell growth, invasion and self‑renewal. These results demonstrate that miR‑483‑5p may act as an oncogene to promote the development of GC by regulating GCSC growth, invasion and self‑renewal via the Wnt/β‑catenin signaling pathway. Thus, the present study suggests that miR‑483‑5p may be a promising therapeutic target against GC.

Molecular classification of gastric cancer: Towards a pathway-driven targeted therapy

Gastric cancer (GC) is the third leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide. Although surgical resection is a potentially curative approach for localized cases of GC, most cases of GC are diagnosed in an advanced, non-curable stage and the response to traditional chemotherapy is limited. Fortunately, recent advances in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms that mediate GC hold great promise for the development of more effective treatment strategies. In this review, an overview of the morphological classification, current treatment approaches, and molecular alterations that have been characterized for GC are provided. In particular, the most recent molecular classification of GC and alterations identified in relevant signaling pathways, including ErbB, VEGF, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, and HGF/MET signaling pathways, are described, as well as inhibitors of these pathways. An overview of the completed and active clinical trials related to these signaling pathways are also summarized. Finally, insights regarding emerging stem cell pathways are described, and may provide additional novel markers for the development of therapeutic agents against GC. The development of more effective agents and the identification of biomarkers that can be used for the diagnosis, prognosis, and individualized therapy for GC patients, have the potential to improve the efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness for GC treatments.

Exploiting Gene Expression Kinetics in Conventional Radiotherapy, Hyperfractionation, and Hypofractionation for Targeted Therapy

The dramatic changes in the technological delivery of radiation therapy, the repertoire of molecular targets for which pathway inhibitors are available, and the cellular and immunologic responses that can alter long-term clinical outcome provide a potentially unique role for using the radiation-inducible changes as therapeutic targets. Various mathematical models of dose and fractionation are extraordinarily useful in guiding treatment regimens. However, although the model may fit the clinical outcome, a deeper understanding of the molecular and cellular effect of the individual dose size and the adaptation to repeated exposure, called multifraction (MF) adaptation, may provide new therapeutic targets for use in combined modality treatments using radiochemotherapy and radioimmunotherapy. We discuss the potential of using different radiation doses and MF adaptation for targeting transcription factors, immune and inflammatory response, and cell "stemness." Given the complex genetic composition of tumors before treatment and their adaptation to drug treatment, innovative combinations using both the pretreatment molecular data and also the MF-adaptive response to radiation may provide an important role for focused radiation therapy as an integral part of precision medicine and immunotherapy.

S100A4 in Cancer Metastasis: Wnt Signaling-Driven Interventions for Metastasis Restriction

The aberrant activity of Wnt signaling is an early step in the transformation of normal intestinal cells to malignant tissue, leading to more aggressive tumors, and eventually metastases. In colorectal cancer (CRC), metastasis accounts for about 90% of patient deaths, representing the most lethal event during the course of the disease and is directly linked to patient survival, critically limiting successful therapy. This review focuses on our studies of the metastasis-inducing gene S100A4, which we identified as transcriptional target of β-catenin. S100A4 increased migration and invasion in vitro and metastasis in mice. In patient CRC samples, high S100A4 levels predict metastasis and reduced patient survival. Our results link pathways important for tumor progression and metastasis: the Wnt signaling pathway and S100A4, which regulates motility and invasiveness. S100A4 suppression by interdicting Wnt signaling has potential for therapeutic intervention. As proof of principle, we applied S100A4 shRNA systemically and prevented metastasis in mice. Furthermore, we identified small molecule inhibitors from high-throughput screens of pharmacologically active compounds employing an S100A4 promoter-driven reporter. Best hits act, as least in part, via intervening in the Wnt pathway and restricted metastasis in mouse models. We currently translate our findings on restricting S100A4-driven metastasis into clinical practice. The repositioned FDA-approved drug niclosamide, targeting Wnt signaling, is being tested in a prospective phase II clinical trial for treatment of CRC patients. Our assay for circulating S100A4 transcripts in patient blood is used to monitor treatment success.

The cilia-regulated proteasome and its role in the development of ciliopathies and cancer

The primary cilium is an essential structure for the mediation of numerous signaling pathways involved in the coordination and regulation of cellular processes essential for the development and maintenance of health. Consequently, ciliary dysfunction results in severe human diseases called ciliopathies. Since many of the cilia-mediated signaling pathways are oncogenic pathways, cilia are linked to cancer. Recent studies demonstrate the existence of a cilia-regulated proteasome and that this proteasome is involved in cancer development via the progression of oncogenic, cilia-mediated signaling. This review article investigates the association between primary cilia and cancer with particular emphasis on the role of the cilia-regulated proteasome.

Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase IIγ enhances stem-like traits and tumorigenicity of lung cancer cells

Highly tumorigenic stem-like cells, considered tumor-initiating cells (TICs), are the main cause of lung cancer initiation, relapse, and drug resistance. In this study, we identified that Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase IIγ (CaMKIIγ) was aberrantly expressed in highly tumorigenic stem-like lung cancer cells, and was also correlated with poor prognosis in human lung cancer. Functionally, CaMKIIγ enhanced stem-like traits and the tumorigenicity of lung cancer cells in an Akt- and β-catenin-dependent manner. In addition, we found that CaMKIIγ upregulated Oct4 expression via Akt-mediated histone acetylation. Taken together, our findings reveal a critical role of CaMKIIγ in regulating the stemness and tumorigenicity of lung cancer cells and offer a promising therapeutic target for TICs.

Developmental signalling pathways in renal fibrosis: the roles of Notch, Wnt and Hedgehog

Kidney fibrosis is a common histological manifestation of functional decline in the kidney. Fibrosis is a reactive process that develops in response to excessive epithelial injury and inflammation, leading to myofibroblast activation and an accumulation of extracellular matrix. Here, we describe how three key developmental signalling pathways - Notch, Wnt and Hedgehog (Hh) - are reactivated in response to kidney injury and contribute to the fibrotic response. Although transient activation of these pathways is needed for repair of injured tissue, their sustained activation is thought to promote fibrosis. Excessive Wnt and Notch expression prohibit epithelial differentiation, whereas increased Wnt and Hh expression induce fibroblast proliferation and myofibroblastic transdifferentiation. Notch, Wnt and Hh are fundamentally different signalling pathways, but their choreographed activation seems to be just as important for fibrosis as it is for embryonic kidney development. Decreasing the activity of Notch, Wnt or Hh signalling could potentially provide a new therapeutic strategy to ameliorate the development of fibrosis in chronic kidney disease.

Tropisetron suppresses colitis-associated cancer in a mouse model in the remission stage

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have a high risk for development of colitis-associated cancer (CAC). Serotonin is a neurotransmitter produced by enterochromaffin cells of the intestine. Serotonin and its receptors, mainly 5-HT3 receptor, are overexpressed in IBD and promote development of CAC through production of inflammatory cytokines. In the present study, we demonstrated the in vivo activity of tropisetron, a 5-HT3 receptor antagonist, against experimental CAC. CAC was induced by azoxymethane (AOM)/dextran sodium sulfate (DDS) in BALB/c mice. The histopathology of colon tissue was performed. Beta-catenin and Cox-2 expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry as well as quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (qRT-PCR). Alterations in the expression of 5-HT3 receptor and inflammatory-associated genes such as Il-1β, Tnf-α, Tlr4 and Myd88 were determined by qRT-PCR. Our results showed that tumor development in tropisetron-treated CAC group was significantly lower than the controls. The qRT-PCR analysis demonstrated that the expression of 5-HT3 receptor was significantly increased following CAC induction. In addition, tropisetron reduced expression of β-catenin and Cox-2 in the CAC experimental group. The levels of Il-1β, Tnf-α, Tlr4 and Myd88 were significantly decreased upon tropisetron treatment in the AOM/DSS group. Taken together, our data show that tropisetron inhibits development of CAC probably by attenuation of inflammatory reactions in the colitis.

Overcoming treatment resistance in cancer: Current understanding and tactics

Chemotherapy is the standard treatment for many, if not all, metastatic cancers. While chemotherapy is often capable of inducing cell death in tumors leading to shrinkage of the tumor bulk, many patients suffer from recurrence and ultimately death due to resistance. During the last decade, treatment resistance has attracted great attention followed by some seminal discoveries, including sequential mutations, cancer stem cells, and bidirectional inter-conversion of stem and non-stem cancer cell populations. Nevertheless, the successful treatment of cancer will require a considerable refinement of our knowledge concerning treatment resistance. In doing so, we expect that a more informed and refined approach to treat cancer will be developed and this may improve prognosis of cancer patients. In this review, we will discuss the current knowledge concerning the failure of cancer treatments and the potential approaches to overcome therapeutic resistance.

Signal Transduction Pathways of EMT Induced by TGF-β, SHH, and WNT and Their Crosstalks

Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a key step in development, wound healing, and cancer development. It involves cooperation of signaling pathways, such as transformation growth factor-β (TGF-β), Sonic Hedgehog (SHH), and WNT pathways. These signaling pathways crosstalk to each other and converge to key transcription factors (e.g., SNAIL1) to initialize and maintain the process of EMT. The functional roles of multi-signaling pathway crosstalks in EMT are sophisticated and, thus, remain to be explored. In this review, we focused on three major signal transduction pathways that promote or regulate EMT in carcinoma. We discussed the network structures, and provided a brief overview of the current therapy strategies and drug development targeted to these three signal transduction pathways. Finally, we highlighted systems biology approaches that can accelerate the process of deconstructing complex networks and drug discovery.

Mesenchymal Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Controls Epithelial Stem Cell Homeostasis in Teeth by Inhibiting the Antiapoptotic Effect of Fgf10

Continuous growth of rodent incisors relies on epithelial stem cells (SCs) located in the SC niche called labial cervical loop (LaCL). Here, we found a population of apoptotic cells residing in a specific location of the LaCL in mouse incisor. Activated Caspase 3 and Caspase 9, expressed in this location colocalized in part with Lgr5 in putative SCs. The addition of Caspase inhibitors to incisors ex vivo resulted in concentration dependent thickening of LaCL. To examine the role of Wnt signaling in regulation of apoptosis, we exposed the LaCL of postnatal day 2 (P2) mouse incisor ex vivo to BIO, a known activator of Wnt/β-catenin signaling. This resulted in marked thinning of LaCL as well as enhanced apoptosis. We found that Wnt/β-catenin signaling was intensely induced by BIO in the mesenchyme surrounding the LaCL, but, unexpectedly, no β-catenin activity was detected in the LaCL epithelium either before or after BIO treatment. We discovered that the expression of Fgf10, an essential growth factor for incisor epithelial SCs, was dramatically downregulated in the mesenchyme around BIO-treated LaCL, and that exogenous Fgf10 could rescue the thinning of the LaCL caused by BIO. We conclude that the homeostasis of the epithelial SC population in the mouse incisor depends on a proper rate of apoptosis and that this apoptosis is controlled by signals from the mesenchyme surrounding the LaCL. Fgf10 is a key mesenchymal signal limiting apoptosis of incisor epithelial SCs and its expression is negatively regulated by Wnt/β-catenin. Stem Cells 2015;33:1670-1681.

β-catenin-driven binary cell fate decisions in animal development

The Wnt/β‐catenin pathway plays key roles during animal development. In several species, β‐catenin is used in a reiterative manner to regulate cell fate diversification between daughter cells following division. This binary cell fate specification mechanism has been observed in animals that belong to very diverse phyla: the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, the annelid Platynereis, and the ascidian Ciona. It may also play a role in the regulation of several stem cell lineages in vertebrates. While the molecular mechanism behind this binary cell fate switch is not fully understood, it appears that both secreted Wnt ligands and asymmetric cortical factors contribute to the generation of the difference in nuclear β‐catenin levels between daughter cells. β‐Catenin then cooperates with lineage specific transcription factors to induce the expression of novel sets of transcription factors at each round of divisions, thereby diversifying cell fate. WIREs Dev Biol 2016, 5:377–388. doi: 10.1002/wdev.228

For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.

Galectin-3 augments tumor initiating property and tumorigenicity of lung cancer through interaction with β-catenin

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are comprised of a rare sub-population of cells in tumors that have been proposed to be responsible for high recurrence rates and resistance to chemotherapy. Galectins are highly expressed in cancers that correlate with the aggressiveness of tumors. Galectins may also promote the resistance of cancer cells to chemotherapy. However, the role of galectins in CSCs remains unknown. In this study, sphere formation was used to enrich H1299 human lung CSCs that had self-renewal ability, advanced tumorigenic potential, and that highly expressed stem/progenitor cell markers such as Oct4, Sox2, Nanog, and CD133. A novel candidate molecule, galectin-3, for stemness was found in lung CSCs. The expression of galectin-3 robustly increased in lung cancer spheres over serial passages, but its suppression in the H1299 monolayer or spheres resulted in reduced expression of stemness-related genes, sphere-forming ability, tumorigenicity, chemoresistance, and tumor initiation in mice. Notably, the overexpression of galectin-3 in A549 lung cancer cells, which have low capability to grow as tumor spheres, promoted CSC formation. β-catenin activity was increased in H1299 spheres and counteracted by galectin-3 suppression. Thus, galectin-3 may act as a cofactor by interacting with β-catenin to augment the transcriptional activities of stemness-related genes. Furthermore, galectin-3 expression correlated with tumor progression and expressions of β-catenin and CSC marker CD133 in lung cancer tissues. Targeting galectin-3 signaling may provide a new strategy for lung cancer treatment by inhibiting stem-like properties.

Cancer Stem Cell and Gastrointestinal Cancer: Current Status, Targeted Therapy and Future Implications

The cancer stem cells (CSCs) are biologically distinct subset of rare cancer cells with inherent ability of self-renewal, de-differentiation, and capacity to initiate and maintain malignant tumor growth. Studies have further reported that CSCs prime cancer recurrence and therapy resistance. Therefore, targeting CSCs to inhibit cancer progression has become an attractive anti-cancer therapeutical strategy. Recent technical advances have provided a greater appreciation of the multistep nature of the oncogenesis and also clarified that CSC concept is not universally applicable. Irrespective, the role of the CSCs in gastrointestinal (GI) cancers, responsible for the most cancer-associated death, has been widely accepted and appreciated. However, despite the tremendous progress made in the last decade in developing markers to identify CSCs, and assays to assess tumorigenic function of CSCs, it remains an area of active investigation. In current article, we review findings related to the role and identification of CSCs in GI-cancers and discuss the crucial pathways involved in regulating CSCs populations’ development and drug resistance, and use of the tumoroid culture to test novel CSCs-targeted cancer therapies.

RUNX1 prevents oestrogen-mediated AXIN1 suppression and β-catenin activation in ER-positive breast cancer

Recent high-throughput studies revealed recurrent RUNX1 mutations in breast cancer, specifically in oestrogen receptor-positive (ER⁺) tumours. However, mechanisms underlying the implied RUNX1-mediated tumour suppression remain elusive. Here, by depleting mammary epithelial cells of RUNX1 in vivo and in vitro, we demonstrate combinatorial regulation of AXIN1 by RUNX1 and oestrogen. RUNX1 and ER occupy adjacent elements in AXIN1's second intron, and RUNX1 antagonizes oestrogen-mediated AXIN1 suppression. Accordingly, RNA-seq and immunohistochemical analyses demonstrate an ER-dependent correlation between RUNX1 and AXIN1 in tumour biopsies. RUNX1 loss in ER⁺ mammary epithelial cells increases β-catenin, deregulates mitosis and stimulates cell proliferation and expression of stem cell markers. However, it does not stimulate LEF/TCF, c-Myc or CCND1, and it does not accelerate G1/S cell cycle phase transition. Finally, RUNX1 loss-mediated deregulation of β-catenin and mitosis is ameliorated by AXIN1 stabilization in vitro, highlighting AXIN1 as a potential target for the management of ER⁺ breast cancer.

The tumour suppressor RUNX1 is often lost or mutated in oestrogen receptor-positive breast cancers. In this study, the authors demonstrate that the loss of RUNX1 unleashes oestrogen-mediated inhibition of AXIN1, a negative regulator of β-catenin, resulting in β-catenin signalling-mediated cancer cell proliferation and mitosis deregulation.

Wnt/β-catenin signaling enables developmental transitions during valvulogenesis

Heart valve development proceeds through coordinated steps by which endocardial cushions (ECs) form thin, elongated and stratified valves. Wnt signaling and its canonical effector β-catenin are proposed to contribute to endocardial-to-mesenchymal transformation (EMT) through postnatal steps of valvulogenesis. However, genetic redundancy and lethality have made it challenging to define specific roles of the canonical Wnt pathway at different stages of valve formation. We developed a transgenic mouse system that provides spatiotemporal inhibition of Wnt/β-catenin signaling by chemically inducible overexpression of Dkk1. Unexpectedly, this approach indicates canonical Wnt signaling is required for EMT in the proximal outflow tract (pOFT) but not atrioventricular canal (AVC) cushions. Furthermore, Wnt indirectly promotes pOFT EMT through its earlier activity in neighboring myocardial cells or their progenitors. Subsequently, Wnt/β-catenin signaling is activated in cushion mesenchymal cells where it supports FGF-driven expansion of ECs and then AVC valve extracellular matrix patterning. Mice lacking Axin2, a negative Wnt regulator, have larger valves, suggesting that accumulating Axin2 in maturing valves represents negative feedback that restrains tissue overgrowth rather than simply reporting Wnt activity. Disruption of these Wnt/β-catenin signaling roles that enable developmental transitions during valvulogenesis could account for common congenital valve defects.

[Promoter methylation status of SFRP genes and induced apoptosis by demethylation in Jurkat cells]

目的

探讨人T淋巴细胞白血病（T-ALL）细胞株Jurkat细胞分泌性卷曲相关蛋白（SFRP）基因甲基化及去甲基化诱导细胞凋亡对Wnt/β-catenin信号通路的影响。

方法

以不同浓度（1.0、2.0、4.0 µmol/L）5-杂氮-2′-脱氧胞苷（5-Aza-CdR）对Jurkat细胞进行去甲基化处理，采用MTT法观察5-Aza-CdR对Jurkat细胞增殖的抑制作用，流式细胞术检测细胞凋亡率，甲基化特异性PCR(MSP)法检测药物处理前后SFRP基因的甲基化状态，实时荧光定量PCR检测SFRP基因以及RT-PCR检测survivin、c-myc和cyclin D1基因mRNA的表达改变，Western blot鉴定处理前后β-catenin的蛋白表达。

结果

1.0、2.0、4.0 µmol/L 5-Aza-CdR对Jurkat细胞的增殖有明显抑制作用，呈时间-剂量依赖性（P<0.05）；流式细胞术检测显示5-Aza-CdR作用Jurkat细胞48 h后，不同浓度5-Aza-CdR处理组与对照组比较细胞早期凋亡率明显升高（P<0.05）；SFRP1、SFRP2、SFRP4、SFRP5基因甲基化水平随5-Aza-CdR浓度升高而下降，呈剂量依赖性（P<0.05），同时mRNA表达水平较对照组明显上调（P<0.05）；Jurkat细胞总蛋白中β-catenin的蛋白表达随5-Aza-CdR浓度的升高而逐渐下降，呈剂量依赖性（P<0.05）；凋亡相关基因survivin、c-myc和cyclin D1的mRNA表达随5-Aza-CdR浓度的增高而降低，呈剂量依赖性（P<0.05）。

结论

逆转Jurkat细胞SFRP基因的甲基化，可以恢复SFRP基因转录表达，通过阻断β-catenin蛋白抑制Wnt/β-catenin信号通路的激活而诱导细胞凋亡。

Human urokinase-type plasminogen activator gene-modified bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells attenuate liver fibrosis in rats by down-regulating the Wnt signaling pathway

AIM: To evaluate the therapeutic effects of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) with human urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) on liver fibrosis, and to investigate the mechanism of gene therapy.

METHODS: BMSCs transfected with adenovirus-mediated human urokinase plasminogen activator (Ad-uPA) were transplanted into rats with CCl₄-induced liver fibrosis. All rats were sacrificed after 8 wk, and their serum and liver tissue were collected for biochemical, histopathologic, and molecular analyzes. The degree of liver fibrosis was assessed by hematoxylin and eosin or Masson’s staining. Western blot and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction were used to determine protein and mRNA expression levels.

RESULTS: Serum levels of alanine aminotransferase, aminotransferase, total bilirubin, hyaluronic acid, laminin, and procollagen type III were markedly decreased, whereas the levels of serum albumin were increased by uPA gene modified BMSCs treatment. Histopathology revealed that chronic CCl4-treatment resulted in significant fibrosis while uPA gene modified BMSCs treatment significantly reversed fibrosis. By quantitatively analysing the fibrosis area of liver tissue using Masson staining in different groups of animals, we found that model animals with CCl₄-induced liver fibrosis had the largest fibrotic area (16.69% ± 1.30%), while fibrotic area was significantly decreased by BMSCs treatment (12.38% ± 2.27%) and was further reduced by uPA-BMSCs treatment (8.31% ± 1.21%). Both protein and mRNA expression of β-catenin, Wnt4 and Wnt5a was down-regulated in liver tissues following uPA gene modified BMSCs treatment when compared with the model animals.

CONCLUSION: Transplantation of uPA gene modified BMSCs suppressed liver fibrosis and ameliorated liver function and may be a new approach to treating liver fibrosis. Furthermore, treatment with uPA gene modified BMSCs also resulted in a decrease in expression of molecules of the Wnt signaling pathway.

MiRNA Transcriptome Profiling of Spheroid-Enriched Cells with Cancer Stem Cell Properties in Human Breast MCF-7 Cell Line

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide as most patients often suffer cancer relapse. The reason is often attributed to the presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs). Recent studies revealed that dysregulation of microRNA (miRNA) are closely linked to breast cancer recurrence and metastasis. However, no specific study has comprehensively characterised the CSC characteristic and miRNA transcriptome in spheroid-enriched breast cells. This study described the generation of spheroid MCF-7 cell in serum-free condition and the comprehensive characterisation for their CSC properties. Subsequently, miRNA expression differences between the spheroid-enriched CSC cells and their parental cells were evaluated using next generation sequencing (NGS). Our results showed that the MCF-7 spheroid cells were enriched with CSCs properties, indicated by the ability to self-renew, increased expression of CSCs markers, and increased resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs. Additionally, spheroid-enriched CSCs possessed greater cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and wound healing ability. A total of 134 significantly (p<0.05) differentially expressed miRNAs were identified between spheroids and parental cells using miRNA-NGS. MiRNA-NGS analysis revealed 25 up-regulated and 109 down-regulated miRNAs which includes some miRNAs previously reported in the regulation of breast CSCs. A number of miRNAs (miR-4492, miR-4532, miR-381, miR-4508, miR-4448, miR-1296, and miR-365a) which have not been previously reported in breast cancer were found to show potential association with breast cancer chemoresistance and self-renewal capability. The gene ontology (GO) analysis showed that the predicted genes were enriched in the regulation of metabolic processes, gene expression, DNA binding, and hormone receptor binding. The corresponding pathway analyses inferred from the GO results were closely related to the function of signalling pathway, self-renewability, chemoresistance, tumorigenesis, cytoskeletal proteins, and metastasis in breast cancer. Based on these results, we proposed that certain miRNAs identified in this study could be used as new potential biomarkers for breast cancer stem cell diagnosis and targeted therapy.

Fate decision of mesenchymal stem cells: adipocytes or osteoblasts?

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), a non-hematopoietic stem cell population first discovered in bone marrow, are multipotent cells capable of differentiating into mature cells of several mesenchymal tissues, such as fat and bone. As common progenitor cells of adipocytes and osteoblasts, MSCs are delicately balanced for their differentiation commitment. Numerous in vitro investigations have demonstrated that fat-induction factors inhibit osteogenesis, and, conversely, bone-induction factors hinder adipogenesis. In fact, a variety of external cues contribute to the delicate balance of adipo-osteogenic differentiation of MSCs, including chemical, physical, and biological factors. These factors trigger different signaling pathways and activate various transcription factors that guide MSCs to commit to either lineage. The dysregulation of the adipo-osteogenic balance has been linked to several pathophysiologic processes, such as aging, obesity, osteopenia, osteopetrosis, and osteoporosis. Thus, the regulation of MSC differentiation has increasingly attracted great attention in recent years. Here, we review external factors and their signaling processes dictating the reciprocal regulation between adipocytes and osteoblasts during MSC differentiation and the ultimate control of the adipo-osteogenic balance.

Short hairpin RNA silencing of TGF-βRII and FZD-7 synergistically suppresses proliferation and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma cells

Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is a multifunctional regulator of cell growth, apoptosis, differentiation and migration. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway has been implicated in a wide spectrum of diseases, including numerous cancers and degenerative disease. The aim of the present study was to investigate if simultaneous blocking of TGF-β and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways exerts synergistic anti-tumor effects on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. Short hairpin (sh) RNA eukaryotic expression vectors, specific to TGF-β receptor II (RII) and Frizzled receptor (FZD)-7, were constructed by gene recombination. The expression vectors were transfected into human HCC HepG2 and Huh-7 cells using Lipofectamine 2000 to investigate the synergistic effects between TGF-β and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways on HCC cell proliferation, invasion and migration and the cell-cycle distribution. Western blot analysis was used to identify the expression of β-catenin, c-Myc and cyclin D1 in transfected cells to investigate the underlying mechanisms that cause TGF-β and Wnt/β-catenin signaling in HCC cells. shTGF-βRII-c and shFZD-7-2 were selected as the most efficient plasmids. A cell growth assay and colony-forming assay consistently demonstrated that the proliferative activity of the co-transfected group was significantly decreased compared to the single-transfected group. A wound healing invasion and migration assay demonstrated that co-transfection of shTGF-βRII-c and shFZD-7-2 decreased the invasion and migration abilities of the cells compared with either single-transfected group. In addition, the present study demonstrated that the observed reduction in cell proliferation was due to the cells arresting at the G1 phase of the cell cycle, and the downregulation of β-catenin, c-Myc and cyclin D1 impaired the proliferative and invasive abilities of the HCC cells. The present results demonstrate that simultaneous blocking of TGF-β and Wnt/β-catenin signaling by targeting TGF-βRII and FZD-7 may inhibit the proliferation and metastasis of HCC cells more effectively compared with blocking either the TGF-β or Wnt/β-catenin pathway.

Chemically Induced Reprogramming of Somatic Cells to Pluripotent Stem Cells and Neural Cells

The ability to generate transplantable neural cells in a large quantity in the laboratory is a critical step in the field of developing stem cell regenerative medicine for neural repair. During the last few years, groundbreaking studies have shown that cell fate of adult somatic cells can be reprogrammed through lineage specific expression of transcription factors (TFs)-and defined culture conditions. This key concept has been used to identify a number of potent small molecules that could enhance the efficiency of reprogramming with TFs. Recently, a growing number of studies have shown that small molecules targeting specific epigenetic and signaling pathways can replace all of the reprogramming TFs. Here, we provide a detailed review of the studies reporting the generation of chemically induced pluripotent stem cells (ciPSCs), neural stem cells (ciNSCs), and neurons (ciN). We also discuss the main mechanisms of actions and the pathways that the small molecules regulate during chemical reprogramming.

β-Catenin signaling pathway regulates cisplatin resistance in lung adenocarcinoma cells by upregulating Bcl-xl

The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway has been reported to regulate cisplatin resistance in several types of cancer cell. The present study aimed to investigate the role and underlying mechanism of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in cisplatin resistance of lung adenocarcinoma cells. Wild-type and cisplatin-resistant A549 human lung adenocarcinoma cells (A549/WT and A549/CDDP, respectively) were cultured in vitro and exposed to different cisplatin concentrations. Cells were incubated with 10 mM lithium chloride (LiCl) to activate β-catenin signaling. Cell proliferation was determined using the MTS assay. Cell apoptosis was evaluated using Annexin V/propidium iodide double staining, followed by flow cytometry. β-catenin was knocked down using small interfering RNA (siRNA). The intracellular distribution of β-catenin was determined by immunocytochemistry, and the mRNA and protein expressions of target genes were examined by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western zblotting, respectively. β-catenin and B-cell lymphoma-extra large (Bcl-xl) were significantly upregulated in A549/CDDP cells compared with A549/WT cells (P<0.05). LiCl reduced the sensitivity of A549/WT cells to cisplatin (P<0.01); and upregulated, increased phosphorylation (P<0.05) and enhanced nuclear translocation of β-catenin. LiCl also significantly elevated the mRNA and protein expression levels of Bcl-xl (P<0.05). Notably, silencing of β-catenin with siRNA decreased the mRNA and protein expression of Bcl-xl, and sensitized A549/WT cells to cisplatin (P<0.01). The findings of the current study suggest that upregulation of β-catenin signaling may contribute to cisplatin resistance in lung adenocarcinoma cells by upregulating Bcl-xl. Therefore, molecular targeting of Wnt/β-catenin signaling may sensitize lung cancer cells to cisplatin.

Epidermal β-catenin activation remodels the dermis via paracrine signalling to distinct fibroblast lineages

Sustained epidermal Wnt/β-catenin signalling expands the stem cell compartment and induces ectopic hair follicles (EFs). This is accompanied by extensive fibroblast proliferation and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelling in the underlying dermis. Here we show that epidermal Hedgehog (Hh) and Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signalling mediate the dermal changes. Pharmacological inhibition or genetic deletion of these pathways prevents β-catenin-induced dermal reprogramming and EF formation. Epidermal Shh stimulates proliferation of the papillary fibroblast lineage, whereas TGF-β2 controls proliferation, differentiation and ECM production by reticular fibroblasts. Hh inhibitors do not affect TGF-β target gene expression in reticular fibroblasts, and TGF-β inhibition does not prevent Hh target gene induction in papillary fibroblasts. However, when Hh signalling is inhibited the reticular dermis does not respond to epidermal β-catenin activation. We conclude that the dermal response to epidermal Wnt/β-catenin signalling depends on distinct fibroblast lineages responding to different paracrine signals.

The molecular mechanisms regulating skin dermal changes are unclear. Here, the authors show that deletion of Hedgehog (Hh) in the upper dermis alters the response to epidermal Wnt signalling, which, together with changes in extracellular matrix production, influences distinct fibroblast lineages differently.

WNT signaling in glioblastoma and therapeutic opportunities

WNTs and their downstream effectors regulate proliferation, death, and migration and cell fate decision. Deregulation of WNT signaling is associated with various cancers including GBM, which is the most malignant primary brain cancer. In this review, we will summarize the experimental evidence supporting oncogenic roles of WNT signaling in GBM and discuss current progress in the targeting of WNT signaling as an anti-cancer approach. In particular, we will focus on (1) genetic and epigenetic alterations that lead to aberrant WNT pathway activation in GBM, (2) WNT-mediated control of GBM stem cell maintenance and invasion, and (3) cross-talk between WNT and other signaling pathways in GBM. We will then review the discovery of agents that can inhibit WNT signaling in preclinical models and the current status of human clinical trials.

Kat3 coactivators in somatic stem cells and cancer stem cells: biological roles, evolution, and pharmacologic manipulation

Long-lived somatic stem cells regenerate adult tissues throughout our lifetime. However, with aging, there is a significant deterioration in the function of stem and progenitor cells, which contribute to diseases of aging. The decision for a long-lived somatic stem cell to become activated and subsequently to undergo either a symmetric or an asymmetric division is a critical cellular decision process. The decision to preferentially divide symmetrically or asymmetrically may be the major fundamental intrinsic difference between normal somatic stem cells and cancer stem cells. Based upon work done primarily in our laboratory over the past 15 years, this article provides a perspective on the critical role of somatic stem cells in aging. In particular, we discuss the importance of symmetric versus asymmetric divisions in somatic stem cells and the role of the differential usage of the highly similar Kat3 coactivators, CREB-binding protein (CBP) and p300, in stem cells. We describe and propose a more complete model for the biological mechanism and roles of these two coactivators, their evolution, and unique roles and importance in stem cell biology. Finally, we discuss the potential to pharmacologically manipulate Kat3 coactivator interactions in endogenous stem cells (both normal and cancer stem cells) to potentially ameliorate the aging process and common diseases of aging.

ROS-induced endothelial stress contributes to pulmonary fibrosis through pericytes and Wnt signaling

Pulmonary fibrosis is a grave diagnosis with insidious progression, generally considered as a consequence of aberrant epithelial wound healing and excessive scarring. This process is commonly modeled in animals by local bleomycin administration, resulting in peribronchial inflammation and subsequent fibrosis. We have previously described initiation and early development of distal pulmonary fibrosis following repeated subcutaneous bleomycin injections (systemic administration). The aim of this study was to identify mechanisms for the development of pulmonary fibrosis, which we hypothesize is related to endothelial stress and activation. Bleomycin was administered subcutaneously 3 times/week during 0.33-4w, and parenchymal alterations were studied. In addition, we used microvascular endothelial cells to investigate effects of bleomycin in vitro. Our results confirmed that systemic administration of bleomycin exerts oxidative stress indicated by an increase in Sod1 at 0.33, 1, and 4w (P<0.05). Endothelial cells were activated (increased CD106 expression) from 1w and onwards (P<0.05), and p21 expression was increased 2-3 times throughout the study (P<0.05) as were the number of β-catenin-positive nuclei (P<0.001). Wnt3a was increased at 0.33, 1, and 4w (P<0.01) and Wnt5a from 1w and onwards (P<0.001). The present study suggests that bleomycin-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) causes DNA stress affecting the endothelial niche, initiating repair processes including Wnt signaling. The repeated systemic administrations disrupt a normally fine-tuned balance in the Wnt signaling. In addition, pericyte differentiation was affected, which may have significant effects on fibrosis due to their ability to differentiate into myofibroblasts. We conclude that the endothelial niche may have an important role in the development of pulmonary fibrosis and warrants further investigations.

The evolving roles of canonical WNT signaling in stem cells and tumorigenesis: implications in targeted cancer therapies

The canonical WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway governs a myriad of biological processes underlying the development and maintenance of adult tissue homeostasis, including regulation of stem cell self-renewal, cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. WNTs are secreted lipid-modified glycoproteins that act as short-range ligands to activate receptor-mediated signaling pathways. The hallmark of the canonical pathway is the activation of β-catenin-mediated transcriptional activity. Canonical WNTs control the β-catenin dynamics as the cytoplasmic level of β-catenin is tightly regulated via phosphorylation by the 'destruction complex', consisting of glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β), casein kinase 1α (CK1α), the scaffold protein AXIN, and the tumor suppressor adenomatous polyposis coli (APC). Aberrant regulation of this signaling cascade is associated with varieties of human diseases, especially cancers. Over the past decade, significant progress has been made in understanding the mechanisms of canonical WNT signaling. In this review, we focus on the current understanding of WNT signaling at the extracellular, cytoplasmic membrane, and intracellular/nuclear levels, including the emerging knowledge of cross-talk with other pathways. Recent progresses in developing novel WNT pathway-targeted therapies will also be reviewed. Thus, this review is intended to serve as a refresher of the current understanding about the physiologic and pathogenic roles of WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway, and to outline potential therapeutic opportunities by targeting the canonical WNT pathway.

Pin1-mediated Modification Prolongs the Nuclear Retention of β-Catenin in Wnt3a-induced Osteoblast Differentiation

The canonical Wnt signaling pathway, in which β-catenin nuclear localization is a crucial step, plays an important role in osteoblast differentiation. Pin1, a prolyl isomerase, is also known as a key enzyme in osteogenesis. However, the role of Pin1 in canonical Wnt signal-induced osteoblast differentiation is poorly understood. We found that Pin1 deficiency caused osteopenia and reduction of β-catenin in bone lining cells. Similarly, Pin1 knockdown or treatment with Pin1 inhibitors strongly decreased the nuclear β-catenin level, TOP flash activity, and expression of bone marker genes induced by canonical Wnt activation and vice versa in Pin1 overexpression. Pin1 interacts directly with and isomerizes β-catenin in the nucleus. The isomerized β-catenin could not bind to nuclear adenomatous polyposis coli, which drives β-catenin out of the nucleus for proteasomal degradation, which consequently increases the retention of β-catenin in the nucleus and might explain the decrease of β-catenin ubiquitination. These results indicate that Pin1 could be a critical target to modulate β-catenin-mediated osteogenesis.

Wnt inhibition is dysregulated in gliomas and its re-establishment inhibits proliferation and tumor sphere formation

Evidence indicates that the growth of glioblastoma (GBM), the most common and malignant primary brain cancer, is driven by glioma stem cells (GSCs) resistant to current treatment. As Wnt-signaling is pivotal in stem cell maintenance, we wanted to explore its role in GSCs with the objective of finding distinct signaling mechanisms that could serve as potential therapeutic targets. We compared gene expression in GSCs (n=9) and neural stem cells from the adult human brain (ahNSC; n=3) to identify dysregulated genes in the Wnt signaling pathway. This identified a six-gene Wnt signature present in all nine primary GSC cultures, and the combined expression of three of these genes (SFRP1, SFRP4 and FZD7) reduced median survival of glioma patients from 38 to 17 months. Treatment with recombinant SFRP1 protein in primary cell cultures downregulated nuclear β-catenin and decreased in vitro proliferation and sphere formation in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, expressional and functional analysis of SFRP1-treated GSCs revealed that SFRP1 halts cell cycling and induces apoptosis. These observations demonstrate that Wnt signaling is dysregulated in GSC, and that inhibition of the Wnt pathway could serve as a therapeutic strategy in the treatment of GBM.

A Small-Molecule Antagonist of the β-Catenin/TCF4 Interaction Blocks the Self-Renewal of Cancer Stem Cells and Suppresses Tumorigenesis

Wnt/β-catenin signaling is a highly conserved pathway essential for embryogenesis and tissue homeostasis. However, deregulation of this pathway can initiate and promote human malignancies, especially of the colon and head and neck. Therefore, Wnt/β-catenin signaling represents an attractive target for cancer therapy. We performed high-throughput screening using AlphaScreen and ELISA techniques to identify small molecules that disrupt the critical interaction between β-catenin and the transcription factor TCF4 required for signal transduction. We found that compound LF3, a 4-thioureido-benzenesulfonamide derivative, robustly inhibited this interaction. Biochemical assays revealed clues that the core structure of LF3 was essential for inhibition. LF3 inhibited Wnt/β-catenin signals in cells with exogenous reporters and in colon cancer cells with endogenously high Wnt activity. LF3 also suppressed features of cancer cells related to Wnt signaling, including high cell motility, cell-cycle progression, and the overexpression of Wnt target genes. However, LF3 did not cause cell death or interfere with cadherin-mediated cell-cell adhesion. Remarkably, the self-renewal capacity of cancer stem cells was blocked by LF3 in concentration-dependent manners, as examined by sphere formation of colon and head and neck cancer stem cells under nonadherent conditions. Finally, LF3 reduced tumor growth and induced differentiation in a mouse xenograft model of colon cancer. Collectively, our results strongly suggest that LF3 is a specific inhibitor of canonical Wnt signaling with anticancer activity that warrants further development for preclinical and clinical studies as a novel cancer therapy.

Notch and Wnt signaling pathway in cancer: Crucial role and potential therapeutic targets (Review)

There is no radical cure for all cancer types. The most frequently used therapies are surgical treatment, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. However, recrudescence, radiation resistance and chemotherapy resistance are the most challenging issues in clinical practice. To address these issues, they should be further studied at the molecular level, and the signaling pathways involved represent a promising avenue for this research. In the present review, we mainly discuss the components and mechanisms of activation of the Notch and Wnt signaling pathways, and we summarize the recent research efforts on these two pathways in different cancers. We also evaluate the ideal drugs that could target these two signaling pathways for cancer therapy, summarize alterations in the Notch and Wnt signaling pathways in cancer, and discuss potential signaling inhibitors as effective drugs for cancer therapy.

Newly Constructed Network Models of Different WNT Signaling Cascades Applied to Breast Cancer Expression Data

INTRODUCTION

WNT signaling is a complex process comprising multiple pathways: the canonical β-catenin-dependent pathway and several alternative non-canonical pathways that act in a β-catenin-independent manner. Representing these intricate signaling mechanisms through bioinformatic approaches is challenging. Nevertheless, a simplified but reliable bioinformatic WNT pathway model is needed, which can be further utilized to decipher specific WNT activation states within e.g. high-throughput data.

RESULTS

In order to build such a model, we collected, parsed, and curated available WNT signaling knowledge from different pathway databases. The data were assembled to construct computationally suitable models of different WNT signaling cascades in the form of directed signaling graphs. This resulted in four networks representing canonical WNT signaling, non-canonical WNT signaling, the inhibition of canonical WNT signaling and the regulation of WNT signaling pathways, respectively. Furthermore, these networks were integrated with microarray and RNA sequencing data to gain deeper insight into the underlying biology of gene expression differences between MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell lines, representing weakly and highly invasive breast carcinomas, respectively. Differential genes up-regulated in the MDA-MB-231 compared to the MCF-7 cell line were found to display enrichment in the gene set originating from the non-canonical network. Moreover, we identified and validated differentially regulated modules representing canonical and non-canonical WNT pathway components specific for the aggressive basal-like breast cancer subtype.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, we demonstrated that these newly constructed WNT networks reliably reflect distinct WNT signaling processes. Using transcriptomic data, we shaped these networks into comprehensive modules of the genes implicated in the aggressive basal-like breast cancer subtype and demonstrated that non-canonical WNT signaling is important in this context. The topology of these networks can be further refined in the future by integration with complementary data such as protein-protein interactions, in order to gain greater insight into signaling processes.

Enhanced Wnt signaling by methylation-mediated loss of SFRP2 promotes osteosarcoma cell invasion

Wnt signaling is essential for the initiation and progression of osteosarcoma (OS) tumors and is suppressed by the secreted frizzled-related proteins (SFRPs). The methylation-induced protein degradation reduces the activity of SFRPs and subsequently increases the activity of Wnt signaling. However, whether the methylation of SFRP2, a member of SFRPs, may be involved in the pathogenesis of OS is not known. Here, we investigated the expression levels of SFRP2 in OS specimens. We found that SFRP2 mRNA was significantly decreased and methylation of SFRP2 gene was significantly increased in malignant OS tumors as compared to the paired adjacent non-tumor tissue. Moreover, SFRP2 expression was significantly decreased in the malignant OS cell lines, SAOS2, MG63, and U2OS, but not in the primary osteoblast cells. The demethylation of SFRP2 gene by 5'-aza-deoxycytidine (5-aza-dCyd) in OS cell lines restored SFRP2 expression, at both mRNA and protein levels, and suppressed cell invasion. Furthermore, the demethylation of SFRP2 gene appeared to inhibit nuclear retention of a key Wnt signaling factor, β-catenin, in OS cell lines. Together, these data suggest that SFRP2 may function as an OS invasion suppressor by interfering with Wnt signaling, and the methylation of SFRP2 gene may promote pathogenesis of OS.