201
|
Liu YX, Li QZ, Cao YN. The effect of key DNA methylation in different regions on gene expression in hepatocellular carcinoma. Mol Omics 2021; 18:57-70. [PMID: 34782907 DOI: 10.1039/d1mo00282a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common cancer with high morbidity and mortality. As we all know, the alteration of DNA methylation has a crucial impact on the occurrence of HCC. However, the mechanism of the effect of DNA methylation in different regions on gene expression is still unclear. Here, by computing and analyzing the distribution of differential methylation in 12 different regions in HCC tissues and adjacent normal tissues, not only the hypermethylation of CpG islands and global hypomethylation were found, but also a stable distribution pattern of differential methylation in HCC was found. Then the correlations between DNA methylations in different regions and gene expressions were calculated, and the diversity of correlations in different regions was determined. The key genes of differential methylation and differential expression related to the survival of HCC patients were obtained by using Cox regression analysis, a four-gene prognostic risk scoring model was constructed, and the prognostic performance was well verified. The regions of the differentially methylated CpG sites corresponding to the four key genes were located and their influences on the expression were analyzed. The results indicate that the promoter, first exon, 5'UTR, sixth exon, N_Shore, and S_Shore hypomethylation promotes the expression of key oncogenes, which together lead to the occurrence of HCC. These results might help to study the role of DNA methylation in HCC and provide potential biomarkers for the diagnosis of HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Xian Liu
- Laboratory of Theoretical Biophysics, School of Physical Science and Technology, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, 010021, China.
| | - Qian-Zhong Li
- Laboratory of Theoretical Biophysics, School of Physical Science and Technology, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, 010021, China. .,The State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation and Breeding of Grassland Livestock, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, 010070, China
| | - Yan-Ni Cao
- Laboratory of Theoretical Biophysics, School of Physical Science and Technology, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, 010021, China.
| |
Collapse
|
202
|
Liu Z, Liu L, Guo C, Yu S, Meng L, Zhou X, Han X. Tumor suppressor gene mutations correlate with prognosis and immunotherapy benefit in hepatocellular carcinoma. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 101:108340. [PMID: 34789428 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.108340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The tumor microenvironment (TME) has profound impacts on prognosis and immunotherapy. The TME can be altered by the genomic mutations on specific tumor-suppressor genes (TSG), thus, comprehending the association between TME and TSG in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is imperative. METHODS With a total of 1699 HCC patients from 6 international multicenter cohorts, we delineated the mutational landscape of TSG and summarized the proportion of TSG mutated HCC in different countries. Using the genomic and transcriptomic data, we comprehensively explored the impacts of TSG mutations on TME and immunity in HCC. A dataset of 31 HCC patients from the cBioPortal database was utilized to evaluate the predictive value of TSG subtypes for immunotherapy response. RESULTS Interestingly, TSG non-mutated HCC will have more "immune-hot" tumors, and display the infiltration abundance of immune cells such as B cell, CD4+/CD8+T cell, and neutrophil. Moreover, TSG non-mutated HCC was characterized by the higher expression level of three immune checkpoints, including CD40, CD40LG, and TNFRSF4. In line with the TME characterization and immune checkpoint profiles, TSG non-mutated HCC displayed prolonged overall survival and relapse-free survival, notably, are more likely to respond to immune checkpoint inhibitors. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggested the TSG subtypes could serve as a promising biomarker for guiding surveillance protocol and immunotherapeutic decisions for patients with HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zaoqu Liu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China; Interventional Institute of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China; Interventional Treatment and Clinical Research Center of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China.
| | - Long Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China
| | - ChunGuang Guo
- Department of Endovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China
| | - Sun Yu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China
| | - Lingfang Meng
- Department of Infection Management, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, China
| | - Xueliang Zhou
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China.
| | - Xinwei Han
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China; Interventional Institute of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China; Interventional Treatment and Clinical Research Center of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, China.
| |
Collapse
|
203
|
Ghaderi-Zefrehi H, Rezaei M, Sadeghi F, Heiat M. Genetic polymorphisms in DNA repair genes and hepatocellular carcinoma risk. DNA Repair (Amst) 2021; 107:103196. [PMID: 34416543 DOI: 10.1016/j.dnarep.2021.103196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most frequent types of tumors worldwide. Its occurrence and development have been related to various risk factors, such as chronic infection with hepatitis B or C viruses and alcohol addiction. DNA repair systems play a critical role in maintaining the integrity of the genome. Defects in these systems have been related to increased susceptibility to various types of cancer. Multiple genetic polymorphisms in genes of DNA repair systems have been reported that may affect DNA repair capacity (DRC) and modulate risk to cancer. Several studies have been conducted to assess the role of polymorphisms of DNA repair genes on the HCC risk. Identifying these polymorphisms and their association with HCC risk may help to improve prevention and treatment strategies. In this study, we review investigations that evaluated the association between genetic polymorphisms of DNA repair genes and risk of HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Ghaderi-Zefrehi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran; Baqiyatallah Research Center for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Rezaei
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Farzin Sadeghi
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Mohammad Heiat
- Baqiyatallah Research Center for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
204
|
Bannaga AS, Alvarez R, Zhou L, Petchey M, Noufaily A, Hitchins MP, Arasaradnam RP. Role of methylated septin 9 as an adjunct diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in hepatocellular carcinoma. HPB (Oxford) 2021; 23:1595-1606. [PMID: 33931320 DOI: 10.1016/j.hpb.2021.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methylated septin 9 (mSEPT9) has a role in hepatocarcinogenesis. We evaluated mSEPT9 performance in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and those at risk of HCC METHODS: Using Epi-proColon® V2.0 assay adapted for 1 mL plasma, we investigated mSEPT9 sensitivity, specificity, associations with influential covariates and relation to death. RESULTS Of 141 participants included, 136 had liver disease, 38 with HCC (mean-age 71 years) and 103 without HCC (mean-age 56.8 years), with further five without liver disease. 41 patients died (23 HCC) by the end of the study follow-up period. In HCC, mSEPT9 sensitivity and specificity were 89.47% (CI:75.20%-97.06%) and 81.55% (CI:72.70%-88.51%), whilst alpha fetoprotein (AFP) sensitivity and specificity were 50% (CI:33.38%-66.62%) and 97.09% (CI:91.72%-99.40%), respectively. Age-adjusted logistic regression showed mSEPT9 was associated with age, body mass index, HCC, liver cirrhosis, AFP, platelets, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte-ratio, albumin-bilirubin grade and fibrosis-4 index (p < 0.05). Odds for HCC patients to have positive mSEPT9 were 27.4 times more than those without HCC. Time-to-death was associated with mSEPT9 positivity (p < 0.05). Kaplan-Meier curves showed higher HCC survival with mSEPT9 compared to AFP. CONCLUSIONS The mSEPT9 offers potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for HCC. After adjusting for age, mSEPT9 remained associated with liver function, liver fibrosis and inflammatory surrogate markers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ayman S Bannaga
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital, Coventry UK; Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK.
| | - Rocio Alvarez
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai, Los Angeles CA, USA
| | - Lisa Zhou
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai, Los Angeles CA, USA
| | | | | | - Megan P Hitchins
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai, Los Angeles CA, USA
| | - Ramesh P Arasaradnam
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital, Coventry UK; Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK; Faculty of Health & Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, UK; School of Biological Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| |
Collapse
|
205
|
Ahovègbé LY, Ogwang PE, Peter EL, Mtewa AG, Kasali FM, Tolo CU, Gbenoudon J, Weisheit A, Pakoyo KF. Therapeutic potentials of Vachellia nilotica (L.) extracts in Hepatitis C infection: A review. SCIENTIFIC AFRICAN 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sciaf.2021.e00918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
|
206
|
Lu Q, Guo Q, Xin M, Lim C, Gamero AM, Gerhard GS, Yang L. LncRNA TP53TG1 Promotes the Growth and Migration of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells via Activation of ERK Signaling. Noncoding RNA 2021; 7:ncrna7030052. [PMID: 34564314 PMCID: PMC8482154 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna7030052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) TP53 target 1 (TP53TG1) was discovered as a TP53 target gene. TP53TG1 has been reported as having dual roles by exerting tumor-suppressive and oncogenic activities that vary depending on the cancer type. Yet, the role of TP53TG1 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is not fully understood. In this study, we performed both gain- and loss-of-function studies to determine the biological role of TP53TG1 in HCC. We found that the knockdown of TP53 in HCC cells caused the upregulation of TP53TG1. Furthermore, we found that the knockdown of TP53TG1 not only suppressed HCC cell proliferation and migration, but also reduced intrinsic ERK signaling. In contrast, the overexpression of TP53TG1 increased ERK activation and enhanced HCC proliferation. In conclusion, our study reveals an oncogenic role of TP53TG1 in HCC, which provides a novel insight into the cell-type-specific function of TP53TG1 in HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Ling Yang
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-215-707-3779
| |
Collapse
|
207
|
Atwa SM, Odenthal M, El Tayebi HM. Genetic Heterogeneity, Therapeutic Hurdle Confronting Sorafenib and Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:4343. [PMID: 34503153 PMCID: PMC8430643 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13174343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the latest advances in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) screening and treatment modalities, HCC is still representing a global burden. Most HCC patients present at later stages to an extent that conventional curative options are ineffective. Hence, systemic therapy represented by the tyrosine kinase inhibitor, sorafenib, in the first-line setting is the main treatment modality for advanced-stage HCC. However, in the two groundbreaking phase III clinical trials, the SHARP and Asia-Pacific trials, sorafenib has demonstrated a modest prolongation of overall survival in almost 30% of HCC patients. As HCC develops in an immune-rich milieu, particular attention has been placed on immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) as a novel therapeutic modality for HCC. Yet, HCC therapy is hampered by the resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs and the subsequent tumor recurrence. HCC is characterized by substantial genomic heterogeneity that has an impact on cellular response to the applied therapy. And hence, this review aims at giving an insight into the therapeutic impact and the different mechanisms of resistance to sorafenib and ICIs as well as, discussing the genomic heterogeneity associated with such mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara M. Atwa
- Pharmaceutical Biology Department, German University in Cairo, Cairo 11865, Egypt;
- Molecular Pharmacology Research Group, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo 11835, Egypt
| | - Margarete Odenthal
- Institute for Pathology, University Hospital Cologne, 50924 Cologne, Germany;
| | - Hend M. El Tayebi
- Molecular Pharmacology Research Group, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo 11835, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
208
|
Luo J, Lu C, Feng M, Dai L, Wang M, Qiu Y, Zheng H, Liu Y, Li L, Tang B, Xu C, Wang Y, Yang X. Cooperation between liver-specific mutations of pten and tp53 genetically induces hepatocarcinogenesis in zebrafish. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2021; 40:262. [PMID: 34416907 PMCID: PMC8377946 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-02061-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver cancer, mainly hepatocellular carcinoma, is one of the deadliest cancers worldwide and has a poor prognosis due to insufficient understanding of hepatocarcinogenesis. Previous studies have revealed that the mutations in PTEN and TP53 are the two most common genetic events in hepatocarcinogenesis. Here, we illustrated the crosstalk between aberrant Pten and Tp53 pathways during hepatocarcinogenesis in zebrafish. METHODS We used the CRISPR/Cas9 system to establish several transgenic zebrafish lines with single or double tissue-specific mutations of pten and tp53 to genetically induce liver tumorigenesis. Next, the morphological and histological determination were performed to investigate the roles of Pten and Tp53 signalling pathways in hepatocarcinogenesis in zebrafish. RESULTS We demonstrated that Pten loss alone induces hepatocarcinogenesis with only low efficiency, whereas single mutation of tp53 failed to induce tumour formation in liver tissue in zebrafish. Moreover, zebrafish with double mutations of pten and tp53 exhibits a much higher tumour incidence, higher-grade histology, and a shorter survival time than single-mutant zebrafish, indicating that these two signalling pathways play important roles in dynamic biological events critical for the initiation and progression of hepatocarcinogenesis in zebrafish. Further histological and pathological analyses showed significant similarity between the tumours generated from liver tissues of zebrafish and humans. Furthermore, the treatment with MK-2206, a specific Akt inhibitor, effectively suppressed hepatocarcinogenesis in zebrafish. CONCLUSION Our findings will offer a preclinical animal model for genetically investigating hepatocarcinogenesis and provide a useful platform for high-throughput anticancer drug screening.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juanjuan Luo
- Key laboratory of Bio-resources and Eco-environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Chunjiao Lu
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Meilan Feng
- Key laboratory of Bio-resources and Eco-environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lu Dai
- Key laboratory of Bio-resources and Eco-environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Maya Wang
- Key laboratory of Bio-resources and Eco-environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yang Qiu
- Key laboratory of Bio-resources and Eco-environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Huilu Zheng
- Key laboratory of Bio-resources and Eco-environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yao Liu
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Li Li
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Bo Tang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The first Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Chuan Xu
- Integrative Cancer Center & Cancer Clinical Research Center, Cancer Center, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute Sichuan, School of Medicine University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yajun Wang
- Key laboratory of Bio-resources and Eco-environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
| | - Xiaojun Yang
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
209
|
Zhu Q, Ma Y, Liang J, Wei Z, Li M, Zhang Y, Liu M, He H, Qu C, Cai J, Wang X, Zeng Y, Jiao Y. AHR mediates the aflatoxin B1 toxicity associated with hepatocellular carcinoma. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:299. [PMID: 34373448 PMCID: PMC8352983 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00713-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aflatoxin exposure is a crucial factor in promoting the development of primary hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in individuals infected with the hepatitis virus. However, the molecular pathways leading to its bioactivation and subsequent toxicity in hepatocytes have not been well-defined. Here, we carried out a genome-wide CRISPR-Cas9 genetic screen to identify aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) targets. Among the most significant hits was the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), a ligand-binding transcription factor regulating cell metabolism, differentiation, and immunity. AHR-deficient cells tolerated high concentrations of AFB1, in which AFB1 adduct formation was significantly decreased. AFB1 triggered AHR nuclear translocation by directly binding to its N-terminus. Furthermore, AHR mediated the expression of P450 induced by AFB1. AHR expression was also elevated in primary tumor sections obtained from AFB1-HCC patients, which paralleled the upregulation of PD-L1, a clinically relevant immune regulator. Finally, anti-PD-L1 therapy exhibited greater efficacy in HCC xenografts derived from cells with ectopic expression of AHR. These results demonstrated that AHR was required for the AFB1 toxicity associated with HCC, and implicate the immunosuppressive regimen of anti-PD-L1 as a therapeutic option for the treatment of AFB1-associated HCCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qing Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yarui Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Junbo Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zhewen Wei
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Mo Li
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Mei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Huan He
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Chunfeng Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jianqiang Cai
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaobing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China. .,Key Laboratory of Gene Editing Screening and R&D of Digestive System Tumor Drugs, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Yixin Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China. .,State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Yuchen Jiao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China. .,Key Laboratory of Gene Editing Screening and R&D of Digestive System Tumor Drugs, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China. .,Department of Clinical Laboratory, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
210
|
Ratana-Amornpin S, Vilaichone RK, Miftahussurur M, Aumpan N, Kaewkarnjanarat K, Nun-Anan P, Chonprasertsuk S, Siramolpiwat S, Bhanthumkomol P, Pornthisarn B, Uchida T, Mahachai V. Clinical Features and Overall Survival of Females with Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Retrospective Study and Review of the Literature in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. Int J Womens Health 2021; 13:717-725. [PMID: 34326670 PMCID: PMC8314927 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s311419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) causes more than 200,000 women deaths annually. This study aimed to investigate the clinical features, provide prognostic factors for female patients with HCC, and performed a literature review on them in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Materials and Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study of female patients with HCC at Thammasat University Hospital, Thailand between January 2009 and January 2019. Furthermore, important aspects of female patients with HCC in the ASEAN published in PubMed and Scopus up to October 2020 were extensively reviewed. Results A total of 187 female patients with HCC were included (mean age 65.7±11.9 years). Elderly females were diagnosed with HCC at a more advanced stage than younger individuals (37.0% vs 23.2%, p=0.049, OR 1.94, 95% CI 1.00-3.78) and the younger group had a significantly higher overall 2-year survival rate than the elderly group (65.0% vs 45.5%, p=0.03, OR 2.23, 95% CI 1.09-4.57). Abdominal pain (HR 9.89, 95% CI 2.85-34.38, p<0.001), ascites at presentation (HR 2.77, 95% CI 1.11-6.92, p=0.03), ruptured hepatoma (HR 14.68, 95% CI 12.60-83.09, p=0.002), advanced-stage HCC (HR 9.74, 95% CI 1.89-50.26; p=0.007), and serum hypoalbuminemia (HR 4.67, 95% CI 1.62-13.50, p=0.004) were significantly associated with poor survival rate. From the ASEAN, a total of 543 females HCC patients from 6 studies were extensively reviewed. Chronic hepatitis B infection was among the pre-existing liver disease leading to HCC in ASEAN. HCC in females of the ASEAN occurred most often at an advanced age and had a grave prognosis. Conclusion HCC affects a large number of females, especially in Thailand and the ASEAN, is diagnosed at an advanced stage and had a grave prognosis. Abdominal pain, ascites, ruptured HCC, advanced-stage HCC, and serum hypoalbuminemia are associated with poor prognosis. Early detection of HCC and prompt treatment in patients at risk could result in better survival outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarita Ratana-Amornpin
- Center of Excellence in Digestive Diseases and Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Medicine, Thammasat University Hospital, Pathumthani, Thailand
| | - Ratha-Korn Vilaichone
- Center of Excellence in Digestive Diseases and Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Medicine, Thammasat University Hospital, Pathumthani, Thailand.,Department of Medicine, Chulabhorn International College of Medicine (CICM) at Thammasat University, Pathumthani, Thailand.,Gastroentero-Hepatology Section, Internal Medicine Department, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Muhammad Miftahussurur
- Gastroentero-Hepatology Section, Internal Medicine Department, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Natsuda Aumpan
- Center of Excellence in Digestive Diseases and Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Medicine, Thammasat University Hospital, Pathumthani, Thailand
| | - Kittipong Kaewkarnjanarat
- Center of Excellence in Digestive Diseases and Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Medicine, Thammasat University Hospital, Pathumthani, Thailand
| | - Pongjarat Nun-Anan
- Center of Excellence in Digestive Diseases and Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Medicine, Thammasat University Hospital, Pathumthani, Thailand
| | - Soonthorn Chonprasertsuk
- Center of Excellence in Digestive Diseases and Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Medicine, Thammasat University Hospital, Pathumthani, Thailand
| | - Sith Siramolpiwat
- Center of Excellence in Digestive Diseases and Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Medicine, Thammasat University Hospital, Pathumthani, Thailand.,Department of Medicine, Chulabhorn International College of Medicine (CICM) at Thammasat University, Pathumthani, Thailand
| | - Patommatat Bhanthumkomol
- Center of Excellence in Digestive Diseases and Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Medicine, Thammasat University Hospital, Pathumthani, Thailand
| | - Bubpha Pornthisarn
- Center of Excellence in Digestive Diseases and Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Medicine, Thammasat University Hospital, Pathumthani, Thailand
| | - Tomohisa Uchida
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Oita University Faculty of Medicine, Yufu, Japan
| | - Varocha Mahachai
- Department of Medicine, Chulabhorn International College of Medicine (CICM) at Thammasat University, Pathumthani, Thailand.,Gastrointestinal and Liver Center, Bangkok Medical Center, Bangkok, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
211
|
Gao Y, Chang X, Xia J, Sun S, Mu Z, Liu X. Identification of HCC-Related Genes Based on Differential Partial Correlation Network. Front Genet 2021; 12:672117. [PMID: 34335688 PMCID: PMC8320536 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.672117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common causes of cancer-related death, but its pathogenesis is still unclear. As the disease is involved in multiple biological processes, systematic identification of disease genes and module biomarkers can provide a better understanding of disease mechanisms. In this study, we provided a network-based approach to integrate multi-omics data and discover disease-related genes. We applied our method to HCC data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and obtained a functional module with 15 disease-related genes as network biomarkers. The results of classification and hierarchical clustering demonstrate that the identified functional module can effectively distinguish between the disease and the control group in both supervised and unsupervised methods. In brief, this computational method to identify potential functional disease modules could be useful to disease diagnosis and further mechanism study of complex diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuyao Gao
- Key Laboratory of Systems Biology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, Shandong University, Weihai, China
| | - Xiao Chang
- Institute of Statistics and Applied Mathematics, Anhui University of Finance and Economics, Bengbu, China
| | - Jie Xia
- Key Laboratory of Systems Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Shaoyan Sun
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, Ludong University, Yantai, China
| | - Zengchao Mu
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, Shandong University, Weihai, China
| | - Xiaoping Liu
- Key Laboratory of Systems Biology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, Shandong University, Weihai, China
| |
Collapse
|
212
|
Zhao P, Malik S, Xing S. Epigenetic Mechanisms Involved in HCV-Induced Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC). Front Oncol 2021; 11:677926. [PMID: 34336665 PMCID: PMC8320331 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.677926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths, which is largely caused by virus infection. About 80% of the virus-infected people develop a chronic infection that eventually leads to liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). With approximately 71 million HCV chronic infected patients worldwide, they still have a high risk of HCC in the near future. However, the mechanisms of carcinogenesis in chronic HCV infection have not been still fully understood, which involve a complex epigenetic regulation and cellular signaling pathways. Here, we summarize 18 specific gene targets and different signaling pathways involved in recent findings. With these epigenetic alterations requiring histone modifications and DNA hyper or hypo-methylation of these specific genes, the dysregulation of gene expression is also associated with different signaling pathways for the HCV life cycle and HCC. These findings provide a novel insight into a correlation between HCV infection and HCC tumorigenesis, as well as potentially preventable approaches. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection largely causes hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) worldwide with 3 to 4 million newly infected cases diagnosed each year. It is urgent to explore its underlying molecular mechanisms for therapeutic treatment and biomarker discovery. However, the mechanisms of carcinogenesis in chronic HCV infection have not been still fully understood, which involve a complex epigenetic regulation and cellular signaling pathways. Here, we summarize 18 specific gene targets and different signaling pathways involved in recent findings. With these epigenetic alterations requiring histone modifications and DNA hyper or hypo-methylation of these specific genes, the dysregulation of gene expression is also associated with different signaling pathways for the HCV life cycle and HCC. These findings provide a novel insight into a correlation between HCV infection and HCC tumorigenesis, as well as potentially preventable approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pin Zhao
- Guandong Key Laboratory for Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Samiullah Malik
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Shaojun Xing
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| |
Collapse
|
213
|
Zhao X, Li X, Huang X, Liang S, Cai P, Wang Y, Cui Y, Chen W, Dong X. Development of lactobionic acid conjugated-copper chelators as anticancer candidates for hepatocellular carcinoma. ARAB J CHEM 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.arabjc.2021.103241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
|
214
|
Wang H, Chen L, Zhou T, Zhang Z, Zeng C. p53 Mutation at Serine 249 and Its Gain of Function Are Highly Related to Hepatocellular Carcinoma after Smoking Exposure. Public Health Genomics 2021; 24:171-181. [PMID: 34192689 DOI: 10.1159/000516598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has been convincingly suggested that a close correlation exists between the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cigarette smoking. However, the underlying effect of smoking on HCC is not clear. METHODS A binary unconditional logistic regression was used for the data on a total of 300 cases and 612 controls. The approach of functional analysis of separated alleles in yeast and direct sequencing of TP53 mutations were applied to analyze the p53 status in the HCC group. The relationship between p53 mutation at serine 249 (p53-RS) and smoking was assessed. Quantitative reverse transcription PCR was employed for the evaluation to transcriptional activity of p53 and p53-RS. RESULTS Smoking was linked to the risk of HCC with an increased dose-response effect. Moreover, among subjects who did not drink, the risks of HCC were significantly increased for smokers between HCC and controls. Besides, there was an increase in the number of HCC in smokers compared to nonsmokers after exclusion of HBV and/or HCV infection. Also, a significant difference was observed in the incidence of p53-RS between smokers and nonsmokers the HCC group. Furthermore, the p53-RS transcriptional activity was significantly increased in tumor tissues. CONCLUSIONS It strongly demonstrated that tobacco smoking is positively and independently associated with HCC, which may be attributed to p53-RS and its gain of function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huai Wang
- School of Public Health, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.,Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Lu Chen
- Wuhan Taisheng Biological Technology Co., Ltd., Wuhan, China
| | - Tong Zhou
- School of Public Health, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.,Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Zhongwei Zhang
- School of Public Health, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.,Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Canwei Zeng
- Wuhan Taisheng Biological Technology Co., Ltd., Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
215
|
Chemoprotective Effects of Xanthohumol against the Carcinogenic Mycotoxin Aflatoxin B1. Foods 2021; 10:foods10061331. [PMID: 34207931 PMCID: PMC8230236 DOI: 10.3390/foods10061331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study addresses the chemoprotective effects of xanthohumol (XN), a prenylated flavonoid found in the female inflorescences (hops) of the plant Humulus lupulus L., against the carcinogenic food contaminant aflatoxin B1 (AFB1). The chemical reactions of XN and its derivatives (isoxanthohumol (IXN), 8-prenylnaringenin (8-PN), and 6-prenylnaringenin (6-PN)) with the AFB1 metabolite, aflatoxin B1 exo-8,9-epoxide (AFBO), were investigated in silico, by calculating activation free energies (ΔG‡) at the Hartree–Fock level of theory in combination with the 6-311++G(d,p) basis set and two implicit solvation models. The chemoprotective effects of XN were investigated in vitro in the metabolically competent HepG2 cell line, analyzing its influence on AFB1-induced cytotoxicity using the MTS assay, genotoxicity using the comet and γH2AX assays, and cell cycle modulation using flow cytometry. Our results show that the ΔG‡ required for the reactions of XN and its derivatives with AFBO are comparable to the ΔG‡ required for the reaction of AFBO with guanine, indicating that XN, IXN, 8-PN, and 6-PN could act as scavengers of AFBO, preventing DNA adduct formation and DNA damage induction. This was also reflected in the results from the in vitro experiments, where a reduction in AFB1-induced cytotoxicity and DNA single-strand and double-strand breaks was observed in cells exposed to combinations of AFB1 and XN, highlighting the chemoprotective effects of this phytochemical.
Collapse
|
216
|
Kairaluoma V, Kemi N, Huhta H, Pohjanen VM, Helminen O. Toll-like receptor 5 and 8 in hepatocellular carcinoma. APMIS 2021; 129:470-479. [PMID: 33950532 DOI: 10.1111/apm.13142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are components of innate immunity, but also have a role in carcinogenesis. The prognostic value of TLR5 and TLR8 tumor expression was examined in contrast with known risk markers Ki67 and p53. All HCC patients from Oulu University Hospital with available representative tumor sample were included in this study (n = 182). TLR5, TLR8, Ki67, and p53 expression were investigated by immunohistochemistry. The relation between patient survival and TLR, Ki67, and p53 expression was calculated with Cox regression adjusted for confounding factors. TLR5 cytoplasm intensity was associated with 5-year overall (strong 0.0% vs weak 23.4%, p < 0.001) and disease-specific (strong 0.0% vs weak 34.9%, p < 0.001) survival. TLR5 nuclei percentage was associated with poor 5-year disease-specific survival (high 16.3% vs low 31.5%, p = 0.022). In adjusted analysis, strong TLR5 cytoplasm intensity was an independent risk factor for poor 5-year overall (adjusted HR 1.88, 95% CI 1.26-2.81) and disease-specific (adjusted HR 2.00, 95% CI 1.27-3.15) survival. High Ki67 and p53 expression associated with 5-year overall- and disease-specific survival. TLR8 was not associated with patient survival. This study suggests that TLR5 expression is independently prognostic in HCC with similar point estimate as previously known p53.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valtteri Kairaluoma
- Surgery Research Unit, Medical Research Center Oulu, Cancer and Translational Medicine Research Unit, University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Niko Kemi
- Surgery Research Unit, Medical Research Center Oulu, Cancer and Translational Medicine Research Unit, University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Heikki Huhta
- Surgery Research Unit, Medical Research Center Oulu, Cancer and Translational Medicine Research Unit, University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Vesa-Matti Pohjanen
- Cancer and Translational Medicine Research Unit, Medical Research Center, University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Olli Helminen
- Surgery Research Unit, Medical Research Center Oulu, Cancer and Translational Medicine Research Unit, University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
217
|
Dzobo K. The Role of Viruses in Carcinogenesis and Molecular Targeting: From Infection to Being a Component of the Tumor Microenvironment. OMICS-A JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE BIOLOGY 2021; 25:358-371. [PMID: 34037476 DOI: 10.1089/omi.2021.0052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
About a tenth of all cancers are caused by viruses or associated with viral infection. Recent global events including the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic means that human encounter with viruses is increased. Cancer development in individuals with viral infection can take many years after infection, demonstrating that the involvement of viruses in cancer development is a long and complex process. This complexity emanates from individual genetic heterogeneity and the many steps involved in cancer development owing to viruses. The process of tumorigenesis is driven by the complex interaction between several viral factors and host factors leading to the creation of a tumor microenvironment (TME) that is ideal and promotes tumor formation. Viruses associated with human cancers ensure their survival and proliferation through activation of several cellular processes including inflammation, migration, and invasion, resistance to apoptosis and growth suppressors. In addition, most human oncoviruses evade immune detection and can activate signaling cascades including the PI3K-Akt-mTOR, Notch and Wnt pathways associated with enhanced proliferation and angiogenesis. This expert review examines and synthesizes the multiple biological factors related to oncoviruses, and the signaling cascades activated by these viruses contributing to viral oncogenesis. In particular, I examine and review the Epstein-Barr virus, human papillomaviruses, and Kaposi's sarcoma herpes virus in a context of cancer pathogenesis. I conclude with a future outlook on therapeutic targeting of the viruses and their associated oncogenic pathways within the TME. These anticancer strategies can be in the form of, but not limited to, antibodies and inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Dzobo
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Cape Town Component, Cape Town, South Africa.,Division of Medical Biochemistry and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
218
|
Anshabo AT, Milne R, Wang S, Albrecht H. CDK9: A Comprehensive Review of Its Biology, and Its Role as a Potential Target for Anti-Cancer Agents. Front Oncol 2021; 11:678559. [PMID: 34041038 PMCID: PMC8143439 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.678559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) are proteins pivotal to a wide range of cellular functions, most importantly cell division and transcription, and their dysregulations have been implicated as prominent drivers of tumorigenesis. Besides the well-established role of cell cycle CDKs in cancer, the involvement of transcriptional CDKs has been confirmed more recently. Most cancers overtly employ CDKs that serve as key regulators of transcription (e.g., CDK9) for a continuous production of short-lived gene products that maintain their survival. As such, dysregulation of the CDK9 pathway has been observed in various hematological and solid malignancies, making it a valuable anticancer target. This therapeutic potential has been utilized for the discovery of CDK9 inhibitors, some of which have entered human clinical trials. This review provides a comprehensive discussion on the structure and biology of CDK9, its role in solid and hematological cancers, and an updated review of the available inhibitors currently being investigated in preclinical and clinical settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abel Tesfaye Anshabo
- Drug Discovery and Development, Centre for Cancer Diagnostics and Therapeutics, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Robert Milne
- Drug Discovery and Development, Centre for Cancer Diagnostics and Therapeutics, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Shudong Wang
- Drug Discovery and Development, Centre for Cancer Diagnostics and Therapeutics, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Hugo Albrecht
- Drug Discovery and Development, Centre for Cancer Diagnostics and Therapeutics, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
219
|
Kumar SU, Wang H, Telichko AV, Natarajan A, Bettinger T, Cherkaoui S, Massoud TF, Dahl JJ, Paulmurugan R. Ultrasound Triggered Co‐Delivery of Therapeutic MicroRNAs and a Triple Suicide Gene Therapy Vector by Using Biocompatible Polymer Nanoparticles for Improved Cancer Therapy in Mouse Models. ADVANCED THERAPEUTICS 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/adtp.202000197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sukumar Uday Kumar
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS), Department of Radiology Stanford University Stanford CA 94305 USA
| | - Huaijun Wang
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS), Department of Radiology Stanford University Stanford CA 94305 USA
| | - Arsenii V. Telichko
- Canary Center for Cancer Early Detection, Department of Radiology Stanford University Stanford CA 94305 USA
| | - Arutselvan Natarajan
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS), Department of Radiology Stanford University Stanford CA 94305 USA
| | - Thierry Bettinger
- Novel Agents Department Bracco Suisse SA Route de la Galaise 31 1228 Plan‐les‐Ouates Geneva Switzerland
| | - Samir Cherkaoui
- Novel Agents Department Bracco Suisse SA Route de la Galaise 31 1228 Plan‐les‐Ouates Geneva Switzerland
| | - Tarik F. Massoud
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS), Department of Radiology Stanford University Stanford CA 94305 USA
| | - Jeremy J. Dahl
- Canary Center for Cancer Early Detection, Department of Radiology Stanford University Stanford CA 94305 USA
| | - Ramasamy Paulmurugan
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS), Department of Radiology Stanford University Stanford CA 94305 USA
- Canary Center for Cancer Early Detection, Department of Radiology Stanford University Stanford CA 94305 USA
| |
Collapse
|
220
|
Zarębska I, Gzil A, Durślewicz J, Jaworski D, Antosik P, Ahmadi N, Smolińska-Świtała M, Grzanka D, Szylberg Ł. The clinical, prognostic and therapeutic significance of liver cancer stem cells and their markers. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2021; 45:101664. [PMID: 33667731 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2021.101664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fourth most common cause of death among cancers. The poor prognosis of HCC might be caused by a population of cancer stem cells (CSC). CSC have similar characteristics to normal stem cells and are responsible for cancer recurrence, chemoresistance, radioresistance and metastasis. Liver cancer stem cells (LCSC) are identified via specific surface markers, such as CD44, CD90, CD133, and EpCAM (CD326). Recent studies suggested a complex interaction between mentioned LCSC markers and clinical features of HCC. A high expression of CSC is correlated with a negative prognostic factor after surgical resection of HCC and is connected with more aggressive tumor behavior. Moreover, LCSC might be responsible for increasing resistance to sorafenib, a kinase inhibitor drug. A reduction in the LCSC population may be crucial to successful advanced HCC therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Izabela Zarębska
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Sklodowskiej-Curie Str. 9, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland.
| | - Arkadiusz Gzil
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Sklodowskiej-Curie Str. 9, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Justyna Durślewicz
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Sklodowskiej-Curie Str. 9, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Damian Jaworski
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Sklodowskiej-Curie Str. 9, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Paulina Antosik
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Sklodowskiej-Curie Str. 9, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Navid Ahmadi
- Chair and Department of Oncologic Pathology and Prophylactics, Greater Poland Cancer Center, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poland
| | - Marta Smolińska-Świtała
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Sklodowskiej-Curie Str. 9, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Dariusz Grzanka
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Sklodowskiej-Curie Str. 9, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Łukasz Szylberg
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Sklodowskiej-Curie Str. 9, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland; Department of Pathomorphology, Military Clinical Hospital, Bydgoszcz, Poland; Department of Tumor Pathology and Pathomorphology, Oncology Center, Prof. Franciszek Łukaszczyk Memorial Hospital, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
221
|
Patel SS, Sandur A, El-Kebir M, Gaba RC, Schook LB, Schachtschneider KM. Transcriptional Profiling of Porcine HCC Xenografts Provides Insights Into Tumor Cell Microenvironment Signaling. Front Genet 2021; 12:657330. [PMID: 33995488 PMCID: PMC8118521 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.657330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide, representing the most common form of liver cancer. As HCC incidence and mortality continue to increase, there is a growing need for improved translational animal models to bridge the gap between basic HCC research and clinical practice to improve early detection and treatment strategies for this deadly disease. Recently the Oncopig cancer model-a novel transgenic swine model that recapitulates human cancer through Cre recombinase induced expression of KRAS G12D and TP53 R167H driver mutations-has been validated as a large animal translational model for human HCC. Due to the similar size, anatomy, physiology, immunology, genetics, and epigenetics between pigs and humans, the Oncopig has the potential to improve translation of novel diagnostic and therapeutic modalities into clinical practice. Recent studies have demonstrated the importance of tumor cells in shaping its surrounding microenvironment into one that is more proliferative, invasive, and metastatic; however, little is known about the impact of microenvironment signaling on HCC tumor biology and differential gene expression between HCC tumors and its tumor microenvironment (TME). In this study, transcriptional profiling was performed on Oncopig HCC xenograft tumors (n = 3) produced via subcutaneous injection of Oncopig HCC cells into severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) mice. To differentiate between gene expression in the tumor and surrounding tumor microenvironment, RNA-seq reads originating from porcine (HCC tumor) and murine (microenvironment) cells were bioinformatically separated using Xenome. Principle component analysis (PCA) demonstrated clustering by group based on the expression of orthologous genes. Genes contributing to each principal component were extracted and subjected to functional analysis to identify alterations in pathway signaling between HCC cells and the microenvironment. Altered expression of genes associated with hepatic fibrosis deposition, immune response, and neo angiogenesis were observed. The results of this study provide insights into the interplay between HCC and microenvironment signaling in vivo, improving our understanding of the interplay between HCC tumor cells, the surrounding tumor microenvironment, and the impact on HCC development and progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shovik S. Patel
- Department of Radiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Amitha Sandur
- Department of Computer Science, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Mohammed El-Kebir
- Department of Computer Science, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Ron C. Gaba
- Department of Radiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Lawrence B. Schook
- Department of Radiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
- National Center for Supercomputing Applications, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Kyle M. Schachtschneider
- Department of Radiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
- National Center for Supercomputing Applications, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
222
|
Lin Z, Miao D, Xu Q, Wang X, Yu F. A novel focal adhesion related gene signature for prognostic prediction in hepatocellular carcinoma. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:10724-10748. [PMID: 33850056 PMCID: PMC8064231 DOI: 10.18632/aging.202871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly heterogeneous disease. Reduced expression of focal adhesion is considered as an important prerequisite for tumor cell invasion and metastasis. However, the prognostic value of focal adhesion related genes in HCC remains to be further determined. In this study, RNA expression profiles were downloaded from public databases. A five focal adhesion related gene signature model was established by the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator Cox regression analysis, which categorized patients into high- and low-risk groups. Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that the risk score was an independent predictor for overall survival. Single-sample gene set enrichment analysis revealed that immune status was different between the two risk groups, and tumor-related pathways were enriched in high-risk group. The risk score was significantly associated with tumor grade, tumor stage, immune scores, and immune infiltrate types. Pearson correlation showed that the expression level of prognostic genes was associated with anti-tumor drug sensitivity. Besides, the mRNA and protein expression of prognostic genes was significantly different between HCC tissues and adjacent non-tumorous tissues in our separate cohort. Taken together, a novel focal adhesion related gene signature can be used for prognostic prediction in HCC, which may be a therapeutic alternative.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo Lin
- Department of Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Accurate Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Liver Diseases, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Dan Miao
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Qian Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiaodong Wang
- Department of Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Accurate Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Liver Diseases, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fujun Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
223
|
Shaheen S, Arafah MM, Alshanwani AR, Fadda LM, Alhusaini AM, Ali HM, Hasan IH, Hagar H, Alharbi FMB, AlHarthii A. Chitosan nanoparticles as a promising candidate for liver injury induced by 2-nitropropane: Implications of P53, iNOS, VEGF, PCNA, and CD68 pathways. Sci Prog 2021; 104:368504211011839. [PMID: 33940981 PMCID: PMC10455010 DOI: 10.1177/00368504211011839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The current article was designed to assess the role of chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs) in the management of hepatic injury induced by the hepatocarcinogen 2-nitropropane (2-NP). Rats were divided into three groups. The first group served as a control, the second group was injected with 2-NP, while the third group was treated with CNPs 1 h before 2-NP injection every other day for 4 weeks. The 2-NP injection upregulated serum AST and ALT activities, as well as hepatic TNF- α, IL-6, and MDA levels and the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and caspase-3, whereas GSH contents and SOD activity were decreased. Immunohistochemistry investigations revealed that the hepatic protein expression of collagen I, inducible nitric oxide synthetase, proliferating cell nuclear antigen, cluster of differentiation, and p53 were upregulated. hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Masson's trichrome stains supported the previous parameters, and CNPs ameliorated most of the previous biochemical parameters. CNPs achieved promising results in the limitation of 2-NP hepatotoxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sameerah Shaheen
- Anatomy Department and Stem Cell Unit, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, KSA
| | - Maha M Arafah
- Pathology Department, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, KSA
| | | | - Laila Mohammed Fadda
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, KSA
| | - Ahlam M Alhusaini
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, KSA
| | - Hanaa M Ali
- Genetics and Cytology Department, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
- Common First Year Deanship, King Saud University, Riyadh, KSA
| | - Iman H Hasan
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, KSA
| | - Hanan Hagar
- Physiology Department, College of Medicine, King Saud University, KSA
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, College of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Fatima MB Alharbi
- Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, KSA
| | - Alaa AlHarthii
- Physiology Department, College of Medicine, King Saud University, KSA
| |
Collapse
|
224
|
Tantiwetrueangdet A, Panvichian R, Sornmayura P, Leelaudomlipi S, Macoska JA. PCNA-associated factor (KIAA0101/PCLAF) overexpression and gene copy number alterations in hepatocellular carcinoma tissues. BMC Cancer 2021; 21:295. [PMID: 33743635 PMCID: PMC7981960 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-021-07994-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background PCNA-associated factor, the protein encoded by the KIAA0101/PCLAF gene, is a cell-cycle regulated oncoprotein that regulates DNA synthesis, maintenance of DNA methylation, and DNA-damage bypass, through the interaction with the human sliding clamp PCNA. KIAA0101/PCLAF is overexpressed in various cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, it remains unknown whether KIAA0101/PCLAF overexpression is coupled to gene amplification in HCC. Methods KIAA0101/PCLAF mRNA expression levels were assessed by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) in 40 pairs of snap-frozen HCC and matched-non-cancerous tissues. KIAA0101/PCLAF gene copy numbers were evaluated by droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) in 36 pairs of the tissues, and protein expression was detected by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in 81 pairs of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues. The KIAA0101/PCLAF gene copy number alteration and RNA expression was compared by Spearman correlation. The relationships between KIAA0101 protein expression and other clinicopathological parameters, including Ki-67, p53, and HBsAg protein expression in HCC tissues, were evaluated using Chi-square test. Results Our results demonstrated that KIAA0101/PCLAF mRNA levels were significantly higher in HCC than in the matched-non-cancerous tissues (p < 0.0001). The high KIAA0101/PCLAF mRNA levels in HCC were associated with poor patient survival. The KIAA0101/PCLAF gene was not amplified in HCC, and KIAA0101/PCLAF gene copy numbers were not associated with KIAA0101/PCLAF transcript levels. KIAA0101 protein was overexpressed in the majority of HCC tissues (77.8%) but was not detectable in matched-non-cancerous tissues. Significant correlations between the expression of KIAA0101 protein in HCC tissues and p53 tumor suppressor protein (p = 0.002) and Ki-67 proliferation marker protein (p = 0.017) were found. However, KIAA0101 protein levels in HCC tissues were not correlated with patient age, tumor size, serum AFP level, or the HBsAg expression. Conclusions KIAA0101/PCLAF mRNA and protein overexpression is frequently observed in HCC but without concurrent KIAA0101/PCLAF gene amplification. Significant correlations between the expression of KIAA0101 protein and p53 and Ki-67 proteins were observed in this study. Thus, detection of KIAA0101/PCLAF mRNA/protein might be used, along with the detection of p53 and Ki-67 proteins, as potential biomarkers to select candidate patients for further studies of novel HCC treatment related to these targets. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-021-07994-3.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ravat Panvichian
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Rama 6 Road, Rajthevi, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand.
| | - Pattana Sornmayura
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Surasak Leelaudomlipi
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Jill A Macoska
- Center for Personalized Cancer Therapy, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
225
|
Zhang C, Yang H, Pan L, Zhao G, Zhang R, Zhang T, Xiao Z, Tong Y, Zhang Y, Hu R, Pandol SJ, Han YP. Hepatitis B Virus X Protein (HBx) Suppresses Transcription Factor EB (TFEB) Resulting in Stabilization of Integrin Beta 1 (ITGB1) in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:1181. [PMID: 33803301 PMCID: PMC7967237 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13051181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major etiological risk for the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and HBV X protein (HBx) is essential for oncogenic transformation. It is not known that if HBx can sabotage the lysosomal system for transformation and tumorigenesis, or its mechanism if it does have an effect. Examining clinical data, we observed that the downregulation of lysosomal components and transcription factor EB (TFEB) was associated with a poor prognosis of HCC patients. In HCC cells, we found that expression of HBx suppressed TFEB, impaired biogenesis of autophagic-lysosome, and promoted cellular dissemination. HBx mediated downregulation of TFEB led to impairment of autophagic/lysosomal biogenesis and flux, and consequently, accumulation of integrin beta 1 (ITGB1) for motility of HCC cells. Conversely, TFEB, in a steady-state condition, through induction of lysosomal biogenesis restrained ITGB1 levels and limited mobility of HCC cells. Specifically, overexpression of TFEB upregulated and activated the cysteine proteases including cathepsin L (CTSL) to degrade ITGB1. Conversely, expression of cystatin A (CSTA) or cystatin B (CSTB), the cellular inhibitors of lysosomal cysteine proteinases, spared ITGB1 from degradation and promoted dissemination of HCC cells. Taken together, this study suggests a potential mechanism for HBV-mediated malignancy, showing that HBx mediated downregulation of TFEB leads to accumulation of ITGB1 for HCC cell migration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunyan Zhang
- The Center for Growth, Metabolism and Aging, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China; (C.Z.); (H.Y.); (L.P.); (G.Z.); (R.Z.); (T.Z.); (Z.X.); (Y.T.)
| | - Huan Yang
- The Center for Growth, Metabolism and Aging, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China; (C.Z.); (H.Y.); (L.P.); (G.Z.); (R.Z.); (T.Z.); (Z.X.); (Y.T.)
| | - Liwei Pan
- The Center for Growth, Metabolism and Aging, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China; (C.Z.); (H.Y.); (L.P.); (G.Z.); (R.Z.); (T.Z.); (Z.X.); (Y.T.)
| | - Guangfu Zhao
- The Center for Growth, Metabolism and Aging, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China; (C.Z.); (H.Y.); (L.P.); (G.Z.); (R.Z.); (T.Z.); (Z.X.); (Y.T.)
| | - Ruofei Zhang
- The Center for Growth, Metabolism and Aging, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China; (C.Z.); (H.Y.); (L.P.); (G.Z.); (R.Z.); (T.Z.); (Z.X.); (Y.T.)
| | - Tianci Zhang
- The Center for Growth, Metabolism and Aging, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China; (C.Z.); (H.Y.); (L.P.); (G.Z.); (R.Z.); (T.Z.); (Z.X.); (Y.T.)
| | - Zhixiong Xiao
- The Center for Growth, Metabolism and Aging, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China; (C.Z.); (H.Y.); (L.P.); (G.Z.); (R.Z.); (T.Z.); (Z.X.); (Y.T.)
| | - Ying Tong
- The Center for Growth, Metabolism and Aging, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China; (C.Z.); (H.Y.); (L.P.); (G.Z.); (R.Z.); (T.Z.); (Z.X.); (Y.T.)
| | - Yi Zhang
- China West Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China;
| | - Richard Hu
- Olive View-UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90001, USA;
| | | | - Yuan-Ping Han
- The Center for Growth, Metabolism and Aging, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China; (C.Z.); (H.Y.); (L.P.); (G.Z.); (R.Z.); (T.Z.); (Z.X.); (Y.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
226
|
Mechanisms by Which Probiotic Bacteria Attenuate the Risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22052606. [PMID: 33807605 PMCID: PMC7961993 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Chronic infections with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV), alcoholic liver disease (ALD), and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)/non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are the major extrinsic risk factors of HCC development. Genetic background is pivotal in HCC pathogenesis, and both germline mutations and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) are intrinsic risk factors of HCC. These HCC risk factors predispose to hepatic injury and subsequent activation of fibrogenesis that progresses into cirrhosis and HCC. Probiotic bacteria can mitigate HCC risk by modulating host gut microbiota (GM) to promote growth of beneficial microbes and inhibit HCC-associated dysbiosis, thus preventing pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs)-mediated hepatic inflammation. Probiotics have antiviral activities against HBV and HCV infections, ameliorate obesity and risk of NAFLD/NASH, and their antioxidant, anti-proliferative, anti-angiogenic, and anti-metastatic effects can prevent the HCC pathogenesis. Probiotics also upregulate the expression of tumor suppressor genes and downregulate oncogene expression. Moreover, metabolites generated by probiotics through degradation of dietary phytochemicals may mitigate the risk of HCC development. These multiple anticancer mechanisms illustrate the potential of probiotics as an adjuvant strategy for HCC risk management and treatment.
Collapse
|
227
|
Abstract
Laos is a landlocked country in South East Asia, ranking fifth for primary liver cancer incidence worldwide. Risk factors that might explain this worrying situation are poorly known. We conducted a review of the literature concerning the etiologies of terminal liver diseases in Laos. A double infectious burden with hepatitis B and C viruses and the liver fluke Opisthorchis viverrini seems to be the main cause of the high liver cancer incidence. Moreover, it was also suggested that mutagenic substances frequently found in tobacco, alcoholic beverages, fermented fish, and mold-contaminated cereals or nuts, which are all substances heavily consumed by Lao people, lead to the accumulation of DNA mutations in the liver cell genome causing tumor processes. However, the respective proportions of liver cancer cases attributable to each category of infections and substances consumed, as well as the histological nature of the neoplasia are still not precisely documented in Laos. The international medical and scientific communities as well as public health stakeholders should urgently consider the alarming situation of liver health in Laos to stimulate both research and subsequent implementation of prevention policies.
Collapse
|
228
|
Zhao Q, Zhang Y, Shao S, Sun Y, Lin Z. Identification of hub genes and biological pathways in hepatocellular carcinoma by integrated bioinformatics analysis. PeerJ 2021; 9:e10594. [PMID: 33552715 PMCID: PMC7821758 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.10594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the main type of liver cancer in human, is one of the most prevalent and deadly malignancies in the world. The present study aimed to identify hub genes and key biological pathways by integrated bioinformatics analysis. Methods A bioinformatics pipeline based on gene co-expression network (GCN) analysis was built to analyze the gene expression profile of HCC. Firstly, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified and a GCN was constructed with Pearson correlation analysis. Then, the gene modules were identified with 3 different community detection algorithms, and the correlation analysis between gene modules and clinical indicators was performed. Moreover, we used the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING) database to construct a protein protein interaction (PPI) network of the key gene module, and we identified the hub genes using nine topology analysis algorithms based on this PPI network. Further, we used the Oncomine analysis, survival analysis, GEO data set and random forest algorithm to verify the important roles of hub genes in HCC. Lastly, we explored the methylation changes of hub genes using another GEO data (GSE73003). Results Firstly, among the expression profiles, 4,130 up-regulated genes and 471 down-regulated genes were identified. Next, the multi-level algorithm which had the highest modularity divided the GCN into nine gene modules. Also, a key gene module (m1) was identified. The biological processes of GO enrichment of m1 mainly included the processes of mitosis and meiosis and the functions of catalytic and exodeoxyribonuclease activity. Besides, these genes were enriched in the cell cycle and mitotic pathway. Furthermore, we identified 11 hub genes, MCM3, TRMT6, AURKA, CDC20, TOP2A, ECT2, TK1, MCM2, FEN1, NCAPD2 and KPNA2 which played key roles in HCC. The results of multiple verification methods indicated that the 11 hub genes had highly diagnostic efficiencies to distinguish tumors from normal tissues. Lastly, the methylation changes of gene CDC20, TOP2A, TK1, FEN1 in HCC samples had statistical significance (P-value < 0.05). Conclusion MCM3, TRMT6, AURKA, CDC20, TOP2A, ECT2, TK1, MCM2, FEN1, NCAPD2 and KPNA2 could be potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets for HCC. Meanwhile, the metabolic pathway, the cell cycle and mitotic pathway might played vital roles in the progression of HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qian Zhao
- College of Information Science and Technology, Dalian Martime University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- College of Information Science and Technology, Dalian Martime University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Shichun Shao
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Dalian Martime University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Yeqing Sun
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Dalian Martime University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Zhengkui Lin
- College of Information Science and Technology, Dalian Martime University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| |
Collapse
|
229
|
Patra T, Bose SK, Kwon YC, Meyer K, Ray R. Inhibition of p70 isoforms of S6K1 induces anoikis to prevent transformed human hepatocyte growth. Life Sci 2021; 265:118764. [PMID: 33189822 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The mTOR/S6K1 signaling axis, known for cell growth regulation, is hyper-activated in multiple cancers. In this study, we have examined the mechanisms for ribosomal protein p70-S6 kinase 1 (S6K1) associated transformed human hepatocyte (THH) growth regulation. MAIN METHODS THH were treated with p70-S6K1 inhibitor and analyzed for cell viability, cell cycle distribution, specific marker protein expression by western blot, and tumor inhibition in a xenograft mouse model. We validated our results by knockdown of p70-S6K1 using specific siRNA. KEY FINDINGS p70-S6K1 inhibitor treatment caused impairment of in vitro hepatocyte growth, and arrested cell cycle progression at the G1 phase. Further, p70-S6K1 inhibitor treatment exhibited a decrease in FAK and Erk activation, followed by altered integrin-β1 expression, caspase 8, and PARP cleavage appeared to be anoikis like growth inhibition. p70-S6K1 inhibitor also depolymerized actin microfilaments and diminished active Rac1/Cdc42 complex formation for loss of cellular attachment. Similar results were obtained with other transformed human hepatocyte cell lines. p70-S6K1 inhibition also resulted in a reduced phospho-EGFR, Slug and Twist; implicating an inhibition of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) state. A xenograft tumor model, generated from implanted THH in nude mice, following intraperitoneal injection of S6K1 inhibitor prevented further tumor growth. SIGNIFICANCE Our results suggested that p70-S6K1 inhibition alters orchestration of cell cycle progression, induces cell detachment, and sensitizes hepatocyte growth impairment. Targeting p70 isoform of S6K1 by inhibitor may prove to be a promising approach together with other therapies for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tapas Patra
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University, MO, USA.
| | - Sandip K Bose
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University, MO, USA; Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Saint Louis University, MO, USA
| | - Young-Chan Kwon
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University, MO, USA
| | - Keith Meyer
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University, MO, USA
| | - Ranjit Ray
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University, MO, USA; Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Saint Louis University, MO, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
230
|
Early Life Exposure to Aflatoxin B1 in Rats: Alterations in Lipids, Hormones, and DNA Methylation among the Offspring. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18020589. [PMID: 33445757 PMCID: PMC7828191 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18020589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Aflatoxins are toxic compounds produced by molds of the Aspergillus species that contaminate food primarily in tropical countries. The most toxic aflatoxin, aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), is a major cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in these countries. In sub-Saharan Africa, aflatoxin contamination is common, and perinatal AFB1 exposure has been linked to the early onset of HCC. Epigenetic programming, including changes to DNA methylation, is one mechanism by which early life exposures can lead to adult disease. This study aims to elucidate whether perinatal AFB1 exposure alters markers of offspring health including weight, lipid, and hormone profiles as well as epigenetic regulation that may later influence cancer risk. Pregnant rats were exposed to two doses of AFB1 (low 0.5 and high 5 mg/kg) before conception, throughout pregnancy, and while weaning and compared to an unexposed group. Offspring from each group were followed to 3 weeks or 3 months of age, and their blood and liver samples were collected. Body weights and lipids were assessed at 3 weeks and 3 months while reproductive, gonadotropic, and thyroid hormones were assessed at 3 months. Prenatal AFB1 (high dose) exposure resulted in significant 16.3%, 31.6%, and 7.5% decreases in weight of the offspring at birth, 3 weeks, and 3 months, respectively. Both doses of exposure altered lipid and hormone profiles. Pyrosequencing was used to quantify percent DNA methylation at tumor suppressor gene Tp53 and growth-regulator H19 in DNA from liver and blood. Results were compared between the control and AFB1 exposure groups in 3-week liver samples and 3-week and 3-month blood samples. Relative to controls, Tp53 DNA methylation in both low- and high-dose exposed rats was significantly decreased in liver samples and increased in the blood (p < 0.05 in linear mixed models). H19 methylation was higher in the liver from low- and high-exposed rats and decreased in 3-month blood samples from the high exposure group (p < 0.05). Further research is warranted to determine whether such hormone, lipid, and epigenetic alterations from AFB1 exposure early in life play a role in the development of early-onset HCC.
Collapse
|
231
|
Molecular Imaging of Gene Therapy. Mol Imaging 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-816386-3.00064-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
|
232
|
Tandon V, de la Vega L, Banerjee S. Emerging roles of DYRK2 in cancer. J Biol Chem 2021; 296:100233. [PMID: 33376136 PMCID: PMC7948649 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.rev120.015217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the last decade, the CMGC kinase DYRK2 has been reported as a tumor suppressor across various cancers triggering major antitumor and proapoptotic signals in breast, colon, liver, ovary, brain, and lung cancers, with lower DYRK2 expression correlated with poorer prognosis in patients. Contrary to this, various medicinal chemistry studies reported robust antiproliferative properties of DYRK2 inhibitors, whereas unbiased 'omics' and genome-wide association study-based studies identified DYRK2 as a highly overexpressed kinase in various patient tumor samples. A major paradigm shift occurred in the last 4 years when DYRK2 was found to regulate proteostasis in cancer via a two-pronged mechanism. DYRK2 phosphorylated and activated the 26S proteasome to enhance degradation of misfolded/tumor-suppressor proteins while also promoting the nuclear stability and transcriptional activity of its substrate, heat-shock factor 1 triggering protein folding. Together, DYRK2 regulates proteostasis and promotes protumorigenic survival for specific cancers. Indeed, potent and selective small-molecule inhibitors of DYRK2 exhibit in vitro and in vivo anti-tumor activity in triple-negative breast cancer and myeloma models. However, with conflicting and contradictory reports across different cancers, the overarching role of DYRK2 remains enigmatic. Specific cancer (sub)types coupled to spatiotemporal interactions with substrates could decide the procancer or anticancer role of DYRK2. The current review aims to provide a balanced and critical appreciation of the literature to date, highlighting top substrates such as p53, c-Myc, c-Jun, heat-shock factor 1, proteasome, or NOTCH1, to discuss DYRK2 inhibitors available to the scientific community and to shed light on this duality of protumorigenic and antitumorigenic roles of DYRK2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vasudha Tandon
- Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Laureano de la Vega
- Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Sourav Banerjee
- Division of Cellular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
233
|
Li D, Chen B, Zeng Y, Wang H. UHRF1 Could Be a Prognostic Biomarker and Correlated with Immune Cell Infiltration in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Gen Med 2021; 14:6769-6776. [PMID: 34675635 PMCID: PMC8520845 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s335016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was performed to investigate the relationship among UHRF1 expression, its biological function and immune infiltration in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA), Oncomine, and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases were used to analyze UHRF1 expression between HCC and normal tissues. Subsequently, GEPIA, TCGA-Portal, Kaplan-Meier Plotter, Protein Atlas and SurvExpress databases were utilized for survival analysis. UHRF1 co-expression genes were identified via the cBioPortal and LinkedOmics databases. Further, gene ontology (GO) analysis as well as Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis were performed. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks was constructed by STRING database and Cytoscape 3.7.1. Single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) and CIBERSORT algorithm were employed to assess the correlation between UHRF1 and tumor immune infiltrates on TCGA database. TIMER 2.0 database was used to explore the correlation of UHRF1 expression and immune infiltration level in HCC. Additionally, RT-qPCR was used to analyze the expression of UHRF1 and the relative genes in HCC cell lines. RESULTS Expression level of UHRF1 was upregulated in HCC tissues compared with paired normal tissues (P < 0.05 in GEPIA; P = 1.78E-6 in Oncomine; and P < 0.0001 in TCGA). Its high expression was significantly related with a shorter overall survival in five databases (P < 0.05). Function enrichment analysis demonstrated that functions of UHRF1 concentrated in cell division process and cell cycle (P < 0.05). High UHRF1 expression exhibited dysregulated immune infiltration (ie, neutrophils, eosinophils, dendritic cells resting, macrophages M2, macrophages M0) and poor survival of high UHRF1 expression was tight correlated with immune infiltration status. Moreover, TP53 mutation can lead to high expression of UHRF1 (P = 4.2E-10). CONCLUSION UHRF1 might function as an oncogene via inducing dysregulated immune infiltration in HCC and was identified as a novel prognostic biomarker and potential therapeutic target for HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danfeng Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Binlie Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
- Medical college, Shantou University, Shantou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yongming Zeng
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Huaiming Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Huaiming Wang Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, 57 Changping Road, Shantou, 515041, People’s Republic of ChinaTel +86 13750417745Fax +86 0754-88259850 Email
| |
Collapse
|
234
|
Bezzecchi E, Ronzio M, Mantovani R, Dolfini D. NF-Y Overexpression in Liver Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC). Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E9157. [PMID: 33271832 PMCID: PMC7731131 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21239157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
NF-Y is a pioneer trimeric transcription factor formed by the Histone Fold Domain (HFD) NF-YB/NF-YC subunits and NF-YA. Three subunits are required for DNA binding. CCAAT-specificity resides in NF-YA and transactivation resides in Q-rich domains of NF-YA and NF-YC. They are involved in alternative splicing (AS). We recently showed that NF-YA is overexpressed in breast and lung carcinomas. We report here on the overexpression of all subunits in the liver hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) TCGA database, specifically the short NF-YAs and NF-YC2 (37 kDa) isoforms. This is observed at all tumor stages, in viral-infected samples and independently from the inflammatory status. Up-regulation of NF-YAs and NF-YC, but not NF-YB, is associated to tumors with mutant p53. We used a deep-learning-based method (DeepCC) to extend the partitioning of the three molecular clusters to all HCC TCGA tumors. In iCluster3, CCAAT is a primary matrix found in promoters of up-regulated genes, and cell-cycle pathways are enriched. Finally, clinical data indicate that, globally, only NF-YAs, but not HFD subunits, correlate with the worst prognosis; in iCluster1 patients, however, all subunits correlate. The data show a difference with other epithelial cancers, in that global overexpression of the three subunits is reported and clinically relevant in a subset of patients; yet, they further reinstate the regulatory role of the sequence-specific subunit.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Diletta Dolfini
- Dipartimento di Bioscienze, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 26, 20133 Milano, Italy; (E.B.); (M.R.); (R.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
235
|
Pogostemon cablin Triggered ROS-Induced DNA Damage to Arrest Cell Cycle Progression and Induce Apoptosis on Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma In Vitro and In Vivo. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25235639. [PMID: 33266043 PMCID: PMC7731310 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25235639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of the study was to elucidate the anti-hepatoma effects and mechanisms of Pogostemon cablin essential oils (PPa extract) in vitro and in vivo. PPa extract exhibited an inhibitory effect on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells and was less cytotoxic to normal cells, especially normal liver cells, than it was to HCC cells, exerting a good selective index. Additionally, PPa extract inhibited HCC cell growth by blocking the cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase via p53 dependent or independent pathway to down regulated cell cycle regulators. Moreover, PPa extract induced the FAS-FASL-caspase-8 system to activate the extrinsic apoptosis pathway, and it increased the bax/bcl-2 ratio and reduced ΔΨm to activate the intrinsic apoptosis pathway that might be due to lots of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production which was induced by PPa extract. In addition, PPa extract presented to the potential to act synergistically with sorafenib to effectively inhibit HCC cell proliferation through the Akt/mTOR pathway and reduce regrowth of HCC cells. In an animal model, PPa extract suppressed HCC tumor growth and prolonged lifespan by reducing the VEGF/VEGFR axis and inducing tumor cell apoptosis in vivo. Ultimately, PPa extract demonstrated nearly no or low system-wide, physiological, or pathological toxicity in vivo. In conclusion, PPa extract effectively inhibited HCC cell growth through inducing cell cycle arrest and activating apoptosis in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, PPa extract exhibits less toxicity toward normal cells and organs than it does toward HCC cells, which might lead to fewer side effects in clinical applications. PPa extract may be developed into a clinical drug to suppress tumor growth or functional food to prevent HCC initiation or chemoprotection of HCC recurrence.
Collapse
|
236
|
Triangular Relationship between p53, Autophagy, and Chemotherapy Resistance. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21238991. [PMID: 33256191 PMCID: PMC7730978 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21238991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy and radiation often induce a number of cellular responses, such as apoptosis, autophagy, and senescence. One of the major regulators of these processes is p53, an essential tumor suppressor that is often mutated or lost in many cancer types and implicated in early tumorigenesis. Gain of function (GOF) p53 mutations have been implicated in increased susceptibility to drug resistance, by compromising wildtype anti-tumor functions of p53 or modulating key p53 processes that confer chemotherapy resistance, such as autophagy. Autophagy, a cellular survival mechanism, is initially induced in response to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and its cytoprotective nature became the spearhead of a number of clinical trials aimed to sensitize patients to chemotherapy. However, increased pre-clinical studies have exemplified the multifunctional role of autophagy. Additionally, compartmental localization of p53 can modulate induction or inhibition of autophagy and may play a role in autophagic function. The duality in p53 function and its effects on autophagic function are generally not considered in clinical trial design or clinical therapeutics; however, ample pre-clinical studies suggest they play a role in tumor responses to therapy and drug resistance. Further inquiry into the interconnection between autophagy and p53, and its effects on chemotherapeutic responses may provide beneficial insights on multidrug resistance and novel treatment regimens for chemosensitization.
Collapse
|
237
|
Song H, Ding N, Li S, Liao J, Xie A, Yu Y, Zhang C, Ni C. Identification of Hub Genes Associated With Hepatocellular Carcinoma Using Robust Rank Aggregation Combined With Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis. Front Genet 2020; 11:895. [PMID: 33133125 PMCID: PMC7561391 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.00895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Bioinformatics provides a valuable tool to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). To improve prognosis of patients, identification of robust biomarkers associated with the pathogenic pathways of HCC remains an urgent research priority. Methods We employed the Robust Rank Aggregation method to integrate nine qualified HCC datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus. A robust set of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between tumor and normal tissue samples were screened. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis was applied to cluster DEGs and the key modules related to clinical traits identified. Based on network topology analysis, novel risk genes derived from key modules were mined and biological verification performed. The potential functions of these risk genes were further explored with the aid of miRNA–mRNA regulatory networks. Finally, the prognostic ability of these genes was assessed by constructing a clinical prediction model. Results Two key modules showed significant association with clinical traits. In combination with protein–protein interaction analysis, 29 hub genes were identified. Among these genes, 19 from one module showed a pattern of upregulation in HCC and were associated with the tumor node metastasis stage, and 10 from the other module displayed the opposite trend. Survival analyses indicated that all these genes were significantly related to patient prognosis. Based on the miRNA-mRNA regulatory network, 29 genes strongly linked to tumor activity were identified. Notably, five of the novel risk genes, ABAT, DAO, PCK2, SLC27A2, and HAO1, have rarely been reported in previous studies. Gene set enrichment analysis for each gene revealed regulatory roles in proliferation and prognosis of HCC. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression analysis further validated DAO, PCK2, and HAO1 as prognostic factors in an external HCC dataset. Conclusion Analysis of multiple datasets combined with global network information presents a successful approach to uncover the complex biological mechanisms of HCC. More importantly, this novel integrated strategy facilitates identification of risk hub genes as candidate biomarkers for HCC, which could effectively guide clinical treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hao Song
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,Department of Intervention Therapy, The Fourth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Na Ding
- Department of Computational Biology, College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Shang Li
- Department of Computational Biology, College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Jianlong Liao
- Department of Computational Biology, College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Aimin Xie
- Department of Computational Biology, College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Youtao Yu
- Department of Intervention Therapy, The Fourth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Chunlong Zhang
- Department of Computational Biology, College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Caifang Ni
- Department of Interventional Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
238
|
Chen X, Xu J, Wang P, Shang L, Guo J, Huang L, Jiang YA, Chen J, Chen H, Shang Y, Zhang Q. Metallophosphoesterase 1, a novel candidate gene in hepatocellular carcinoma malignancy and recurrence. Cancer Biol Ther 2020; 21:1005-1013. [PMID: 33054568 DOI: 10.1080/15384047.2020.1824480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is an unmet need to identify novel mechanism-based prognostic genes associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence that can predict patient outcomes and provide therapeutic targets. This study aims to identify potential novel driver genes and mutations in HCC. METHODS Single nucleotide variations (SNVs) contributing to HCC recurrence were identified using whole-exome sequencing of 5 DNA samples extracted from a single HCC patient with HBV-induced cirrhosis. SNVs were verified in primary HCC (n = 87), recurrent HCC (n = 34), and benign liver disease with cirrhosis tissues (n = 43). A candidate gene was identified, and its association and function in HCC development and recurrence were examined. RESULTS 177 SNVs were identified and 70 SNVs were verified. A MPPE1 missense mutation on chr18_11897016 was the most frequent mutation (16.5%) in primary and recurrent HCC tissues, occurring with a higher frequency in recurrent HCC than primary HCC or benign liver tumor tissues. The MPPE1 mutation was significantly associated with HCC recurrence (P = .003), TNM stage (P = .002), and Child-Pugh classification (P = .039), and was an independent risk factor for HCC recurrence (HR = 1.969; 95%CI = 1.043-3.714, P = .037). Analysis of publically available data deposited in the GEO and TCGA showed MPPE1 expression levels were significantly increased in HCC tumor samples compared to adjacent nontumor tissues. The knockdown of MPPE1 in HCC cell lines significantly inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion, induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in vitro, and inhibited xenograft tumor growth in nude mice in vivo (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS MPPE1 is a novel gene associated with HCC malignancy and recurrence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinguo Chen
- Institute of Liver Surgery, Third Medical Centre of Chinese PLA General Hospital , Beijing, China
| | - Jing Xu
- Medical Research Center, Southern University of Science and Technology Hospital , Shenzhen, China.,National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine & Department of Cell Biology, The Fourth Military Medical University , Xi'an, China
| | - Peixiao Wang
- Institute of Liver Surgery, Third Medical Centre of Chinese PLA General Hospital , Beijing, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, Henan Children's Hospital , Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lei Shang
- Department of Health Statistics, Faculty of Preventive Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University , Xi'an, China
| | - Jing Guo
- Medical Department, Third Medical Centre of Chinese PLA General Hospital , Beijing, China
| | - Lihong Huang
- Medical Department, Third Medical Centre of Chinese PLA General Hospital , Beijing, China
| | - Yide A Jiang
- Institute of Sanofi Genzyme R&D Center, Genzyme - a Sanofi Company , Framingham, MA, USA
| | - Jinhong Chen
- Medical Department, Third Medical Centre of Chinese PLA General Hospital , Beijing, China
| | - Huijuan Chen
- Institute of Liver Surgery, Third Medical Centre of Chinese PLA General Hospital , Beijing, China
| | - Yukui Shang
- National Translational Science Center for Molecular Medicine & Department of Cell Biology, The Fourth Military Medical University , Xi'an, China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Institute of Liver Surgery, Third Medical Centre of Chinese PLA General Hospital , Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
239
|
Computational analysis of TP53 vs. CTNNB1 mutations in hepatocellular carcinoma suggests distinct cancer subtypes with differential gene expression profiles and chromatin states. Comput Biol Chem 2020; 89:107404. [PMID: 33096424 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiolchem.2020.107404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Genetic variations are important drivers of carcinogenesis. It is extremely important to identify molecular distinctions between patients of the same disease for effective cancer treatment. This study aims to understand cellular and molecular differences between hepatocellular carcinoma patients carrying TP53 or CTNNB1 mutations, which could possess clinical significance. For this purpose, DNA sequencing and mRNA expression data for hepatocellular carcinoma patients were analyzed. Differentially expressed genes and the cellular processes that they are involved in were determined for TP53/CTNNB1-altered patient groups. We found that the mutations of TP53/CTNNB1 genes in the patient cohort was almost mutually exclusive and gene expression profiling in these subgroups were unique. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis of the differentially expressed genes identified several important cellular processes. In line with this, selected histone variants, histone chaperons, as well as the binding partners of TP53/CTNNB1 showed distinct enrichment levels. TP53/CTNNB1-altered patient groups laso showed different prognostic outcomes and tumor infiltration levels. In conclusion, our results strongly imply differential chromatin states and transcriptional regulation in relation to the mutational status of TP53 vs. CTNNB1, suggesting that these genes might be inducing different cellular pathways involving distinct chromatin environments during the course of carcinogenesis.
Collapse
|
240
|
Dzulko M, Pons M, Henke A, Schneider G, Krämer OH. The PP2A subunit PR130 is a key regulator of cell development and oncogenic transformation. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2020; 1874:188453. [PMID: 33068647 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2020.188453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) is a major serine/threonine phosphatase. This enzyme is involved in a plethora of cellular processes, including apoptosis, autophagy, cell proliferation, and DNA repair. Remarkably, PP2A can act as a context-dependent tumor suppressor or promoter. Active PP2A complexes consist of structural (PP2A-A), regulatory (PP2A-B), and catalytic (PP2A-C) subunits. The regulatory subunits define the substrate specificity and the subcellular localization of the holoenzyme. Here we condense the increasing evidence that the PP2A B-type subunit PR130 is a critical regulator of cell identity and oncogenic transformation. We summarize knowledge on the biological functions of PR130 in normal and transformed cells, targets of the PP2A-PR130 complex, and how diverse extra- and intracellular stimuli control the expression and activity of PR130. We additionally review the impact of PP2A-PR130 on cardiac functions, neuronal processes, and anti-viral defense and how this might affect cancer development and therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Dzulko
- Department of Toxicology, University Medical Center, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Miriam Pons
- Department of Toxicology, University Medical Center, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Andreas Henke
- Section of Experimental Virology, Institute of Medical Microbiology, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Günter Schneider
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Innere Medizin II, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Oliver H Krämer
- Department of Toxicology, University Medical Center, 55131 Mainz, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
241
|
Ligation-Mediated Polymerase Chain Reaction Detection of 8-Oxo-7,8-Dihydro-2'-Deoxyguanosine and 5-Hydroxycytosine at the Codon 176 of the p53 Gene of Hepatitis C-Associated Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21186753. [PMID: 32942546 PMCID: PMC7555735 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Molecular mechanisms underlying Hepatitis C virus (HCV)-associated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) pathogenesis are still unclear. Therefore, we analyzed the levels of 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-oxodG) and other oxidative lesions at codon 176 of the p53 gene, as well as the generation of 3-(2-deoxy-β-d-erythro-pentafuranosyl)pyrimido[1,2-α]purin-10(3H)-one deoxyguanosine (M1dG), in a cohort of HCV-related HCC patients from Italy. Detection of 8-oxodG and 5-hydroxycytosine (5-OHC) was performed by ligation mediated-polymerase chain reaction assay, whereas the levels of M1dG were measured by chromatography and mass-spectrometry. Results indicated a significant 130% excess of 8-oxodG at –TGC– position of p53 codon 176 in HCV-HCC cases as compared to controls, after correction for age and gender, whereas a not significant increment of 5-OHC at –TGC– position was found. Then, regression models showed an 87% significant excess of M1dG in HCV-HCC cases relative to controls. Our study provides evidence that increased adduct binding does not occur randomly on the sequence of the p53 gene but at specific sequence context in HCV-HCC patients. By-products of lipid peroxidation could also yield a role in HCV-HCC development. Results emphasize the importance of active oxygen species in inducing nucleotide lesions at a p53 mutational hotspot in HCV-HCC patients living in geographical areas without dietary exposure to aflatoxin B1.
Collapse
|
242
|
Polidoro MA, Mikulak J, Cazzetta V, Lleo A, Mavilio D, Torzilli G, Donadon M. Tumor microenvironment in primary liver tumors: A challenging role of natural killer cells. World J Gastroenterol 2020; 26:4900-4918. [PMID: 32952338 PMCID: PMC7476172 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v26.i33.4900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last years, several studies have been focused on elucidate the role of tumor microenvironment (TME) in cancer development and progression. Within TME, cells from adaptive and innate immune system are one of the main abundant components. The dynamic interactions between immune and cancer cells lead to the activation of complex molecular mechanisms that sustain tumor growth. This important cross-talk has been elucidate for several kind of tumors and occurs also in patients with liver cancer, such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA). Liver is well-known to be an important immunological organ with unique microenvironment. Here, in normal conditions, the rich immune-infiltrating cells cooperate with non-parenchymal cells, such as liver sinusoidal endothelial cells and Kupffer cells, favoring self-tolerance against gut antigens. The presence of underling liver immunosuppressive microenvironment highlights the importance to dissect the interaction between HCC and iCCA cells with immune infiltrating cells, in order to understand how this cross-talk promotes tumor growth. Deeper attention is, in fact, focused on immune-based therapy for these tumors, as promising approach to counteract the intrinsic anti-tumor activity of this microenvironment. In this review, we will examine the key pathways underlying TME cell-cell communications, with deeper focus on the role of natural killer cells in primary liver tumors, such as HCC and iCCA, as new opportunities for immune-based therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michela Anna Polidoro
- Hepatobiliary Immunopathology Laboratory, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center – IRCCS, Rozzano 20089, Milan, Italy
| | - Joanna Mikulak
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano 20089, Milan, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine (BioMeTra), University of Milan, Rozzano 20089, Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Cazzetta
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano 20089, Milan, Italy
| | - Ana Lleo
- Hepatobiliary Immunopathology Laboratory, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center – IRCCS, Rozzano 20089, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Science, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele 20090, Milan, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center – IRCCS, Rozzano 20089, Milan, Italy
| | - Domenico Mavilio
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano 20089, Milan, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies and Translational Medicine (BioMeTra), University of Milan, Rozzano 20089, Milan, Italy
| | - Guido Torzilli
- Department of Biomedical Science, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele 20090, Milan, Italy
- Department of Hepatobiliary and General Surgery, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano 20089, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Donadon
- Department of Biomedical Science, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele 20090, Milan, Italy
- Department of Hepatobiliary and General Surgery, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano 20089, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
243
|
Tsai JJ, Pan PJ, Hsu FT, Chung JG, Chiang IT. Glycyrrhizic Acid Modulates Apoptosis through Extrinsic/Intrinsic Pathways and Inhibits Protein Kinase B- and Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase-Mediated Metastatic Potential in Hepatocellular Carcinoma In Vitro and In Vivo. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CHINESE MEDICINE 2020; 48:223-244. [PMID: 32054305 DOI: 10.1142/s0192415x20500123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
A previous study presented that glycyrrhizic acid as the hepatoprotective agent inhibits total parenteral nutrition-associated acute liver injury in rats. However, the anticancer effect and mechanism of glycyrrhizic acid in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is ambiguous. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of glycyrrhizic acid on apoptosis dysregulation and metastatic potential in HCC in vitro and in vivo. Both SK-Hep1 and Hep3B cells were treated with different concentrations of glycyrrhizic acid for 24 or 48h. SK-Hep1/luc2 tumor-bearing mice were treated with vehicle or glycyrrhizic acid (50mg/kg/day by intraperitoneal injection) for 7 days. Tumor cells growth, apoptotic, and metastatic signaling transduction were evaluated by using MTT assay, digital caliper, bioluminescence imaging (BLI), flow cytometry, western blotting assay, and immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining. The results demonstrated glycyrrhizic acid significantly inhibits tumor cell growth, cell invasion, and expression of AKT (Ser473), extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) phosphorylation, anti-apoptotic and metastatic proteins in HCC in vitro and in vivo. Glycyrrhizic acid also significantly triggered apoptosis and extrinsic/intrinsic apoptotic signaling transduction. In addition, PD98059 (ERK inhibitor) and LY294002 (AKT inhibitor) obviously reduced cell invasion and expression of metastasis-associated proteins. Taken together, these results indicated that glycyrrhizic acid induces apoptosis through extrinsic/intrinsic apoptotic signaling pathways and diminishes EGFR/AKT/ERK-modulated metastatic potential in HCC in vitro and in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jai-Jen Tsai
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University Hospital, Yilan 260, Taiwan, R.O.C.,Department of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 112, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Po-Jung Pan
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, National Yang-Ming University Hospital, Yilan 260, Taiwan, R.O.C.,Department of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 112, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Fei-Ting Hsu
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, China Medical University, Taichung 404, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Jing-Gung Chung
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, China Medical University, Taichung 404, Taiwan, R.O.C.,Department of Biotechnology, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - I-Tsang Chiang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua 505, Taiwan, R.O.C.,Department of Medical Imaging and Radiological Sciences, Central Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taichung 406, Taiwan, R.O.C.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Chang Bing Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua 505, Taiwan, R.O.C
| |
Collapse
|
244
|
Nakayama J, Gong Z. Transgenic zebrafish for modeling hepatocellular carcinoma. MedComm (Beijing) 2020; 1:140-156. [PMID: 34766114 PMCID: PMC8491243 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is the third leading cause of cancer‐related deaths throughout the world, and more than 0.6 million people die from liver cancer annually. Therefore, novel therapeutic strategies to eliminate malignant cells from liver cancer patients are urgently needed. Recent advances in high‐throughput genomic technologies have identified de novo candidates for oncogenes and pharmacological targets. However, testing and understanding the mechanism of oncogenic transformation as well as probing the kinetics and therapeutic responses of spontaneous tumors in an intact microenvironment require in vivo examination using genetically modified animal models. The zebrafish (Danio rerio) has attracted increasing attention as a new model for studying cancer biology since the organs in the model are strikingly similar to human organs and the model can be genetically modified in a short time and at a low cost. This review summarizes the current knowledge of epidemiological data and genetic alterations in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), zebrafish models of HCC, and potential therapeutic strategies for targeting HCC based on knowledge from the models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joji Nakayama
- Department of Biological Sciences National University of Singapore Singapore
| | - Zhiyuan Gong
- Department of Biological Sciences National University of Singapore Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
245
|
Yan Y, Zheng L, Du Q, Yan B, Geller DA. Interferon regulatory factor 1 (IRF-1) and IRF-2 regulate PD-L1 expression in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2020; 69:1891-1903. [PMID: 32377817 PMCID: PMC10112362 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-020-02586-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The objective response rate of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with anti PD-L1/PD-1 therapy is low. Discovering the signaling pathways regulating PD-L1 might help to improve ICB response rates. Here, we investigate transcription factors IRF-1 and IRF-2 signaling pathways regulating PD-L1 in HCC cells. In vivo studies show that IRF-1 and PD-L1 mRNA expression in human HCC tumors are significantly repressed compared with noncancerous background liver. IRF-1, IRF-2, and PD-L1 mRNA expression correlated positively in HCC tumors. Increased IRF-1 mRNA expression was observed in patients with well-differentiated or early stage HCC tumors. In vitro studies show that IFN-γ induces PD-L1 mRNA and protein expression through upregulation of IRF-1 in mouse and human HCC cells. IRF-1, IRF-2, and PD-L1 mRNA expression is upregulated in murine HCC by co-culture with effector T cells from spleen cells incubated with anti-CD3/CD28 antibodies. IRF-2 over-expression down-regulates IFN-γ induced PD-L1 promoter activity and protein levels in a dose-dependent manner. We identify two IRF-1 response elements (IRE1/IRE2) in the upstream 5'-flanking region of the CD274 (PD-L1) gene promoter. Site-directed mutagenesis shows both IRE1 and IRE2 are functional in transfection promoter assays. IRF-1 traditionally functions as tumor suppressor gene. However, these novel findings show a complex role for IRF-1 which upregulates PD-L1 in the inflammatory tumor microenvironment. IRF-1 antagonizes IRF-2 for binding to the IRE promoter element in PD-L1 which gives new insight to the regulation of PD-L1/PD-1 pathways in HCC ICB therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yihe Yan
- Thomas E. Starzl Transplantation Institute, Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA.
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530007, Guangxi, China.
| | - Leting Zheng
- Thomas E. Starzl Transplantation Institute, Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Qiang Du
- Thomas E. Starzl Transplantation Institute, Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA
| | - Bing Yan
- Thomas E. Starzl Transplantation Institute, Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA
| | - David A Geller
- Thomas E. Starzl Transplantation Institute, Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
246
|
Li Y, Zhao ZG, Luo Y, Cui H, Wang HY, Jia YF, Gao YT. Dual targeting of Polo-like kinase 1 and baculoviral inhibitor of apoptosis repeat-containing 5 in TP53-mutated hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Gastroenterol 2020; 26:4786-4801. [PMID: 32921957 PMCID: PMC7459198 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v26.i32.4786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), often diagnosed at advanced stages without curative therapies, is the fifth most common malignant cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) is activated in the late G2 phase of the cell cycle and is required for entry to mitosis. Interestingly, PLK1 is overexpressed in many HCC patients and is highly associated with poor clinical outcome. Baculoviral inhibitor of apoptosis repeat-containing 5 (BIRC5) is also highly overexpressed in HCC and plays key roles in this malignancy. AIM To determine the expression patterns of PLK1 and BIRC5, as well as their correlation with p53 mutation status and patient clinical outcome. METHODS The expression patterns of PLK1 and BIRC5, and their correlation with p53 mutation status or patient clinical outcome were analyzed using a TCGA HCC dataset. Cell viability, cell apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest assays were conducted to investigate the efficacy of the PLK1 inhibitors volasertib and GSK461364 and the BIRC5 inhibitor YM155, alone or in combination. The in vivo efficacy of volasertib and YM155, alone or in combination, was assessed in p53-mutated Huh7-derived xenograft models in immune-deficient NSIG mice. RESULTS Our bioinformatics analysis using a TCGA HCC dataset revealed that PLK1 and BIRC5 were overexpressed in the same patient subset and their expression was highly correlated. The overexpression of both PLK1 and BIRC5 was more frequently detected in HCC with p53 mutations. High PLK1 or BIRC5 expression significantly correlated with poor clinical outcome. PLK1 inhibitors (volasertib and GSK461364) or a BIRC5 inhibitor (YM155) selectively targeted Huh7 cells with mutated p53, but not HepG2 cells with wild-type p53. The combination treatment of volasertib and YM155 synergistically inhibited the viability of Huh7 cells via apoptotic pathway. The efficacy of volasertib and YM155, alone or in combination, was validated in vivo in a Huh7-derived xenograft model. CONCLUSION PLK1 and BIRC5 are highly co-expressed in p53-mutated HCC and inhibition of both PLK1 and BIRC5 synergistically compromises the viability of p53-mutated HCC cells in vitro and in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- Department of Hepatology, Nankai University Affiliated Third Center Hospital, Tianjin 300170, China
| | - Zhen-Gang Zhao
- Department of Hepatology, Nankai University Affiliated Third Center Hospital, Tianjin 300170, China
| | - Yin Luo
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Extracorporeal Life Support for Critical Diseases, Institute of Hepatobiliary Disease, Nankai University Affiliated Third Center Hospital, Tianjin 300170, China
| | - Hao Cui
- Department of Hepatology, Nankai University Affiliated Third Center Hospital, Tianjin 300170, China
| | - Hao-Yu Wang
- Department of Hepatology, Nankai University Affiliated Third Center Hospital, Tianjin 300170, China
| | - Yan-Fang Jia
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Extracorporeal Life Support for Critical Diseases, Tianjin Medical University Third Center Clinical College, Tianjin 300170, China
| | - Ying-Tang Gao
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Extracorporeal Life Support for Critical Diseases, Institute of Hepatobiliary Disease, Nankai University Affiliated Third Center Hospital, Tianjin 300170, China
| |
Collapse
|
247
|
Xu L, Zhang L, Wang T, Wu Y, Pu X, Li M, Guo Y. ExoceRNA atlas: A database of cancer ceRNAs in human blood exosomes. Life Sci 2020; 257:118092. [PMID: 32681912 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) play essential roles in cancer pathogenesis and those in exosomes have been the promising biomarkers for cancer diagnose and therapy. We aim to identify potential active ceRNA pairs in cancer blood exosomes by combining TCGA and exoRBase. MAIN METHODS Two strict screening criteria were implemented, including hypergeometric test on the targets predicted by RNA22 for differential miRNAs and Pearson test on the candidate mRNAs and lncRNAs for each cancer. Then2638292, 4925485 and 70669 ceRNAs in blood exosomes are available for colorectal cancer (CRC), hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD), respectively. KEY FINDINGS A comprehensive functional analysis on differential miRNAs in cancer blood exosomes indicates that they play important roles in development of cancer by degrading or inhibiting the post-transcription translation level of mRNA or by acting as mediators to regulate the expression of mRNA. Topological and biological functional analysis of ceRNA networks demonstrate that hub ceRNAs involve in cancer-related biological pathways and processes, so as to influence the occurrence and development of cancer and would be the potential biomarkers for three cancers. Finally, we designed a web-accessible database, ExoceRNA Atlas (https://www.exocerna-atlas.com/exoceRNA#/) as a repository of ceRNAs in blood exosomes. It can friendly search, browse and visualize ceRNA networks of the query genes along with giving the detailed functional analysis results. The entire ceRNA data can also be freely downloaded. SIGNIFICANCE ExoceRNA Atlas will serve as a powerful public resource for identifying ceRNAs and greatly deepen our understanding their functions in cancer exosomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Xu
- College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- College of Cybersecurity, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Tian Wang
- College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yanling Wu
- College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xuemei Pu
- College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Menglong Li
- College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yanzhi Guo
- College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
248
|
Hashempour T, Dehghani B, Musavi Z, Moayedi J, Hasanshahi Z, Sarvari J, Hosseini SY, Hosseini E, Moeini M, Merat S. Impact of IL28 Genotypes and Modeling the Interactions of HCV Core Protein on Treatment of Hepatitis C. Interdiscip Sci 2020; 12:424-437. [PMID: 32656614 DOI: 10.1007/s12539-020-00382-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2019] [Revised: 05/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mutations in the core CVR region of hepatitis C virus (HCV) and polymorphisms of interleukin 28B (IL28B) are associated with progression toward liver disease and in response to therapy. In addition, interactions of the core protein with some cell interactors can be related to HCV liver damage. AIM This study aimed to evaluate the effect of core mutations as well as IL28B polymorphism on clinical features, sustained virological response (SVR) in 1a and 3a HCV genotypes amongst Iranian HCV infected patients, and the impact of mutations on core protein properties, antigenic properties, and interactions with HCV inhibitors, using several bioinformatics tools. METHODS Seventy-nine Iranian patients infected with HCV genotypes 1a and 3a and diagnosed with chronic active hepatitis were examined. Plasma viral RNA was used to amplify and sequence the HCV Core gene; also, HCV viral load, molecular genotyping, and the liver enzymes were determined for all samples. The sequencing results were analyzed by several reliable bioinformatics tools to determine the physicochemical properties, B cell epitopes, post-modification changes, and secondary/tertiary structures; and evaluate the interactions with 4 drugs by docking method. RESULT There were some substitutions in core CVR related to ALT and AST enzymes that can lead to HCV advanced liver disease. The most prevalent mutation for 3a genotypes was a substitution in aa 162 (I to V) while we did not find any mutation in 1a responder group. Polymorphism of the rs8099917 showed that the majority of patients had TG heterozygous and carried CT genotype at the rs12979860. Analysis indicated several phosphorylation sits for core protein as well as two important disulfide bonds. Immunogenic prediction showed that core protein can strongly induce the immune system. Interaction analysis, using the docking method revealed two potential interactors (Vitronectin and SETD2). CONCLUSION Generally, mutations in all core CVR regions in all patients showed a relationship between such substitutions and higher liver enzymes that can result in advanced liver disease progression in HCV infected patients. Furthermore, immunoinformatics analysis determined the possible immunodominant regions to be considered in HCV vaccine designs. Furthermore, no association between SVR and IL28B polymorphism was shown. In silico analysis determined modification sites, structures, B-cell epitopes of core protein and interactions with several interactors can lead to persistent HCV infection in the cell and the progress of liver diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tayebeh Hashempour
- Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Nemazee Hospital, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Behzad Dehghani
- Shiraz HIV/AIDS Research Center, Institute of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zahra Musavi
- Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Nemazee Hospital, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Javad Moayedi
- Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Nemazee Hospital, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zahra Hasanshahi
- Shiraz HIV/AIDS Research Center, Institute of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Jamal Sarvari
- Bacteriology and Virology Department, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Seyed Younes Hosseini
- Bacteriology and Virology Department, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Hosseini
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
| | - Maryam Moeini
- Gastroenterology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Shahin Merat
- Liver and Pancreatobiliary Diseases Research Center, Digestive Disease Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
249
|
Zhang J, Liu X, Zhou W, Cheng G, Wu J, Guo S, Jia S, Liu Y, Li B, Zhang X, Wang M. A bioinformatics investigation into molecular mechanism of Yinzhihuang granules for treating hepatitis B by network pharmacology and molecular docking verification. Sci Rep 2020; 10:11448. [PMID: 32651427 PMCID: PMC7351787 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-68224-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Yinzhihuang granules (YZHG) is a patented Chinese medicine for the treatment of hepatitis B. This study aimed to investigate the intrinsic mechanisms of YZHG in the treatment of hepatitis B and to provide new evidence and insights for its clinical application. The chemical compounds of YZHG were searched in the CNKI and PUBMED databases, and their putative targets were then predicted through a search of the SuperPred and Swiss Target Prediction databases. In addition, the targets of hepatitis B were obtained from TTD, PharmGKB and DisGeNET. The abovementioned data were visualized using Cytoscape 3.7.1, and network construction identified a total of 13 potential targets of YZHG in the treatment of hepatitis B. Molecular docking verification showed that CDK6, CDK2, TP53 and BRCA1 might be strongly correlated with hepatitis B treatment. Furthermore, GO and KEGG analyses indicated that the treatment of hepatitis B by YZHG might be related to positive regulation of transcription, positive regulation of gene expression, the hepatitis B pathway and the viral carcinogenesis pathway. Network pharmacology intuitively shows the multicomponent, multitarget and multichannel pharmacological effects of YZHG in the treatment of hepatitis B and provides a scientific basis for its mechanism of action.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingyuan Zhang
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100102, China
| | - Xinkui Liu
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100102, China
| | - Wei Zhou
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100102, China
| | - Guoliang Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Generic Manufacture Technology of Chinese Traditional Medicine, Linyi, 276000, China
| | - Jiarui Wu
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100102, China.
| | - Siyu Guo
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100102, China
| | - Shanshan Jia
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100102, China
| | - Yingying Liu
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100102, China
| | - Bingbing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Generic Manufacture Technology of Chinese Traditional Medicine, Linyi, 276000, China
| | - Xiaomeng Zhang
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100102, China
| | - Miaomiao Wang
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100102, China
| |
Collapse
|
250
|
Hartwig A, Arand M, Epe B, Guth S, Jahnke G, Lampen A, Martus HJ, Monien B, Rietjens IMCM, Schmitz-Spanke S, Schriever-Schwemmer G, Steinberg P, Eisenbrand G. Mode of action-based risk assessment of genotoxic carcinogens. Arch Toxicol 2020; 94:1787-1877. [PMID: 32542409 PMCID: PMC7303094 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-020-02733-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The risk assessment of chemical carcinogens is one major task in toxicology. Even though exposure has been mitigated effectively during the last decades, low levels of carcinogenic substances in food and at the workplace are still present and often not completely avoidable. The distinction between genotoxic and non-genotoxic carcinogens has traditionally been regarded as particularly relevant for risk assessment, with the assumption of the existence of no-effect concentrations (threshold levels) in case of the latter group. In contrast, genotoxic carcinogens, their metabolic precursors and DNA reactive metabolites are considered to represent risk factors at all concentrations since even one or a few DNA lesions may in principle result in mutations and, thus, increase tumour risk. Within the current document, an updated risk evaluation for genotoxic carcinogens is proposed, based on mechanistic knowledge regarding the substance (group) under investigation, and taking into account recent improvements in analytical techniques used to quantify DNA lesions and mutations as well as "omics" approaches. Furthermore, wherever possible and appropriate, special attention is given to the integration of background levels of the same or comparable DNA lesions. Within part A, fundamental considerations highlight the terms hazard and risk with respect to DNA reactivity of genotoxic agents, as compared to non-genotoxic agents. Also, current methodologies used in genetic toxicology as well as in dosimetry of exposure are described. Special focus is given on the elucidation of modes of action (MOA) and on the relation between DNA damage and cancer risk. Part B addresses specific examples of genotoxic carcinogens, including those humans are exposed to exogenously and endogenously, such as formaldehyde, acetaldehyde and the corresponding alcohols as well as some alkylating agents, ethylene oxide, and acrylamide, but also examples resulting from exogenous sources like aflatoxin B1, allylalkoxybenzenes, 2-amino-3,8-dimethylimidazo[4,5-f] quinoxaline (MeIQx), benzo[a]pyrene and pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Additionally, special attention is given to some carcinogenic metal compounds, which are considered indirect genotoxins, by accelerating mutagenicity via interactions with the cellular response to DNA damage even at low exposure conditions. Part C finally encompasses conclusions and perspectives, suggesting a refined strategy for the assessment of the carcinogenic risk associated with an exposure to genotoxic compounds and addressing research needs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Hartwig
- Department of Food Chemistry and Toxicology, Institute of Applied Biosciences (IAB), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Adenauerring 20a, 76131, Karlsruhe, Germany.
| | - Michael Arand
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Bernd Epe
- Institute of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Mainz, 55099, Mainz, Germany
| | - Sabine Guth
- Department of Toxicology, IfADo-Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors, TU Dortmund, Ardeystr. 67, 44139, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Gunnar Jahnke
- Department of Food Chemistry and Toxicology, Institute of Applied Biosciences (IAB), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Adenauerring 20a, 76131, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Alfonso Lampen
- Department of Food Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), 10589, Berlin, Germany
| | - Hans-Jörg Martus
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, 4002, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Bernhard Monien
- Department of Food Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), 10589, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ivonne M C M Rietjens
- Division of Toxicology, Wageningen University, Stippeneng 4, 6708 WE, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Simone Schmitz-Spanke
- Institute and Outpatient Clinic of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Henkestr. 9-11, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Gerlinde Schriever-Schwemmer
- Department of Food Chemistry and Toxicology, Institute of Applied Biosciences (IAB), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Adenauerring 20a, 76131, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Pablo Steinberg
- Max Rubner-Institut, Federal Research Institute of Nutrition and Food, Haid-und-Neu-Str. 9, 76131, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Gerhard Eisenbrand
- Retired Senior Professor for Food Chemistry and Toxicology, Kühler Grund 48/1, 69126, Heidelberg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|