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Withaferin A causes activation of Notch2 and Notch4 in human breast cancer cells. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2012; 136:45-56. [PMID: 22965833 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-012-2239-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2012] [Accepted: 08/28/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Ayurvedic medicine plants continue to draw attention for the discovery of novel anticancer agents. Withaferin A (WA) is one such small-molecule constituent of the ayurvedic medicine plant Withania somnifera with efficacy against cultured and xenografted human breast cancer cells. However, the mechanism underlying anticancer effect of WA is not fully understood. This study was undertaken to determine the role of Notch signaling in anticancer effects of WA using human breast cancer cells as a model. Notably, Notch signaling is often hyperactive in human breast cancers. Exposure of MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 human breast cancer cells to pharmacological concentrations of WA resulted in cleavage (activation) of Notch2 as well as Notch4, which was accompanied by transcriptional activation of Notch as evidenced by RBP-Jk, HES-1A/B, and HEY-1 luciferase reporter assays. On the other hand, WA treatment caused a decrease in levels of both transmembrane and cleaved Notch1. The WA-mediated activation of Notch was associated with induction of γ-secretase complex components presenilin1 and/or nicastrin. Inhibition of MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cell migration resulting from WA exposure was significantly augmented by knockdown of Notch2 as well as Notch4 protein. Activation of Notch2 was not observed in cells treated with withanone or withanolide A, which are structural analogs of WA. The results of this study indicate that WA treatment activates Notch2 and Notch4, which impede inhibitory effect of WA on breast cancer cell migration.
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202
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Gao J, Dong Y, Zhang B, Xiong Y, Xu W, Cheng Y, Dai M, Yu Z, Xu H, Zheng G. Notch1 activation contributes to tumor cell growth and proliferation in human hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 and SMMC7721 cells. Int J Oncol 2012; 41:1773-81. [PMID: 22922832 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2012.1606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2012] [Accepted: 07/27/2012] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Notch signaling controls cellular differentiation and proliferation. Recent studies have shown that Notch signaling plays an important role in the carcinogenesis and progression of a growing number of malignant tumors. We investigated the effect of Notch1 activation on human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In five human HCC cell lines, it was found that SMMC7721 had relatively high while HepG2 relatively low expression of Notch1 and the activity of Notch signaling. Notch1 activation by transfection of active intracellular region of Notch1 (ICN1) into HCC HepG2 cells enhanced cell growth and proliferation, including in vitro single cell colony formation, anchorage-independent proliferation, and in vivo tumorigenicity. Notch1 activation also promoted HepG2 cell cycle progression. Suppression of Notch1 activation by RNAi of Notch1 or by γ-secretase inhibitor (GSI) in HCC SMMC7721 cells decreased cell growth capability and blocked cell cycle progression. Moreover, it was found that suppression of Notch1 activation induced SMMC7721 cell apoptosis, as demonstrated by apoptosis assays. These findings indicate that Notch1 activation promotes human HCC cell growth and proliferation, which may contribute to the progression of this type of malignant carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Gao
- Department of Digestive Diseases, Wuhan General Hospital of Guangzhou Command PLA, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
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203
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Cancer stem cell targeting: the next generation of cancer therapy and molecular imaging. Ther Deliv 2012; 3:227-44. [PMID: 22834199 DOI: 10.4155/tde.11.148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have the capacity to generate the heterogeneous lineages of all cancer cells comprising a tumor and these populations of cells are likely to be more relevant in determining prognosis. However, these cells do not operate in isolation, but instead rely upon signals co-opted from their microenvironment, making the targeting and imaging of CSCs within a cancer mass a daunting task. A better understanding of the molecular cell biology underlying CSC pathology will facilitate the development of new therapeutic targets and novel strategies for the successful eradication of cancer. In addition, the continued investigation of sensitive molecular-imaging modalities will enable more accurate staging, treatment planning and the ability to monitor the effectiveness of CSC-targeted therapies in vivo. In this review, we explore the possibilities and limitations of CSC-directed therapies and molecular imaging modalities.
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204
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Xia J, Li Y, Yang Q, Mei C, Chen Z, Bao B, Ahmad A, Miele L, Sarkar FH, Wang Z. Arsenic trioxide inhibits cell growth and induces apoptosis through inactivation of notch signaling pathway in breast cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2012; 13:9627-9641. [PMID: 22949821 PMCID: PMC3431819 DOI: 10.3390/ijms13089627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 07/15/2012] [Accepted: 07/25/2012] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Arsenic trioxide has been reported to inhibit cell growth and induce apoptotic cell death in many human cancer cells including breast cancer. However, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying the anti-tumor activity of arsenic trioxide are still largely unknown. In the present study, we assessed the effects of arsenic trioxide on cell viability and apoptosis in breast cancer cells. For mechanistic studies, we used multiple cellular and molecular approaches such as MTT assay, apoptosis ELISA assay, gene transfection, RT-PCR, Western blotting, and invasion assays. For the first time, we found a significant reduction in cell viability in arsenic trioxide-treated cells in a dose-dependent manner, which was consistent with induction of apoptosis and also associated with down-regulation of Notch-1 and its target genes. Taken together, our findings provide evidence showing that the down-regulation of Notch-1 by arsenic trioxide could be an effective approach, to cause down-regulation of Bcl-2, and NF-κB, resulting in the inhibition of cell growth and invasion as well as induction of apoptosis. These results suggest that the anti-tumor activity of arsenic trioxide is in part mediated through a novel mechanism involving inactivation of Notch-1 and its target genes. We also suggest that arsenic trioxide could be further developed as a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Xia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu 233030, China; E-Mails: (J.X.); (C.M.); (Z.C.)
| | - Youjian Li
- Laboratory Medicine, Taixing People’s Hospital, Taizhou 225400, China; E-Mail:
| | - Qingling Yang
- Research Center of Clinical Laboratory Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu 233030, China; E-Mail:
| | - Chuanzhong Mei
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu 233030, China; E-Mails: (J.X.); (C.M.); (Z.C.)
| | - Zhiwen Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu 233030, China; E-Mails: (J.X.); (C.M.); (Z.C.)
| | - Bin Bao
- Department of Pathology and Oncology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; E-Mails: (B.B.); (A.A.); (F.H.S.)
| | - Aamir Ahmad
- Department of Pathology and Oncology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; E-Mails: (B.B.); (A.A.); (F.H.S.)
| | - Lucio Miele
- University of Mississippi Cancer Institute, 2500 N State St, Jackson, MS 39216, USA; E-Mail:
| | - Fazlul H Sarkar
- Department of Pathology and Oncology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201, USA; E-Mails: (B.B.); (A.A.); (F.H.S.)
| | - Zhiwei Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu 233030, China; E-Mails: (J.X.); (C.M.); (Z.C.)
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +1-617-735-2474; Fax: +1-617-735-2480
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205
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Han J, Shen Q. Targeting γ-secretase in breast cancer. BREAST CANCER-TARGETS AND THERAPY 2012; 4:83-90. [PMID: 24367196 DOI: 10.2147/bctt.s26437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
γ-secretase complexes are multisubunit protease complexes that perform the intramembrane cleavage of more than 60 type-I transmembrane proteins, including Notch receptors. Since dysregulated Notch signaling has been implicated in the tumorigenesis and progression of breast cancer, small molecule γ-secretase inhibitors (GSIs) are being tested for their therapeutic potential in breast cancer treatment in several clinical trials. Here, the structure of γ-secretase complex and the development of GSIs are briefly reviewed, the roles of Notch and several other γ-secretase substrates in breast cancer are discussed, and the difference between γ-secretase inhibition and Notch inhibition, as well as the side effects associated with GSIs, are described. A better understanding of molecular mechanisms that affect the responsiveness of breast cancer to GSI might help to develop strategies to enhance the antitumor activity and, at the same time, alleviate the side effects of GSI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianxun Han
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Qiang Shen
- Campbell Family Institute for Breast Cancer Research, Princess Margaret Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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206
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γ-Secretase inhibition promotes cell death, Noxa upregulation, and sensitization to BH3 mimetic ABT-737 in human breast cancer cells. Breast Cancer Res 2012; 14:R96. [PMID: 22703841 PMCID: PMC3446359 DOI: 10.1186/bcr3214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2011] [Revised: 05/23/2012] [Accepted: 06/15/2012] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Inappropriate Notch signaling, downstream of γ-secretase activity, is understood to have tumor-promoting function and to be associated with poor outcome in cancer, of the breast in particular. The molecular basis of antitumoral effects of its inhibitors, however, remains poorly characterized. Moreover, the effects of their combination with the pro-apoptotic pharmacologic inhibitor of Bcl-2/Bcl-xL, ABT-737, have never been evaluated. In this study, we thus specifically addressed the biologic consequences of targeting γ-secretase and Bcl-2/Bcl-xL, alone or simultaneously, in breast cancer cell lines as well as in a novel human breast cancer ex vivo assay. Methods By using in vitro 2D or 3D cultures of breast cancer cells plus a novel preclinical short-term ex vivo assay that correctly maintains human mammary tissue integrity and preserves tumor microenvironment, we tested the effects of the pharmacologic γ-secretase inhibitor GSIXII used as a single agent or in combination with ABT-737. Results We show herein that the γ-secretase inhibitor, GSIXII, efficiently induces apoptosis in breast cancer cell lines by a process that relies on the induction of Noxa, a pro-apoptotic Bcl2-homology 3 domain (BH3)-only protein of the Bcl-2 family that functions as an inhibitor of antiapoptotic Mcl1. GSIXII also targets mammary cancer stem-like cells because it dramatically prevents in vitro mammosphere formation. Moreover, combining GSIXII treatment with ABT-737, a BH3-mimetic inhibitor of additional antiapoptotic proteins, such as Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL, leads to both a synergistic apoptotic response in breast cancer cells and to an inhibitory effect on mammosphere formation. These effects are also found when a Notch transcriptional inhibitor, SAHM1, is used. Finally, we evaluated individual human tumor responses to γ-secretase inhibition alone or in combination with ABT-737 in ex vivo assays. Analysis of a series of 30 consecutive tumors indicated that a majority of tumors are sensitive to apoptosis induction by GSIXII and that association of GSIXII with ABT-737 leads to an enhanced induction of apoptosis in tumor cells. Conclusions We thus provide evidence that γ-secretase, and downstream Notch signaling, are relevant targets in breast cancer. GSIXII, used as single agent or in combination with clinically relevant BH3-mimetics, is a promising innovative proapoptotic strategy to treat mammary tumors.
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207
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Afshar Y, Miele L, Fazleabas AT. Notch1 is regulated by chorionic gonadotropin and progesterone in endometrial stromal cells and modulates decidualization in primates. Endocrinology 2012; 153:2884-96. [PMID: 22535768 PMCID: PMC3359612 DOI: 10.1210/en.2011-2122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
No other tissue in the body undergoes such a vast and extensive growth and remodeling in a relatively short period of time as the primate endometrium. Endometrial integrity is coordinated by ovarian hormones, namely, estrogens, progesterone, and the embryonic hormone chorionic gonadotropin (CG). These regulated events modulate the menstrual cycle and decidualization. The Notch family of transmembrane receptors regulate cellular proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis, cellular processes required to maintain endometrial integrity. In two primate models, the human and the simulated pregnant baboon model, we demonstrated that Notch1 is increased during the window of uterine receptivity, concomitant with CG. Furthermore, CG combined with estrogens and progesterone up-regulate the level of Notch1, whereas progesterone increases the intracellular transcriptionally competent Notch1, which binds in a complex with progesterone receptor. Inhibition of Notch1 prevented decidualization, and alternatively, when decidualization is biochemically recapitulated in vitro, Notch1 is down-regulated. A focused microarray demonstrated that the Notch inhibitor, Numb, dramatically increased when Notch1 decreased during decidualization. We propose that in the endometrium, Notch has a dual role during the window of uterine receptivity. Initially, Notch1 mediates a survival signal in the uterine endometrium in response to CG from the implanting blastocyst and progesterone, so that menstrual sloughing is averted. Subsequently, Notch1 down-regulation may be critical for the transition of stromal fibroblast to decidual cells, which is essential for the establishment of a successful pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yalda Afshar
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois 60607, USA
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208
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Pan H, Zhou W, He W, Liu X, Ding Q, Ling L, Zha X, Wang S. Genistein inhibits MDA-MB-231 triple-negative breast cancer cell growth by inhibiting NF-κB activity via the Notch-1 pathway. Int J Mol Med 2012; 30:337-43. [PMID: 22580499 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2012.990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2012] [Accepted: 04/13/2012] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Genistein (Gen) has been reported as a protective factor against breast cancer. However, the molecular mechanism by which Gen elicits its effects on triple-negative breast cancer cells has not been fully elucidated. In our study, the breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231 was selected to determine the action of Gen on triple-negative breast cancer cells. MTT assay, flow cytometric analysis, siRNA transfection, western blotting and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation-nuclear translocation assay were used to address the role of NF-κB activity and the Notch-1 signaling pathway on the effects of Gen. Our study revealed that Gen elicited a dramatic effect on cell growth inhibition, in a dose-dependent and time-dependent manner. Treatment of MDA-MB-231 cells with 0, 5, 10 or 20 µM Gen induced apoptosis of 6.78, 18.98, 30.45 and 60.64%, respectively. Exposure of MDA-MB-231 cells to Gen also resulted in G2/M phase accumulation of cells corresponding to 4.93, 12.54, 18.93 and 30.95%, respectively. Furthermore, our data demonstrated for the first time that Gen inhibited the growth of MDA-MB-231 triple-negative breast cancer cells by inhibiting NF-κB activity via the Nocth-1 signaling pathway in a dose-dependent manner. We also found that Gen downregulated the expression of cyclin B1, Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL, possibly mediated by NF-κB activation via the Notch-1 signaling pathway. In conclusion, our results suggest that inhibition of NF-κB activity via the Notch-1 pathway may be a novel mechanism by which Gen suppresses the growth of triple-negative breast cancer cells. Further preclinical and clinical studies are warranted to further investigate the application of Gen for the treatment of triple-negative breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Pan
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 210029 Nanjing, P.R. China
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209
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Garcia A, Kandel JJ. Notch: a key regulator of tumor angiogenesis and metastasis. Histol Histopathol 2012; 27:151-6. [PMID: 22207549 DOI: 10.14670/hh-27.151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The Notch signaling pathway is critical for many developmental processes including physiologic angiogenesis. Notch is also implicated in having a key role in tumor angiogenesis. Preclinical and clinical experience with anti-angiogenic strategies indicates that they may be limited by tumor resistance and recurrence, which has led to the search for alternative angiogenic treatment strategies. Significant progress has been made in shedding light on the complex mechanisms by which Notch signaling can influence tumor growth by disrupting vasculature in an array of tumor models (Ridgway et al., 2006). These results have led to the consideration of Notch as an attractive target to block tumor angiogenesis and inhibit growth. However, studies of inhibition of Notch signaling in different tumor models have uncovered similarly variable results, and some unexpected adverse effects. The ability of Notch to function in a context-dependent manner as a determinant of cell fate, a tumor suppressor, and an oncogene may partially explain the complexity in interpreted the role of Notch signaling inhibitors in preclinical tumor studies. In addition, Notch may also play an important role in metastasis via its direct effects on the vasculature and by modulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition in tumor cells. Here we present a current understanding of Notch signaling in tumor angiogenesis, and discuss recent work on the role of Notch in tumor metastatic progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Garcia
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA.
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210
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Kim SH, Sehrawat A, Singh SV. Notch2 activation by benzyl isothiocyanate impedes its inhibitory effect on breast cancer cell migration. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2012; 134:1067-79. [PMID: 22476855 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-012-2043-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2011] [Accepted: 03/17/2012] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC) is a promising anticancer constituent of edible cruciferous vegetables with in vivo efficacy against chemically induced as well as oncogene-driven breast cancer in experimental rodents. However, the mechanism underlying anticancer effect of BITC is not fully understood. This study was undertaken to determine the role of Notch signaling in anticancer responses to BITC as this pathway is often hyperactive in human breast cancer. Exposure of MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, and SUM159 human breast cancer cells to pharmacologic concentrations of BITC (2.5 and 5 μM) resulted in cleavage (activation) of Notch1, Notch2, and Notch4, which was accompanied by induction of γ-secretase complex components Presenilin1 and/or Nicastrin. The BITC-mediated cleavage of Notch was associated with its transcriptional activation as revealed by RBP-Jk and Hes-1A/B luciferase reporter assays. Inhibition of cell migration or cell viability resulting from BITC exposure was not influenced by pharmacological suppression of Notch1 using a γ-secretase inhibitor or RNA interference of Notch1 as well as Notch4. On the other hand, the BITC-mediated inhibition of cell migration, but not cell viability, was significantly augmented by siRNA and shRNA knockdown of Notch2 protein. Furthermore, the BITC-mediated inhibition of MDA-MB-231 xenograft growth in vivo was associated with a significant increase in nuclear levels of cleaved Notch2 and Hes-1 proteins. In conclusion, the results of this study indicate that (a) BITC treatment activates Notch2 in cultured and xenografted human breast cancer cells, and (b) Notch2 activation impedes inhibitory effect of BITC on cell migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su-Hyeong Kim
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 2.32A Hillman Cancer Center Research Pavilion, 5117 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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211
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Developmental pathways in breast cancer and breast tumor-initiating cells: Therapeutic implications. Cancer Lett 2012; 317:115-26. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2011.11.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2011] [Accepted: 11/20/2011] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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212
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Mitsuhashi Y, Horiuchi A, Miyamoto T, Kashima H, Suzuki A, Shiozawa T. Prognostic significance of Notch signalling molecules and their involvement in the invasiveness of endometrial carcinoma cells. Histopathology 2012; 60:826-37. [PMID: 22348356 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2559.2011.04158.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The aim of this study was to investigate the significance of the expression of Notch-related molecules in endometrial carcinoma. METHODS AND RESULTS The expression of Notch receptors (Notch1 and 3) and Notch ligands [Jagged (JAG) 1 and Delta-like (DLL) 4] was examined immunohistochemically in 37 normal and 76 malignant endometrial tissue samples. For each section, immunohistochemical staining was scored using a positivity index (PI, full score; 200). The effects of a Notch inhibitor, DAPT, on cell proliferation, invasion and motility were investigated using endometrial carcinoma cell lines. The PIs for Notch1 (mean±SD 90.4±15.3), Notch3 (95.6 ± 20.4), JAG1 (95.5±10.0) and DLL4 (88.2±9.6), were significantly higher in endometrial carcinoma than normal endometrium. The PI for Notch1 was associated significantly with advanced International Federation of Gynecologists & Obstetricians (FIGO) stage. In addition, patients with tumours showing high expression of both Notch1 and JAG1 had a poor prognosis compared with those having double-negative carcinomas (P=0.015). DAPT suppressed invasiveness of cells derived from the endometrial carcinoma cell line KLE. CONCLUSIONS The Notch1-JAG1 axis may enhance the invasive properties of endometrial carcinomas, which suggests the Notch pathway may be a promising target for the treatment of this malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuko Mitsuhashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
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213
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Abstract
Regulated intramembrane proteolysis (RIP) is a highly conserved signaling paradigm whereby membrane-bound signaling proteins are cleaved in their transmembrane region and then released into the cytoplasm to act as signaling molecules. In most if not all cases intramembrane cleavage is preceded and regulated by a membrane proximal cleavage step called 'ectodomain shedding'. Here we will review the role of ectodomain shedding in RIP of the NOTCH signaling pathway, a highly conserved cell-cell communication pathway that mediates cell fate decisions during development and in adult tissues.
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214
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Reedijk M. Notch Signaling and Breast Cancer. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2012; 727:241-57. [DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4614-0899-4_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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215
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Abstract
Notch signaling was evolutionarily conserved and critical for cell-fate determination, differentiation and many other biological processes. Growing evidences suggested that Notch signaling pathway played an important role in the mammalian placental development. All of the mammalian Notch family proteins had been identified in human placenta except Delta-like 3, which appeared to affect the axial skeletal system. However the molecular mechanisms that regulated the Notch signaling pathway remained largely unknown in human placenta. Therefore, additional research was needed to investigate expression pattern of Notch family members and the mechanisms for activation of Notch signaling pathway in human placenta, which might help elucidate the roles of Notch signaling pathway in human placentation. This review would focus on the roles of Notch receptors and ligands in the human placental trophoblasts function and placental angiogenesis. It might hopefully provide perspectives for future research about human placentation of pregnancy complicated by preeclampsia and other placenta associated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Xiu Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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216
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Raimondi L, Ciarapica R, De Salvo M, Verginelli F, Gueguen M, Martini C, De Sio L, Cortese G, Locatelli M, Dang TP, Carlesso N, Miele L, Stifani S, Limon I, Locatelli F, Rota R. Inhibition of Notch3 signalling induces rhabdomyosarcoma cell differentiation promoting p38 phosphorylation and p21(Cip1) expression and hampers tumour cell growth in vitro and in vivo. Cell Death Differ 2011; 19:871-81. [PMID: 22117196 PMCID: PMC3321627 DOI: 10.1038/cdd.2011.171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a paediatric soft-tissue sarcoma arising from skeletal muscle precursors coexpressing markers of proliferation and differentiation. Inducers of myogenic differentiation suppress RMS tumourigenic phenotype. The Notch target gene HES1 is upregulated in RMS and prevents tumour cell differentiation in a Notch-dependent manner. However, Notch receptors regulating this phenomenon are unknown. In agreement with data in RMS primary tumours, we show here that the Notch3 receptor is overexpressed in RMS cell lines versus normal myoblasts. Notch3-targeted downregulation in RMS cells induces hyper-phosphorylation of p38 and Akt essential for myogenesis, resulting in the differentiation of tumour cells into multinucleated myotubes expressing Myosin Heavy Chain. These phenomena are associated to a marked decrease in HES1 expression, an increase in p21Cip1 level and the accumulation of RMS cells in the G1 phase. HES1-forced overexpression in RMS cells reverses, at least in part, the pro-differentiative effects of Notch3 downregulation. Notch3 depletion also reduces the tumourigenic potential of RMS cells both in vitro and in vivo. These results indicate that downregulation of Notch3 is sufficient to force RMS cells into completing a correct full myogenic program providing evidence that it contributes, partially through HES1 sustained expression, to their malignant phenotype. Moreover, they suggest Notch3 as a novel potential target in human RMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Raimondi
- Department of Oncohematology, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
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217
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O'Brien CS, Farnie G, Howell SJ, Clarke RB. Breast cancer stem cells and their role in resistance to endocrine therapy. Discov Oncol 2011; 2:91-103. [PMID: 21761332 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-011-0066-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Developmentally, tumours can be viewed as aberrant versions of normal tissues. For example, tumours often retain differentiation markers of their tissue of origin. In addition, there is evidence that they contain cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) that drive tumourigenesis. In this review, we summarise current evidence that breast CSCs may partially explain endocrine resistance in breast cancer. In normal breast, the stem cells are known to possess a basal phenotype and to be mainly oestrogen receptor-α-negative (ER-). If the hierarchy in breast cancer reflects this, the breast CSC may be endocrine resistant because it expresses very little ER and can only respond to treatment by virtue of paracrine signalling from neighbouring, differentiated ER+ tumour cells. Normal breast epithelial stem cells are regulated by the epidermal growth factor receptor and other growth factor receptor signals. The observed increase in growth factor receptor expression in endocrine-resistant breast cancers may reflect a bigger proportion of CSCs selected by endocrine therapies. There is evidence from a number of studies that breast CSCs are ER- and EGR+/HER2+, which would support this view. It is reported that CSCs express mesenchymal genes, which are suppressed by ER expression, further indicating the mutual exclusion between ER+ cells and the CSCs. As we learn more about CSCs, differentiation and the expression and functional activity of the ER in these cells in diverse breast tumour sub-types, it is hoped that our understanding will lead to new modalities to overcome the problem of endocrine resistance in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciara S O'Brien
- School of Cancer and Imaging Sciences, Paterson Institute for Cancer Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, M20 4BX, UK
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218
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Speiser J, Foreman K, Drinka E, Godellas C, Perez C, Salhadar A, Erşahin Ç, Rajan P. Notch-1 and Notch-4 biomarker expression in triple-negative breast cancer. Int J Surg Pathol 2011; 20:139-45. [PMID: 22084425 DOI: 10.1177/1066896911427035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) demonstrates lack of expression of hormone receptors and human epidermal growth factor receptor. However, there is no targeted therapy for TNBC. The authors analyzed 29 TNBC cases for Notch-1 and Notch-4 biomarker expression and subcellular location, Ki67 proliferation rate, and relevant clinical/survival data. Results demonstrated an unfavorable Ki67 rate in 90% of cases, Notch-1 expression in tumor and endothelial cells in 100% of cases, and Notch-4 expression in tumor cells in 73% of cases and endothelial cells in 100% of cases. Additionally, subcellular localization of Notch-1 and Notch-4 was predominantly nuclear and cytoplasmic. In conclusion, (a) the majority of TNBCs are high-grade infiltrating ductal carcinomas with high Ki67 proliferation rate and (b) both Notch-1 and Notch-4 receptors are overexpressed in tumor and vascular endothelial cells with subcellular localization different from that of hormone-positive breast cancer. Targeting Notch signaling with gamma secretase inhibitors should to be explored to further improve the survival rate of TNBC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jodi Speiser
- Department of Pathology, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL 60153, USA.
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219
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Afshar Y, Jeong JW, Roqueiro D, DeMayo F, Lydon J, Radtke F, Radnor R, Miele L, Fazleabas A. Notch1 mediates uterine stromal differentiation and is critical for complete decidualization in the mouse. FASEB J 2011; 26:282-94. [PMID: 21990372 DOI: 10.1096/fj.11-184663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Uterine receptivity implies a dialogue between the hormonally primed maternal endometrium and the free-floating blastocyst. Endometrial stromal cells proliferate, avert apoptosis, and undergo decidualization in preparation for implantation; however, the molecular mechanisms that underlie differentiation into the decidual phenotype remain largely undefined. The Notch family of transmembrane receptors transduce extracellular signals responsible for cell survival, cell-to-cell communication, and differentiation, all fundamental processes for decidualization and pregnancy. Using a murine artificial decidualization model, pharmacological inhibition of Notch signaling by γ-secretase inhibition resulted in a significantly decreased deciduoma. Furthermore, a progesterone receptor (PR)-Cre Notch1 bigenic (Notch1(d/d)) confirmed a Notch1-dependent hypomorphic decidual phenotype. Microarray and pathway analysis, following Notch1 ablation, demonstrated significantly altered signaling repertoire. Concomitantly, hierarchical clustering demonstrated Notch1-dependent differences in gene expression. Uteri deprived of Notch1 signaling demonstrated decreased cellular proliferation; namely, reduced proliferation-specific antigen, Ki67, altered p21, cdk6, and cyclinD activity and an increased apoptotic-profile, cleaved caspase-3, Bad, and attenuated Bcl2. The results demonstrate that the preimplantation uterus relies on Notch signaling to inhibit apoptosis of stromal fibroblasts and regulate cell cycle progression, which together promotes successful decidualization. In summary, Notch1 signaling modulates multiple signaling mechanisms crucial for decidualization and these studies provide additional perspectives to the coordination of multiple signaling modalities required during decidualization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yalda Afshar
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, USA
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220
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Andersson ER, Sandberg R, Lendahl U. Notch signaling: simplicity in design, versatility in function. Development 2011; 138:3593-612. [PMID: 21828089 DOI: 10.1242/dev.063610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 698] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Notch signaling is evolutionarily conserved and operates in many cell types and at various stages during development. Notch signaling must therefore be able to generate appropriate signaling outputs in a variety of cellular contexts. This need for versatility in Notch signaling is in apparent contrast to the simple molecular design of the core pathway. Here, we review recent studies in nematodes, Drosophila and vertebrate systems that begin to shed light on how versatility in Notch signaling output is generated, how signal strength is modulated, and how cross-talk between the Notch pathway and other intracellular signaling systems, such as the Wnt, hypoxia and BMP pathways, contributes to signaling diversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma R Andersson
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institute, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
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221
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Maintenance of hormone responsiveness in luminal breast cancers by suppression of Notch. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2011; 109:2742-7. [PMID: 21969591 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1106509108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Luminal breast cancers express estrogen (ER) and/or progesterone (PR) receptors and respond to hormone therapies. Basal-like "triple negative" cancers lack steroid receptors but are cytokeratin (CK) 5-positive and require chemotherapy. Here we show that more than half of primary ER(+)PR(+) breast cancers contain an ER(-)PR(-)CK5(+) "luminobasal" subpopulation exceeding 1% of cells. Starting from ER(+)PR(+) luminal cell lines, we generated lines with varying luminal to luminobasal cell ratios and studied their molecular and biological properties. In luminal disease, luminobasal cells expand in response to antiestrogen or estrogen withdrawal therapies. The phenotype and gene signature of the hormone-resistant cells matches that of clinical triple negative basal-like and claudin-low disease. Luminobasal cell expansion in response to hormone therapies is regulated by Notch1 signaling and can be blocked by γ-secretase inhibitors. Our data establish a previously unrecognized plasticity of ER(+)PR(+) luminal breast cancers that, without genetic manipulation, mobilizes outgrowth of hormone-resistant basal-like disease in response to treatment. This undesirable outcome can be prevented by combining endocrine therapies with Notch inhibition.
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222
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Ercan C, van Diest PJ, Vooijs M. Mammary development and breast cancer: the role of stem cells. Curr Mol Med 2011; 11:270-85. [PMID: 21506923 DOI: 10.2174/156652411795678007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2011] [Accepted: 02/14/2011] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The mammary gland is a highly regenerative organ that can undergo multiple cycles of proliferation, lactation and involution, a process controlled by stem cells. The last decade much progress has been made in the identification of signaling pathways that function in these stem cells to control self-renewal, lineage commitment and epithelial differentiation in the normal mammary gland. The same signaling pathways that control physiological mammary development and homeostasis are also often found deregulated in breast cancer. Here we provide an overview on the functional and molecular identification of mammary stem cells in the context of both normal breast development and breast cancer. We discuss the contribution of some key signaling pathways with an emphasis on Notch receptor signaling, a cell fate determination pathway often deregulated in breast cancer. A further understanding of the biological roles of the Notch pathway in mammary stem cell behavior and carcinogenesis might be relevant for the development of future therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Ercan
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
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223
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Listinsky JJ, Siegal GP, Listinsky CM. The emerging importance of α-L-fucose in human breast cancer: a review. Am J Transl Res 2011; 3:292-322. [PMID: 21904652 PMCID: PMC3158734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2011] [Accepted: 07/10/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer cells incorporate the simple sugar alpha-L-fucose (fucose) into glycoproteins and glycolipids which, in turn, are expressed as part of the malignant phenotype. We have noted that fucose is not simply a bystander molecule, but, in fact, contributes to many of the fundamental oncologic properties of breast cancer cells. Here, we summarize the evidence from us and others that fucose is necessary for key functions of neoplastic progression including hematogenous metastasis, tumor invasion through extracellular matrices including basement membranes and up-regulation of the Notch signaling system, with implications for epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and activation of breast cancer stem cells. Additionally, certain breast cancer biomarkers are fucose-rich while a well-known marker of breast cancer progression, soluble E-selectin, is a known counter-receptor of fucosylated selectin ligands. We provide illustrative examples and supportive evidence drawn from work with human breast cancer cell lines in vitro as well as clinical studies with human pathologic material. And finally, we discuss evidence that fucose (or its absence) is central to the mechanisms of action of several experimental targeted therapies which may prove useful in breast cancer treatment. We propose that alpha-L-fucose is essential in order to construct first, the malignant and then the metastatic phenotype of many human breast cancers. This knowledge may inform the search for novel treatment approaches in breast cancer.
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224
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Yuan Y, Rueda OM, Curtis C, Markowetz F. Penalized regression elucidates aberration hotspots mediating subtype-specific transcriptional responses in breast cancer. Bioinformatics 2011; 27:2679-85. [PMID: 21804112 DOI: 10.1093/bioinformatics/btr450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
MOTIVATION Copy number alterations (CNAs) associated with cancer are known to contribute to genomic instability and gene deregulation. Integrating CNAs with gene expression helps to elucidate the mechanisms by which CNAs act and to identify the transcriptional downstream targets of CNAs. Such analyses can help to sort functional driver events from the many accompanying passenger alterations. However, the way CNAs affect gene expression can vary in different cellular contexts, for example between different subtypes of the same cancer. Thus, it is important to develop computational approaches capable of inferring differential connectivity of regulatory networks in different cellular contexts. RESULTS We propose a statistical deregulation model that integrates copy number and expression data of different disease subtypes to jointly model common and differential regulatory relationships. Our model not only identifies CNAs driving gene expression changes, but at the same time also predicts differences in regulation that distinguish one cancer subtype from the other. We implement our model in a penalized regression framework and demonstrate in a simulation study the feasibility and accuracy of our approach. Subsequently, we show that this model can identify both known and novel aspects of cross-talk between the ER and NOTCH pathways in ER-negative-specific deregulations, when compared with ER-positive breast cancer. This flexible model can be applied on other modalities such as methylation or microRNA and expression to disentangle cancer signaling pathways. AVAILABILITY The Bioconductor-compliant R package DANCE is available from www.markowetzlab.org/software/ CONTACT yinyin.yuan@cancer.org.uk; florian.markowetz@cancer.org.uk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinyin Yuan
- Cambridge Research Institute, Cancer Research UK, Li Ka Shing Centre, Cambridge CB2 0RE, UK.
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225
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Guo S, Gonzalez-Perez RR. Notch, IL-1 and leptin crosstalk outcome (NILCO) is critical for leptin-induced proliferation, migration and VEGF/VEGFR-2 expression in breast cancer. PLoS One 2011; 6:e21467. [PMID: 21731759 PMCID: PMC3121792 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0021467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2011] [Accepted: 06/01/2011] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
High levels of pro-angiogenic factors, leptin, IL-1, Notch and VEGF (ligands and receptors), are found in breast cancer, which is commonly correlated with metastasis and lower survival of patients. We have previously reported that leptin induces the growth of breast cancer and the expression of VEGF/VEGFR-2 and IL-1 system. We hypothesized that Notch, IL-1 and leptin crosstalk outcome (NILCO) plays an essential role in the regulation of leptin-mediated induction of proliferation/migration and expression of pro-angiogenic molecules in breast cancer. To test this hypothesis, leptin's effects on the expression and activation of Notch signaling pathway and VEGF/VEGFR-2/IL-1 were determined in mouse (4T1, EMT6 and MMT) breast cancer cells. Remarkably, leptin up-regulated Notch1-4/JAG1/Dll-4, Notch target genes: Hey2 and survivin, together with IL-1 and VEGF/VEGFR-2. RNA knockdown and pharmacological inhibitors of leptin signaling significantly abrogated activity of reporter gene-luciferase CSL (RBP-Jk) promoter, showing that it was linked to leptin-activated JAK2/STAT3, MAPK, PI-3K/mTOR, p38 and JNK signaling pathways. Interestingly, leptin upregulatory effects on cell proliferation/migration and pro-angiogenic factors Notch, IL-1 and VEGF/VEGFR-2 were abrogated by a γ-secretase inhibitor, DAPT, as well as siRNA against CSL. In addition, blockade of IL-1R tI inhibited leptin-induced Notch, Hey2 and survivin as well as VEGF/VEGFR-2 expression. These data suggest leptin is an inducer of Notch (expression/activation) and IL-1 signaling modulates leptin effects on Notch and VEGF/VEGFR-2. We show for the first time that a novel unveiled crosstalk between Notch, IL-1 and leptin (NILCO) occurs in breast cancer. Leptin induction of proliferation/migration and upregulation of VEGF/VEGFR-2 in breast cancer cells were related to an intact Notch signaling axis. NILCO could represent the integration of developmental, pro-inflammatory and pro-angiogenic signals critical for leptin-induced cell proliferation/migration and regulation of VEGF/VEGFR-2 in breast cancer. Targeting NILCO might help to design new pharmacological strategies aimed at controlling breast cancer growth and angiogenesis.
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MESH Headings
- Angiogenesis Inducing Agents/metabolism
- Animals
- Basic Helix-Loop-Helix Transcription Factors/genetics
- Basic Helix-Loop-Helix Transcription Factors/metabolism
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cell Movement/drug effects
- Cell Proliferation/drug effects
- Female
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/drug effects
- Humans
- Inflammation Mediators/metabolism
- Inhibitor of Apoptosis Proteins/genetics
- Inhibitor of Apoptosis Proteins/metabolism
- Interleukin-1/metabolism
- Leptin/metabolism
- Leptin/pharmacology
- Ligands
- Luciferases/metabolism
- Mammary Neoplasms, Animal/genetics
- Mammary Neoplasms, Animal/pathology
- Mice
- Models, Biological
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- RNA, Small Interfering/metabolism
- Receptors, Interleukin-1/metabolism
- Receptors, Notch/genetics
- Receptors, Notch/metabolism
- Repressor Proteins/genetics
- Repressor Proteins/metabolism
- Signal Transduction/drug effects
- Survivin
- Transcription, Genetic/drug effects
- Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A/metabolism
- Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor-2/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanchun Guo
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Ruben R. Gonzalez-Perez
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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226
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Raafat A, Goldhar AS, Klauzinska M, Xu K, Amirjazil I, McCurdy D, Lashin K, Salomon D, Vonderhaar BK, Egan S, Callahan R. Expression of Notch receptors, ligands, and target genes during development of the mouse mammary gland. J Cell Physiol 2011; 226:1940-52. [PMID: 21506125 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.22526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Notch genes play a critical role in mammary gland growth, development and tumorigenesis. In the present study, we have quantitatively determined the levels and mRNA expression patterns of the Notch receptor genes, their ligands and target genes in the postnatal mouse mammary gland. The steady state levels of Notch3 mRNA are the highest among receptor genes, Jagged1 and Dll3 mRNA levels are the highest among ligand genes and Hey2 mRNA levels are highest among expressed Hes/Hey target genes analyzed during different stages of postnatal mammary gland development. Using an immunohistochemical approach with antibodies specific for each Notch receptor, we show that Notch proteins are temporally regulated in mammary epithelial cells during normal mammary gland development in the FVB/N mouse. The loss of ovarian hormones is associated with changes in the levels of Notch receptor mRNAs (Notch2 higher and Notch3 lower) and ligand mRNAs (Dll1 and Dll4 are higher, whereas Dll3 and Jagged1 are lower) in the mammary gland of ovariectomized mice compared to intact mice. These data define expression of the Notch ligand/receptor system throughout development of the mouse mammary gland and help set the stage for genetic analysis of Notch in this context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Raafat
- Mammary Biology and Tumorigenesis Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
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227
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Maugeri-Saccà M, Zeuner A, De Maria R. Therapeutic targeting of cancer stem cells. Front Oncol 2011; 1:10. [PMID: 22655230 PMCID: PMC3356019 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2011.00010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2011] [Accepted: 06/09/2011] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent breakthroughs in translational oncology are opening new perspectives for the treatment of cancer. The advent of targeted therapies has provided the proof-of-concept to selectively turn-off deregulated oncogenic proteins, while the identification and validation of predictive biomarkers of response has allowed to improve, at least in some cases, their performance. Moreover, a subpopulation of tumor-propagating cells has been identified from many solid and hematological tumors. These cells share functional properties of normal stem cells, and are commonly referred to as cancer stem cells (CSCs). It is emerging that CSCs are defended against broadly used anticancer agents by means of different, partly interconnected, mechanisms. However, CSCs rely on specific pathways involved in self-renewal that can be pharmacologically antagonized by experimental molecular targeted agents, some of which have recently entered early phases of clinical development. Here, we discuss the spectrum of pharmacological strategies under clinical or preclinical development for CSCs targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcello Maugeri-Saccà
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità Rome, Italy
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228
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NOTCH-1 and NOTCH-4 are novel gene targets of PEA3 in breast cancer: novel therapeutic implications. Breast Cancer Res 2011; 13:R63. [PMID: 21679465 PMCID: PMC3218952 DOI: 10.1186/bcr2900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2011] [Revised: 05/03/2011] [Accepted: 06/14/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Women with triple-negative breast cancer have the worst prognosis, frequently present with metastatic tumors and have few targeted therapy options. Notch-1 and Notch-4 are potent breast oncogenes that are overexpressed in triple-negative and other subtypes of breast cancer. PEA3, an ETS transcription factor, is also overexpressed in triple-negative and other breast cancer subtypes. We investigated whether PEA3 could be the critical transcriptional activator of Notch receptors in MDA-MB-231 and other breast cancer cells. Methods Real-time PCR and Western blot analysis were performed to detect Notch-1, Notch-2, Notch-3 and Notch-4 receptor expression in breast cancer cells when PEA3 was knocked down by siRNA. Chromatin immunoprecipitation was performed to identify promoter regions for Notch genes that recruited PEA3. TAM-67 and c-Jun siRNA were used to identify that c-Jun was necessary for PEA3 enrichment on the Notch-4 promoter. A Notch-4 luciferase reporter was used to confirm that endogenous PEA3 or AP-1 activated the Notch-4 promoter region. Cell cycle analysis, trypan blue exclusion, annexin V flow cytometry, colony formation assay and an in vivo xenograft study were performed to determine the biological significance of targeting PEA3 via siRNA, Notch signaling via a γ-secretase inhibitor, or both. Results Herein we provide new evidence for transcriptional regulation of Notch by PEA3 in breast cancer. PEA3 activates Notch-1 transcription in MCF-7, MDA-MB-231 and SKBr3 breast cancer cells. PEA3 activates Notch-4 transcription in MDA-MB-231 cells where PEA3 levels are endogenously high. In SKBr3 and BT474 breast cancer cells where PEA3 levels are low, overexpression of PEA3 increases Notch-4 transcripts. Chromatin immunoprecipitation confirmed the enrichment of PEA3 on Notch-1 and Notch-4 promoters in MDA-MB-231 cells. PEA3 recruitment to Notch-1 was AP-1-independent, whereas PEA3 recruitment to Notch-4 was c-JUN-dependent. Importantly, the combined inhibition of Notch signaling via a γ-secretase inhibitor (MRK-003 GSI) and knockdown of PEA3 arrested growth in the G1 phase, decreased both anchorage-dependent and anchorage-independent growth and significantly increased apoptotic cells in vitro. Moreover, either PEA3 knockdown or MRK-003 GSI treatment significantly reduced tumor growth of MDA-MB-231 xenografts in vivo. Conclusions Taken together, the results from this study demonstrate for the first time that Notch-1 and Notch-4 are novel transcriptional targets of PEA3 in breast cancer cells. Targeting of PEA3 and/or Notch pathways might provide a new therapeutic strategy for triple-negative and possibly other breast cancer subtypes.
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229
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Takebe N, Warren RQ, Ivy SP. Breast cancer growth and metastasis: interplay between cancer stem cells, embryonic signaling pathways and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Breast Cancer Res 2011; 13:211. [PMID: 21672282 PMCID: PMC3218933 DOI: 10.1186/bcr2876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Induction of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in cancer stem cells (CSCs) can occur as the result of embryonic pathway signaling. Activation of Hedgehog (Hh), Wnt, Notch, or transforming growth factor-β leads to the upregulation of a group of transcriptional factors that drive EMT. This process leads to the transformation of adhesive, non-mobile, epithelial-like tumor cells into cells with a mobile, invasive phenotype. CSCs and the EMT process are currently being investigated for the role they play in driving metastatic tumor formation in breast cancer. Both are very closely associated with embryonic signaling pathways that stimulate self-renewal properties of CSCs and EMT-inducing transcription factors. Understanding these mechanisms and embryonic signaling pathways may lead to new opportunities for developing therapeutic agents to help prevent metastasis in breast cancer. In this review, we examine embryonic signaling pathways, CSCs, and factors affecting EMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoko Takebe
- National Cancer Institute, Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program, Investigational Drug Branch, Rockville, Maryland 20852, USA.
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230
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Mesoporous silica nanoparticles as drug delivery systems for targeted inhibition of Notch signaling in cancer. Mol Ther 2011; 19:1538-46. [PMID: 21629222 DOI: 10.1038/mt.2011.105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Notch signaling, a key regulator of stem cells, is frequently overactivated in cancer. It is often linked to aggressive forms of cancer, evading standard treatment highlighting Notch as an exciting therapeutic target. Notch is in principle "druggable" by γ-secretase inhibitors (GSIs), inhibitory peptides and antibodies, but clinical use of Notch inhibitors is restricted by severe side effects and there is a demand for alternative cancer-targeted therapy. Here, we present a novel approach, using imagable mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNPs) as vehicles for targeted delivery of GSIs to block Notch signaling. Drug-loaded particles conjugated to targeting ligands induced cell-specific inhibition of Notch activity in vitro and exhibited enhanced tumor retainment with significantly improved Notch inhibition and therapeutic outcome in vivo. Oral administration of GSI-MSNPs controlled Notch activity in intestinal stem cells further supporting the in vivo applicability of MSNPs for GSI delivery. MSNPs showed tumor accumulation and targeting after systemic administration. MSNPs were biocompatible, and particles not retained within the tumors, were degraded and eliminated mainly by renal excretion. The data highlights MSNPs as an attractive platform for targeted drug delivery of anticancer drugs with otherwise restricted clinical application, and as interesting constituents in the quest for more refined Notch therapies.
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231
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Han J, Hendzel MJ, Allalunis-Turner J. Notch signaling as a therapeutic target for breast cancer treatment? Breast Cancer Res 2011; 13:210. [PMID: 21672271 PMCID: PMC3218932 DOI: 10.1186/bcr2875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant Notch signaling can induce mammary gland carcinoma in transgenic mice, and high expressions of Notch receptors and ligands have been linked to poor clinical outcomes in human patients with breast cancer. This suggests that inhibition of Notch signaling may be beneficial for breast cancer treatment. In this review, we critically evaluate the evidence that supports or challenges the hypothesis that inhibition of Notch signaling would be advantageous in breast cancer management. We find that there are many remaining uncertainties that must be addressed experimentally if we are to exploit inhibition of Notch signaling as a treatment approach in breast cancer. Nonetheless, Notch inhibition, in combination with other therapies, is a promising avenue for future management of breast cancer. Furthermore, since aberrant Notch4 activity can induce mammary gland carcinoma in the absence of RBPjκ, a better understanding of the components of RBPjκ-independent oncogenic Notch signaling pathways and their contribution to Notch-induced tumorigenesis would facilitate the deployment of Notch inhibition strategies for effective treatment of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianxun Han
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Cross Cancer Institute, Edmonton, Canada
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232
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Hicks C, Pannuti A, Miele L. Associating GWAS Information with the Notch Signaling Pathway Using Transcription Profiling. Cancer Inform 2011; 10:93-108. [PMID: 21584266 PMCID: PMC3091413 DOI: 10.4137/cin.s6072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified SNPs associated with breast cancer. However, they offer limited insights about the biological mechanisms by which SNPs confer risk. We investigated the association of GWAS information with a major oncogenic pathway in breast cancer, the Notch signaling pathway. We first identified 385 SNPs and 150 genes associated with risk for breast cancer by mining data from 41 GWAS. We then investigated their expression, along with 32 genes involved in the Notch signaling pathway using two publicly available gene expression data sets from the Caucasian (42 cases and 143 controls) and Asian (43 cases and 43 controls) populations. Pathway prediction and network modeling confirmed that Notch receptors and genes involved in the Notch signaling pathway interact with genes containing SNPs associated with risk for breast cancer. Additionally, we identified other SNP-associated biological pathways relevant to breast cancer, including the P53, apoptosis and MAP kinase pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chindo Hicks
- Cancer Institute, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS 39216, USA
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233
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Wang Z, Li Y, Sarkar FH. Notch signaling proteins: legitimate targets for cancer therapy. Curr Protein Pept Sci 2011; 11:398-408. [PMID: 20491628 DOI: 10.2174/138920310791824039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2009] [Accepted: 05/20/2010] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Proteins and small peptides (growth factors and hormones) are key molecules in maintaining cellular homeostasis. To that end, Notch signaling pathway proteins are known to play critical roles in maintaining the balance between cell proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis, and thus it has been suggested that Notch may be responsible for the development and progression of human malignancies. Therefore, the Notch signaling pathway proteins may present novel therapeutic targets, which could have promising therapeutic impact on eradicating human malignancies. This review describes the role of Notch signaling pathway proteins in cancer and how its deregulation is involved in tumor development and progression leading to metastasis and the ultimate demise of patients diagnosed with cancer. Further, we summarize the role of several Notch inhibitors especially "natural agents" that could represent novel therapeutic strategies targeting Notch signaling toward better treatment outcome of patients diagnosed with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwei Wang
- Department of Pathology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, 9374 Scott Hall, 540 E Canfield, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
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234
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Shimizu M, Cohen B, Goldvasser P, Berman H, Virtanen C, Reedijk M. Plasminogen activator uPA is a direct transcriptional target of the JAG1-Notch receptor signaling pathway in breast cancer. Cancer Res 2011; 71:277-86. [PMID: 21199807 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-10-2523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant activation of the Notch receptor signaling pathway and overexpression of the Notch ligand JAG1 are associated with poor outcome in breast cancer. The plasminogen activator system, which includes urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA), has been validated as a marker of recurrence, high metastasis risk and death in breast malignancy. By using microarray profiling of breast cancer cell lines that had undergone siRNA-mediated abrogation of Notch signaling we uncovered a link between activated Notch signaling and uPA expression. An association between elevated expression of the Notch ligand JAG1, uPA, and the basal-like breast cancer subtype was confirmed in breast cancer cell lines. The association between JAG1 and uPA expression persisted in a survey of primary carcinomas of the breast. We found that Notch knockdown reduced transcription of uPA and phenocopied uPA knockdown in breast cancer cells. Through mutational analysis we identified a CBF-1 binding site in the uPA promoter that is required for direct transcriptional regulation by Notch. These data suggest that JAG1-induced Notch activation results in breast cancer progression through upregulation of the plasminogen activator system, directly linking these 2 important pathways of poor prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mamiko Shimizu
- Campbell Family Institute for Breast Cancer Research, Ontario Cancer Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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235
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Arevalo MA, Ruiz-Palmero I, Simon-Areces J, Acaz-Fonseca E, Azcoitia I, Garcia-Segura LM. Estradiol meets notch signaling in developing neurons. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2011; 2:21. [PMID: 22654797 PMCID: PMC3356013 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2011.00021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2011] [Accepted: 07/31/2011] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The transmembrane receptor Notch, a master developmental regulator, controls gliogenesis, neurogenesis, and neurite development in the nervous system. Estradiol, acting as a hormonal signal or as a neurosteroid, also regulates these developmental processes. Here we review recent evidence indicating that estradiol and Notch signaling interact in developing hippocampal neurons by a mechanism involving the putative membrane receptor G protein-coupled receptor 30. This interaction is relevant for the control of neuronal differentiation, since the downregulation of Notch signaling by estradiol results in the upregulation of neurogenin 3, which in turn promotes dendritogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Isabel Ruiz-Palmero
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones CientíficasMadrid, Spain
| | - Julia Simon-Areces
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones CientíficasMadrid, Spain
| | | | - Iñigo Azcoitia
- Facultad de Biología, Biología Celular, Universidad Complutense de MadridMadrid, Spain
| | - Luis Miguel Garcia-Segura
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones CientíficasMadrid, Spain
- *Correspondence: Luis Miguel Garcia-Segura, Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Avenida Doctor Arce 37, E-28002 Madrid, Spain. e-mail:
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236
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Guo S, Liu M, Gonzalez-Perez RR. Role of Notch and its oncogenic signaling crosstalk in breast cancer. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2010; 1815:197-213. [PMID: 21193018 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2010.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2010] [Revised: 12/15/2010] [Accepted: 12/17/2010] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The Notch signaling plays a key role in cell differentiation, survival, and proliferation through diverse mechanisms. Notch signaling is also involved in vasculogenesis and angiogenesis. Moreover, Notch expression is regulated by hypoxia and inflammatory cytokines (IL-1, IL-6 and leptin). Entangled crosstalk between Notch and other developmental signaling (Hedgehog and Wnt), and signaling triggered by growth factors, estrogens and oncogenic kinases, could impact on Notch targeted genes. Thus, alterations of the Notch signaling can lead to a variety of disorders, including human malignancies. Notch signaling is activated by ligand binding, followed by ADAM/tumor necrosis factor-α-converting enzyme (TACE) metalloprotease and γ-secretase cleavages that produce the Notch intracellular domain (NICD). Translocation of NICD into the nucleus induces the transcriptional activation of Notch target genes. The relationships between Notch deregulated signaling, cancer stem cells and the carcinogenesis process reinforced by Notch crosstalk with many oncogenic signaling pathways suggest that Notch signaling may be a critical drug target for breast and other cancers. Since current status of knowledge in this field changes quickly, our insight should be continuously revised. In this review, we will focus on recent advancements in identification of aberrant Notch signaling in breast cancer and the possible underlying mechanisms, including potential role of Notch in breast cancer stem cells, tumor angiogenesis, as well as its crosstalk with other oncogenic signaling pathways in breast cancer. We will also discuss the prognostic value of Notch proteins and therapeutic potential of targeting Notch signaling for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanchun Guo
- Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30310, USA
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237
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Yu KN, Minai-Tehrani A, Chang SH, Hwang SK, Hong SH, Kim JE, Shin JY, Park SJ, Kim JH, Kwon JT, Jiang HL, Kang B, Kim D, Chae CH, Lee KH, Yoon TJ, Beck GR, Cho MH. Aerosol delivery of small hairpin osteopontin blocks pulmonary metastasis of breast cancer in mice. PLoS One 2010; 5:e15623. [PMID: 21203518 PMCID: PMC3008732 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0015623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2010] [Accepted: 11/17/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Metastasis to the lung may be the final step in the breast cancer-related morbidity. Conventional therapies such as chemotherapy and surgery are somewhat successful, however, metastasis-related breast cancer morbidity remains high. Thus, a novel approach to prevent breast tumor metastasis is needed. Methodology/Principal Finding Aerosol of lentivirus-based small hairpin osteopontin was delivered into mice with breast cancer twice a week for 1 or 2 months using a nose-only inhalation system. The effects of small hairpin osteopontin on breast cancer metastasis to the lung were evaluated using near infrared imaging as well as diverse molecular techniques. Aerosol-delivered small hairpin osteopontin significantly decreased the expression level of osteopontin and altered the expression of several important metastasis-related proteins in our murine breast cancer model. Conclusion/Significance Aerosol-delivered small hairpin osteopontin blocked breast cancer metastasis. Our results showed that noninvasive targeting of pulmonary osteopontin or other specific genes responsible for cancer metastasis could be used as an effective therapeutic regimen for the treatment of metastatic epithelial tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyeong-Nam Yu
- Laboratory of Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Arash Minai-Tehrani
- Laboratory of Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Hee Chang
- Laboratory of Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Soon-Kyung Hwang
- Laboratory of Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Ho Hong
- Laboratory of Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Eun Kim
- Laboratory of Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nano Fusion Technology, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Young Shin
- Laboratory of Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Jin Park
- Laboratory of Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Hye Kim
- Laboratory of Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nano Fusion Technology, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Taek Kwon
- Laboratory of Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hu-Lin Jiang
- Laboratory of Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Bitna Kang
- Laboratory of Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Duyeol Kim
- Laboratory of Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Chan-Hee Chae
- Laboratory of Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kee-Ho Lee
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Division of Radiation Cancer Research, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Jong Yoon
- Department of Applied BioScience, CHA University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - George R. Beck
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Lipids, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Myung-Haing Cho
- Laboratory of Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nano Fusion Technology, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Graduate Group of Tumor Biology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- * E-mail:
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238
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Harrison H, Farnie G, Brennan KR, Clarke RB. Breast cancer stem cells: something out of notching? Cancer Res 2010; 70:8973-6. [PMID: 21045140 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-10-1559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
We and others have established that the developmental Notch receptor signaling pathway is active in breast cancer cell lines, as well as in preinvasive and invasive primary samples. Recently, a role for Notch in regulating the hierarchy of stem and progenitor cells in both normal and cancer epithelium has been elucidated. Because inhibiting the Notch receptor signaling pathway is a possible future breast cancer therapy, here, we review the expression and activity of the different ligands and receptors and summarize the various ways in which the pathway's activity can be inhibited, and the likely effects of inhibition on different tumor cell subpopulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Harrison
- Breast Biology Group, School of Cancer and Enabling Sciences, Paterson Institute for Cancer Research, University of Manchester;, Manchester, United Kingdom
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239
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Al-Hussaini H, Subramanyam D, Reedijk M, Sridhar SS. Notch signaling pathway as a therapeutic target in breast cancer. Mol Cancer Ther 2010; 10:9-15. [PMID: 20971825 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-10-0677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The highly conserved Notch signaling pathway is involved in regulating a number of key cellular processes. This pathway has been implicated in both the development and progression of breast cancer and has emerged as a possible therapeutic target. Several clinical trials are currently underway to determine if targeting the Notch pathway with drugs such as the γ-secretase inhibitors may be an effective therapeutic strategy that improves outcomes in this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Al-Hussaini
- University of Toronto, Princess Margaret Hospital, 610 University Avenue, Suite 5-222, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 2M9
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240
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Promotion of rat brain-derived progenitor cell neurogenesis by liquiritigenin treatment: Underlying mechanisms. Neurosci Lett 2010; 481:139-43. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2010.06.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2010] [Revised: 06/22/2010] [Accepted: 06/22/2010] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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241
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Zardawi SJ, Zardawi I, McNeil CM, Millar EKA, McLeod D, Morey AL, Crea P, Murphy NC, Pinese M, Lopez-Knowles E, Oakes SR, Ormandy CJ, Qiu MR, Hamilton A, Spillane A, Soon Lee C, Sutherland RL, Musgrove EA, O'Toole SA. High Notch1 protein expression is an early event in breast cancer development and is associated with the HER-2 molecular subtype. Histopathology 2010; 56:286-96. [PMID: 20459529 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2559.2009.03475.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Activation of Notch signalling results in hyperplasia and tumorigenesis in murine mammary epithelium. However, there is little information regarding the expression of Notch1 in premalignant lesions and early breast cancer. We investigated expression of Notch1 in breast cancer development and its association with molecular subtypes. METHODS AND RESULTS Immunohistochemical expression of Notch1 was determined in a murine model of mammary carcinogenesis and in breast tissue from two cohorts of breast cancer patients, the first (n=222) comprising a histological progression series and the second an outcome series of 228 patients with operable invasive ductal carcinoma. Enhanced expression of Notch1 protein was an early event in both murine and human breast cancer development with progressive increases in expression with the development of hyperplasia and malignancy. High Notch1 was not prognostic in the outcome cohort. There was, however, a highly significant association of high Notch1 protein with the HER-2 molecular subtype of breast cancer (P=0.008). CONCLUSIONS These data demonstrate that aberrant Notch regulation is an early event in mammary carcinogenesis and is associated with the HER-2 molecular subtype of breast cancer, and suggest the Notch signalling pathway may be a potential therapeutic target worthy of further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Zardawi
- Cancer Research Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Hospital, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia
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242
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Van Laere S, Limame R, Van Marck EA, Vermeulen PB, Dirix LY. Is there a role for mammary stem cells in inflammatory breast carcinoma?: a review of evidence from cell line, animal model, and human tissue sample experiments. Cancer 2010; 116:2794-805. [PMID: 20503411 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.25180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Stem cells are pluripotent cells, with a large replicative potential, which perform normal physiological functions such as tissue renewal and damage repair. However, because of their long lifespan and high replicative potential, stem cells are ideal targets to accumulate multiple mutations. Therefore, they can be regarded as being responsible for the initiation of tumor formation. In the past, numerous studies have shown that the presence of an elaborate stem cell compartment within a tumor is associated with aggressive tumor cell behavior, frequent formation of metastases, resistance to therapy, and poor patient survival. From this perspective, tumors from patients with inflammatory breast cancer (IBC), an aggressive breast cancer subtype with a dismal clinical course, are most likely to be associated with stem cell biology. To date, this hypothesis is corroborated by evidence resulting from in vitro and in vivo experiments. Both gene and microRNA expression profiles highlighted several stem cell-specific signal transduction pathways that are hyperactivated in IBC. Also, these stem cell-specific signal transduction pathways seem to converge in the activation of nuclear factor-kappa B, a molecular hallmark of IBC, and induction of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Recently, the latter mechanism was identified as a prerequisite for the induction of stem cell characteristics in breast cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Van Laere
- Translational Cancer Research Group, Laboratory of Pathology, University of Antwerp/University Hospital Antwerp, Edegem, Belgium.
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243
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Dong Y, Li A, Wang J, Weber JD, Michel LS. Synthetic lethality through combined Notch-epidermal growth factor receptor pathway inhibition in basal-like breast cancer. Cancer Res 2010; 70:5465-74. [PMID: 20570903 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-10-0173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Basal-like breast cancers (BLBC) are highly aggressive, yet selective therapies targeting the specific oncoproteins driving these tumors have not been developed. These cancers frequently express epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), with resistance to its inhibition being well documented, albeit poorly understood. Notch pathway activation is also common in this breast cancer subtype and can be suppressed by gamma-secretase inhibitors, which effectively block receptor cleavage and activation. Herein, we show that although inhibition of either EGFR or Notch signaling alone is insufficient to suppress basal-like breast tumor cell survival and proliferation, simultaneous inhibition uncovers a synthetic lethal relationship between these two oncogenic pathways. This lethality is due in part to significant decreases in AKT activation caused by combined EGFR and Notch inhibition. Expression of the activated form of Notch1 restores AKT activity and enables cells to overcome cell death after dual-pathway blockade. Combined pathway inhibition is also dramatically more effective at suppressing tumor growth in mice than blocking EGFR or Notch signaling alone. Thus, we show that Notch pathway activation contributes to resistance to EGFR inhibition, and provide a novel treatment strategy for BLBCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiyu Dong
- Division of Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA
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244
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Wang Z, Li Y, Ahmad A, Azmi AS, Banerjee S, Kong D, Sarkar FH. Targeting Notch signaling pathway to overcome drug resistance for cancer therapy. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2010; 1806:258-67. [PMID: 20600632 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2010.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2010] [Revised: 06/08/2010] [Accepted: 06/11/2010] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Chemotherapy is an important therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment and remains the mainstay for the management of human malignancies; however, chemotherapy fails to eliminate all tumor cells because of intrinsic or acquired drug resistance, which is the most common cause of tumor recurrence. Recently, emerging evidences suggest that Notch signaling pathway is one of the most important signaling pathways in drug-resistant tumor cells. Moreover, down-regulation of Notch pathway could induce drug sensitivity, leading to increased inhibition of cancer cell growth, invasion, and metastasis. This article will provide a brief overview of the published evidences in support of the roles of Notch in drug resistance and will further summarize how targeting Notch by "natural agents" could become a novel and safer approach for the improvement of tumor treatment by overcoming drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwei Wang
- Department of Pathology, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA.
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245
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Abstract
Deregulation of Notch signaling has been linked to the development of T-cell leukemias and several solid malignancies. Yet, it is unknown whether Notch signaling is involved in the pathogenesis of mycosis fungoides and Sézary syndrome, the most common subtypes of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. By immunohistochemistry of 40 biopsies taken from skin lesions of mycosis fungoides and Sézary syndrome, we demonstrated prominent expression of Notch1 on tumor cells, especially in the more advanced stages. The γ-secretase inhibitor I blocked Notch signaling and potently induced apoptosis in cell lines derived from mycosis fungoides (MyLa) and Sézary syndrome (SeAx, HuT-78) and in primary leukemic Sézary cells. Specific down-regulation of Notch1 (but not Notch2 and Notch3) by siRNA induced apoptosis in SeAx. The mechanism of apoptosis involved the inhibition of nuclear factor-κB, which is the most important prosurvival pathway in cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. Our data show that Notch is present in cutaneous T-cell lymphoma and that its inhibition may provide a new way to treat cutaneous T-cell lymphoma.
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246
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Abstract
Normal stem cell niches typically are identified by their distinctive anatomical features and by association with tissue-specific stem cells. Identifying cancer stem cell (CSC) niches presents a special problem because there are few if any common anatomical features among tumors, and the physical phenotypes that reportedly describe the CSCs as entities may be subject to the host's microenvironment, sex, and tumor stage. Irrespective of a niche's location, the occupant's phenotype, or the precise molecular composition, all niches must do basically the same thing: maintain the activities in a stem cell that define it as such. Therefore, a potentially successful strategy, both for elaborating a molecular and cellular portrait of a CSC niche, and for therapeutically targeting them, is to identify components in the tumor microenvironment that are required for maintaining the functions of self-renewal, differentiation, and quiescence in the face of cytotoxic therapeutic regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A LaBarge
- Life Science Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA.
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247
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Pannuti A, Foreman K, Rizzo P, Osipo C, Golde T, Osborne B, Miele L. Targeting Notch to target cancer stem cells. Clin Cancer Res 2010; 16:3141-52. [PMID: 20530696 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-09-2823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 332] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The cellular heterogeneity of neoplasms has been at the center of considerable interest since the "cancer stem cell hypothesis", originally formulated for hematologic malignancies, was extended to solid tumors. The origins of cancer "stem" cells (CSC) or tumor-initiating cells (TIC; henceforth referred to as CSCs) and the methods to identify them are hotly debated topics. Nevertheless, the existence of subpopulations of tumor cells with stem-like characteristics has significant therapeutic implications. The stem-like phenotype includes indefinite self-replication, pluripotency, and, importantly, resistance to chemotherapeutics. Thus, it is plausible that CSCs, regardless of their origin, may escape standard therapies and cause disease recurrences and/or metastasis after apparently complete remissions. Consequently, the idea of selectively targeting CSCs with novel therapeutics is gaining considerable interest. The Notch pathway is one of the most intensively studied putative therapeutic targets in CSC, and several investigational Notch inhibitors are being developed. However, successful targeting of Notch signaling in CSC will require a thorough understanding of Notch regulation and the context-dependent interactions between Notch and other therapeutically relevant pathways. Understanding these interactions will increase our ability to design rational combination regimens that are more likely to prove safe and effective. Additionally, to determine which patients are most likely to benefit from treatment with Notch-targeting therapeutics, reliable biomarkers to measure pathway activity in CSC from specific tumors will have to be identified and validated. This article summarizes the most recent developments in the field of Notch-targeted cancer therapeutics, with emphasis on CSC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Pannuti
- University of Mississippi Cancer Institute, Jackson, MS 39216, USA
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248
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Yao K, Rizzo P, Rajan P, Albain K, Rychlik K, Shah S, Miele L. Notch-1 and notch-4 receptors as prognostic markers in breast cancer. Int J Surg Pathol 2010; 19:607-13. [PMID: 20444726 DOI: 10.1177/1066896910362080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies looking at immunohistochemical (IHC) staining of Notch receptors in breast cancer and correlation with known prognostic factors are sparse. METHODS IHC staining for nuclear, cytoplasmic, and membrane Notch-1 (N1), Notch-4 (N4), and Jagged-1 (JAG1) was performed and correlated with known prognostic factors. RESULTS Of 48 breast cancers, 36 (67%) were invasive, mean age was 50 years (range 43-86 years), 37 (77%) were estrogen receptor (ERα) positive, and 13 (27%) node positive. There was significantly more marked N1 membranous staining in ERα-positive tumors (P < .05). On univariate analysis, cytoplasmic N1 was significantly correlated with node status and tumor grade (P < .05); both cytoplasmic and membranous N4 significantly correlated with Ki67 (P < .05); and membranous JAG1 significantly correlated with Ki67 (P < .05). On multivariate analysis, only cytoplasmic N1 significantly correlated with node status. CONCLUSION IHC of Notch markers is feasible and correlates with known prognostic factors consistent with a biological role of Notch signaling in breast cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine Yao
- NorthShore University Health System, Evanston, IL, USA.
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249
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Torrice A, Cardinale V, Gatto M, Semeraro R, Napoli C, Onori P, Alpini G, Gaudio E, Alvaro D. Polycystins play a key role in the modulation of cholangiocyte proliferation. Dig Liver Dis 2010; 42:377-85. [PMID: 19897428 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2009.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2009] [Revised: 09/13/2009] [Accepted: 09/20/2009] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polycystin-1 and -2 (PC-1 and PC-2) are critical components of primary cilia, which act as mechanosensors and drive cell response to injury. PC-1 activation involves the cleavage/processing of PC-1 cytoplasmic tail, driven by regulated intramembrane proteolysis or ubiquitine/proteasome, translocation in the nucleus and activation of transcription factors. Mutations of PC-1 or PC-2 occur in polycystic liver where cholangiocyte proliferation is enhanced. AIM We evaluated the involvement of PC-1 and PC-2 in modulating cholangiocyte proliferation. METHODS We investigated rat cholangiocytes induced to proliferate by 17beta-oestradiol. Proliferation was evaluated by PCNA immunoblotting or [(3)H]-thymidine incorporation into DNA. PC-1 silencing was performed by siRNA, while inhibition of regulated intramembrane proteolysis or proteasome by gamma-secretase inhibitor, leupeptin or MG115. RESULTS Cholangiocyte proliferation was associated with decreased PC-1 and PC-2 expression, which was inversely correlated with enhanced PCNA. The selective silencing of PC-1 induced activation of cholangiocyte proliferation in association with decreased PC-1 expression. Two different regulated intramembrane proteolysis inhibitors, gamma-secretase-inhibitor and leupeptin, and the proteasome inhibitor, MG115, abolished the 17beta-oestradiol proliferative effect. CONCLUSIONS PC-1 and PC-2 play a major role as modulators of cholangiocyte proliferation suggesting that primary cilia may act as sensors of cell injury driving, when activated, a proliferative cholangiocyte response to trigger the reparative processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Torrice
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Rome, Sapienza, Rome, Italy
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250
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Peng X, Pentassuglia L, Sawyer DB. Emerging anticancer therapeutic targets and the cardiovascular system: is there cause for concern? Circ Res 2010; 106:1022-34. [PMID: 20360265 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.109.211276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The race for a cure to cancer continues, fueled by unprecedented discoveries of fundamental biology underlying carcinogenesis and tumorigenesis. The expansion of the target list and tools to approach them is moving the oncology community extraordinarily rapidly to clinical trials, bringing new hope for cancer patients. This effort is also propelling biological discoveries in cardiovascular research, because many of the targets being explored in cancer play fundamental roles in the heart and vasculature. The combined efforts of cardiovascular and cancer biologists, along with clinical investigators in these fields, will be needed to understand how to safely exploit these efforts. Here, we discuss a few of the many research foci in oncology where we believe such collaboration will be particularly important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuyang Peng
- Cardiovascular Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, PRB 359B Pierce Ave., Nashville, TN 37232, USA.
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