Clinical relevance of circulating MACC1 and S100A4 transcripts for ovarian cancer

Establishment of Stable Knockdown of MACC1 Oncogene in Patient-Derived Ovarian Cancer Organoids

High-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) remains the most lethal gynecological malignancy, and there is still an unmet medical need to deepen basic research on its origins and mechanisms of progression. Patient-derived organoids of high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC-PDO) are a powerful model to study the complexity of ovarian cancer as they maintain, in vitro, the mutational profile and cellular architecture of the cancer tissue. Genetic modifications by lentiviral transduction allow novel insights into signaling pathways and the potential identification of biomarkers regarding the evolution of drug resistance. Here, we provide an in-depth and detailed protocol to successfully modify the gene expression of HGSOC-PDOs by lentiviral transduction. As an example, we validate our protocol and create a stable knockdown of the MACC1 oncogene with an efficacy of ≥72% in two HGSOC-PDO lines, which remained stable for >3 months in culture. Moreover, we explain step-by-step the sample preparation for the validation procedures on transcriptional (qPCR) and protein (Western Blot) levels. Sustained downregulation of specific genes by lentiviral transduction enables the analysis of the resulting phenotypic and morphological changes. It serves as a valuable in-vitro model to study the mechanisms of ovarian cancer pathogenesis and allows for the evaluation of therapeutic approaches.

MACC1 revisited - an in-depth review of a master of metastasis

Cancer metastasis remains the most lethal characteristic of tumors mediating the majority of cancer-related deaths. Identifying key molecules responsible for metastasis, understanding their biological functions and therapeutically targeting these molecules is therefore of tremendous value. Metastasis Associated in Colon Cancer 1 (MACC1), a gene first described in 2009, is such a key driver of metastatic processes, initiating cellular proliferation, migration, invasion, and metastasis in vitro and in vivo. Since its discovery, the value of MACC1 as a prognostic biomarker has been confirmed in over 20 cancer entities. Additionally, several therapeutic strategies targeting MACC1 and its pro-metastatic functions have been developed. In this review, we will provide a comprehensive overview on MACC1, from its clinical relevance, towards its structure and role in signaling cascades as well as molecular networks. We will highlight specific biological consequences of MACC1 expression, such as an increase in stem cell properties, its immune-modulatory effects and induced therapy resistance. Lastly, we will explore various strategies interfering with MACC1 expression and/or its functions. Conclusively, this review underlines the importance of understanding the role of individual molecules in mediating metastasis.

Screening and identification of key biomarkers associated with endometriosis using bioinformatics and next-generation sequencing data analysis

Background

Endometriosis is a common cause of endometrial-type mucosa outside the uterine cavity with symptoms such as painful periods, chronic pelvic pain, pain with intercourse and infertility. However, the early diagnosis of endometriosis is still restricted. The purpose of this investigation is to identify and validate the key biomarkers of endometriosis.

Methods

Next-generation sequencing dataset GSE243039 was obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between endometriosis and normal control samples were identified. After screening of DEGs, gene ontology (GO) and REACTOME pathway enrichment analyses were performed. Furthermore, a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed and modules were analyzed using the Human Integrated Protein–Protein Interaction rEference database and Cytoscape software, and hub genes were identified. Subsequently, a network between miRNAs and hub genes, and network between TFs and hub genes were constructed using the miRNet and NetworkAnalyst tool, and possible key miRNAs and TFs were predicted. Finally, receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to validate the hub genes.

Results

A total of 958 DEGs, including 479 upregulated genes and 479 downregulated genes, were screened between endometriosis and normal control samples. GO and REACTOME pathway enrichment analyses of the 958 DEGs showed that they were mainly involved in multicellular organismal process, developmental process, signaling by GPCR and muscle contraction. Further analysis of the PPI network and modules identified 10 hub genes, including vcam1, snca, prkcb, adrb2, foxq1, mdfi, actbl2, prkd1, dapk1 and actc1. Possible target miRNAs, including hsa-mir-3143 and hsa-mir-2110, and target TFs, including tcf3 (transcription factor 3) and clock (clock circadian regulator), were predicted by constructing a miRNA-hub gene regulatory network and TF-hub gene regulatory network.

Conclusions

This investigation used bioinformatics techniques to explore the potential and novel biomarkers. These biomarkers might provide new ideas and methods for the early diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of endometriosis.

Induction of circulating ABCB1 transcripts under platinum-based chemotherapy indicates poor prognosis and a bone micrometastatic phenotype in ovarian cancer patients

The drug efflux transporter P-glycoprotein, encoded by the ABCB1 gene, promotes acquired chemoresistance. We explored the presence and clinical relevance of circulating cell-free ABCB1 transcripts (cfABCB1tx) in ovarian cancer patients (173 longitudinal serum samples from 79 cancer patients) using digital droplet PCR. cfABCB1tx were readily detectable at primary diagnosis (median 354 mRNA copies/20 µl serum), paralleled FIGO-stage and predicted surgical outcome (p = 0.023, p=0.022, respectively). Increased cfABCB1tx levels at primary diagnosis indicated poor PFS (HR = 2.329, 95%CI:1.374-3.947, p = 0.0017) and OS (HR = 2.074, 95%CI:1.194-3.601, p = 0.0096). cfABCB1tx induction under platinum-based chemotherapy was an independent predictor for poor OS (HR = 2.597, 95%CI: 1.218-5.538, p = 0.013) and paralelled a micrometastatic phenotype, shaped by the presence of disseminated tumor cells in the bone marrow. A strong correlation was observed between cfABCB1tx and circulating transcripts of the metastasis-inducer MACC1, which is the transcriptional activator of ABCB1. Combined assessment of cfABCB1tx and circulating cell-free MACC1 transcripts (cfMACC1tx) resulted in an improved prognostic prediction, with  the cfABCB1tx-high/cfMACC1tx-high phenotype bearing the highest risk for relapse and death. Conclusively, we provide proof of principle, that ABCB1 transcripts are readily traceable in the liquid-biopsy of ovarian cancer patients, advancing a new dimension for systemic monitoring of ABCB1/P-glycoprotein expression dynamics.

Oestrogen receptor positive breast cancer and its embedded mechanism: breast cancer resistance to conventional drugs and related therapies, a review

Traditional medication and alternative therapies have long been used to treat breast cancer. One of the main problems with current treatments is that there is an increase in drug resistance in the cancer cells owing to genetic differences such as mutational changes, epigenetic changes and miRNA (microRNA) alterations such as miR-1246, miR-298, miR-27b and miR-33a, along with epigenetic modifications, such as Histone3 acetylation and CCCTC-Binding Factor (CTCF) hypermethylation for drug resistance in breast cancer cell lines. Certain forms of conventional drug resistance have been linked to genetic changes in genes such as ABCB1, AKT, S100A8/A9, TAGLN2 and NPM. This review aims to explore the current approaches to counter breast cancer, the action mechanism, along with novel therapeutic methods endowing potential drug resistance. The investigation of novel therapeutic approaches sheds light on the phenomenon of drug resistance including genetic variations that impact distinct forms of oestrogen receptor (ER) cancer, genetic changes, epigenetics-reported resistance and their identification in patients. Long-term effective therapy for breast cancer includes selective oestrogen receptor modulators, selective oestrogen receptor degraders and genetic variations, such as mutations in nuclear genes, epigenetic modifications and miRNA alterations in target proteins. Novel research addressing combinational therapies including maytansine, photodynamic therapy, guajadiol, talazoparib, COX2 inhibitors and miRNA 1246 inhibitors have been developed to improve patient survival rates.

Proteomic profiles of peritoneal fluid-derived small extracellular vesicles correlate with patient outcome in ovarian cancer

Cancer-derived small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are capable of modifying the tumor microenvironment and promoting tumor progression. Ovarian cancer (OvCa) is a lethal malignancy that preferentially spreads through the abdominal cavity. Thus, the secretion of such vesicles into the peritoneal fluid could be a determinant factor in the dissemination and behavior of this disease. We designed a prospective observational study to assess the impact of peritoneal fluid-derived sEVs (PFD-sEVs) in OvCa clinical outcome. For this purpose, 2 patient cohorts were enrolled: patients with OvCa who underwent a diagnostic or cytoreductive surgery and nononcological patients, who underwent abdominal surgery for benign gynecological conditions and acted as the control group. Systematic extraction of PFD-sEVs from surgical samples enabled us to observe significant quantitative and qualitative differences associated with cancer diagnosis, disease stage, and platinum chemosensitivity. Proteomic profiling of PFD-sEVs led to the identification of molecular pathways and proteins of interest and to the biological validation of S100A4 and STX5. In addition, unsupervised analysis of PFD-sEV proteomic profiles in high-grade serous ovarian carcinomas (HGSOCs) revealed 2 clusters with different outcomes in terms of overall survival. In conclusion, comprehensive characterization of PFD-sEV content provided a prognostic value with potential implications in HGSOC clinical management.

Immune Response and Metastasis-Links between the Metastasis Driver MACC1 and Cancer Immune Escape Strategies

Metastasis remains the most critical factor limiting patient survival and the most challenging part of cancer-targeted therapy. Identifying the causal drivers of metastasis and characterizing their properties in various key aspects of cancer biology is essential for the development of novel metastasis-targeting approaches. Metastasis-associated in colon cancer 1 (MACC1) is a prognostic and predictive biomarker that is now recognized in more than 20 cancer entities. Although MACC1 can already be linked with many hallmarks of cancer, one key process-the facilitation of immune evasion-remains poorly understood. In this review, we explore the direct and indirect links between MACC1 and the mechanisms of immune escape. Therein, we highlight the signaling pathways and secreted factors influenced by MACC1 as well as their effects on the infiltration and anti-tumor function of immune cells.

Calcium signals and potential therapy targets in ovarian cancer (Review)

Ovarian cancer (OC) is a deadly disease. The poor prognosis and high lethality of OC are attributed to its high degrees of aggressiveness, resistance to chemotherapy and recurrence rates. Calcium ion (Ca2+) signaling has received attention in recent years, as it appears to form an essential part of various aspects of cancer pathophysiology and is a potential therapeutic target for OC treatment. Disruption of normal Ca2+ signaling pathways can induce changes in cell cycle progression, apoptosis, proliferation and migration and invasion, leading to the development of the malignant phenotype of tumors. In the present review, the main roles of ion channel/receptor/pump‑triggered Ca2+ signaling pathways located at the plasma membrane and organelle Ca2+ transport in OC are summarized. In addition, the potential of Ca2+ signaling as a novel target for the development of effective treatment strategies for OC was discussed. Furthering the understanding into the role of Ca2+ signaling in OC is expected to facilitated the identification of novel therapeutic targets and improved clinical outcomes for patients.

Cantharidin and Its Analogue Norcantharidin Inhibit Metastasis-Inducing Genes S100A4 and MACC1

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most prevalent and second deadliest cancer worldwide. In addition, metastasis directly causes up to 90% of all CRC deaths, highlighting the metastatic burden of the disease. Biomarkers such as S100A4 and MACC1 aid in identifying patients with a high risk of metastasis formation. High expression of S100A4 or MACC1 and to a greater extent the combination of both biomarkers is a predictor for metastasis and poor patient survival in CRC. MACC1 is a tumor-initiating and metastasis-promoting oncogene, whereas S100A4 has not been shown to initiate tumor formation but can, nevertheless, promote malignant tumor growth and metastasis formation. Cantharidin is a natural drug extracted from various blister beetle species, and its demethylated analogue norcantharidin has been shown in several studies to have an anti-cancer and anti-metastatic effect in different cancer entities such as CRC, breast cancer, and lung cancer. The impact of the natural compound cantharidin and norcantharidin on S100A4 and MACC1 gene expression, cancer cell migration, motility, and colony formation in vitro was tested. Here, for the first time, we have demonstrated that cantharidin and norcantharidin are transcriptional inhibitors of S100A4 and MACC1 mRNA expression, protein expression, and motility in CRC cells. Our results clearly indicate that cantharidin and, to a lesser extent, its analogue norcantharidin are promising compounds for efficient anti-metastatic therapy targeting the metastasis-inducing genes S100A4 and MACC1 for personalized medicine for cancer patients.

Integrated analysis of circulating cell free nucleic acids for cancer genotyping and immune phenotyping of tumor microenvironment

The circulating cell-free nucleic acids (ccfNAs) consist of a heterogenous cocktail of both single (ssNA) and double-stranded (dsNA) nucleic acids. These ccfNAs are secreted into the blood circulation by both healthy and malignant cells via various mechanisms including apoptosis, necrosis, and active secretion. The major source of ccfNAs are the cells of hematopoietic system under healthy conditions. These ccfNAs include fragmented circulating cell free DNA (ccfDNA), coding or messenger RNA (mRNA), long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), microRNA (miRNA), and mitochondrial DNA/RNA (mtDNA and mtRNA), that serve as prospective biomarkers in assessment of various clinical conditions. For, e.g., free fetal DNA and RNA migrate into the maternal plasma, whereas circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) has clinical relevance in diagnostic, prognostic, therapeutic targeting, and disease progression monitoring to improve precision medicine in cancer. The epigenetic modifications of ccfDNA as well as circulating cell-free RNA (ccfRNA) such as miRNA and lncRNA show disease-related variations and hold potential as epigenetic biomarkers. The messenger RNA present in the circulation or the circulating cell free mRNA (ccf-mRNA) and long non-coding RNA (ccf-lncRNA) have gradually become substantial in liquid biopsy by acting as effective biomarkers to assess various aspects of disease diagnosis and prognosis. Conversely, the simultaneous characterization of coding and non-coding RNAs in human biofluids still poses a significant hurdle. Moreover, a comprehensive assessment of ccfRNA that may reflect the tumor microenvironment is being explored. In this review, we focus on the novel approaches for exploring ccfDNA and ccfRNAs, specifically ccf-mRNA as biomarkers in clinical diagnosis and prognosis of cancer. Integrating the detection of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) for cancer genotyping in conjunction with ccfRNA both quantitatively and qualitatively, may potentially hold immense promise towards precision medicine. The current challenges and future directions in deciphering the complexity of cancer networks based on the dynamic state of ccfNAs will be discussed.

PRR11 in Malignancies: Biological Activities and Targeted Therapies

Proline rich 11 (PRR11), initially renowned for its relevance with cell-cycle progression, is a proline-rich protein coding gene in chromosome 17q22-23. Currently, accumulating studies have demonstrated that PRR11 plays a critical role in cellular proliferation, colony formation, migration, invasion, cell-cycle progression, apoptosis, autophagy and chemotherapy resistance via multiple signaling pathways and biological molecules in several solid tumors. In particular, PRR11 also serves as a promising prognostic indicator in a limited number of human cancers, gradually manifesting its potential application for targeted therapies. In this review, we summarize functional activities, related signaling pathways and biological molecules of PRR11 in various malignancies and generalize potential application of PRR11 for targeted therapies, thereby contributing to further exploration of PRR11 in cancer treatment.

Collagen fiber features and COL1A1: are they associated with elastic parameters in breast lesions, and can COL1A1 predict axillary lymph node metastasis?

Background

This study aimed to explore whether collagen fiber features and collagen type I alpha 1 (COL1A1) are related to the stiffness of breast lesions and whether COL1A1 can predict axillary lymph node metastasis (LNM).

Methods

Ninety-four patients with breast lesions were consecutively enrolled in the study. Amongst the 94 lesions, 30 were benign, and 64 were malignant (25 were accompanied by axillary lymph node metastasis). Ultrasound (US) and shear wave elastography (SWE) were performed for each breast lesion before surgery. Sirius red and immunohistochemical staining were used to examine the shape and arrangement of collagen fibers and COL1A1 expression in the included tissue samples. We analyzed the correlation between the staining results and SWE parameters and investigated the effectiveness of COL1A1 expression levels in predicting axillary LNM.

Results

The optimal cut-off values for Emax, Emean, and Eratio for diagnosing the benign and malignant groups, were 58.70 kPa, 52.50 kPa, and 3.05, respectively. The optimal cutoff for predicting axillary LNM were 107.5 kPa, 85.15 kPa, and 3.90, respectively. Herein, the collagen fiber shape and arrangement features in breast lesions were classified into three categories. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that Emax, Emean, and Eratio differed between categories 0, 1, and 2 (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, elasticity parameters were positively correlated with collagen categories and COL1A1 expression. The COL1A1 expression level > 0.145 was considered the cut-off value, and its efficacy in benign and malignant breast lesions was 0.808, with a sensitivity of 66% and a specificity of 90%. Furthermore, when the COL1A1 expression level > 0.150 was considered the cut-off, its efficacy in predicting axillary LNM was 0.796, with sensitivity and specificity of 96% and 59%, respectively.

Conclusions

The collagen fiber features and expression levels of COL1A1 positively correlated with the elastic parameters of breast lesions. The expression of COL1A1 may help diagnose benign and malignant breast lesions and predict axillary LNM.

Peritoneal dissemination of high-grade serous ovarian cancer: pivotal roles of chromosomal instability and epigenetic dynamics

Epithelial ovarian cancer remains the lethal gynecological malignancy in women. The representative histotype is high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC), and most patients with HGSC present at advanced stages with peritoneal dissemination. Since the peritoneal dissemination is the most important factor for poor prognosis of the patients, complete exploration for its molecular mechanisms is mandatory. In this narrative review, being based on the clinical, pathologic, and genomic findings of HGSC, chromosomal instability and epigenetic dynamics have been discussed as the potential drivers for cancer development in the fallopian tube, acquisition of cancer stem cell (CSC)-like properties, and peritoneal metastasis of HGSC. The natural history of carcinogenesis with clonal evolution, and adaptation to microenvironment of peritoneal dissemination of HGSC should be targeted in the novel development of strategies for prevention, early detection, and precision treatment for patients with HGSC.

Combinatorial treatment with statins and niclosamide prevents CRC dissemination by unhinging the MACC1-β-catenin-S100A4 axis of metastasis

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second-most common malignant disease worldwide, and metastasis is the main culprit of CRC-related death. Metachronous metastases remain to be an unpredictable, unpreventable, and fatal complication, and tracing the molecular chain of events that lead to metastasis would provide mechanistically linked biomarkers for the maintenance of remission in CRC patients after curative treatment. We hypothesized, that Metastasis-associated in colorectal cancer-1 (MACC1) induces a secretory phenotype to enforce metastasis in a paracrine manner, and found, that the cell-free culture medium of MACC1-expressing CRC cells induces migration. Stable isotope labeling by amino acids in cell culture mass spectrometry (SILAC-MS) of the medium revealed, that S100A4 is significantly enriched in the MACC1-specific secretome. Remarkably, both biomarkers correlate in expression data of independent cohorts as well as within CRC tumor sections. Furthermore, combined elevated transcript levels of the metastasis genes MACC1 and S100A4 in primary tumors and in blood plasma robustly identifies CRC patients at high risk for poor metastasis-free (MFS) and overall survival (OS). Mechanistically, MACC1 strengthens the interaction of β-catenin with TCF4, thus inducing S100A4 synthesis transcriptionally, resulting in elevated secretion to enforce cell motility and metastasis. In cell motility assays, S100A4 was indispensable for MACC1-induced migration, as shown via knock-out and pharmacological inhibition of S100A4. The direct transcriptional and functional relationship of MACC1 and S100A4 was probed by combined targeting with repositioned drugs. In fact, the MACC1-β-catenin-S100A4 axis by statins (MACC1) and niclosamide (S100A4) synergized in inhibiting cancer cell motility in vitro and metastasis in vivo. The MACC1-β-catenin-S100A4 signaling axis is causal for CRC metastasis. Selectively repositioned drugs synergize in restricting MACC1/S100A4-driven metastasis with cross-entity potential.

Overexpression of Metastasis-Associated in Colon Cancer 1-Antisense RNA 1 (MACC1-AS1) in Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells (BMSCs) Inhibits miR-145-5P and Promotes Chemotherapy Resistance of Colorectal Cancer

BMSCs have the potential of multipotent differentiation. This study aimed to investigate the interaction between MACC1-AS1 and miR-145-5P in BMSCs and their effect on chemotherapy resistance in colorectal cancer (CRC). BMSCs extracted from mouse marrow were transfected with MACC1-AS1 mimic, or MACC1-AS1 NC (control group). CRC cells were treated wtih gemcitabine and then co-cultured with BMSCs to measure cell viability and invasiveness by MTT and Transwell assay, along with analysis of the expression of MACC1, miR-145-5P, HGF, C-met, P-gp, and MRP. Successful isolation of BMSCs was confirmed by flow cytometry with positive expression of CD44, CD105, and CD90 (purity > 95%). Functionally, overexpression of MACC1-AS1 in BMSCs increased CRC cell viability and invasion, attenuated the inhibitory effect of gemcitabine (p < 0.05). Up-regulation of MACC1-AS1 (9.23±1.21) as demonstrated by RT-qPCR, resulted in a decline of miR-145-5P expression (4.23±1.22) in CRC cells (p < 0.05). In addition, overexpression of MACC1-AS1 increased the expression of HGF, C-met, and multidrug resistance-associated proteins (P-gp, and MRP). In conclusion, overexpression of MACC1-AS1 in BMSCs inhibits miR-145-5P expression to promote colorectal cancer cell progression possibly via activating HGF/C-met pathway and inducing resistance to chemotherapy.

A Nomogram Combining MRI Multisequence Radiomics and Clinical Factors for Predicting Recurrence of High-Grade Serous Ovarian Carcinoma

Objective

To develop a combined nomogram based on preoperative multimodal magnetic resonance imaging (mMRI) and clinical information for predicting recurrence in patients with high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC).

Methods

This retrospective study enrolled 141 patients with clinicopathologically confirmed HGSOC, including 65 patients with recurrence and 76 without recurrence. Radiomics features were extracted from the mMRI images (FS-T2WI, DWI, and T1WI+C). L1 regularization-based least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression was performed to select radiomics features. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to build the classification models. A nomogram was established by incorporating clinical risk factors and radiomics Radscores. The area under the curve (AUC) of receiver operating characteristics, accuracy, and calibration curves were assessed to evaluate the performance of classification models and nomograms in discriminating recurrence. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used to evaluate the associations between the Radscore or clinical factors and disease-free survival (DFS).

Results

One clinical factor and seven radiomics signatures were ultimately selected to establish the predictive model for this study. The AUCs for identifying recurrence in the training and validation cohorts were 0.76 (0.68, 0.84) and 0.67 (0.53, 0.81) with the clinical model, 0.78 (0.71, 0.86) and 0.74 (0.61, 0.86) with the multiradiomics model, and 0.83 (0.77, 0.90) and 0.78 (0.65, 0.90) with the combined nomogram, respectively. The DFS was significantly shorter in the high-risk group than in the low-risk group.

Conclusion

By incorporating radiomics Radscores and clinical factors, we created a radiomics nomogram to preoperatively identify patients with HGSOC who have a high risk of recurrence, which may serve as a potential tool to guide personalized treatment.

Circ_0002577/miR-126-5p/MACC1 axis promotes endometrial carcinoma progression by regulation of proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis of endometrial carcinoma cells

BACKGROUND

Endometrial carcinoma (EC) is a common female reproductive malignant tumor. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been reported to participate in tumorigenesis, including EC. Therefore, this study was designed to clarify the role and underlying molecular mechanisms of circ_0002577 in EC.

METHODS

The expression levels of circ_0002577, miR-126-5p, and metastasis associated in colon cancer 1 (MACC1) was determined by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) assay. The protein expression was quantified by western blot assay. The proliferation of EC cells was assessed by 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazol-3-ium bromide (MTT) and colony-forming assays. The migration and invasion of EC cells was measured by transwell assay. The apoptosis was determined by flow cytometry assay. Dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA pull-down assays were performed to confirm the relationship between miR-126-5p and circ_0002577 or MACC1. The influence of circ_0002577 inhibition on tumor growth was assessed by xenograft experiment.

RESULTS

Circ_0002577 and MACC1 were increased while miR-126-5p was decreased in EC tissues and cells. Loss-of-functional experiment revealed that silencing of circ_0002577 inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion while induced apoptosis of EC cells, which were overturned by overexpression of MACC1. The upregulation of miR-126-5p also impeded proliferation and mobility while induced apoptosis of EC cells. MiR-126-5p, negatively regulating MACC1 expression, was a functional target of circ_0002577 in EC cells. Moreover, we also confirmed that suppression of circ_0002577 repressed tumor growth in vivo.

CONCLUSION

The contributions of the circ_0002577 in EC were contributed to its interactions with miR-126-5p and MACC1, which offered a new perspective to the roles of circ_0002577 in EC.

Evaluation of circulating Dickkopf-1 as a prognostic biomarker in ovarian cancer patients

OBJECTIVES

Dickkopf-1 (DKK1) is a secreted protein, known for suppressing the differentiation and activity of bone-building osteoblasts by acting as an inhibitor of Wnt-signalling. Soluble DKK1 (sDKK1) has been proposed as prognostic biomarker for a wide range of malignancies, however, clinical relevance of sDKK1 as potential blood-based marker for ovarian cancer is unknown.

METHODS

sDKK1 levels were quantified in a cohort of 150 clinically documented ovarian cancer patients by a commercially available DKK1 ELISA (Biomedica, Vienna, Austria).

RESULTS

Median sDKK1 level was significantly elevated at primary diagnosis of ovarian cancer compared to healthy controls (estimated difference (ED) of 7.75 ng/mL (95% CI: 3.01-12.30 ng/mL, p=0.001)). Higher levels of sDKK1 at diagnosis indicated an increased volume of intraoperative malignant ascites (ED 7.08 pmol/L, 95% CI: 1.46-13.05, p=0.02) and predicted suboptimal debulking surgery (ED 6.88 pmol/L, 95% CI: 1.73-11.87, p=0.01). sDKK1 did not correlate with CA125 and higher sDKK1 levels predicted a higher risk of recurrence and poor survival (PFS: HR=0.507, 95% CI: 0.317-0.809; p=0.004; OS: HR=0.561, 95% CI: 0.320-0.986; p=0.044). Prognostic relevance of sDKK1 was partly sustained in wtBRCA patients (PFS: HR=0.507, 95% CI: 0.317-0.809; p=0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study demonstrating the prognostic relevance of sDKK1 in ovarian cancer patients, including those with wtBRCA 1/2 status. Our data encourage further evaluation of sDKK1 in ovarian cancer patients, possibly in terms of a therapy monitoring marker or a response predictor for sDKK1-directed targeted therapies.

Obesity, colorectal cancer and MACC1 expression: A possible novel molecular association

Obesity is a major and increasing public health concern, associated with an increased risk of and mortality from several types of cancer including colorectal cancer (CRC), being associated with cancer progression, metastasis and resistance to therapy. It was hypothesized that the expression of cancer/metastasis-inducing gene metastasis-associated in colon cancer 1 (MACC1) is increased in obesity, which may constitute a link to obesity-induced cancer. The present study thus analyzed circulating cell-free plasma MACC1 expression levels in human obese (vs. normal weight) adult individuals from independent studies, namely the Martin Luther University (MLU) study (n=32) and the Metabolic syndrome study (MetScan, Berlin) (n=191). Higher plasma MACC1 levels were found in obese individuals, increasing with a greater body fat mass and body mass index; these levels were predominantly observed in male and to a lesser extent in female individuals, although the results were not significant. A reduction in body fat mass following dietary intervention and physical exercise decreased the MACC1 expression levels in the MLU study. Furthermore, Wistar rats with diet-induced obesity exhibited slightly increased plasma MACC1 levels compared with rats of normal weight. The obese Wistar rats exposed to azoxymethane to induce colon cancer exhibited a more severe colon tumor outcome, which was associated with significantly increased MACC1 levels compared with their non-obese littermates. On the whole, the findings of the present study suggest an association between MACC1 and obesity, as well as with obesity-induced CRC.

Possibility of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in the Metastatic Microenvironment of Cancer

According to a report from the World Health Organization (WHO), the mortality and disease severity induced by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are significantly higher in cancer patients than those of individuals with no known condition. Common and cancer-specific risk factors might be involved in the mortality and severity rates observed in the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Similarly, various factors might contribute to the aggravation of COVID-19 in patients with cancer. However, the factors involved in the aggravation of COVID-19 in cancer patients have not been fully investigated so far. The formation of metastases in other organs is common in cancer patients. Therefore, the present study investigated the association between lung metastatic lesion formation and SARS-CoV-2 infectivity. In the pulmonary micrometastatic niche of patients with ovarian cancer, alveolar epithelial stem-like cells were found adjacent to ovarian cancer. Moreover, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, a host-side receptor for SARS-CoV-2, was expressed in these alveolar epithelial stem-like cells. Furthermore, the spike glycoprotein receptor-binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 was bound to alveolar epithelial stem-like cells. Altogether, these data suggested that patients with cancer and pulmonary micrometastases are more susceptible to SARS-CoV-2. The prevention of de novo niche formation in metastatic diseases might constitute a new strategy for the clinical treatment of COVID-19 for patients with cancer.

IGF1R-α6 integrin-S100A4 network governs the organ-specific metastasis of chemoresistant epithelial ovarian cancer cells

Recurrent metastatic epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is challenging and associated with treatment limitations, as the mechanisms governing the metastatic behavior of chemoresistant EOC cells remain elusive. Using orthotopic xenograft mouse models of sensitive and acquired platinum-taxol-resistant A2780 EOC cells, we studied the mechanistic role of insulin like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) signaling in the regulation of organ-specific metastasis of EOC cells undergoing acquirement of chemoresistance. Biochemical assays and organ-specific fibroblast-EOC cell co-culture were used to study the differential metastatic characteristics of sensitive vs. chemoresistant EOC cells, and the key molecule/s underlying the organ-specific homing of chemoresistant EOC cells were identified through subtractive LC/MS profiling of the co-culture secretome. The role of the identified molecule was validated through genetic/pharmacologic perturbation experiments. Acquired chemoresistance augmented organ-specific metastasis of EOC cells and enhanced lung homing, particularly for the late-stage chemoresistant cells, which was abrogated after IGF1R silencing. Escalation of chemoresistance (intrinsic and acquired) conferred EOC cells with higher adhesion toward primary lung fibroblasts, largely governed by the α6 integrin-IGF1R dual signaling axes. Subtractive analysis of the co-culture secretome revealed that interaction with lung fibroblasts induced the secretion of S100A4 from highly resistant EOC cells, which reciprocally activated lung fibroblasts. Genetic and pharmacologic inhibition of S100A4 significantly lowered distant metastases and completely abrogated lung-tropic nature of late-stage chemoresistant EOC cells. These results indicate that chemoresistance exacerbates organ-specific metastasis of EOC cells via the IGF1R-α6 integrin-S100A4 molecular network, of which S100A4 may serve as a potential target for the treatment of recurrent metastatic EOC.

Current and Emerging Applications of Droplet Digital PCR in Oncology: An Updated Review

In the era of personalized medicine and targeted therapies for the management of patients with cancer, ultrasensitive detection methods for tumor genotyping, such as next-generation sequencing or droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR), play a significant role. In the search for less invasive strategies for diagnosis, prognosis and disease monitoring, the number of publications regarding liquid biopsy approaches using ddPCR has increased substantially in recent years. There is a long list of malignancies in which ddPCR provides a reliable and accurate tool for detection of nucleic acid-based markers derived from cell-free DNA, cell-free RNA, circulating tumor cells, extracellular vesicles or exosomes when isolated from whole blood, plasma and serum, helping to anticipate tumor relapse or unveil intratumor heterogeneity and clonal evolution in response to treatment. This updated review describes recent developments in ddPCR platforms and provides a general overview about the major applications of liquid biopsy in blood, including its utility for molecular response and minimal residual disease monitoring in hematological malignancies or the therapeutic management of patients with colorectal or lung cancer, particularly for the selection and monitoring of treatment with tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Although plasma is the main source of genetic material for tumor genomic profiling, liquid biopsy by ddPCR is being investigated in a wide variety of biologic fluids, such as cerebrospinal fluid, urine, stool, ocular fluids, sputum, saliva, bronchoalveolar lavage, pleural effusion, mucin, peritoneal fluid, fine needle aspirate, bile or pancreatic juice. The present review focuses on these "alternative" sources of genetic material and their analysis by ddPCR in different kinds of cancers.

The Prognostic Significance of MACC1 Expression in Breast Cancer and Its Relationship to Immune Cells in the Tumor Microenvironment and Patient Survival

Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most prevalent malignancies among females worldwide. Globally, distant metastases were reported to be responsible for a large proportion of breast cancer-related deaths. The metastasis-associated colon cancer-1 (MACC1) gene was reported as a reliable biomarker for early detection of metastasis and prediction of prognosis of breast cancer. This study investigated the prognostic significance of MACC1 in breast cancer in relation to the clinicopathologic characteristics and patients’ survival. Furthermore, the possible correlation between MACC1 expression and the different immune cells in the tumor microenvironment was explored. MACC1 mRNA was identified using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction in 120 breast cancer specimens and adjacent non-cancerous tissues. MACC1 mRNA expression was significantly higher in the cancerous relative to the non-cancerous tissues (p < 0.001). High MACC1 expression was significantly associated with poor prognostic parameters, such as larger tumor size, grade III tumors, positive nodal metastasis, lymphovascular invasion, stage III tumors, and elevated Ki-67 expression. Higher MACC1 mRNA levels were positively correlated with CD163+ tumor-associated macrophages (r = 0.614, p < 0.001), and were negatively correlated with CD56+ natural killer cells (r = −0.398, p < 0.001) and CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (r = −0.323, p < 0.001). MACC1 expression was associated with poor patient overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) (p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis suggested that MACC1 expression and the presence of lymphovascular invasion could be independent prognostic indicators for breast cancer (p = 0.015 and 0.042, respectively). In conclusion, MACC1 is highly expressed in cancerous tissues and is significantly related to poor prognostic factors, overall survival, and progression-free survival. MACC1 may influence infiltration of the immune cells in the tumor microenvironment, enhance immune escape of tumor cells, and may serve as a reliable independent prognostic factor for breast cancer.

The newly identified MEK1 tyrosine phosphorylation target MACC1 is druggable by approved MEK1 inhibitors to restrict colorectal cancer metastasis

Cancer metastasis causes >90% of cancer deaths and remains a major treatment challenge. Here we deciphered the impact of tyrosine phosphorylation of MACC1, a causative driver for cancer metastasis, for cancer cell signaling and novel interventions to restrict cancer metastasis. We identified MACC1 as new MEK1 substrate. MEK1 directly phosphorylates MACC1, leading to accelerated and increased ERK1 activation. Mutating in silico predicted hierarchical MACC1 tyrosine phosphorylation sites abrogates MACC1-induced migration, invasion, and MET expression, a transcriptional MACC1 target. Targeting MEK1 by RNAi or clinically applicable MEK1 inhibitors AZD6244 and GSK1120212 reduces MACC1 tyrosine phosphorylation and restricts MACC1-induced metastasis formation in mice. Although MEK1 levels, contrary to MACC1, are not of prognostic relevance for CRC patients, MEK1 expression was found indispensable for MACC1-induced metastasis. This study identifies MACC1 as new MEK1 substrate for tyrosine phosphorylation decisively impacting cell motility, tumor growth, and metastasis. Thus, MAP kinase signaling is not linear leading to ERK activation, but branches at the level of MEK1. This fundamental finding opens new therapeutic options for targeting the MEK1/MACC1 axis as novel vulnerability in patients at high risk for metastasis. This might be extended from CRC to further solid tumor entities.

Circulating PTGS2, JAG1, GUCY2C and PGF mRNA in Peripheral Blood and Serum as Potential Biomarkers for Patients with Metastatic Colon Cancer

Genes involved in the angiogenic process have been proposed for the diagnosis and therapeutic response of metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC). This study aimed to investigate the value of PTGS2, JAG1, GUCY2C and PGF-circulating RNA as biomarkers in metastatic CRC. Blood cells and serum mRNA from 59 patients with metastatic CRC and 47 healthy controls were analyzed by digital PCR. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was used to estimate the diagnostic value of each mRNA alone or mRNA combinations. A significant upregulation of the JAG1, PTGS2 and GUCY2C genes in blood cells and serum samples from metastatic CRC patients was detected. Circulating mRNA levels in the serum of all genes were significantly more abundant than in blood. The highest discrimination ability between metastatic CRC patients and healthy donors was obtained with PTGS2 (AUC of 0.984) and GUCY2C (AUC of 0.896) in serum samples. Biomarker combinations did not improve the discriminatory capacity of biomarkers separately. Analyzed biomarkers showed no correlation with overall survival or progression-free survival, but GUCY2C and GUCY2C/PTGS2 expression in serum correlated significantly with the response to antiangiogenic agents. These findings demonstrate that assessment of genes involved in the angiogenic process may be a potential non-invasive diagnostic tool for metastatic CRC and its response to antiangiogenic therapy.

Research Progress in Prognostic Factors and Biomarkers of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is a serious threat to women's health; its early diagnosis rate is low and prone to metastasis and recurrence. The current conventional treatment for ovarian cancer is a combination of platinum and paclitaxel chemotherapy based on surgery. The recurrence and progression of ovarian cancer with poor prognosis is a major challenge in treatment. With rapid advances in technology, understanding of the molecular pathways involved in ovarian cancer recurrence and progression has increased, biomarker-guided treatment options can greatly improve the prognosis of patients. This review systematically discusses and summarizes existing and new information on prognostic factors and biomarkers of ovarian cancer, which is expected to improve the clinical management of patients and lead to effective personalized treatment.

The levels of soluble cMET ectodomain in the blood of patients with ovarian cancer are an independent prognostic biomarker

The tyrosine kinase mesenchymal–epithelial transition (cMET) is typically overexpressed in up to 75% of patients with ovarian cancer, and cMET overexpression has been associated with poor prognosis. The proteolytic release of the soluble cMET (sMET) ectodomain by metalloproteases, a process called ectodomain shedding, reflects the malignant potential of tumour cells. sMET can be detected in the human circulation and has been proposed as biomarker in several cancers. However, the clinical relevance of sMET in ovarian cancer as blood‐based biomarker is unknown and was therefore investigated in this study. sMET levels were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay in a set of 432 serum samples from 85 healthy controls and 86 patients with ovarian cancer (87% FIGO III/IV). Samples were collected at primary diagnosis, at four longitudinal follow‐up time points during the course of treatment and at disease recurrence. Although there was no significant difference between median sMET levels at primary diagnosis of ovarian cancer vs. healthy controls, increased sMET levels at primary diagnosis were an independent predictor of shorter PFS (HR = 0.354, 95% CI: 0.130–0.968, P = 0.043) and shorter OS (HR = 0.217, 95% CI: 0.064–0.734, P = 0.014). In the follow‐up samples, sMET levels were prognostically most informative after the first three cycles of chemotherapy, with high sMET levels being an independent predictor of shorter PFS (HR = 0.245, 95% CI: 0.100–0.602, P = 0.002). This is the first study to suggest that sMET levels in the blood can be used as an independent prognostic biomarker for ovarian cancer. Patients at high risk of recurrence and with poor prognosis, as identified based on sMET levels in the blood, could potentially benefit from cMET‐directed therapies or other targeted regimes, such as PARP inhibitors or immunotherapy.

Discovery of CASP8 as a potential biomarker for high-risk prostate cancer through a high-multiplex immunoassay

Prostate cancer remains the most common non-cutaneous malignancy among men in the United States. To discover potential serum-based biomarkers for high-risk prostate cancer, we performed a high-multiplex immunoassay utilizing patient-matched pre-operative and post-operative serum samples from ten men with high-grade and high-volume prostate cancer. Our study identified six (CASP8, MSLN, FGFBP1, ICOSLG, TIE2 and S100A4) out of 174 proteins that were significantly decreased after radical prostatectomy. High levels of CASP8 were detected in pre-operative serum samples when compared to post-operative serum samples and serum samples from patients with benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). By immunohistochemistry, CASP8 protein was expressed at higher levels in prostate cancer tissues compared to non-cancerous and BPH tissues. Likewise, CASP8 mRNA expression was significantly upregulated in prostate cancer when compared to benign prostate tissues in four independent clinical datasets. In addition, mRNA levels of CASP8 were higher in patients with recurrent prostate cancer when compared to patients with non-recurrent prostate cancer and high expression of CASP8 was associated with worse disease-free survival and overall survival in renal cancer. Together, our results suggest that CASP8 may potentially serve as a biomarker for high-risk prostate cancer and possibly renal cancer.

Prognostic significance of the expression of metastasis-associated in colon cancer-1 in gynecologic cancers and breast cancer: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The prognostic role of the expression of metastasis-associated in colon cancer-1 (MACC1) in gynecologic cancers and breast cancer remains unclear. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine the prognostic significance of MACC1 expression in gynecologic cancers and breast cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PubMed, Web of Science and Embase were comprehensively searched up to February 9, 2020. Studies focusing on the relationship between the expression of MACC1 and prognosis in gynecologic cancers and breast cancer were included into the analysis. Pooled hazard ratio (HR) or odd ratio with 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to estimate the prognostic value of the expression of MACC1.

RESULTS

A total of 1,811patients with gynecologic cancers or breast cancer were included into the analysis. Patients with high expression of MACC1 tended to suffer a shorter overall survival (HR = 2.76, 95%CI = 2.12-3.59, P < .01) and recurrence-free survival (HR = 2.37, 95%CI = 1.44-3.90, P < .01) compared to those with low expression of MACC1. High expression of MACC1 was significantly associated with worse tumor differentiation (P = .04), more advanced FIGO stage (P < .01) and earlier lymph node metastasis (P < .01) compared to low expression of MACC1.

CONCLUSION

Compared to low expression of MACC1, high expression of MACC1 predicts a worse prognosis of gynecologic cancers and breast cancer. The expression of MACC1 can serve as a prognostic indicator of gynecologic cancers and breast cancer.

Quantification of mRNA Expression Using Single-Molecule Nanopore Sensing

RNA quantification methods are broadly used in life science research and in clinical diagnostics. Currently, real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) is the most common analytical tool for RNA quantification. However, in cases of rare transcripts or inhibiting contaminants in the sample, an extensive amplification could bias the copy number estimation, leading to quantification errors and false diagnosis. Single-molecule techniques may bypass amplification but commonly rely on fluorescence detection and probe hybridization, which introduces noise and limits multiplexing. Here, we introduce reverse transcription quantitative nanopore sensing (RT-qNP), an RNA quantification method that involves synthesis and single-molecule detection of gene-specific cDNAs without the need for purification or amplification. RT-qNP allows us to accurately quantify the relative expression of metastasis-associated genes MACC1 and S100A4 in nonmetastasizing and metastasizing human cell lines, even at levels for which RT-qPCR quantification produces uncertain results. We further demonstrate the versatility of the method by adapting it to quantify severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) RNA against a human reference gene. This internal reference circumvents the need for producing a calibration curve for each measurement, an imminent requirement in RT-qPCR experiments. In summary, we describe a general method to process complicated biological samples with minimal losses, adequate for direct nanopore sensing. Thus, harnessing the sensitivity of label-free single-molecule counting, RT-qNP can potentially detect minute expression levels of RNA biomarkers or viral infection in the early stages of disease and provide accurate amplification-free quantification.

Oncogenic roles of lncRNA BLACAT1 and its related mechanisms in human cancers

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play indispensable roles in mediating regulation of epigenetics, and their dysregulation is strongly associated with the initiation and progression of human cancers. Recently, lncRNA bladder cancer-associated transcript 1 (BLACAT1) has been observed to exert oncogenic effects on cancers, including glioma, breast cancer, lung cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, gastric cancer, colorectal cancer, ovarian cancer, cervical cancer and osteosarcoma. Additional mechanical analyses have uncovered that lncRNA BLACAT1 is positively correlated with tumor stage, lymph node metastasis and distant metastasis of primary tumors via involvement with various cellular activities, thus leading to poor overall survival and progression-free survival (PFS). In this review, we generalize the oncogenic roles of BLACAT1 in multiple human cancers through correlation with clinical implications and cellular activities. Moreover, we forecast its potential clinical application as a novel biomarker and a promising therapeutic target for cancers.

Knockdown of ferritin heavy chain (FTH) inhibits the migration of prostate cancer through reducing S100A4, S100A2, and S100P expression

BACKGROUND

Ferritin plays a key role in the development of prostate cancer (PCa). Our earlier studies showed that the knockdown of ferritin heavy chain (FTH) suppressed the migration and invasion of the prostate cancer cell line (PC3). However, the mechanisms behind FTH in the cell migration regulation of PCa have not been thoroughly investigated.

METHODS

Isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) proteomics was used to analyze the protein expression in PC3 cells with FTH knockdown by small interfering RNAs and negative control cells. We subsequently ranked the differentially expressed proteins according to the change in expression. We further performed Gene Ontology (GO) analysis for the changing-expression protein. Finally, Western blot analysis was performed to determine the expression of the target protein.

RESULTS

Compared with the negative group, 420 proteins were downregulated, including proteins S100A4, S100P, and S100A2, while the expression of 442 protein was elevated in FTH-silencing PC3 cells (P<0.05, fold change >1.2). The mass spectrometry results showing decreased expression of protein S100A4, S100P, and S100A2 in the cells were further validated by Western blot (P<0.05). Levels of protein S100A4, S100A2, and S100P were reduced in FTH-silencing PC3 cells (P<0.05, fold change >1.6).

CONCLUSIONS

The downregulation of FTH expression reduced the level of protein S100A4, S100A2, and S100P, which all play a key role in the migration and invasion of tumor cells. Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that there are correlations between the expression of the S100A4, S100A2, and S100P genes with FTH. Based on this research, FTH may be a new biomarker for the diagnosis of PCa.

Inhibition of lung cancer by vitamin D depends on downregulation of histidine-rich calcium-binding protein

Introduction

Intrinsic vitamin D affects the proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, metastasis, and tumorigenesis of lung cancer by regulating tumor signaling pathways. Histidine-rich calcium-binding protein (HRC) maintains Ca²⁺ homeostasis, which plays crucial roles in the occurrence and development of cancer.

Objectives

Our study aims to investigate the ability of vitamin D in the regulation of HRC and the role of HRC playing in lung cancer.

Methods

We investigated the effects of vitamin D on lung cancer and the underlying mechanisms, by measuring HRC and vitamin D receptor (VDR) expression in lung cancer, paracancer, and normal tissues from patients using immunohistochemistry, western blotting, and real time RT-PCR. We transfected H460 lung cancer cells (supplemented or not with vitamin D) with PX458-HRC and pcDNA3.1-HRC plasmids and injected mice with lung cancer cells harboring pcDNA3.1-vector or pcDNA3.1-HRC plasmids.

Results

Vitamin D inhibited HRC expression and H460 cell migration and proliferation, and promoted apoptosis compared with controls. The expression of HRC and VDR was significantly upregulated and downregulated, respectively, in lung cancer versus paracancer or normal tissues. Cell proliferation and migration were reduced, apoptotic cells were more and tumors were smaller in mice treated with vitamin D/cholecalciferol cholesterol emulsion (CCE) than in vitamin D/CCE+HRC^+/+ mice.

Conclusion

Vitamin D inhibited lung cancer tumor growth, migration, and proliferation by downregulating HRC.

Quantitative shear wave elastography in primary invasive breast cancers, based on collagen-S100A4 pathology, indicates axillary lymph node metastasis

Background

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the value of quantitative shear wave elastography (SWE) in indicating the axillary lymph node metastasis (LNM) of invasive breast cancers (IBCs) and to investigate if S100A4 plays a key role in promoting metastasis and increasing stiffness in IBC.

Methods

The differences in SWE of 223 IBC patients were compared between the LNM+ and LNM- groups and the optimal cutoff values of SWE for diagnosing LNM were calculated. We searched the gene expression omnibus (GEO) to determine whether S100A4 was more highly expressed in IBCs that were LNM+ than in those that were LNM-. Sirius red and immunohistochemical staining were used to examine the collagen deposition and S100A4 expression of included tissue samples, and correlations of SWE and S100A4 expression with collagen deposition were analyzed.

Results

The optimal cutoff values for Emax (the maximum stiff value), Emean (the mean stiff value), and EmeanR (the ratio of Emean between mass and parenchyma) for diagnosing axillary LNM were 111.05 kPa, 79.80 kPa, and 6.89, respectively. GSE9893 exhibited more increased S100A4 expression in IBCs that were LNM+ than in those that were LNM-. Collagen volume fraction (CVF) and the average optical density of S100A4 (AOD_S100A4) in the LNM+ group were significantly higher than those in the LNM- group. Emax, Emean, EmeanR, and AOD_S100A4 were all positively correlated with CVF.

Conclusions

SWE in primary IBC could be useful for indicating axillary LNM. S100A4 may be a factor that regulates cancer-associated collagen deposition and metastasis; however, prospective molecular biological studies are needed.

Principles of digital PCR and its applications in current obstetrical and gynecological diseases

Digital PCR (dPCR) is a revolutionary technique to precisely quantify nucleic acids. For its high sensitivity and specificity, this technique has been widely replicated worldwide. To verify its applicability, we reviewed all the related articles in PubMed database published before May 10, 2019. Original articles and reviews on the topics were selected. Entered key words included "digital PCR/dPCR", "advantage", "combined use", "microfluidic chip", "gynecological cancer/tumor". We found that dPCR has shown great potential in clinical operations, like tumor liquid biopsy, non-invasive prenatal diagnosis, microorganism detection, and next-generation sequencing library quality-control.

Recent Advances in Droplet-based Microfluidic Technologies for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Recently, droplet-based microfluidic systems have been widely used in various biochemical and molecular biological assays. Since this platform technique allows manipulation of large amounts of data and also provides absolute accuracy in comparison to conventional bioanalytical approaches, over the last decade a range of basic biochemical and molecular biological operations have been transferred to drop-based microfluidic formats. In this review, we introduce recent advances and examples of droplet-based microfluidic techniques that have been applied in biochemistry and molecular biology research including genomics, proteomics and cellomics. Their advantages and weaknesses in various applications are also comprehensively discussed here. The purpose of this review is to provide a new point of view and current status in droplet-based microfluidics to biochemists and molecular biologists. We hope that this review will accelerate communications between researchers who are working in droplet-based microfluidics, biochemistry and molecular biology.