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Stayoussef M, Weili X, Habel A, Barbirou M, Bedoui S, Attia A, Omrani Y, Zouari K, Maghrebi H, Almawi WY, Bouhaouala-Zahar B, Larbi A, Yacoubi-Loueslati B. Altered expression of cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, and soluble receptors in patients with colorectal cancer, and correlation with treatment outcome. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2024; 73:169. [PMID: 38954024 PMCID: PMC11219625 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-024-03746-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Insofar as they play an important role in the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer (CRC), this study analyzes the serum profile of cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, and soluble receptors in patients with CRC and cancer-free controls as possible CRC signatures. Serum levels of 65 analytes were measured in patients with CRC and age- and sex-matched cancer-free controls using the ProcartaPlex Human Immune Monitoring 65-Plex Panel. Of the 65 tested analytes, 8 cytokines (CSF-3, IFN-γ, IL-12p70, IL-18, IL-20, MIF, TNF-α and TSLP), 8 chemokines (fractalkine, MIP-1β, BLC, Eotaxin-1, Eotaxin-2, IP-10, MIP-1a, MIP-3a), 2 growth factors (FGF-2, MMP-1), and 4 soluble receptors (APRIL, CD30, TNFRII, and TWEAK), were differentially expressed in CRC. ROC analysis confirmed the high association of TNF-α, BLC, Eotaxin-1, APRIL, and Tweak with AUC > 0.70, suggesting theranostic application. The expression of IFN-γ, IL-18, MIF, BLC, Eotaxin-1, Eotaxin-2, IP-10, and MMP1 was lower in metastatic compared to non-metastatic CRC; only AUC of MIF and MIP-1β were > 0.7. Moreover, MDC, IL-7, MIF, IL-21, and TNF-α are positively associated with tolerance to CRC chemotherapy (CT) (AUC > 0.7), whereas IL-31, Fractalkine, Eotaxin-1, and Eotaxin-2 were positively associated with resistance to CT. TNF-α, BLC, Eotaxin-1, APRIL, and Tweak may be used as first-line early detection of CRC. The variable levels of MIF and MIP-1β between metastatic and non-metastatic cases assign prognostic nature to these factors in CRC progression. Regarding tolerance to CT, MDC, IL-7, MIF, IL-21, and TNF-α are key when down-regulated or resistant to treatment is observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Stayoussef
- Laboratory of Mycology, Faculty of Sciences of Tunis (FST), Pathologies and Biomarkers (LR16ES05), University of Tunis El Manar (UTM), 1092, Tunis, Tunisia.
| | - X Weili
- Singapore Immunology Network (SIgN), Agency for Science Technology and Research (A*STAR), Immunos Building, Singapore, 138648, Singapore
| | - A Habel
- Laboratory of Mycology, Faculty of Sciences of Tunis (FST), Pathologies and Biomarkers (LR16ES05), University of Tunis El Manar (UTM), 1092, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - M Barbirou
- Center for Biomedical Informatics, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - S Bedoui
- Laboratory of Mycology, Faculty of Sciences of Tunis (FST), Pathologies and Biomarkers (LR16ES05), University of Tunis El Manar (UTM), 1092, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - A Attia
- Laboratory of Mycology, Faculty of Sciences of Tunis (FST), Pathologies and Biomarkers (LR16ES05), University of Tunis El Manar (UTM), 1092, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Y Omrani
- Laboratory of Biomolecules, Venoms and Theranostic Applications, University of Tunis El Manar (UTM), Pasteur Institute of Tunis, 13 Place Pasteur, B.P. 74, 1002, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - K Zouari
- Department of Digestive Surgery, Fattouma Bourguiba Hospital, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - H Maghrebi
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar (UTM), Tunis, Tunisia
| | - W Y Almawi
- Laboratory of Mycology, Faculty of Sciences of Tunis (FST), Pathologies and Biomarkers (LR16ES05), University of Tunis El Manar (UTM), 1092, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - B Bouhaouala-Zahar
- Laboratory of Biomolecules, Venoms and Theranostic Applications, University of Tunis El Manar (UTM), Pasteur Institute of Tunis, 13 Place Pasteur, B.P. 74, 1002, Tunis, Tunisia
- University of Tunis El Manar (UTM), Medical School of Tunis, Rue Djebal Lakhdar, 1006, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - A Larbi
- Singapore Immunology Network (SIgN), Agency for Science Technology and Research (A*STAR), Immunos Building, Singapore, 138648, Singapore
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - B Yacoubi-Loueslati
- Laboratory of Mycology, Faculty of Sciences of Tunis (FST), Pathologies and Biomarkers (LR16ES05), University of Tunis El Manar (UTM), 1092, Tunis, Tunisia
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Bocchi M, de Sousa Pereira N, de Oliveira KB, Amarante MK. Involvement of CXCL12/CXCR4 axis in colorectal cancer: a mini-review. Mol Biol Rep 2023:10.1007/s11033-023-08479-1. [PMID: 37219666 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08479-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Migration of metastatic tumor cells is similar to the traffic of leukocytes and has been reported that can be guided by chemokines and their receptors, through the circulation to distant organs. The chemokine CXCL12 and its receptor CXCR4 play an essential role in hematopoietic stem cell homing and the activation of this axis supports malignant events. Binding of CXCL12 to CXCR4 activates signal transduction pathways, with broad effects on chemotaxis, cell proliferation, migration and gene expression. Thus, this axis serves as a bridge for tumor-stromal cell communication, creating a permissive microenvironment for tumor development, survival, angiogenesis and metastasis. Evidence suggests that this axis may be involved in the colorectal cancer (CRC) carcinogenesis. Therefore, we review emerging data and correlations between CXCL12/CXCR4 axis in CRC, the implications for cancer progression and possible therapeutic strategies that exploit this system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayara Bocchi
- Oncology Laboratory, Department of Pathology, Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Health Sciences Center, Londrina State University, Londrina, PR, Brazil
| | - Nathália de Sousa Pereira
- Oncology Laboratory, Department of Pathology, Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Health Sciences Center, Londrina State University, Londrina, PR, Brazil
| | - Karen Brajão de Oliveira
- Oncology Laboratory, Department of Pathology, Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Health Sciences Center, Londrina State University, Londrina, PR, Brazil
- Department of Pathological Sciences, Biological Sciences Center, Londrina State University, Londrina, PR, Brazil
| | - Marla Karine Amarante
- Oncology Laboratory, Department of Pathology, Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Health Sciences Center, Londrina State University, Londrina, PR, Brazil.
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Inhibition of Angiogenesis by MiR-524-5p through Suppression of AKT and ERK Activation by Targeting CXCR7 in Colon Cancer Cells. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2022; 2022:7224840. [DOI: 10.1155/2022/7224840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Increasing evidence shows that alterations in microRNA (miRNA) expression are involved in the occurrence and development of various malignant tumors, including colon cancer. MiRNA-524-5p has been reported to have anticancer activity in colon cancer. This study explored the influence of the miRNA-524-5p/CXCR7 axis on angiogenesis using colon cancer cells and further studied the mechanisms involved. We found that changing the expression of miRNA-524-5p can affect colonic proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis. Furthermore, angiogenesis induced by miRNA-524-5p overexpression was reversed by overexpression of CXCR7 in HT-29 cells, while the opposite was observed in Caco-2 cells. Furthermore, miRNA-524-5p inhibited the activation of AKT and ERK signaling by targeting CXCR7. Overall, our results indicated that the miRNA-524-5p/CXCR7 axis regulated angiogenesis in colon cancer cells through the AKT and ERK pathways.
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Braoudaki M, Ahmad MS, Mustafov D, Seriah S, Siddiqui MN, Siddiqui SS. Chemokines and chemokine receptors in colorectal cancer; multifarious roles and clinical impact. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 86:436-449. [PMID: 35700938 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is considered the second cause of cancer death worldwide. The early diagnosis plays a key role in patient prognosis and subsequently overall survival. Similar to several types of cancer, colorectal cancer is also characterised by drug resistance and heterogeneity that contribute to its complexity -especially at advanced stages. However, despite the extensive research related to the identification of biomarkers associated to early diagnosis, accurate prognosis and the management of CRC patients, little progress has been made thus far. Therefore, the mortality rates, especially at advanced stages, remain high. A large family of chemoattractant cytokines called chemokines are known for their significant role in inflammation and immunity. Chemokines released by the different tumorous cells play a key role in increasing the complexity of the tumour's microenvironment. The current review investigates the role of chemokines and chemokine receptors in colorectal cancer and their potential as clinical molecular signatures that could be effectively used as a personalised therapeutic approach. We discussed how chemokine and chemokine receptors regulate the microenvironment and lead to heterogeneity in CRC. An important aspect of chemokines is their role in drug resistance which has been extensively discussed. This review also provides an overview of the current advances in the search for chemokines and chemokine receptors in CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Braoudaki
- Dept of Clinical, Pharmaceutical and Biological Sciences, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Mohammed Saqif Ahmad
- Dept of Clinical, Pharmaceutical and Biological Sciences, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Denis Mustafov
- Dept of Clinical, Pharmaceutical and Biological Sciences, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Sara Seriah
- Dept of Clinical, Pharmaceutical and Biological Sciences, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Mohammad Naseem Siddiqui
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi 110025, India
| | - Shoib Sarwar Siddiqui
- Dept of Clinical, Pharmaceutical and Biological Sciences, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, UK.
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Goïta AA, Guenot D. Colorectal Cancer: The Contribution of CXCL12 and Its Receptors CXCR4 and CXCR7. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:1810. [PMID: 35406582 PMCID: PMC8997717 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14071810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers, and diagnosis at late metastatic stages is the main cause of death related to this cancer. This progression to metastasis is complex and involves different molecules such as the chemokine CXCL12 and its two receptors CXCR4 and CXCR7. The high expression of receptors in CRC is often associated with a poor prognosis and aggressiveness of the tumor. The interaction of CXCL12 and its receptors activates signaling pathways that induce chemotaxis, proliferation, migration, and cell invasion. To this end, receptor inhibitors were developed, and their use in preclinical and clinical studies is ongoing. This review provides an overview of studies involving CXCR4 and CXCR7 in CRC with an update on their targeting in anti-cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dominique Guenot
- INSERM U1113/Unistra, IRFAC—Interface de Recherche Fondamentale et Appliquée en Cancérologie, 67200 Strasbourg, France;
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Guo J, Tong CY, Shi JG, Li XJ. C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12)/C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 7(CXCR7) regulates epithelial-mesenchymal transition process and promotes the metastasis of esophageal cancer by activating signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway. Bioengineered 2022; 13:7425-7438. [PMID: 35264069 PMCID: PMC8973702 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2022.2048984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Esophageal cancer is a malignant tumor of the digestive system that is prone to metastasis. Chemokines and their receptors act an essential role in the occurrence and development of tumors. Here, we investigated the regulatory mechanism of CXCL12/CXCR7 in the growth and metastasis of esophageal cancer. CXCR7 was found highly expressed in clinical tissues and cells of esophageal cancer. Knockdown of CXCR7 inhibited the proliferation, migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process of esophageal cancer cells. The knockdown of chemokine CXCL12 also inhibited the expression of EMT-related proteins and the mesenchymal morphology changes of esophageal cancer cells, but the knockdown of C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) had no such effect. Furthermore, the knockdown of CXCR7 attenuated the enhanced EMT process induced by CXCL12 overexpression, while the knockdown of CXCR4 cannot inhibit this process. In addition, overexpressed CXCL12/CXCR7 activated the downstream STAT3 pathway, but had little effect on the extracellular regulated protein kinase (ERK) or serine-threonine kinase (AKT) pathways. Inhibition of the STAT3 pathway using AZD9150 weakened the accelerated effects of CXCL12/CXCR7 on the growth and metastasis of esophageal cancer in vitro and in vivo. In conclusion, our research revealed that CXCL12/CXCR7 regulates EMT and other malignant processes by activating the STAT3 pathway to accelerate the growth and metastasis of esophageal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Guo
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang province, China
| | - Chang-Yong Tong
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang province, China
| | - Jian-Guang Shi
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang province, China
| | - Xin-Jian Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang province, China
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Li J, Xu Z. NR3C2 suppresses the proliferation, migration, invasion and angiogenesis of colon cancer cells by inhibiting the AKT/ERK signaling pathway. Mol Med Rep 2022; 25:133. [PMID: 35191517 PMCID: PMC8908346 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2022.12649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Nuclear receptor subfamily 3, group C, member 2 (NR3C2) serves an antitumorigenic role in several types of cancer; however, its role and mechanisms of action in colon cancer remains to be elucidated. The aim of the present study was to explore the effects of NR3C2 on the proliferation, migration, invasion and angiogenesis of colon cancer cells. The expression levels of NR3C2 in human colon epithelial NCM460 cells (spontaneously immortalized cell line) and colon cancer cell lines was detected using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and western blotting. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and colony formation assays were used to assess cell viability and wound healing and Transwell assays were used to detect cell invasion and migration. ELISA was used to detect the expression levels of VEGF and tube formation assays were used to assess angiogenesis. The expression levels of angiogenesis-related proteins and AKT/ERK signaling pathway-related proteins were detected by western blotting. NR3C2 expression was downregulated in colon cancer cells and overexpression of NR3C2 inhibited proliferation, colony formation, migration and invasion of colon cancer cells. Overexpression of NR3C2 inhibited angiogenesis and activity of the AKT/ERK signaling pathway in colon cancer cells. Thus, it was demonstrated that NR3C2 inhibited the proliferation, colony formation, migration, invasion and angiogenesis of colon cancer cells through the AKT/ERK signaling pathway. These results may highlight novel targets for the treatment of colon cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Li
- Nanchang University Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, P.R. China
| | - Zhao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, P.R. China
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Pan W, Wu A, Yu H, Yu Q, Zheng B, Yang W, Tian D, Gao Y, Li P. NEAT1 Negatively Regulates Cell Proliferation and Migration of Neuroblastoma Cells by miR-183-5p/FOXP1 Via the ERK/AKT Pathway. Cell Transplant 2021; 29:963689720943608. [PMID: 32693640 PMCID: PMC7563027 DOI: 10.1177/0963689720943608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroblastoma, a malignant tumor of the sympathetic nervous system, is an
aggressive extracranial tumor in childhood. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have
been discovered to play a key role in the eukaryotic regulatory gene network and
be involved in a wide variety of biological processes. We observed that the
expression of lncRNA nuclear-enriched abundant transcript-1 (NEAT1) was
significantly decreased in human neuroblastoma tissues and cell lines, compared
with the normal. We observed cell proliferation, migration, and invasion with
Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, colony formation assay, and Transwell assay to
investigate the effects of NEAT1, miR-183-5p, or FOXP1 on neuroblastoma cells.
And we also used StarBase and luciferase reporter gene assay to predict and
confirm the interaction of NEAT1, miR-183-5p, and FOXP1 in neuroblastoma cells.
First, overexpression of NEAT1 suppressed cell proliferation and played a key
role in cell migration and invasion. In addition, NEAT1 was demonstrated to
directly interact with miR-183-5p and exerted its antioncogenic role in
neuroblastoma by negatively regulating miR-183-5p expression. miR-183-5p
suppressed the expression of FOXP1 and regulated cell proliferation and
migration by directly targeting FOXP1 mRNA 3′-untranslated region. Moreover,
FOXP1 antagonized the effect of miR-183-5p on the phosphorylation of
extracellular-regulated kinase/protein kinase B (ERK/AKT), while FOXP1 siRNA
increased the reduced phosphorylation of ERK/AKT caused by miR-183-5p inhibitor
in neuroblastoma cells. Taken together, these data showed that NEAT1 negatively
regulated cell proliferation and migration of neuroblastoma by the
miR-183-5p/FOXP1 axis via suppression of the ERK/AKT pathway. Our findings may
provide a new target for the study of pathogenesis and treatment of
neuroblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weikang Pan
- Pediatric Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Both the authors contributed equally to this article
| | - Ali Wu
- Department of Endoscopy, Shaanxi Nuclear Industry, Xianyang, China.,Both the authors contributed equally to this article
| | - Hui Yu
- Pediatric Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Qiang Yu
- Pediatric Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Baijun Zheng
- Pediatric Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Weili Yang
- Pediatric Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Donghao Tian
- Pediatric Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ya Gao
- Pediatric Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Peng Li
- Pediatric Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
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Khare T, Bissonnette M, Khare S. CXCL12-CXCR4/CXCR7 Axis in Colorectal Cancer: Therapeutic Target in Preclinical and Clinical Studies. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147371. [PMID: 34298991 PMCID: PMC8305488 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemokines are chemotactic cytokines that promote cancer growth, metastasis, and regulate resistance to chemotherapy. Stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF1) also known as C-X-C motif chemokine 12 (CXCL12), a prognostic factor, is an extracellular homeostatic chemokine that is the natural ligand for chemokine receptors C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4), also known as fusin or cluster of differentiation 184 (CD184) and chemokine receptor type 7 (CXCR7). CXCR4 is the most widely expressed rhodopsin-like G protein coupled chemokine receptor (GPCR). The CXCL12–CXCR4 axis is involved in tumor growth, invasion, angiogenesis, and metastasis in colorectal cancer (CRC). CXCR7, recently termed as atypical chemokine receptor 3 (ACKR3), is amongst the G protein coupled cell surface receptor family that is also commonly expressed in a large variety of cancer cells. CXCR7, like CXCR4, regulates immunity, angiogenesis, stem cell trafficking, cell growth and organ-specific metastases. CXCR4 and CXCR7 are expressed individually or together, depending on the tumor type. When expressed together, CXCR4 and CXCR7 can form homo- or hetero-dimers. Homo- and hetero-dimerization of CXCL12 and its receptors CXCR4 and CXCR7 alter their signaling activity. Only few drugs have been approved for clinical use targeting CXCL12-CXCR4/CXCR7 axis. Several CXCR4 inhibitors are in clinical trials for solid tumor treatment with limited success whereas CXCR7-specific inhibitors are still in preclinical studies for CRC. This review focuses on current knowledge of chemokine CXCL12 and its receptors CXCR4 and CXCR7, with emphasis on targeting the CXCL12–CXCR4/CXCR7 axis as a treatment strategy for CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tripti Khare
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA;
| | - Marc Bissonnette
- Section of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA;
| | - Sharad Khare
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA;
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-573-884-8904; Fax: +1-573-885-4595
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Zhang S, Li D, Zhao M, Yang F, Sang C, Yan C, Wang Z, Li Y. Exosomal miR-183-5p Shuttled by M2 Polarized Tumor-Associated Macrophage Promotes the Development of Colon Cancer via Targeting THEM4 Mediated PI3K/AKT and NF-κB Pathways. Front Oncol 2021; 11:672684. [PMID: 34249713 PMCID: PMC8267908 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.672684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Abnormal accumulation of macrophages in the colon cancer (CC) contribute to its progression. miR-183-5p has been confirmed as an oncogene in CC and this article explores the effect and mechanism of exosomal miR-183-5p enriched by M2-polarized tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) on CC cells. Methods The human macrophage THP1 was induced to M2 polarization through IL-4 and IL-13 treatment. Exosomes in THP1 were isolated through ultracentrifugation, and the miR-183-5p expression in macrophages and exosomes was verified by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The miR-183-5p inhibitors and mimics were applied to down-regulate and upregulate miR-183-5p in macrophages, respectively. Meanwhile, CC cell lines LoVo and SW480 were treated with the macrophage conditioned medium and exosomes, respectively. CC cells’ proliferation, invasion, and apoptosis were tested by the cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, colony formation assay, flow cytometry (FCM), Transwell assay, and xenograft assay, respectively. The profiles of thioesterase superfamily member 4 (THEM4), Akt, and NF-κB were compared by Western blotting (WB). Results The miR-183-5p level in M2-TAM and M2-TAM-derived exosomes was significantly increased. Meanwhile, M2-TAM and M2-TAM-derived exosomes significantly facilitated CC cell proliferation and invasion and dampened apoptosis. Overexpression of miR-183-5p in M2-TAM aggravated M2-TAM-mediated promotive effects on CC cells, with down-regulating miR-183-5p reversed M2-TAM-mediated tumor-promotive effects. Mechanically, miR-183-5p targeted THEM4 and inhibited its mRNA and protein expression. Overexpressing THEM4 abated miR-183-5p-mediated carcinogenic effects and inactivates Akt and NF-κB pathways in CC cells. Overall, this article elaborated that exosomal miR-183-5p shuttled by M2-TAM mediated Akt/NF-κB pathway to accelerate CC progression through targeting THEM4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shangxin Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery & Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Deguan Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery & Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Min Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Yanqing District Hospital (Peking University Third Hospital Yanqing Hospital), Beijing, China
| | - Fei Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Beijing Yanqing District Hospital (Peking University Third Hospital Yanqing Hospital), Beijing, China
| | - Changye Sang
- Department of General Surgery, Yanqing District Hospital (Peking University Third Hospital Yanqing Hospital), Beijing, China
| | - Changhong Yan
- Department of General Surgery, Yanqing District Hospital (Peking University Third Hospital Yanqing Hospital), Beijing, China
| | - Zhenjun Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yongxiang Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery & Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
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Paracrine interleukin-8 affects mesenchymal stem cells through the Akt pathway and enhances human umbilical vein endothelial cell proliferation and migration. Biosci Rep 2021; 41:228273. [PMID: 33843989 PMCID: PMC8493446 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20210198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-8 (IL-8) promotes cell homing and angiogenesis, but its effects on activating human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) and promoting angiogenesis are unclear. We used bioinformatics to predict these processes. In vitro, BMSCs were stimulated in a high-glucose (HG) environment with 50 or 100 μg/ml IL-8 was used as the IL-8 group. A total of 5 μmol/l Triciribine was added to the two IL-8 groups as the Akt inhibitor group. Cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were cultured in BMSCs conditioned medium (CM). The changes in proliferation, apoptosis, migration ability and levels of VEGF and IL-6 in HUVECs were observed in each group. Seventy processes and 26 pathways were involved in vascular development, through which IL-8 affected BMSCs. Compared with the HG control group, HUVEC proliferation absorbance value (A value), Gap closure rate, and Transwell cell migration rate in the IL-8 50 and IL-8 100 CM groups were significantly increased (P<0.01, n=30). However, HUVEC apoptosis was significantly decreased (P<0.01, n=30). Akt and phospho-Akt (P-Akt) protein contents in lysates of BMSCs treated with IL-8, as well as VEGF and IL-6 protein contents in the supernatant of BMSCs treated with IL-8, were all highly expressed (P<0.01, n=15). These analyses confirmed that IL-8 promoted the expression of 41 core proteins in BMSCs through the PI3K Akt pathway, which could promote the proliferation and migration of vascular endothelial cells. Therefore, in an HG environment, IL-8 activated the Akt signaling pathway, promoted paracrine mechanisms of BMSCs, and improved the proliferation and migration of HUVECs.
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Li LJ, Chang WM, Hsiao M. Aberrant Expression of microRNA Clusters in Head and Neck Cancer Development and Progression: Current and Future Translational Impacts. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14030194. [PMID: 33673471 PMCID: PMC7997248 DOI: 10.3390/ph14030194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs are small non-coding RNAs known to negative regulate endogenous genes. Some microRNAs have high sequence conservation and localize as clusters in the genome. Their coordination is regulated by simple genetic and epigenetic events mechanism. In cells, single microRNAs can regulate multiple genes and microRNA clusters contain multiple microRNAs. MicroRNAs can be differentially expressed and act as oncogenic or tumor suppressor microRNAs, which are based on the roles of microRNA-regulated genes. It is vital to understand their effects, regulation, and various biological functions under both normal and disease conditions. Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas are some of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide and are regulated by many factors, including the dysregulation of microRNAs and their clusters. In disease stages, microRNA clusters can potentially control every field of oncogenic function, including growth, proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and intercellular commutation. Furthermore, microRNA clusters are regulated by genetic mutations or translocations, transcription factors, and epigenetic modifications. Additionally, microRNA clusters harbor the potential to act therapeutically against cancer in the future. Here, we review recent advances in microRNA cluster research, especially relative to head and neck cancers, and discuss their regulation and biological functions under pathological conditions as well as translational applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Jie Li
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei 115, Taiwan;
| | - Wei-Min Chang
- School of Oral Hygiene, College of Oral Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan;
| | - Michael Hsiao
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei 115, Taiwan;
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-2-2789–8752
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Sherif MF, Ismail IM, Ata SMS. Expression of CXCR7 in colorectal adenoma and adenocarcinoma: Correlation with clinicopathological parameters. Ann Diagn Pathol 2020; 49:151621. [PMID: 32949893 DOI: 10.1016/j.anndiagpath.2020.151621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Colorectal carcinoma (CRC) is one of the most lethal malignancies, it ranks third in cancer-related morbidity and mortality. Although great progress has been made in early diagnosis and combined treatment of CRC, the prognosis of patients remains poor owing to the high rate of recurrence and distant metastasis. CXCR7 belongs to chemokine receptor family and has been identified as a novel receptor for CXCL12. It plays an important role in development and in progression of cancer to metastatic stage. THE AIM OF STUDY To evaluate the immunohistochemical expression of CXCR7 in colorectal adenoma and carcinoma and to analyze its correlation with clinicopathological factors. This is retrospective study including 58 colonic adenocarcinoma specimens and 18 cases of colonic adenoma. RESULTS CXCR7 showed positive cytoplasmic expression in two out 18 cases of colorectal adenoma (11%) and 42 out of 58 cases of CRC (72.4%) with a significant difference between both (p < 0.001). We found a significant correlation between upregulation of CXCR7 and presence of lymphovascular tumor emboli, presence of lymph node metastasis and advanced TNM stage of the CRC. The association of the CXCR7 with patient age, sex, tumor size, depth of invasion and tumor cell differentiation was found to be non-significant. Regarding colonic adenoma, we found no significant association between CXCR7 expression on one hand and patient age, sex, tumor size, histologic type and degree of dysplasia on the other hand. CONCLUSION CXCR7 in CRC may act as a novel predictive indicator for prognosis and even be a potential molecular target for anticancer therapies.
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Xin Q, Sun Q, Zhang CS, Zhang Q, Li CJ. Functions and mechanisms of chemokine receptor 7 in tumors of the digestive system. World J Clin Cases 2020; 8:2448-2463. [PMID: 32607322 PMCID: PMC7322425 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v8.i12.2448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 7 (CXCR7), recently termed ACKR3, belongs to the G protein-coupled cell surface receptor family, binds to stromal cell-derived factor-1 [SDF-1, or chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 12] or chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 11, and is the most common chemokine receptor expressed in a variety of cancer cells. SDF-1 binds to its receptor chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 4 (CXCR4) and regulates cell proliferation, survival, angiogenesis and migration. In recent years, another new receptor for SDF-1, CXCR7, has been discovered, and CXCR7 has also been found to be expressed in a variety of tumor cells and tumor-related vascular endothelial cells. Many studies have shown that CXCR7 can promote the growth and metastasis of a variety of malignant tumor cells. Unlike CXCR4, CXCR7 exhibits a slight modification in the DRYLAIV motif and does not induce intracellular Ca2+ release following ligand binding, which is essential for recruiting and activating G proteins. CXCR7 is generally thought to work in three ways: (1) Recruiting β-arrestin 2; (2) Heterodimerizing with CXCR4; and (3) Acting as a “scavenger” of SDF-1, thus lowering the level of SDF-1 to weaken the activity of CXCR4. In the present review, the expression and role of CXCR7, as well as its prognosis in cancers of the digestive system, were investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Xin
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Third Central Hospital, The Third Central Clinical College of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Extracorporeal Life Support for Critical Diseases, Tianjin 300170, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Brain Science and Neural Engineering, Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Quan Sun
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Tianjin Third Central Hospital, The Third Central Clinical College of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Extracorporeal Life Support for Critical Diseases, Tianjin 300170, China
| | - Chuan-Shan Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Third Central Hospital, The Third Central Clinical College of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Extracorporeal Life Support for Critical Diseases, Tianjin 300170, China
| | - Qin Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Third Central Hospital, The Third Central Clinical College of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Extracorporeal Life Support for Critical Diseases, Tianjin 300170, China
| | - Chun-Jun Li
- Department of Endocrinology, Health Management Center, Tianjin Union Medical Center, Nankai University Affiliated Hospital, Tianjin 300121, China
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15
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CXCR7 Inhibits Fibrosis via Wnt/ β-Catenin Pathways during the Process of Angiogenesis in Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:1216926. [PMID: 32566651 PMCID: PMC7293734 DOI: 10.1155/2020/1216926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Although SDF-1/CXCR7 plays an important role in angiogenesis, the function and the pathway of the SDF-1/CXCR7 axis might depend on the cell type or tissue origin and not fully understood. In this study, we investigated the effect of CXCR7 in SDF-1-induced proliferation, migration, apoptosis, tube formation, and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), and the potential pathway of SDF-1/CXCR7. We confirmed that the silencing of CXCR7 inhibited the proliferation of HUVECs and contributed the apoptosis, while overexpressed CXCR7 increased SDF-1-induced HUVECs migration and tube formation. However, upregulated CXCR7 inhibited the expression of α-SMA, suggesting that CXCR7 might attenuate EndMT. In addition, overexpressed CXCR7 activated AKT and ERK signaling pathways but suppressed Wnt/β-catenin pathways in HUVECs. The inhibition of Wnt/β-catenin pathways decreased the expression of α-SMA. Altogether, these results suggest that CXCR7 might inhibit fibrosis via Wnt/β-catenin pathways during the process of angiogenesis.
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Li X, Wang X, Li Z, Liu Y, Sang L, Zhang Z, Zhang Y. Expression and regulation effects of chemokine receptor 7 in colon cancer cells. Oncol Lett 2020; 20:226-234. [PMID: 32565949 PMCID: PMC7285870 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2020.11561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In China the incidence and mortality rates of colon cancer have been increasing annually. Studies have revealed that CXCR7 is expressed in many tumors. The aim of the present study was to investigate the function of CXCR7 in colon cancer. The expression level of chemokine receptor 7 (CXCR7) in Caco-2 and HCT116 cells was investigated to elucidate the effect of CXCR7 on cell biological behavior. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and western blot analysis were used to detect the expression level of CXCR7 in Caco-2 and HCT116 cells after transfection with small interfering (si)RNA. To analyze the in vitro biological function of CXCR7, cell proliferation was measured using a Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, and cell invasion and migration were measured using Matrigel, and Transwell and wound healing assays. siRNAs were successfully transfected into Caco-2 and HCT116 cells and resulted in a decrease in CXCR7 protein and mRNA expression. Downregulation of CXCR7 inhibited Caco-2 and HCT116 cell proliferation, invasion, and migration. Regulation of CXCR7 expression may affect the biological behavior of Caco-2 and HCT116 cells, suggesting that CXCR7 has a potential role in molecular therapy in colon cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Li
- Department of Ultrasonic Diagnosis, The First Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, P.R. China
| | - Xuemei Wang
- Department of Ultrasonic Diagnosis, The First Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, P.R. China
| | - Zitao Li
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hongqi Hospital, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang 157011, P.R. China
| | - Yanjun Liu
- Department of Ultrasonic Diagnosis, The First Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, P.R. China
| | - Liang Sang
- Department of Ultrasonic Diagnosis, The First Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, P.R. China
| | - Zhen Zhang
- Department of Ultrasonic Diagnosis, The First Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, P.R. China
| | - Yixia Zhang
- Department of Ultrasonic Diagnosis, The First Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, P.R. China
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Lounsbury N. Advances in CXCR7 Modulators. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2020; 13:ph13020033. [PMID: 32098047 PMCID: PMC7169404 DOI: 10.3390/ph13020033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
CXC chemokine receptor 7 (CXCR7) is a G-protein-coupled receptor that signals through the β-arrestin pathway. Its ligands include interferon-inducible T cell α chemoattractant (CXCL11) and stromal cell-derived factor-1 (CXCL12). It interacts with CXCR4, and the two are associated with various cancers, as well as other disease states such as coronary artery disease, stroke, inflammation and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Antibodies and small interfering RNA (siRNA) have shown the utility of antagonists of CXCR7 in these disease states. Although some small molecules were initially reported as antagonists due to their displayed activity, many function as agonists while still producing the desired pharmacologic effects. A potential reason for this contradiction is that effects may be due to elevated extracellular CXCL12 levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Lounsbury
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Larkin University College of Pharmacy, Miami, FL 33169, USA
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Xun Y, Yang H, Li J, Wu F, Liu F. CXC Chemokine Receptors in the Tumor Microenvironment and an Update of Antagonist Development. Rev Physiol Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 178:1-40. [PMID: 32816229 DOI: 10.1007/112_2020_35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Chemokine receptors, a diverse group within the seven-transmembrane G protein-coupled receptor superfamily, are frequently overexpressed in malignant tumors. Ligand binding activates multiple downstream signal transduction cascades that drive tumor growth and metastasis, resulting in poor clinical outcome. These receptors are thus considered promising targets for anti-tumor therapy. This article reviews recent studies on the expression and function of CXC chemokine receptors in various tumor microenvironments and recent developments in cancer therapy using CXC chemokine receptor antagonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Xun
- Department of Basic Medicine and Biomedical Engineering, School of Stomatology and Medicine, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Hua Yang
- Department of Basic Medicine and Biomedical Engineering, School of Stomatology and Medicine, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jiekai Li
- Department of Basic Medicine and Biomedical Engineering, School of Stomatology and Medicine, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Fuling Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Fang Liu
- Department of Basic Medicine and Biomedical Engineering, School of Stomatology and Medicine, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong Province, China.
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Wang Y, Hui J, Li R, Fu Q, Yang P, Xiao Y, Hui J. GBX2, as a tumor promoter in lung adenocarcinoma, enhances cells viability, invasion and migration by regulating the AKT/ERK signaling pathway. J Gene Med 2019; 22:e3147. [PMID: 31758726 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.3147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasing evidence shows that gastrulation brain homeobox 2 (GBX2) is involved in multiple cancers. However, whether GBX2 has an effect on the lung adenocarcinoma remains unclear. In the present study, we investigated the functions of GBX2 on lung adenocarcinoma and explored the underlying mechanism. METHODS Public data were obtained from the TCGA (https://cancergenome.nih.gov) and Oncomine (http://www.oncomine.org) databases. GBX2 expression and its prognostic value were analyzed by bioinformatics methods. Relative mRNA and protein expression levels of GBX2 in lung adenocarcinoma cell lines were evaluated via a quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. Lung adenocarcinoma cell lines LTEP-a-2 and A549, respectively, were selected for gain and loss function of GBX2 assays. Cell viability was detected by CCK8 and clone formation experiments. Cell invasion and migration were assessed by Transwell assays. The effect of GBX2 on the AKT/extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK) pathway was tested by western blotting. RESULTS Compared to adjacent tissues, GBX2 expression was up-regulated in lung adenocarcinoma tissues. High expression of GBX2 led to a poor survival and could be seen as an independent predictor for lung adenocarcinoma patients. Furthermore, down-regulation of GBX2 notably restrained the viability, invasion and migration abilities of A549 cells, whereas up-regulation of GBX2 in LTEP-a-2 cells presented the opposite outcomes. Furthermore, western blot indicated that down-regulation of GBX2 decreases the protein levels of phosphorylated (p)-AKT and p-ERK in A549 cells, whereas up-regulation of GBX2 shows the opposite effects in LTEP-a-2 cells. CONCLUSIONS The results of present study indicate that GBX2 acts a cancer-promoting role to accelerate cell proliferation, invasion and migration partly by modulation of the AKT/ERK pathway in lung adenocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanchun Wang
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Shaanxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jianping Hui
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Shaanxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, China
| | - Renting Li
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Shaanxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, Shaanxi, China
| | - Qiaoqiao Fu
- College of Acumox and Tuina, Shaanxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Pu Yang
- College of Acumox and Tuina, Shaanxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yingchun Xiao
- College of Acumox and Tuina, Shaanxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jianrong Hui
- College of Acumox and Tuina, Shaanxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
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Li X, Wang X, Li Z, Zhang Z, Zhang Y. Chemokine receptor 7 targets the vascular endothelial growth factor via the AKT/ERK pathway to regulate angiogenesis in colon cancer. Cancer Med 2019; 8:5327-5340. [PMID: 31348616 PMCID: PMC6718596 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.2426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Revised: 06/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Studies have shown that CXCR7 is expressed in many tumors. The aim of the present study was to investigate the function of CXCR7 in colon cancer. Although evidence indicates that CXCR7 promotes angiogenesis in colon cancer, the mechanism involved in this process remains unclear. Methods The expression of CXCR7 in colon cancer was evaluated by quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. After transfection, cell proliferation, migration, and lumen formation were measured in vitro. Immunohistochemistry and western blotting were used to identify the functional target of CXCR7 in vivo and in vitro. Results In this study, CXCR7 was differentially expressed in four colon cancer cell lines. The proliferation and migration experiments showed that overexpression of CXCR7 enhanced cell growth and migration. Moreover, the tube formation assays showed that co‐culture of colon cancer cells overexpressing CXCR7 with human umbilical vein endothelial cells significantly promoted tube formation in the latter cells. Conversely, the stable knockdown of CXCR7 significantly reduced this malignant activity. In addition, we found that CXCR7 activates the AKT and ERK pathways in colon cancer cells. The phosphorylation of AKT and ERK, as well as the expression of the vascular endothelial growth factor, can be inhibited using the LY294002 and U0126 inhibitors. Furthermore, the angiogenic ability of CXCR7‐induced colon cancer cells was eliminated. Conclusion Expression of CXCR7 contributes to colon cancer growth and angiogenesis, by activating the AKT and ERK pathways. CXCR7 provides a potential therapeutic target against colon cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Li
- Department of Ultrasonic Diagnosis, The First Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Xuemei Wang
- Department of Ultrasonic Diagnosis, The First Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Zitao Li
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hongqi Hospital, Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang, PR China
| | - Zhen Zhang
- Department of Ultrasonic Diagnosis, The First Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Yixia Zhang
- Department of Ultrasonic Diagnosis, The First Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, PR China
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