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Jia Y, Chen X, Guo H, Zhang B, Liu B. Comprehensive characterization of β-alanine metabolism-related genes in HCC identified a novel prognostic signature related to clinical outcomes. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:7073-7100. [PMID: 38637116 PMCID: PMC11087131 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) stands out as the most prevalent type of liver cancer and a significant contributor to cancer-related fatalities globally. Metabolic reprogramming, particularly in glucose, lipid, and amino acid metabolism, plays a crucial role in HCC progression. However, the functions of β-alanine metabolism-related genes (βAMRGs) in HCC remain understudied. Therefore, a comprehensive evaluation of βAMRGs is required, specifically in HCC. Initially, we explored the pan-cancer landscape of βAMRGs, integrating expression profiles, prognostic values, mutations, and methylation levels. Subsequently, scRNA sequencing results indicated that hepatocytes had the highest scores of β-alanine metabolism. In the process of hepatocyte carcinogenesis, metabolic pathways were further activated. Using βAMRGs scores and expression profiles, we classified HCC patients into three subtypes and examined their prognosis and immune microenvironments. Cluster 3, characterized by the highest βAMRGs scores, displayed the best prognosis, reinforcing β-alanine's significant contribution to HCC pathophysiology. Notably, immune microenvironment, metabolism, and cell death modes significantly varied among the β-alanine subtypes. We developed and validated a novel prognostic panel based on βAMRGs and constructed a nomogram incorporating risk degree and clinicopathological characteristics. Among the model genes, EHHADH has been identified as a protective protein in HCC. Its expression was notably downregulated in tumors and exhibited a close correlation with factors such as tumor staging, grading, and prognosis. Immunohistochemical experiments, conducted using HCC tissue microarrays, substantiated the validation of its expression levels. In conclusion, this study uncovers β-alanine's significant role in HCC for the first time, suggesting new research targets and directions for diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Jia
- Department of General Surgery, Xinhua Hospital of Dalian University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Xu Chen
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Hui Guo
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Biao Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Bin Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Xinhua Hospital of Dalian University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
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2
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Zhang J, Zhu Z, Miao Z, Huang X, Sun Z, Xu H, Wang Z. The Clinical Significance and Mechanisms of REG4 in Human Cancers. Front Oncol 2021; 10:559230. [PMID: 33489872 PMCID: PMC7819868 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.559230] [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: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Regenerating islet-derived type 4 (REG4), a member of the calcium-dependent lectin gene superfamily, is abnormally expressed in various cancers, such as colorectal, gastric, gallbladder, pancreatic, ovarian, prostate, and lung cancer. REG4 is associated with a relatively unfavorable prognosis and clinicopathologic features in cancers, including advanced tumor and nodal stage, histological differentiation, and liver and peritoneal metastasis. Moreover, REG4-positive cancer cells show more frequent resistance to chemoradiotherapy, especially 5-FU-based chemotherapy. REG4 participates in many aspects of carcinogenesis, including cell proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle, invasion, metastasis, and drug resistance. The underlying mechanisms are complex and involve a series of signaling mediators and multiple pathways. Thus, REG4 may be a potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarker as well as a candidate therapeutic target in cancer patients. In this review, we systematically summarize the advances about the clinical significance, biological functions, and mechanisms underlying REG4 in cancer to provide new directions for future cancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyan Zhang
- Department of Surgical Oncology and General Surgery, Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Tumors, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhi Zhu
- Department of Surgical Oncology and General Surgery, Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Tumors, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhifeng Miao
- Department of Surgical Oncology and General Surgery, Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Tumors, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xuanzhang Huang
- Department of Surgical Oncology and General Surgery, Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Tumors, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhe Sun
- Department of Surgical Oncology and General Surgery, Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Tumors, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Huimian Xu
- Department of Surgical Oncology and General Surgery, Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Tumors, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhenning Wang
- Department of Surgical Oncology and General Surgery, Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Tumors, Ministry of Education, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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3
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Du P, Wang X, Yin T, Zhang X, Zhang Z, Yu W, Wang M, Luo C, Yu L. Anti-tumor effect of single-chain antibody to Reg3a in colorectal cancer. Exp Cell Res 2020; 396:112278. [PMID: 32918897 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2020.112278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Regenerating protein 3a (Reg3a) is a trophic factor that functions as a stimulus in cell proliferation and neogenesis. Previous studies showed that Reg3a is ectopically upregulated in a majority of colorectal cancers (CRC) and detectable in the serum. METHODS Single-chain variable fragment targeting Reg3a (scFv-Reg3a) was screened from a phage library. The bioactivity of recombinant Reg3a (rReg3a) and scFv-Reg3a were tested in LoVo and RKO cell lines using MTT, flow cytometry, wound healing and transwell analyses. Whether scFv-Reg3a inhibits tumor growth and enhances 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-caused cell death were further examined in LoVo cell-transplanted nude BALB/c mice. RESULTS A scFv-Reg3a from clone C2 was obtained and its binding affinity (KD) to rReg3a was determined to be 4.44 × 10-10. In cultured LoVo and RKO cells, rReg3a promoted but scFv-Reg3a inhibited cell proliferation, survival, migration and invasion. In LoVo cell-xenografted nude mice, administration of rReg3a accelerated tumor growth while scFv-Reg3a suppressed cell proliferation and reinforced 5-FU-induced cell death. CONCLUSION The newly developed scFv-Reg3a is an anti-cancer agent which is potent to suppress CRC cell proliferation and survival. The use of scFv-Reg3a could enhance the effectiveness of 5-FU-based chemotherapy in the cancerous treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Du
- School of Life Science & Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaonan Wang
- School of Life Science & Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Tianqi Yin
- UConn Health, University of Connecticut, Hartford, USA
| | - Xueqing Zhang
- School of Life Science & Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhiyuan Zhang
- School of Life Science & Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Weihong Yu
- School of Life Science & Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Min Wang
- School of Life Science & Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China; State Key Laboratory of Nature Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chen Luo
- School of Life Science & Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China; State Key Laboratory of Nature Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Luting Yu
- School of Life Science & Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China.
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4
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Zhang XQ, Yu LT, Du P, Yin TQ, Zhang ZY, Xu Y, Li X, Li YJ, Wang M, Luo C. Single-chain Antibody Against Reg4 Suppresses Gastric Cancer Cell Growth and Enhances 5-FU-induced Cell Death in vitro. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2020; 19:610-619. [PMID: 30465515 DOI: 10.2174/1871520619666181122104720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2018] [Revised: 08/15/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Regenerating islet-derived gene family member 4 (Reg4), a well-investigated growth factor in the regenerative pancreas, has recently been reported to be highly associated with a majority of gastrointestinal cancers. Pathological hyper-expression or artificial over-expression of Reg4 causes acceleration of tumor growth, migration, and resistance to chemotherapeutic 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU). Until now, no method has been successfully established for eliminating the effects of Reg4 protein. METHODS This study reports the production of an engineered immunoglobin, a single-chain variable fragment (scFv-Reg4), to specifically bind Reg4 and block the bioactivity. The complementary-determining regions (CDRs) against Reg4 were assigned using MOE and ZDOCK servers. The binding affinity (KD) was determined by bio-layer interferometry (BLI). MKN45 and AGS cell proliferation was determined by Thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide (MTT) method and the cell apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry assay. RESULTS The KD of scFv-Reg4 to Reg4 was determined to be 1.91×10-8. In MKN45 and AGS cell lines, scFv- Reg4 depressed Reg4-stimulated cell proliferation and the inhibitory rates were 27.7±1.5% and 17.3±2.6%, respectively. Furthermore, scFv significantly enhanced 5-FU-induced cell death, from 23.0±1.0% to 28.4±1.2% in MKN45 and 28.2±0.7% to 36.6±0.6% in AGS cells. Treatment with scFv alone could lyse cancer cells to a certain extent, but no significance has been observed. CONCLUSION The single-chain antibody (scFv-Reg4) significantly inhibited gastric cancer cell proliferation and synergistically enhanced the lethal effect of 5-FU. Thus, traditional chemo-/radio- therapeutics supplemented with scFv-Reg4 may provide advances in the strategy for gastrointestinal cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Qing Zhang
- School of Life Science & Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lu-Ting Yu
- School of Life Science & Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China.,Fraser Laboratories for Diabetes Research, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Pei Du
- School of Life Science & Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Tian-Qi Yin
- School of Life Science & Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhi-Yuan Zhang
- School of Life Science & Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ying Xu
- Jiangsu Celtec Biotechnology Co. Ltd, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiang Li
- School of Life Science & Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - You-Jie Li
- School of Life Science & Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Min Wang
- School of Life Science & Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China.,State Key Laboratory of Nature Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chen Luo
- School of Life Science & Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China.,State Key Laboratory of Nature Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
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5
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Hwang JH, Yoon J, Cho YH, Cha PH, Park JC, Choi KY. A mutant KRAS-induced factor REG4 promotes cancer stem cell properties via Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Int J Cancer 2019; 146:2877-2890. [PMID: 31605540 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.32728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Revised: 09/22/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Mutant KRAS provides a driving force for enhancement of cancer stem cells (CSCs) characteristics contributing transformation of colorectal cancer (CRC) cells harboring adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) mutations. Here, we identified the factors mediating the promotion of CSCs properties induced by KRAS mutation through microarray analyses of genes specifically induced in CRC spheroids harboring both KRAS and APC mutations. Among them, REG4 was identified as a key factor since CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout of REG4 most significantly affected the stem cell characteristics in which CSCs markers were effectively suppressed. We show that REG4 mediates promotion of CSCs properties via Wnt/β-catenin signaling in various in vitro studies including tumor organoid systems. Furthermore, expression patterns of CSCs markers and REG4 correlated in intestinal tumors from Apcmin/+ /KrasG12D LA2 mice and in CRC patient tissues harboring both KRAS and APC mutations. The role of REG4 in the tumor-initiating capacity accompanied by enhancement of CSCs characteristics was also revealed by NSG mice xenograft system. Collectively, our study highlights the importance of REG4 in promoting CSCs properties induced by KRAS mutation, and provides a new therapeutic strategy for CRC harboring both APC and KRAS mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong-Ha Hwang
- Translational Research Center for Protein Function Control, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Biomaterials Science and Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Junyong Yoon
- Translational Research Center for Protein Function Control, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yong-Hee Cho
- Translational Research Center for Protein Function Control, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Pu-Hyeon Cha
- Translational Research Center for Protein Function Control, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jong-Chan Park
- Translational Research Center for Protein Function Control, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kang-Yell Choi
- Translational Research Center for Protein Function Control, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea.,CK Biotechnology Inc., Seoul, South Korea
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6
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Chen Z, Downing S, Tzanakakis ES. Four Decades After the Discovery of Regenerating Islet-Derived (Reg) Proteins: Current Understanding and Challenges. Front Cell Dev Biol 2019; 7:235. [PMID: 31696115 PMCID: PMC6817481 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2019.00235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Regenerating islet-derived (Reg) proteins have emerged as multifunctional agents with pro-proliferative, anti-apoptotic, differentiation-inducing and bactericidal properties. Over the last 40 years since first discovered, Reg proteins have been implicated in a gamut of maladies including diabetes, various types of cancer of the digestive tract, and Alzheimer disease. Surprisingly though, a consensus is still absent on the regulation of their expression, and molecular underpinning of their function. Here, we provide a critical appraisal of recent findings in the field of Reg protein biology. Specifically, the structural characteristics are reviewed particularly in connection with established or purported functions of different members of the Reg family. Moreover, Reg expression patterns in different tissues both under normal and pathophysiological conditions are summarized. Putative receptors and cascades reported to relay Reg signaling inciting cellular responses are presented aiming at a better appreciation of the biological activities of the distinct Reg moieties. Challenges are also discussed that have hampered thus far the rapid progress in this field such as the use of non-standard nomenclature for Reg molecules among various research groups, the existence of multiple Reg members with significant degree of homology and possibly compensatory modes of action, and the need for common assays with robust readouts of Reg activity. Coordinated research is warranted going forward, given that several research groups have independently linked Reg proteins to diseased states and raised the possibility that these biomolecules can serve as therapeutic targets and biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijing Chen
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, United States
| | - Shawna Downing
- Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Emmanuel S Tzanakakis
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, United States.,Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
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7
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REG4 is an indicator for KRAS mutant lung adenocarcinoma with TTF-1 low expression. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2019; 145:2273-2283. [PMID: 31428934 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-019-02988-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Recent research has classified lung adenocarcinoma patients with KRAS mutation into three subtypes by co-occurring genetic events in TP53 (KP subgroup), STK11/LKB1 (KL subgroup) and CDKN2A/B inactivation plus TTF-1 low expression (KC subgroup). The aim of this study was to identify valuable biomarkers by searching the candidate molecules that contribute to lung adenocarcinoma pathogenesis, especially KC subtype. MATERIALS AND METHODS We analyzed the publicly available database and identified the candidate REG4 using the E-GEOD-31210 dataset, and then confirmed by TCGA dataset. In addition, an independent cohort of 55 clinical samples was analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR analysis. Functional studies and RNA sequencing were performed after silencing the REG4 expression. RESULTS REG4, an important regulator of gastro-intestinal carcinogenesis, was highly expressed in KRAS mutant lung adenocarcinoma with low expression of TTF-1 (KC subtype). The results were validated both by gene expression analysis and immunohistochemistry study in an independent 55 clinical samples from Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center. Further in vitro and in vivo functional assays revealed silencing REG4 expression significantly reduces cancer cell proliferation and tumorigenesis. Moreover, RNA sequencing and GSEA analysis displayed that REG4 knockdown might induce cell cycle arrest by regulating G2/M checkpoint and E2F targets. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that REG4 plays an important role in KRAS-driven lung cancer pathogenesis and is a novel biomarker of lung adenocarcinoma subtype. Future studies are required to clarify the underlying mechanisms of REG4 in the division and proliferation of KC tumors and its potential therapeutic value.
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8
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Jin J, Lv H, Wu J, Li D, Chen K, Zhang F, Han J, Feng J, Zhang N, Yu H, Su D, Ying L. Regenerating Family Member 4 (Reg4) Enhances 5-Fluorouracil Resistance of Gastric Cancer Through Activating MAPK/Erk/Bim Signaling Pathway. Med Sci Monit 2017; 23:3715-3721. [PMID: 28759561 PMCID: PMC5549713 DOI: 10.12659/msm.903134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2017] [Accepted: 01/19/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reg4, a member of the Reg multigene family, is highly upregulated in many gastrointestinal cancers including gastric cancer (GC). The enhanced expression of Reg4 is associated with the resistance of GC to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), while the underlying mechanism is not clear. The aim of the present study was to explore the resistant mechanism underlying 5-FU resistance. MATERIAL AND METHODS Reg4 expression was assessed by Western blot analysis for SGC-7901, BGC-823, AGS, MKN28, and MKN45. Synthetic short single strand RNA oligonucleotides and Flag-Reg4 plasmid were used to investigate the biological function of Reg4 in vitro. The cell viability assay was performed by MTT. Flow cytometry was carried out to measure the apoptosis caused by 5-FU. Reverse-transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was used to examine the expression of 5-FU metabolism related enzymes. The effect of Reg4 on intracellular signaling was evaluated by Western blot. RESULTS Western blot analysis of 5 GC cells showed that Reg4 was low or null in SGC-7901 and BGC-823, while high in AGS, MKN28, and MKN45. Over-expression of flag-Reg4 in SGC-7901 led to an increase in cell viability and lower apoptosis with 5-FU treatment. In contrast, siRNA knockdown of Reg4 enhanced 5-FU induced apoptosis. However, over-expression or knockdown of Reg4 had no significant influence on the expression of 5-FU metabolic enzymes. Further investigation revealed that Reg4 could activate Erk1/2-Bim-caspase3 cascade. CONCLUSIONS Reg4 inhibited apoptosis through regulating MAPK/Erk/Bim signaling pathway and thereby enhanced the resistance of GC to 5-FU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaoyue Jin
- Cancer Research Institute, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital and Key Laboratory Diagnosis and Treatment Technology on Thoracic Oncology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Hang Lv
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine for Diagnosis and Treatment of Digestive System Tumor, Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Junzhou Wu
- Cancer Research Institute, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital and Key Laboratory Diagnosis and Treatment Technology on Thoracic Oncology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Dan Li
- Cancer Research Institute, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital and Key Laboratory Diagnosis and Treatment Technology on Thoracic Oncology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Kaiyan Chen
- Cancer Research Institute, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital and Key Laboratory Diagnosis and Treatment Technology on Thoracic Oncology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Fanrong Zhang
- Cancer Research Institute, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital and Key Laboratory Diagnosis and Treatment Technology on Thoracic Oncology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Jing Han
- Tissue Bank, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Jianguo Feng
- Cancer Research Institute, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital and Key Laboratory Diagnosis and Treatment Technology on Thoracic Oncology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Nan Zhang
- Cancer Research Institute, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital and Key Laboratory Diagnosis and Treatment Technology on Thoracic Oncology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Herbert Yu
- Cancer Epidemiology Program, University of Hawaii Cancer Center, Honolulu, HI, U.S.A
| | - Dan Su
- Cancer Research Institute, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital and Key Laboratory Diagnosis and Treatment Technology on Thoracic Oncology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Lisha Ying
- Cancer Research Institute, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital and Key Laboratory Diagnosis and Treatment Technology on Thoracic Oncology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
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9
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Luo C, Yu LT, Yang MQ, Li X, Zhang ZY, Alfred MO, Liu JL, Wang M. Recombinant Reg3β protein protects against streptozotocin-induced β-cell damage and diabetes. Sci Rep 2016; 6:35640. [PMID: 27767186 PMCID: PMC5073304 DOI: 10.1038/srep35640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2016] [Accepted: 10/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Regenerating genes (Reg) have been found during the search for factors involved in pancreatic islet regeneration. Our recent study discovered that pancreatic β-cell-specific overexpression of Reg3β protects against streptozotocin (Stz) -induced diabetes in mice. To investigate its potential roles in the treatment of diabetes, we produced a recombinant Reg3β protein and provided evidence that it is active in promoting islet β-cell survival against Stz- triggered cell death. Though ineffective in alleviating preexisting diabetes, pretreatment of recombinant Reg3β was capable of minimizing the Stz-induced hyperglycemia and weight loss, by preserving serum and pancreatic insulin levels, and islet β-cell mass. No obvious changes were observed in the rate of cell proliferation and hypertrophy in α- or acinar-cells after treatment with recombinant Reg3β. The underlying mechanism of Reg3β-mediated protection seems to involve Akt activation which upregulates Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL levels and consequently promotes cell survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Luo
- School of Life Science &Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China.,State Key Laboratory of Nature Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lu-Ting Yu
- School of Life Science &Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Meng-Qi Yang
- School of Life Science &Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiang Li
- School of Life Science &Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhi-Yuan Zhang
- School of Life Science &Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Martin O Alfred
- School of Life Science &Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun-Li Liu
- Fraser Laboratories for Diabetes Research, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - Min Wang
- School of Life Science &Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China.,State Key Laboratory of Nature Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
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10
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION The regenerating gene (Reg) was identified in regenerating islets and its related genes were revealed to constitute the Reg gene family. Reg family proteins act as growth factors for several cells. Recently, autoimmunity against the Reg family proteins has been reported in several diseases. In addition, the Reg family genes were found to be expressed in a large number of cancers and to influence prognosis. AREAS COVERED The historical background and current view of the structure, function, and expression of Reg family genes/proteins and their physiological/pathological significance in several diseases are described. Based on the findings, the diagnostic/therapeutic potential of Reg family genes/proteins is also discussed. EXPERT OPINION Autoimmunity against Reg family proteins may be a new diagnostic marker and/or therapeutic target for immune-mediated diseases. Treatment aimed at the expansion of the β-cell mass by the Reg genes/proteins, combined with the abrogation of autoimmunity, constitutes a potential approach for the treatment of diabetes. Conversely, some cancer cells have gained the ability to overexpress the Reg genes/proteins, thereby enhancing their proliferative capacities, resulting in these cells having a considerable growth advantage. Thus, the Reg genes/proteins are expected to be a new prognostic marker in cancer and/or a future therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shin Takasawa
- a Department of Biochemistry , Nara Medical University , Kashihara , Japan
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11
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The role of Reg IV in colorectal cancer, as a potential therapeutic target. Contemp Oncol (Pozn) 2015; 19:261-4. [PMID: 26557771 PMCID: PMC4631303 DOI: 10.5114/wo.2015.54385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2013] [Revised: 10/05/2013] [Accepted: 11/22/2013] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Regenerating islet-derived family, member 4 (Reg IV), a member of the Reg gene family, has been reported to be overexpressed in gastrointestinal tract cancers. Reg IV overexpression in tumor cells has been associated with carcinogenesis, tissue regeneration, proliferation and resistance to apoptosis. Reg IV activates the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling pathway in colon cancer and increases expression of B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) and B-cell lymphoma-extra large (Bcl-xl), which are associated with the inhibition of apoptosis, results in mitogenic signaling in colon cancer cells, increase cell proliferation, metastasis and decreased apoptosis. Reg IV treatment inhibits 5-fluorouracil induced apoptosis, at least two mechanisms are involved in inhibition of apoptosis by Reg IV, including Bcl-2 and dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD). These studies may lead to novel therapeutic strategies for cancers expressing Reg IV. Recently, one proteoglycan was confirmed to disrupt this signaling pathway to perform antitumor effect. This review summaries current knowledge of the expression and roles of Reg IV in human colorectal cancer, describes the possible signaling pathway which Reg IV activates, and discusses the relevance of Reg IV as a potential therapeutic target for cancer treatment.
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12
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Liu K, Liu S, Zhang W, Ji B, Wang Y, Liu Y. miR‑222 regulates sorafenib resistance and enhance tumorigenicity in hepatocellular carcinoma. Int J Oncol 2014; 45:1537-46. [PMID: 25096647 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2014.2577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2014] [Accepted: 07/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The miR‑222 cluster has been demonstrated to function as oncomiR in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). miR‑222 confers chemotherapy drug resistance in various cancers, including HCC. However, the effects and mechanisms by which miR‑222 regulates liver tumorigenicity and confers sorafenib (SOR) resistance remain unclear. Here we first investigated the miR‑222 effect on proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis, migration and invasion of HCC. Our results demonstrated that miRNA inhibitors specially targeting miR‑222 significantly suppressed cellular proliferation, migration, invasion and G1/S transition of the cell cycle, and induced cell apoptosis in HepG2 cells. In addition, we investigated whether miR‑222 confers SOR resistance in HepG2 cells to explore it roles in acquisition of drug resistance. The results showed that miR‑222 inhibitors induced sensitivity to the antitumor effect of sorafenib in human HepG2 cells. Importantly, our study also showed that miR‑222 could regulate the expression of phosphorylation PI3K and AKT, which might contribute to miR‑222 conferred SOR resistance in HepG2 cells. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that miR‑222 can promote cell proliferation, migration and invasion, and decrease cell apoptosis, as well as enhance the resistance of HCC cells to sorafenib miR‑222 through activating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Liu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, P.R. China
| | - Songyang Liu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, P.R. China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, P.R. China
| | - Bai Ji
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, P.R. China
| | - Yingchao Wang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, P.R. China
| | - Yahui Liu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, P.R. China
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Abstract
The regenerating gene (Reg) family is a group of small molecules that includes four members found in various species, although only three are found in human tissues. Their expression is stimulated by certain growth factors or cytokines. The Reg family plays different roles in proliferation, migration, and anti-apoptosis through activating different signaling pathways. Their dysexpression is closely associated with a number of human conditions and diseases such as inflammation and cancer, especially in the human digestive system. Clinically, upregulation of Reg proteins is usually demonstrated in histological sections and sera from cancer patients. Therefore, Reg proteins can predict the progression and prognosis of cancers, especially those of the digestive tract, and can also act as diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets.
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14
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Zhou W, Sun M, Wang DL, Wang Y, Jin F, Zhang YY, Yang L, Wu XL, Wu YZ. Silencing of RegIV by shRNA causes the loss of stemness properties of cancer stem cells in MKN45 gastric cancer cells. Oncol Rep 2013; 30:2685-90. [PMID: 24064664 DOI: 10.3892/or.2013.2745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2013] [Accepted: 05/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Regenerating islet-derived family member 4 (RegIV) is overexpressed in several types of tumours, including pancreatic and gastric cancer (GC). However, the role it plays in gastric cancer stem cells (GCSCs) remains unknown. The present study tested the hypothesis that the silencing of RegIV by shRNA in GC cells may cause the loss of their stemness properties, indicating the inhibition of growth, proliferation and increased sensitivity to chemoradiation-induced cell death. MKN45 poorly differentiated human GC cells were propagated as mammospheres in stem cell culture conditions. Mammospheres were identified as CSCs using generally acknowledged CSC markers such as CD44. A panel of 21-nucleotide shRNAs were designed to target RegIV gene expression. Several shRNA constructs were identified that led to significant reduction in RegIV mRNA expression. Furthermore, the stemness properties of control mammospheres and RegIV knockdown mammospheres were compared by tumourigenicity assay in vivo and plate colony formation assay in vitro. Finally, we evaluated the treatment response in both mammospheres which underwent chemoradiation. The knockdown expression of RegIV by shRNA deprived CSCs of their stemness properties and increased the effectiveness of cell killing following chemoradiation. Inhibition of endogenous RegIV expression may be a new therapeutic strategy for human GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhou
- Department of Radiotherapy, Chongqing Cancer Institute, Chongqing 400011, P.R. China
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15
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Ying LS, Yu JL, Lu XX, Ling ZQ. Enhanced RegIV expression predicts the intrinsic 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) resistance in advanced gastric cancer. Dig Dis Sci 2013; 58:414-22. [PMID: 23010741 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-012-2381-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2012] [Accepted: 08/20/2012] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
AIM RegIV, a member of the Regenerating (REG) gene family, may be a marker for the prediction of resistance to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-based chemotherapy. However, the relationship between the intrinsic drug resistance of gastric cancer (GC) cells to 5-FU used alone (single FU) or in multidrug therapeutic regimens (5-FU combinations) and RegIV expression has not been investigated. METHODS The patient cohort comprised 45 patients with primary GC. The chemoresistance of GC cells to therapeutic regimens consisting of single 5-FU or FU combinations was investigated using the ATP-tumor chemosensitivity assay. The level of RegIV mRNA transcripts was determined by real-time reverse transcriptase-PCR. RegIV expression was evaluated as a novel predictive biomarker for the intrinsic drug resistance of primary GC cells to single 5-FU or 5-FU combinations. RESULTS Upregulation of RegIV mRNA transcripts was observed in 36 of the 45 tumor specimens and was positively correlated with the invasive depth of the tumor cells (p = 0.000), the clinical stages (p = 0.000) and the in vitro intrinsic drug resistance of primary GC cells to 5-FU (p = 0.000) or 5-FU combinations. CONCLUSION RegIV mRNA transcript level was strongly associated with the intrinsic resistance of GC cells to single 5-FU or 5-FU combinations, suggesting that RegIV may play an important role in the intrinsic resistance of GC cells to 5-FU and that targeted therapy against the RegIV gene could be applied to overcome 5-FU resistance in the treatment of GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Sha Ying
- Zhejiang Cancer Research Institute, Zhejiang Province Cancer Hospital, Zhejiang Cancer Center, No.38 Guangji Rd., Banshanqiao District, Hangzhou, 310022, People's Republic of China.
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16
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Liu CM, Hsieh CL, He YC, Lo SJ, Liang JA, Hsieh TF, Josson S, Chung LWK, Hung MC, Sung SY. In vivo targeting of ADAM9 gene expression using lentivirus-delivered shRNA suppresses prostate cancer growth by regulating REG4 dependent cell cycle progression. PLoS One 2013; 8:e53795. [PMID: 23342005 PMCID: PMC3547060 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0053795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2012] [Accepted: 12/03/2012] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells respond to stress by activating a variety of survival signaling pathways. A disintegrin and metalloproteinase (ADAM) 9 is upregulated during cancer progression and hormone therapy, functioning in part through an increase in reactive oxygen species. Here, we present in vitro and in vivo evidence that therapeutic targeting of ADAM9 gene expression by lentivirus-delivered small hairpin RNA (shRNA) significantly inhibited proliferation of human prostate cancer cell lines and blocked tumor growth in a murine model of prostate cancer bone metastasis. Cell cycle studies confirmed an increase in the G1-phase and decrease in the S-phase population of cancer cells under starvation stress conditions, which correlated with elevated intracellular superoxide levels. Microarray data showed significantly decreased levels of regenerating islet-derived family member 4 (REG4) expression in prostate cancer cells with knockdown of ADAM9 gene expression. This REG4 downregulation also resulted in induction of expression of p21Cip1/WAF1, which negatively regulates cyclin D1 and blocks the G1/S transition. Our data reveal a novel molecular mechanism of ADAM9 in the regulation of prostate cancer cell proliferation, and suggests a combined modality of ADAM9 shRNA gene therapy and cytotoxic agents for hormone refractory and bone metastatic prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Che-Ming Liu
- Ph.D. Program for Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, China Medical University and Academia Sinica, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Chia-Ling Hsieh
- Graduate Institutes of Cancer Biology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
- Center for Molecular Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
- Department of Biotechnology, Asia University, Wufeng, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Yun-Chi He
- Graduate Institutes of Cancer Biology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Sen-Jei Lo
- Graduate Institutes of Cancer Biology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Ji-An Liang
- Division of Radiation Oncology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Teng-Fu Hsieh
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
- Division of Urology, Buddhist Tzu-Chi General Hospital, Taichung Branch, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Buddhist Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Sajni Josson
- Department of Medicine, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Leland W. K. Chung
- Department of Medicine, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Mien-Chie Hung
- Graduate Institutes of Cancer Biology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
- Center for Molecular Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
- Department of Biotechnology, Asia University, Wufeng, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, University of Texas, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Shian-Ying Sung
- Ph.D. Program for Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, China Medical University and Academia Sinica, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
- Graduate Institutes of Cancer Biology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
- Center for Molecular Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
- * E-mail:
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