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Liu Y, Yang DQ, Jiang JN, Jiao Y. Relationship between Helicobacter pylori infection and colorectal polyp/colorectal cancer. World J Gastrointest Surg 2024; 16:1008-1016. [PMID: 38690050 PMCID: PMC11056658 DOI: 10.4240/wjgs.v16.i4.1008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) plays an important role in the development of gastric cancer, although its association to colorectal polyp (CP) or colorectal cancer (CRC) is unknown. In this issue of World Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Zhang et al investigated the risk factors for H. pylori infection after colon polyp resection. Importantly, the researchers used R software to create a prediction model for H. pylori infection based on their findings. This editorial gives an overview of the association between H. pylori and CP/CRC, including the clinical significance of H. pylori as an independent risk factor for CP/CRC, the underlying processes of H. pylori-associated carcinogenesis, and the possible risk factors and identification of H. pylori.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Liu
- Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital to Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| | - Ding-Quan Yang
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Colorectal Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130033, Jilin Province, China
| | - Jun-Nan Jiang
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Colorectal Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130033, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yan Jiao
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, General Surgery Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
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2
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Gholamzad A, Khakpour N, Khosroshahi EM, Asadi S, Koohpar ZK, Matinahmadi A, Jebali A, Rashidi M, Hashemi M, Sadi FH, Gholamzad M. Cancer stem cells: The important role of CD markers, Signaling pathways, and MicroRNAs. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 256:155227. [PMID: 38490099 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2024.155227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
For the first time, a subset of small cancer cells identified in acute myeloid leukemia has been termed Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs). These cells are notorious for their robust proliferation, self-renewal abilities, significant tumor-forming potential, spread, and resistance to treatments. CSCs are a global concern, as it found in numerous types of cancer, posing a real-world challenge today. Our review encompasses research on key CSC markers, signaling pathways, and MicroRNA in three types of cancer: breast, colon, and liver. These factors play a critical role in either promoting or inhibiting cancer cell growth. The reviewed studies have shown that as cells undergo malignant transformation, there can be an increase or decrease in the expression of different Cluster of Differentiation (CD) markers on their surface. Furthermore, alterations in essential signaling pathways, such as Wnt and Notch1, may impact CSC proliferation, survival, and movement, while also providing potential targets for cancer therapies. Additionally, some research has focused on MicroRNAs due to their dual role as potential therapeutic biomarkers and their ability to enhance CSCs' response to anti-cancer drugs. MicroRNAs also regulate a wide array of cellular processes, including the self-renewal and pluripotency of CSCs, and influence gene transcription. Thus, these studies indicate that MicroRNAs play a significant role in the malignancy of various tumors. Although the gathered information suggests that specific CSC markers, signaling pathways, and MicroRNAs are influential in determining the destiny of cancer cells and could be advantageous for therapeutic strategies, their precise roles and impacts remain incompletely defined, necessitating further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Gholamzad
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Niloofar Khakpour
- Department of Bacteriology and Virology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Elaheh Mohandesi Khosroshahi
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saba Asadi
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zeinab Khazaei Koohpar
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences,Tonekabon Branch,Islamic Azad University, Tonekabon, Iran
| | - Arash Matinahmadi
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Nicolaus Copernicus,Torun,Poland
| | - Ali Jebali
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Deprtment of Medical Nanotechnology,Faculty of Advanced Sciences and Technology,Tehran Medical Sciences,Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohsen Rashidi
- Department Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran; The Health of Plant and Livestock Products Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
| | - Mehrdad Hashemi
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | | | - Mehrdad Gholamzad
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
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3
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Zhang L, Zhou S, Guo E, Chen X, Yang J, Li X. DCLK1 inhibition attenuates tumorigenesis and improves chemosensitivity in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma by inhibiting β-catenin/c-Myc signaling. Pflugers Arch 2020; 472:1041-1049. [PMID: 32533239 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-020-02415-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2020] [Revised: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Doublecortin-like kinase 1 (DCLK1) is involved in tumorigenesis, tumor growth and metastasis, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in many digestive tract tumors. It is reportedly highly expressed in Barrett's esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma, but its effects on the occurrence and progression of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remain unclear. In this study, real-time PCR and western blot analysis confirmed significant upregulation of DCLK1 expression in human ESCC tissues and cell lines. CCK-8 assay showed that transfection with siRNA against DCLK1 (si-DCLK1) markedly inhibited cell proliferation and colony formation in the ESCC cell lines Eca109 and TE1. Transwell assay revealed that si-DCLK1 transfection inhibited the migratory and invasive capacities of Eca109 and TE1 cells. Moreover, si-DCLK1 increased the chemosensitivity of these cells to cisplatin, as indicated by inhibited cell viability and colony formation, and increased ROS and apoptosis in cisplatin-treated cells. Western blot assay revealed that expression of nuclear β-catenin and c-Myc was significantly increased in ESCC tissues and that si-DCLK1 markedly downregulated nuclear β-catenin and c-Myc in Eca109 cells. Treatment with lithium chloride, an activator of β-catenin signaling, partially abolished the si-DCLK1-induced inhibition of proliferation, migration, invasion, and chemoresistance of ESCC cells. These findings suggest that knockdown of DCLK1 may inhibit the progression of ESCC by regulating proliferation, migration, invasion, and chemosensitivity via suppressing the β-catenin/c-Myc pathway, supporting a promising therapeutic target against ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lianqun Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, School of Clinical Medicine, Henan University, No. 7 Weiwu Road, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China
| | - Shengli Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, School of Clinical Medicine, Henan University, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China
| | - Ertao Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University, Kaifeng, 475000, Henan, China
| | - Xiaoqi Chen
- Department of Digestive Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of TCM, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China
| | - Jun Yang
- Anyang Tumor Hospital, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Science and Technology, Anyang, 455000, Henan, China
| | - Xiuling Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, School of Clinical Medicine, Henan University, No. 7 Weiwu Road, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China.
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4
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Rahman MA, Saha SK, Rahman MS, Uddin MJ, Uddin MS, Pang MG, Rhim H, Cho SG. Molecular Insights Into Therapeutic Potential of Autophagy Modulation by Natural Products for Cancer Stem Cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:283. [PMID: 32391363 PMCID: PMC7193248 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Autophagy, a cellular self-digestion process that is activated in response to stress, has a functional role in tumor formation and progression. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) accounting for a minor proportion of total cancer cells-have distinct self-renewal and differentiation abilities and promote metastasis. Researchers have shown that a numeral number of natural products using traditional experimental methods have been revealed to target CSCs. However, the specific role of autophagy with respect to CSCs and tumorigenesis using natural products are still unknown. Currently, CSCs are considered to be one of the causative reasons underlying the failure of anticancer treatment as a result of tumor recurrence, metastasis, and chemo- or radio-resistance. Autophagy may play a dual role in CSC-related resistance to anticancer treatment; it is responsible for cell fate determination and the targeted degradation of transcription factors via growth arrest. It has been established that autophagy promotes drug resistance, dormancy, and stemness and maintenance of CSCs. Surprisingly, numerous studies have also suggested that autophagy can facilitate the loss of stemness in CSCs. Here, we review current progress in research related to the multifaceted connections between autophagy modulation and CSCs control using natural products. Overall, we emphasize the importance of understanding the role of autophagy in the maintenance of different CSCs and implications of this connection for the development of new strategies for cancer treatment targeting natural products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Ataur Rahman
- Center for Neuroscience, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Global Biotechnology & Biomedical Research Network, Islamic University, Kushtia, Bangladesh
| | - Subbroto Kumar Saha
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Md Saidur Rahman
- Department of Animal Science & Technology and BET Research Institute, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, South Korea
| | - Md Jamal Uddin
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, South Korea.,ABEx Bio-Research Center, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md Sahab Uddin
- Department of Pharmacy, Southeast University, Dhaka, Bangladesh.,Pharmakon Neuroscience Research Network, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Myung-Geol Pang
- Department of Animal Science & Technology and BET Research Institute, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, South Korea
| | - Hyewhon Rhim
- Center for Neuroscience, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, South Korea.,Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ssang-Goo Cho
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, South Korea
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5
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Zaky DA, Abouelfadl DM, Nassar NN, Abdallah DM, Al-Shorbagy MY. The paradox of dipeptidyl peptidase IV inhibition in enterocytic differentiation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in rat cholestatic sepsis. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2020; 394:114956. [PMID: 32171571 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2020.114956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Proper enterocytic proliferation/differentiation, besides providing adequate adherens junctions (AJ) integrity, are responsible for strengthening of the gut barrier that acts as a first line defense against endotoxemia. However, the preferential role of the underlying PI3K/Akt (PKB) axis in triggering enterocytic proliferation/differentiation signaling and AJ assembly is still obscure in sepsis. Additionally, the potential involvement of dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP)-IV in cholestatic sepsis has not yet been reported. Common bile duct ligation (CBDL) insult was performed in adult male Sprague-Dawley rats except for sham operated animals; three doses of vildagliptin (VLD3, 10 and 30 mg/kg/d; p.o) were administered for 10 consecutive days post CBDL. VLD3/10/30 dose-dependently decreased DPP-IV and elevated GLP-1, IGF-1, PI3K, pS473-Akt (PKB), pS9-GSK-3β, pS133-CREB and cyclin-D1. VLD3/10 reduced fever, portal/aortic endotoxin and IgG, body weight loss as well as ileal NF-κB, TNF-α, MPO, TBARS, subepithelial/pericryptal and submucosal collagen deposition, vimentin immunoreactivity, N-cadherin, Zeb1 and pY654-β-catenin but increased E-cadherin, NPSH and colon/spleen indices - effects that were quite the opposite of VLD30. Accordingly, maintaining proper enterocytic proliferation/differentiation and phosphorylation inputs consequent to adequate DPP-IV inhibition is integral to AJ assembly in cholestatic sepsis; however, perturbed signals by excessive suppression of the enzyme activity induce toxic effects manifested as AJ disassembly and EMT, hence gut leakage and overt endotoxemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doaa A Zaky
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr El-Aini street, Cairo, P.O. Box 11562, Egypt.
| | | | - Noha N Nassar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr El-Aini street, Cairo, P.O. Box 11562, Egypt
| | - Dalaal M Abdallah
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr El-Aini street, Cairo, P.O. Box 11562, Egypt
| | - Muhammad Y Al-Shorbagy
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr El-Aini street, Cairo, P.O. Box 11562, Egypt; School of Pharmacy, NewGiza University, Giza, Egypt
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6
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Cua S, Tan HL, Fong WJ, Chin A, Lau A, Ding V, Song Z, Yang Y, Choo A. Targeting of embryonic annexin A2 expressed on ovarian and breast cancer by the novel monoclonal antibody 2448. Oncotarget 2018; 9:13206-13221. [PMID: 29568351 PMCID: PMC5862572 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.24152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) play an increasingly important role in cancer therapy. To address the wide heterogeneity of the disease, the identification of novel antigen targets and the development of mAbs against them are needed. Our lab previously generated a panel of mAbs against human embryonic stem cells (hESC) using a whole cell immunization approach in mice. These mAbs can potentially target oncofetal antigens and be repurposed for antibody or antibody drug conjugate (ADC) therapy. From this panel, the novel IgG1 2448 was found to bind surface antigens on hESC and multiple cancer cell lines. Here, we show 2448 targets a unique glycan epitope on annexin A2 (ANXA2) and can potentially monitor the Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) in ovarian and breast cancer. To evaluate 2448 as a potential drug, 2448 was engineered and expressed as a chimeric IgG1. Chimeric 2448 (ch2448) demonstrated efficient and specific killing when conjugated to cytotoxic payloads as an ADC. In addition, ch2448 elicited potent antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) activity in vitro and in vivo. Further engineering of ch2448 to remove fucose in the Fc domain enhanced ADCC. Overall, these findings indicate that embryonic ANXA2 is an attractive target and suggest that ch2448 is a promising candidate for further therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simeon Cua
- Stem Cells 1 Group, Bioprocessing Technology Institute (BTI), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (ASTAR), Singapore 138668, Singapore
| | - Heng Liang Tan
- Stem Cells 1 Group, Bioprocessing Technology Institute (BTI), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (ASTAR), Singapore 138668, Singapore
| | - Wey Jia Fong
- Stem Cells 1 Group, Bioprocessing Technology Institute (BTI), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (ASTAR), Singapore 138668, Singapore
| | - Angela Chin
- Stem Cells 1 Group, Bioprocessing Technology Institute (BTI), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (ASTAR), Singapore 138668, Singapore
| | - Ally Lau
- Proteomics Group, Bioprocessing Technology Institute (BTI), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (ASTAR), Singapore 138668, Singapore
| | - Vanessa Ding
- Stem Cells 1 Group, Bioprocessing Technology Institute (BTI), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (ASTAR), Singapore 138668, Singapore
| | - Zhiwei Song
- Expression Engineering 1 Group, Bioprocessing Technology Institute (BTI), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (ASTAR), Singapore 138668, Singapore
| | - Yuansheng Yang
- Animal Cell Technology 1 Group, Bioprocessing Technology Institute (BTI), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (ASTAR), Singapore 138668, Singapore
| | - Andre Choo
- Stem Cells 1 Group, Bioprocessing Technology Institute (BTI), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (ASTAR), Singapore 138668, Singapore.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore 117575, Singapore
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7
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A novel antibody against cancer stem cell biomarker, DCLK1-S, is potentially useful for assessing colon cancer risk after screening colonoscopy. J Transl Med 2017; 97:1245-1261. [PMID: 28414327 PMCID: PMC5623180 DOI: 10.1038/labinvest.2017.40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2016] [Revised: 03/01/2017] [Accepted: 03/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
DCLK1 expression is critically required for maintaining growth of human colon cancer cells (hCCCs). Human colorectal tumors (CRCs) and hCCCs express a novel short isoform of DCLK1 (DCLK1-S; isoform 2) from β-promoter of hDCLK1 gene, while normal colons express long isoform (DCLK1-L; isoform 1) from 5'(α)-promoter, suggesting that DCLK1-S, and not DCLK1-L, marks cancer stem cells (CSCs). Even though DCLK1-S differs from DCLK1-L by only six amino acids, we succeeded in generating a monospecific DCLK1-S-Antibody (PS41014), which does not cross-react with DCLK1-L, and specifically detects CSCs. Subcellular localization of S/L-isoforms was examined by immune-electron-microscopy (IEM). Surprisingly, besides plasma membrane and cytosolic fractions, S/L also localized to nuclear/mitochondrial fractions, with pronounced localization of S-isoform in the nuclei and mitochondria. Sporadic CRCs develop from adenomas. Screening colonoscopy is used for detection/resection of growths, and morphological/pathological criteria are used for risk assessment and recommendations for follow-up colonoscopy. But, these features are not precise and majority of the patients will never develop cancer. We hypothesized that antibody-based assay(s), which identify CSCs, will significantly improve prognostic value of morphological/pathological criteria. We conducted a pilot retrospective study with PS41014-Ab, by staining archived adenoma specimens from patients who developed (high-risk), or did not develop (low-risk) adenocarcinomas within 10-15 years. PS41014-Ab stained adenomas from initial and follow-up colonoscopies of high-risk patients, at significantly higher levels (three to fivefold) than adenomas from low-risk patients, suggesting that PS41014-Ab could be used as an additional tool for assessing CRC risk. CRC patients, with high DCLK1-S-expressing tumors (by qRT-PCR), were reported to have worse overall survival than low expressers. We now report that DCLK1-S-specific Ab may help to identify high-risk patients at the time of index/screening colonoscopy.
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8
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Sarkar S, O'Connell MR, Okugawa Y, Lee BS, Toiyama Y, Kusunoki M, Daboval RD, Goel A, Singh P. FOXD3 Regulates CSC Marker, DCLK1-S, and Invasive Potential: Prognostic Implications in Colon Cancer. Mol Cancer Res 2017; 15:1678-1691. [PMID: 28851816 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-17-0287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Revised: 07/26/2017] [Accepted: 08/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The 5' (α)-promoter of the human doublecortin-like kinase 1 (DCLK1) gene becomes epigenetically silenced during colon carcinogenesis, resulting in loss of expression of the canonical long(L)-isoform1 (DCLK1-L) in human colon adenocarcinomas (hCRCs). Instead, hCRCs express a short(S)-isoform2 (DCLK1-S) from an alternate (β)-promoter of DCLK1. The current study, examined if the transcriptional activity of the (β)-promoter is suppressed in normal versus cancerous cells. On the basis of in silico and molecular approaches, it was discovered that FOXD3 potently inhibits the transcriptional activity of the (β)-promoter. FOXD3 becomes methylated in human colon cancer cells (hCCC), with loss of FOXD3 expression, allowing expression of the DCLK1(S) variant in hCCCs/hCRCs. Relative levels of FOXD3/DCLK1(S/L) were measured in a cohort of CRC patient specimens (n = 92), in relation to overall survival (OS). Patients expressing high DCLK1(S), with or without low FOXD3, had significantly worse OS compared with patients expressing low DCLK1(S). The relative levels of DCLK1-L did not correlate with OS. In a pilot retrospective study, colon adenomas from high-risk patients (who developed CRCs in <15 years) demonstrated significantly higher staining for DCLK1(S) + significantly lower staining for FOXD3, compared with adenomas from low-risk patients (who remained free of CRCs). Latter results strongly suggest a prognostic value of measuring DCLK1(S)/FOXD3 in adenomas. Overexpression of DCLK1(S), but not DCLK1(L), caused a significant increase in the invasive potential of hCCCs, which may explain worse outcomes for patients with high DCLK1-S-expressing tumors. On the basis of these data, FOXD3 is a potent repressor of DCLK1-S expression in normal cells; loss of FOXD3 in hCCCs/hCRCs allows upregulation of DCLK1-S, imparting a potent invasive potential to the cells. Mol Cancer Res; 15(12); 1678-91. ©2017 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shubhashish Sarkar
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
| | - Malaney R O'Connell
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
| | - Yoshinaga Okugawa
- Gastrointestinal Cancer Research Laboratory, Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center and Baylor Research Institute, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas.,Department of Gastrointestinal and Pediatric Surgery, Division of Reparative Medicine, Institute of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University, Mie, Japan
| | - Brian S Lee
- Medical School, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
| | - Yuji Toiyama
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Pediatric Surgery, Division of Reparative Medicine, Institute of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University, Mie, Japan
| | - Masato Kusunoki
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Pediatric Surgery, Division of Reparative Medicine, Institute of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University, Mie, Japan
| | - Robert D Daboval
- Medical School, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
| | - Ajay Goel
- Gastrointestinal Cancer Research Laboratory, Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center and Baylor Research Institute, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Pomila Singh
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas.
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Singh P, O'Connell M, Shubhashish S. Epigenetic regulation of human DCLK-1 gene during colon-carcinogenesis: clinical and mechanistic implications. Stem Cell Investig 2016; 3:51. [PMID: 27777940 DOI: 10.21037/sci.2016.09.07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2016] [Accepted: 09/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Colorectal carcinogenesis is a multi-step process. While ~25% of colorectal cancers (CRCs) arise in patients with a family history (genetic predisposition), ~75% of CRCs are due to age-associated accumulation of epigenetic alterations which can result in the suppression of key tumor suppressor genes leading to mutations and activation of oncogenic pathways. Sporadic colon-carcinogenesis is facilitated by many molecular pathways of genomic instability which include chromosomal instability (CIN), micro-satellite instability (MSI) and CpG island methylator phenotype (CIMP), leading towards loss of homeostasis and onset of neoplastic transformation. The unopposed activation of Wnt/β-catenin pathways, either due to loss of APC function or up-regulation of related stimulatory pathways, results in unopposed hyperproliferation of colonic crypts, considered the single most important risk factor for colon carcinogenesis. Hypermethylation of CpG islands within the promoters of specific genes can potentially inactivate DNA repair genes and/or critical tumor suppressor genes. Recently, CpG methylation of the 5' promoter of human (h) DCLK1 gene was reported in many human epithelial cancers, including colorectal cancers (CRCs), resulting in the loss of expression of the canonical long isoform of DCLK1 (DCLK1-L) in hCRCs. Instead, a shorter isoform of DCLK1 (DCLK1-S) was discovered to be expressed in hCRCs, from an alternate β promoter of DCLKL1-gene; the clinical and biological implications of these novel findings, in relation to recent publications is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pomila Singh
- Neuroscience and Cell Biology Department, University of Texas and Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Malaney O'Connell
- Neuroscience and Cell Biology Department, University of Texas and Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Sarkar Shubhashish
- Neuroscience and Cell Biology Department, University of Texas and Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
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10
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Andey T, Patel A, Marepally S, Chougule M, Spencer SD, Rishi AK, Singh M. Formulation, Pharmacokinetic, and Efficacy Studies of Mannosylated Self-Emulsifying Solid Dispersions of Noscapine. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0146804. [PMID: 26757437 PMCID: PMC4710382 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0146804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2015] [Accepted: 12/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To formulate hydroxypropyl methylcellulose-stabilized self-emulsifying solid dispersible carriers of noscapine to enhance oral bioavailability. Methods Formulation of noscapine (Nos) self-emulsifying solid dispersible microparticles (SESDs) was afforded by emulsification using an optimized formula of Labrafil M1944, Tween-80, and Labrasol followed by spray-drying with hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), with and without mannosamine (Mann-Nos_SESDs and Nos_SESDs respectively); self-microemulsifying liquid dispersions (SMEDDs) with and without mannosamine (Mann-Nos_SMEDDs and Nos_SMEDDs respectively) were also prepared. SMEDDs and SESDs were characterized for size, polydispersity, surface charge, entrapment efficiency, in vitro permeability, in vitro release kinetics, and oral pharmacokinetics in Sprague-Dawley rats (10 mg/kg p.o). The antitumor efficacy of Mann-Nos_SESDs on the basis of chemosensitization to cisplatin (2.0 mg/kg, IV) was investigated in a chemorefractory lung tumor Nu/Nu mouse model up to a maximal oral dose of 300 mg/kg. Results The oil/surfactant/co-surfactant mixture of Labrafil M1944, Tween-80, and Labrasol optimized at weight ratios of 62.8:9.30:27.90% produced stable self-microemulsifying dispersions (SMEDDs) at a SMEDD to water ratio of 1–3:7–9 parts by weight. SMEDDs had hydrodynamic diameters between 231 and 246 nm; surface charges ranged from -16.50 to -18.7 mV; and entrapment efficiencies were between 32 and 35%. SESDs ranged in size between 5.84 and 6.60 μm with surface charges from -10.62 to -12.40 mV and entrapment efficiencies of 30.96±4.66 and 32.05±3.72% (Nos_SESDs and Mann-Nos_SESDs respectively). Mann-Nos_SESDs exhibited saturating uptake across Caco-2 monolayers (Papp = 4.94±0.18 × 10−6 cm/s), with controlled release of 50% of Nos in 6 hr at pH 6.8 following Higuchi kinetics. Mann-Nos_ SESDs was 40% more bioavailable compared to Nos_SESDs; and was effective in sensitizing H1650 SP cells to Cisplatin in vitro and in an orthotopic lung tumor model of H1650 SP origin. Conclusions Mannosylated noscapine self-emulsifying solid dispersions (Mann-Nos_SESDs) are bioavailable and potentiate the antineoplastic effect of cisplatin-based chemotherapy in cisplatin-resistant NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terrick Andey
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences University, 19 Foster Street, Worcester, MA, United States of America
| | - Apurva Patel
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, 1520 South Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Tallahassee, FL, United States of America
| | - Srujan Marepally
- Institute for Stem cell biology and Regenerative Medicine (inStem), National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS), Bangalore, India
| | - Mahavir Chougule
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy, University of Hawaii at Hilo, 200 W. St., Hilo, HI 96720, United States of America
| | - Shawn D. Spencer
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, 1520 South Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Tallahassee, FL, United States of America
| | - Arun K. Rishi
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Mandip Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, 1520 South Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Tallahassee, FL, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Novel regenerative peptide TP508 mitigates radiation-induced gastrointestinal damage by activating stem cells and preserving crypt integrity. J Transl Med 2015; 95:1222-33. [PMID: 26280221 PMCID: PMC4626368 DOI: 10.1038/labinvest.2015.103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2015] [Revised: 05/22/2015] [Accepted: 07/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, increasing threats of radiation exposure and nuclear disasters have become a significant concern for the United States and countries worldwide. Exposure to high doses of radiation triggers a number of potentially lethal effects. Among the most severe is the gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity syndrome caused by the destruction of the intestinal barrier, resulting in bacterial translocation, systemic bacteremia, sepsis, and death. The lack of effective radioprotective agents capable of mitigating radiation-induced damage has prompted a search for novel countermeasures that can mitigate the effects of radiation post exposure, accelerate tissue repair in radiation-exposed individuals, and prevent mortality. We report that a single injection of regenerative peptide TP508 (rusalatide acetate, Chrysalin) 24 h after lethal radiation exposure (9 Gy, LD100/15) appears to significantly increase survival and delay mortality by mitigating radiation-induced intestinal and colonic toxicity. TP508 treatment post exposure prevents the disintegration of GI crypts, stimulates the expression of adherens junction protein E-cadherin, activates crypt cell proliferation, and decreases apoptosis. TP508 post-exposure treatment also upregulates the expression of DCLK1 and LGR5 markers of stem cells that have been shown to be responsible for maintaining and regenerating intestinal crypts. Thus, TP508 appears to mitigate the effects of GI toxicity by activating radioresistant stem cells and increasing the stemness potential of crypts to maintain and restore intestinal integrity. These results suggest that TP508 may be an effective emergency nuclear countermeasure that could be delivered within 24 h post exposure to increase survival and delay mortality, giving victims time to reach clinical sites for advanced medical treatment.
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Epigenetic changes and alternate promoter usage by human colon cancers for expressing DCLK1-isoforms: Clinical Implications. Sci Rep 2015; 5:14983. [PMID: 26447334 PMCID: PMC4597220 DOI: 10.1038/srep14983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2015] [Accepted: 09/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
DCLK1 specifically marks colon/pancreatic cancers in mice, and is expressed by human colon adenocarcinomas (hCRCs). Down-regulation of DCLK1 results in loss of cancer-stem-cells (CSCs), and inhibits spheroidal/xenograft growths from hCRC-cells. The 5'-promoter of DCLK1-gene is reportedly hypermethylated in hCRCs, resulting in loss of expression of DCLK1-transcripts, originating from 5'(α)-promoter (termed DCLK1-L, in here). However, in mouse colon-tumors, 5'-promoter of DCLK1-gene remains unchanged, and DCLK1-L, originating from 5'(α)-promoter, is expressed. We hypothesized that elevated levels of DCLK1-protein in hCRC-cells, may be transcribed/translated from an alternate-promoter. Several in silico and molecular biology approaches were used to test our hypothesis. We report for the first time that majority of hCRCs express short-transcripts of DCLK1 (termed DCLK1-S, in here) from an alternate β-promoter in IntronV of the gene, while normal-colons mainly express DCLK1-L from 5'(α)-promoter. We additionally report an important role of β-catenin and TCF4/LEF binding-sites for activating (α)-promoter, while activated NF-κBp65 (bound to NF-κB-cis-element), activates (β)-promoter in cancer-cells. DCLK1-S expression was examined in a cohort of 92 CRC patients; high-expressors had significantly worse overall-survival compared to low-expressors. Our novel findings' regarding usage of alternate (β)-promoter by hCRCs, suggests that DCLK1-S may represent an important target for preventing/inhibiting colon-cancers, and for eliminating colon-CSCs.
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Stepanenko A, Dmitrenko V. HEK293 in cell biology and cancer research: phenotype, karyotype, tumorigenicity, and stress-induced genome-phenotype evolution. Gene 2015; 569:182-90. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2015.05.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 183] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2015] [Revised: 05/11/2015] [Accepted: 05/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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Kantara C, O’Connell M, Luthra G, Gajjar A, Sarkar S, Ullrich R, Singh P. Methods for detecting circulating cancer stem cells (CCSCs) as a novel approach for diagnosis of colon cancer relapse/metastasis. J Transl Med 2015; 95:100-12. [PMID: 25347154 PMCID: PMC4281282 DOI: 10.1038/labinvest.2014.133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2014] [Revised: 09/23/2014] [Accepted: 09/30/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are believed to be resistant to currently available therapies and may be responsible for relapse of cancer in patients. Measuring circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in the blood of patients has emerged as a non-invasive diagnostic procedure for screening patients who may be at high risk for developing metastatic cancers or relapse of the cancer disease. However, accurate detection of CTCs has remained a problem, as epithelial-cell markers used to date are not always reliable for detecting CTCs, especially during epithelial-mesenchymal transition. As CSCs are required to initiate metastatic tumors, our goal was to optimize and standardize a method for identifying circulating CSCs (CCSCs) in patients, using established CSC markers. Here, we report for the first time the detection of CCSCs in the blood of athymic nude mice, bearing metastatic tumors, and in the blood of patients positive for colonic adenocarcinomas. Using a simple and non-expensive method, we isolated a relatively pure population of CSCs (CD45-/CK19+), free of red blood cells and largely free of contaminating CD45+ white blood cells. Enriched CCSCs from patients with colon adenocarcinomas had a malignant phenotype and co-expressed CSC markers (DCLK1/LGR5) with CD44/Annexin A2. CSCs were not found in the blood of non-cancer patients, free of colonic growths. Enriched CCSCs from colon cancer patients grew primary spheroids, suggesting the presence of tumor-initiating cells in the blood of these patients. In conclusion, we have developed a novel diagnostic assay for detecting CSCs in circulation, which may more accurately predict the risk of relapse or metastatic disease in patients. As CSCs can potentially initiate metastatic growths, patients positive for CCSCs can be treated with inhibitory agents that selectively target CSCs, besides conventional treatments, to reduce the risk of relapse/metastatic disease for improving clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Kantara
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, utmbHealth, Galveston, TX
| | - Malaney O’Connell
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, utmbHealth, Galveston, TX
| | | | | | | | - Robert Ullrich
- Department of Radiation Oncology, utmbHealth, Galveston, TX
| | - Pomila Singh
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, utmbHealth, Galveston, TX
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Andey T, Marepally S, Patel A, Jackson T, Sarkar S, O'Connell M, Reddy RC, Chellappan S, Singh P, Singh M. Cationic lipid guided short-hairpin RNA interference of annexin A2 attenuates tumor growth and metastasis in a mouse lung cancer stem cell model. J Control Release 2014; 184:67-78. [PMID: 24727000 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2014.03.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2013] [Revised: 03/25/2014] [Accepted: 03/31/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The role of side populations (SP) or cancer stem-like cells (CSC) in promoting the resistance phenotype presents a viable anticancer target. Human-derived H1650 SP cells over-express annexin A2 (AnxA2) and SOX2, and are resistant to conventional cytotoxic chemotherapeutics. AnxA2 and SOX2 bind to proto-oncogenes, c-Myc and c-Src, and AnxA2 forms a functional heterotetramer with S100A10 to promote tumor motility. However, the combined role of AnxA2, S100A10 and SOX2 in promoting the resistant phenotype of SP cells has not been investigated. In the current studies, we examined for the first time a possible role of AnxA2 in regulating SA100A10 and SOX2 in promoting a resistant phenotype of lung tumors derived from H1650 SP cells. The resistance of H1650 SP cells to chemotherapy compared to H1650 MP cells was investigated by cell viability studies. A short hairpin RNA targeting AnxA2 (shAnxA2) was formulated in a liposomal (cationic ligand-guided, CLG) carrier and characterized for size, charge and entrapment and loading efficiencies; CLG carrier uptake by H1650 SP cells was demonstrated by fluorescence microscopy, and knockdown of AnxA2 confirmed by qRT-PCR and Western blot. Targeting of xenograft and orthotopic lung tumors was demonstrated with fluorescent (DiR) CLG carriers in mice. The therapeutic efficacy of CLG-AnxA2, compared to that of placebo, was investigated after 2 weeks of treatment in terms of tumor weights and tumor burden in vivo. Compared to mixed population cells, H1650 SP cells showed exponential resistance to docetaxel (15-fold), cisplatin (13-fold), 5-fluorouracil (31-fold), camptothecin (7-fold), and gemcitabine (16-fold). CLG carriers were nanoparticulate (199nm) with a slight positive charge (21.82mV); CLG-shAnx2 was of similar size (217nm) with decreased charge (12.11mV), and entrapment and loading efficiencies of 97% and 6.13% respectively. Fluorescence microscopy showed high uptake of CLG-shAnxA2 in H1650 SP cells after 2h resulting in a 6-fold reduction in AnxA2 mRNA expression and 92% decreased protein expression. Fluorescence imaging confirmed targeting of tumors and lungs by DiR-CLG carriers with sustained localization up to 4h in mice. CLG-shAnxA2 treatment of mice significantly reduced the weights of lung tumors derived from H1650 SP cells and tumor burden was reduced to only 19% of controls. The loss in tumor weights in response to CLG-shAnxA2 was associated with a significant loss in the relative levels of AnxA2, SOX2, total β-catenin and S100A10, both at the RNA and protein levels. These results suggest the intriguing possibility that AnxA2 may directly or indirectly regulate relative levels of β-catenin, S100A10 and SOX2, and that the combination of these factors may contribute to the resistant phenotype of H1650 SP cells. Thus down-regulating AnxA2 using RNAi methods may provide a useful method for targeting cancer stem cells and help advance therapeutic efficacy against lung cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terrick Andey
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, 1520 South Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA
| | - Srujan Marepally
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, 1520 South Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA
| | - Apurva Patel
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, 1520 South Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA
| | - Tanise Jackson
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, 1520 South Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA
| | - Shubhashish Sarkar
- Department of Neurosciences and Cell Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Malaney O'Connell
- Department of Neurosciences and Cell Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | | | - Srikumar Chellappan
- Department of Tumor Biology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Pomila Singh
- Department of Neurosciences and Cell Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Mandip Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, 1520 South Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA.
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Abstract
The existence of the hormone gastrin in the distal stomach (antrum) has been known for almost 110 years, and the physiological function of this amidated peptide in regulating gastric acid secretion via the CCK2 receptor is now well established. In this brief review we consider important additional roles of gastrin, including regulation of genes encoding proteins such as plasminogen activator inhibitors and matrix metalloproteinases that have important actions on extracellular matrix remodelling. These actions are, at least in part, effected by paracrine signalling pathways and make important contributions to maintaining functional integrity of the gastric epithelium. Recent studies also provide support for the idea that gastrin, in concert with other hormones, could potentially contribute a post-prandial incretin effect. We also review recent developments in the biology of other gastrin gene products, including the precursor progastrin, which causes proliferation of the colonic epithelium and in certain circumstances may induce cancer formation. Glycine-extended biosynthetic processing intermediates also have proliferative effects in colonic mucosa and in some oesophageal cancer cell lines. Whether these additional gene products exert their effects through the CCK2 receptor or a separate entity is currently a matter of debate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rod Dimaline
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Crown Street, Liverpool L69 3BX, UK
| | - Andrea Varro
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Crown Street, Liverpool L69 3BX, UK
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Kantara C, O'Connell M, Sarkar S, Moya S, Ullrich R, Singh P. Curcumin promotes autophagic survival of a subset of colon cancer stem cells, which are ablated by DCLK1-siRNA. Cancer Res 2014; 74:2487-98. [PMID: 24626093 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-13-3536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Curcumin is known to induce apoptosis of cancer cells by different mechanisms, but its effects on cancer stem cells (CSC) have been less investigated. Here, we report that curcumin promotes the survival of DCLK1-positive colon CSCs, potentially confounding application of its anticancer properties. At optimal concentrations, curcumin greatly reduced expression levels of stem cell markers (DCLK1/CD44/ALDHA1/Lgr5/Nanog) in three-dimensional spheroid cultures and tumor xenografts derived from colon cancer cells. However, curcumin unexpectedly induced proliferation and autophagic survival of a subset of DCLK1-positive CSCs. Spheroid cultures were disintegrated by curcumin in vitro but regrew within 30 to 40 days of treatment, suggesting a survival benefit from autophagy, permitting long-term persistence of colorectal cancer. Notably, RNA interference-mediated silencing of DCLK1 triggered apoptotic cell death of colon cancer cells in vitro and in vivo, and abolished colorectal cancer survival in response to curcumin; combination of DCLK1-siRNA and curcumin dramatically reversed CSC phenotype, contributing to attenuation of the growth of spheroid cultures and tumor xenografts. Taken together, our findings confirm a role of DCLK1 in colon CSCs and highlight DCLK1 as a target to enhance antitumor properties of curcumin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Kantara
- Authors' Affiliations: Departments of Neuroscience and Cell Biology and Sealy Cancer Center, University of Texas Medical Branch Health, Galveston, Texas
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Singh P, Sarkar S, Kantara C, Maxwell C. Progastrin Peptides Increase the Risk of Developing Colonic Tumors: Impact on Colonic Stem Cells. CURRENT COLORECTAL CANCER REPORTS 2012; 8:277-289. [PMID: 23226720 DOI: 10.1007/s11888-012-0144-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Pre-neoplastic lesions (ACF, aberrant-crypt-foci; Hp, hyperplastic/dysplastic polyps) are believed to be precursors of sporadic colorectal-tumors (Ad, adenomas; AdCA, adenocarcinomas). ACF/Hp likely originate due to abnormal growth of colonic-crypts in response to aberrant queues in the microenvironment of colonic-crypts. Thus identifying factors which regulate homeostatic vs aberrant proliferation/apoptosis of colonocytes, especially stem/progenitor cells, may lead to effective preventative/treatment strategies. Based on this philosophy, role of growth-factors/peptide-hormones, potentially available in the circulation/microenvironment of colonic-crypts is being examined extensively. Since the time gastrins were discovered as trophic (growth) factors for gastrointestinal-cells, the effect of gastrins on the growth of normal/cancer cells has been investigated, leading to many discoveries. Seminal discoveries made in the area of gastrins and colon-cancer, as it relates to molecular pathways associated with formation of colonic tumors will be reviewed, and possible impact on diagnostic/preventative/treatment strategies will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pomila Singh
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, UTMB, Galveston TX 77555
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