The metalloproteinase ADAMTS1: a comprehensive review of its role in tumorigenic and metastatic pathways

MMPs as potential molecular targets in epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition driven COPD progression

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the third leading cause of mortality globally and the risk of developing lung cancer is six times greater in individuals with COPD who smoke compared to those who do not smoke. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play a crucial role in the pathophysiology of respiratory diseases by promoting inflammation and tissue degradation. Furthermore, MMPs are involved in key processes like epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), metastasis, and invasion in lung cancer. While EMT has traditionally been associated with the progression of lung cancer, recent research highlights its active involvement in individuals with COPD. Current evidence underscores its role in orchestrating airway remodeling, fostering airway fibrosis, and contributing to the potential for malignant transformation in the complex pathophysiology of COPD. The precise regulatory roles of diverse MMPs in steering EMT during COPD progression needs to be elucidated. Additionally, the less-understood aspect involves how these MMPs bi-directionally activate or regulate various EMT-associated signaling cascades during COPD progression. This review article explores recent advancements in understanding MMPs' role in EMT during COPD progression and various pharmacological approaches to target MMPs. It also delves into the limitations of current MMP inhibitors and explores novel, advanced strategies for inhibiting MMPs, potentially offering new avenues for treating respiratory diseases.

Cyclic increase in the ADAMTS1-L1CAM-EGFR axis promotes the EMT and cervical lymph node metastasis of oral squamous cell carcinoma

The matrix metalloprotease A disintegrin and metalloprotease with thrombospondin motifs 1 (ADAMTS1) was reported to be involved in tumor progression in several cancer types, but its contributions appear discrepant. At present, the role of ADAMTS1 in oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC; OSCC) remains unclear. Herein, The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database showed that ADAMTS1 transcripts were downregulated in head and neck SCC (HNSCC) tissues compared to normal tissues, but ADAMTS1 levels were correlated with poorer prognoses of HNSCC patients. In vitro, we observed that ADAMTS1 expression levels were correlated with the invasive abilities of four OSCC cell lines, HSC-3, SCC9, HSC-3M, and SAS. Knockdown of ADAMTS1 in OSCC cells led to a decrease and its overexpression led to an increase in cell-invasive abilities in vitro as well as tumor growth and lymph node (LN) metastasis in OSCC xenografts. Mechanistic investigations showed that the cyclic increase in ADAMTS1-L1 cell adhesion molecule (L1CAM) axis-mediated epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) activation led to exacerbation of the invasive abilities of OSCC cells via inducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) progression. Clinical analyses revealed that ADAMTS1, L1CAM, and EGFR levels were all correlated with worse prognoses of HNSCC patients, and patients with ADAMTS1high/L1CAMhigh or EGFRhigh tumors had the shortest overall and disease-specific survival times. As to therapeutic aspects, we discovered that an edible plant-derived flavonoid, apigenin (API), drastically inhibited expression of the ADAMTS1-L1CAM-EGFR axis and reduced the ADAMTS1-triggered invasion and LN metastasis of OSCC cells in vitro and in vivo. Most importantly, API treatment significantly prolonged survival rates of xenograft mice with OSCC. In summary, ADAMTS1 may be a useful biomarker for predicting OSCC progression, and API potentially retarded OSCC progression by targeting the ADAMTS1-L1CAM-EGFR signaling pathway.

Identification of Molecular Markers Associated with Prostate Cancer Subtypes: An Integrative Bioinformatics Approach

Prostate cancer (PCa) is characterised by androgen dependency. Unfortunately, under anti-androgen treatment pressure, castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) emerges, characterised by heterogeneous cell populations that, over time, lead to the development of different androgen-dependent or -independent phenotypes. Despite important advances in therapeutic strategies, CRPC remains incurable. Context-specific essential genes represent valuable candidates for targeted anti-cancer therapies. Through the investigation of gene and protein annotations and the integration of published transcriptomic data, we identified two consensus lists to stratify PCa patients' risk and discriminate CRPC phenotypes based on androgen receptor activity. ROC and Kaplan-Meier survival analyses were used for gene set validation in independent datasets. We further evaluated these genes for their association with cancer dependency. The deregulated expression of the PCa-related genes was associated with overall and disease-specific survival, metastasis and/or high recurrence risk, while the CRPC-related genes clearly discriminated between adeno and neuroendocrine phenotypes. Some of the genes showed context-specific essentiality. We further identified candidate drugs through a computational repositioning approach for targeting these genes and treating lethal variants of PCa. This work provides a proof-of-concept for the use of an integrative approach to identify candidate biomarkers involved in PCa progression and CRPC pathogenesis within the goal of precision medicine.

Reprogramming of VEGF-mediated extracellular matrix changes through autocrine signaling

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) plays key roles in angiogenesis, vasculogenesis, and wound healing. In cancers, including triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), VEGF has been associated with increased invasion and metastasis, processes that require cancer cells to traverse through the extracellular matrix (ECM) and establish angiogenesis at distant sites. To further understand the role of VEGF in modifying the ECM, we characterized VEGF-mediated changes in the ECM of tumors derived from TNBC MDA-MB-231 cells engineered to overexpress VEGF. We established that increased VEGF expression by these cells resulted in tumors with reduced collagen 1 (Col1) fibers, fibronectin, and hyaluronan. Molecular characterization of tumors identified an increase of MMP1, uPAR, and LOX, and a decrease of MMP2, and ADAMTS1. α-SMA, a marker of cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs), increased, and FAP-α, a marker of a subset of CAFs associated with immune suppression, decreased with VEGF overexpression. Analysis of human data from The Cancer Genome Atlas Program confirmed mRNA differences for several molecules when comparing TNBC with high and low VEGF expression. We additionally characterized enzymatic changes induced by VEGF overexpression in three different cancer cell lines that clearly identified autocrine-mediated changes, specifically uPAR, in these enzymes. Unlike the increase of Col1 fibers and fibronectin mediated by VEGF during wound healing, in the TNBC model, VEGF significantly reduced key protein components of the ECM. These results further expand our understanding of the role of VEGF in cancer progression and identify potential ECM-related targets to disrupt this progression.

Anti-inflammatory mechanisms in cancer research: Characterization of a distinct M2-like macrophage model derived from the THP-1 cell line

AIMS

Macrophages play an essential role in cancer development. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) have predominantly M2-like attributes that are associated with tumor progression and poor patient survival. Numerous methods have been reported for differentiating and polarizing macrophages in vitro, but there is no standardized and validated model for creating TAMs. Primary cells show varying cytokine responses depending on their origin and functional studies utilizing these cells may lack generalization and validity. A distinct cell line-derived TAM-like M2 subtype is required to investigate the mechanisms mediated by anti-inflammatory TAMs in vitro. Our previous work demonstrated a standardized protocol for creating an M2 subtype derived from a human THP-1 cell line. The cell expression profile, however, has not been validated. The aim of this study was to characterize and validate the TAM-like M2 subtype macrophage created based on our protocol to introduce them as a standardized model for cancer research.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Using qRT-PCR and ELISA, we demonstrated that proinflammatory, anti-inflammatory, and tumor-associated marker expression changed during THP-1-derived marcrophage development in vitro, mimicking a TAM-related profile (e.g., TNFα, IL-1β). The anti-inflammatory marker IL-8/CXCL8, however, is most highly expressed in young M0 macrophages. Flow cytometry showed increased expression of CD206 in the final TAM-like M2 macrophage. Single-cell RNA-sequencing analysis of primary human monocytes and colon cancer tissue macrophages demonstrated that cell line-derived M2 macrophages resembled a TAM-related gene profile.

CONCLUSIONS

The THP-1-derived M2 macrophage based on a standardized cell line model represents a distinct anti-inflammatory TAM-like phenotype with an M2a subtype profile. This model may provide a basis for in vitro investigation of functional mechanisms in a variety of anti-inflammatory settings, particularly colon cancer development.

Comparative Transcriptome Analysis Identifies Desmoglein-3 as a Potential Oncogene in Oral Cancer Cells

The role of desmoglein-3 (DSG3) in oncogenesis is unclear. This study aimed to uncover molecular mechanisms through comparative transcriptome analysis in oral cancer cells, defining potential key genes and associated biological processes related to DSG3 expression. Four mRNA libraries of oral squamous carcinoma H413 cell lines were sequenced, and 599 candidate genes exhibited differential expression between DSG3-overexpressing and matched control lines, with 12 genes highly significantly differentially expressed, including 9 upregulated and 3 downregulated. Genes with known implications in cancer, such as MMP-13, KRT84, OLFM4, GJA1, AMOT and ADAMTS1, were strongly linked to DSG3 overexpression. Gene ontology analysis indicated that the DSG3-associated candidate gene products participate in crucial cellular processes such as junction assembly, focal adhesion, extracellular matrix formation, intermediate filament organisation and keratinocyte differentiation. Validation of RNA-Seq was performed through RT-qPCR, Western blotting and immunofluorescence analyses. Furthermore, using transmission electron microscopy, we meticulously examined desmosome morphology and revealed a slightly immature desmosome structure in DSG3-overexpressing cells compared to controls. No changes in desmosome frequency and diameter were observed between the two conditions. This study underscores intricate and multifaceted alterations associated with DSG3 in oral squamous carcinoma cells, implying a potential oncogenic role of this gene in biological processes that enable cell communication, motility and survival.

ADAMTS7: a Novel Therapeutic Target in Atherosclerosis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Genome-wide association studies have repeatedly linked the metalloproteinase ADAMTS7 to coronary artery disease. Here we aim to highlight recent findings surrounding the human genetics of ADAMTS7, novel mouse models that investigate ADAMTS7 function, and potential substrates of ADAMTS7 cleavage.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent genome-wide association studies in coronary artery disease have replicated the GWAS signal for ADAMTS7 and shown that the signal holds true even across different ethnic groups. However, the direction of effect in humans remains unclear. A recent novel mouse model revealed that the proatherogenicity of ADAMTS7 is derived from its catalytic functions, while at the translational level, vaccinating mice against ADAMTS7 reduced atherosclerosis. Finally, in vitro proteomics approaches have identified extracellular matrix proteins as candidate substrates that may be causal for the proatherogenicity of ADAMTS7. ADAMTS7 represents an enticing target for therapeutic intervention. The recent studies highlighted here have replicated prior findings, confirming the genetic link between ADAMTS7 and atherosclerosis, while providing further evidence in mice that ADAMTS7 is a targetable proatherogenic enzyme.

Sevoflurane Exposure in Neonates Perturbs the Expression Patterns of Specific Genes That May Underly the Observed Learning and Memory Deficits

Exposure to commonly used anesthetics leads to neurotoxic effects in animal models-ranging from cell death to learning and memory deficits. These neurotoxic effects invoke a variety of molecular pathways, exerting either immediate or long-term effects at the cellular and behavioural levels. However, little is known about the gene expression changes following early neonatal exposure to these anesthetic agents. We report here on the effects of sevoflurane, a commonly used inhalational anesthetic, on learning and memory and identify a key set of genes that may likely be involved in the observed behavioural deficits. Specifically, we demonstrate that sevoflurane exposure in postnatal day 7 (P7) rat pups results in subtle, but distinct, memory deficits in the adult animals that have not been reported previously. Interestingly, when given intraperitoneally, pre-treatment with dexmedetomidine (DEX) could only prevent sevoflurane-induced anxiety in open field testing. To identify genes that may have been altered in the neonatal rats after sevoflurane and DEX exposure, specifically those impacting cellular viability, learning, and memory, we conducted an extensive Nanostring study examining over 770 genes. We found differential changes in the gene expression levels after exposure to both agents. A number of the perturbed genes found in this study have previously been implicated in synaptic transmission, plasticity, neurogenesis, apoptosis, myelination, and learning and memory. Our data thus demonstrate that subtle, albeit long-term, changes observed in an adult animal's learning and memory after neonatal anesthetic exposure may likely involve perturbation of specific gene expression patterns.

Enhanced Cytotoxic Activity of PEGylated Curcumin Derivatives: Synthesis, Structure-Activity Evaluation, and Biological Activity

Curcumin has been modified in various ways to broaden its application in medicine and address its limitations. In this study, we present a series of curcumin-based derivatives obtained by replacing the hydroxy groups in the feruloyl moiety with polyethylene glycol (PEG) chains and the addition of the BF₂ moiety to the carbonyl groups. Tested compounds were screened for their cytotoxic activity toward two bladder cancer cell lines, 5637 and SCaBER, and a noncancerous cell line derived from lung fibroblasts (MRC-5). Cell viability was analyzed under normoxic and hypoxic conditions (1% oxygen). Structure-activity relationships (SARs) are discussed, and curcumin derivatives equipped within feruloyl moieties with 3-methoxy and 4-{2-[2-(2-methoxyethoxy)ethoxy]ethoxy} substituents (5) were selected for further analysis. Compound 5 did not affect the viability of MRC-5 cells and exerted a stronger cytotoxic effect under hypoxic conditions. However, the flow cytometry studies showed that PEGylation did not improve cellular uptake. Another observation was that the lack of serum proteins limits the intracellular uptake of curcumin derivative 5. The preliminary mechanism of action studies indicated that compound 5 under hypoxic conditions induced G2/M arrest in a dose-dependent manner and increased the expression of stress-related proteins such as p21/CIP1, phosphorylated HSP27, ADAMTS-1, and phosphorylated JNK. In summary, the results of the studies indicated that PEGylated curcumin is a more potent compound against bladder cancer cell lines than the parent compound, and derivative 5 is worthy of further investigation to clarify its mechanism of anticancer action under hypoxic conditions.

Identification of novel prognostic and predictive biomarkers in salivary duct carcinoma via comprehensive molecular profiling

Molecular targets and predictive biomarkers for prognosis in salivary duct carcinoma (SDC) have not been fully identified. We conducted comprehensive molecular profiling to discover novel biomarkers for SDC. A total of 67 SDC samples were examined with DNA sequencing of 464 genes and transcriptome analysis in combination with the clinicopathological characteristics of the individuals. Prognostic biomarkers associated with response to combined androgen blockade (CAB) treatment were explored using mRNA expression data from 27 cases. Oncogenic mutations in receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) genes or genes in the MAPK pathway were identified in 55 cases (82.1%). Alterations in the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT signaling pathway were identified in 38 cases (56.7%). Interestingly, patient prognosis could be predicted using mRNA expression profiles, but not genetic mutation profiles. The risk score generated from the expression data of a four-gene set that includes the ADAMTS1, DSC1, RNF39, and IGLL5 genes was a significant prognostic marker for overall survival in the cohort (HR = 5.99, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.73–13.1, p = 7.8 × 10−6). Another risk score constructed from the expression of CD3E and LDB3 was a strong prognostic marker for progression-free survival for CAB treatment (p = 0.03). Mutations in RTK genes, MAPK pathway genes, and PI3K/AKT pathway genes likely represent key mutations in SDC tumorigenesis. The gene expression profiles identified in this study may be useful for stratifying patients who are good candidates for CAB treatment and may benefit from additional systemic therapies.

Gene Expression and Immunochemistry Analysis of ADAMTS-1 and Versican in Ameloblastoma

Background

Ameloblastoma is a benign but locally invasive odontogenic epithelial tumor, associated with a high recurrence rate after treatment. The action of enzymes of the metalloproteinase family is important to the degraded extracellular matrix, contributing to invasion. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the gene and protein expression of ADAMTS-1 and versican in ameloblastoma.

Materials and Methods

Twenty cases of ameloblastoma (n = 20) and ten dental follicles (DF) (n = 10) were used as a source for immunochemistry and quantitative RT-PCR for determining the protein and mRNA expressions of the concerned genes, respectively. Moreover, western blot and indirect immunofluorescence analysis were performed in AME cells.

Results

ADAMTS-1 and versican were overexpressed in DF than ameloblastoma by RT-PCR. However, in the immunolocalization analysis, ADAMTS-1 was expressed in ameloblastoma more than in DF and versican immunostaining obtained a similar pattern between ameloblastoma and DF. Indirect immunofluorescence detected the ADAMTS-1 and versican expression in cell lines derived from ameloblastoma. Western blot from cell lysate and conditioned medium detected ADAMTS-1 bands representing full-length and different processed forms. Monensin treatment confined ADAMTS-1 in the cell cytoplasm. Versican fragments also were detected in different compartments, intracellular and conditioned medium, allowing the versican process by ADAMTS-1.

Conclusion

This study showed a distinct expression of ADAMTS-1 and versican in ameloblastoma and DF, with ADAMTS-1 protein higher expression observed in ameloblastoma and possibly cleaved versican. These findings suggested that ADAMTS-1 may participate in tumor invasion, especially for the degradation of substrates (versican) in the ECM.

Early suppression of antiviral host response and protocadherins by SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein in THP-1-derived macrophage-like cells

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the causative agent of coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19). The spike protein (S) of SARS-CoV-2 plays a crucial role in mediating viral infectivity; hence, in an extensive effort to curb the pandemic, many urgently approved vaccines rely on the expression of the S protein, aiming to induce a humoral and cellular response to protect against the infection. Given the very limited information about the effects of intracellular expression of the S protein in host cells, we aimed to characterize the early cellular transcriptomic changes induced by expression of the S protein in THP-1-derived macrophage-like cells. Results showed that a wide variety of genes were differentially expressed, products of which are mainly involved in cell adhesion, homeostasis, and most notably, antiviral and immune responses, depicted by significant downregulation of protocadherins and type I alpha interferons (IFNAs). While initially, the levels of IFNAs were higher in the medium of S protein expressing cells, the downregulation observed on the transcriptomic level might have been reflected by no further increase of IFNA cytokines beyond the 5 h time-point, compared to the mock control. Our study highlights the intrinsic pathogenic role of the S protein and sheds some light on the potential drawbacks of its utilization in the context of vaccination strategies.

Development and validation of a prognostic gene expression signature for lower-grade glioma following surgery and adjuvant radiotherapy

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Standard of care for lower-grade glioma (LGG) is maximal safe resection and risk-adaptive adjuvant therapy. While patients who benefit the most from adjuvant chemotherapy have been elucidated in prospective randomized studies, comparable insights for adjuvant radiotherapy (RT) are lacking. We sought to identify and validate patterns of gene expression that are associated with differential outcomes among LGG patients treated by RT from two large genomics databases.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) with LGG (WHO grade II-III glioma) treated by surgery and adjuvant RT were randomized 1:1 to a discovery cohort or an internal validation cohort. Using the discovery cohort only, associations between tumor RNA-seq expression and progression-free survival (PFS) as well as overall survival (OS) were evaluated with adjustment for clinicopathologic covariates. A Genomic Risk Score (GRS) was then constructed from the expression levels of top genes also screened for involvement in glioma carcinogenesis. The prognostic value of GRS was further assessed in the internal validation cohort of TCGA and a second distinct database, compiled by the Chinese Glioma Genome Association (CGGA).

RESULTS

From TCGA, 289 patients with LGG received adjuvant RT alone (38 grade II, 30 grade III) or chemoradiotherapy (CRT) (51 grade II, 170 grade III) between 2009 and 2015. From CGGA, 178 patients with LGG received adjuvant RT alone (40 grade II, 13 grade III) or CRT (41 grade II, 84 grade III) between 2004 and 2016. The genes comprising GRS are involved in MAP kinase activity, T cell chemotaxis, and cell cycle transition: MAP3K15, MAPK10, CCL3, CCL4, and ADAMTS1. High GRS, defined as having a GRS in the top third, was significantly associated with poorer outcomes independent of age, sex, glioma histology, WHO grade, IDH mutation, 1p/19q co-deletion, and chemotherapy status in the discovery cohort (PFS HR 1.61, 95% CI 1.10-2.36, P=0.014; OS HR 2.74, 95% CI 1.68-4.47, P<0.001). These findings were replicated in the internal validation cohort (PFS HR 1.58, 95% CI 1.05-2.37, P=0.027; OS HR 1.84, 95% CI 1.13-3.00, P=0.015) and the CGGA external validation cohort (OS HR 1.72, 95% CI 1.27-2.34, P<0.001). Association between GRS and outcomes was observed only among patients who underwent RT, in both TCGA and CGGA.

CONCLUSION

This study successfully identified an expression signature of five genes that stratified outcomes among LGG patients who received adjuvant RT, with two rounds of validation leveraging independent genomics databases. Expression levels of the highlighted genes were associated with PFS and OS only among patients whose treatment included RT, but not among those with omission of RT, suggesting that expression of these genes may be predictive of radiation treatment response. While additional prospective studies are warranted, interrogation of these genes may be considered in the multidisciplinary management of LGG.

The Immunomodulatory Role of Hypoxic Tumor-Derived Extracellular Vesicles

Simple Summary

Hypoxia, a characteristic of many cancer types, can suppress the antitumor effector functions of the adaptive and innate immune system. Tumor-cell-derived extracellular vesicles, which function as a mechanism of communication between tumor cells and immune cells, are also affected by hypoxia, and may drive immunosuppression. The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge on hypoxic cancer-cell-derived extracellular vesicles in immunosuppression, and to provide an overview of enriched factors (i.e., miRNA and proteins) in hypoxic tumor-derived EVs and their role in immunomodulation. This complete overview may indicate relevant directions for future research into the role of hypoxia in immunosuppression during cancer.

Abstract

Tumor-associated immune cells frequently display tumor-supportive phenotypes. These phenotypes, induced by the tumor microenvironment (TME), are described for both the adaptive and the innate arms of the immune system. Furthermore, they occur at all stages of immune cell development, up to effector function. One major factor that contributes to the immunosuppressive nature of the TME is hypoxia. In addition to directly inhibiting immune cell function, hypoxia affects intercellular crosstalk between tumor cells and immune cells. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) play an important role in this intercellular crosstalk, and changes in both the number and content of hypoxic cancer-cell-derived EVs are linked to the transfer of hypoxia tolerance. Here, we review the current knowledge about the role of these hypoxic cancer-cell-derived EVs in immunosuppression. In addition, we provide an overview of hypoxia-induced factors (i.e., miRNA and proteins) in tumor-derived EVs, and their role in immunomodulation.

Matrix Metalloproteinase 2 as a Pharmacological Target in Heart Failure

Heart failure (HF) is an acute or chronic clinical syndrome that results in a decrease in cardiac output and an increase in intracardiac pressure at rest or upon exertion. The pathophysiology of HF is heterogeneous and results from an initial harmful event in the heart that promotes neurohormonal changes such as autonomic dysfunction and activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, endothelial dysfunction, and inflammation. Cardiac remodeling occurs, which is associated with degradation and disorganized synthesis of extracellular matrix (ECM) components that are controlled by ECM metalloproteinases (MMPs). MMP-2 is part of this group of proteases, which are classified as gelatinases and are constituents of the heart. MMP-2 is considered a biomarker of patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) or preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). The role of MMP-2 in the development of cardiac injury and dysfunction has clearly been demonstrated in animal models of cardiac ischemia, transgenic models that overexpress MMP-2, and knockout models for this protease. New research to minimize cardiac structural and functional alterations using non-selective and selective inhibitors for MMP-2 demonstrates that this protease could be used as a possible pharmacological target in the treatment of HF.

Identification of Recurrent Chromosome Breaks Underlying Structural Rearrangements in Mammary Cancer Cell Lines

Cancer genomes are characterized by the accumulation of small-scale somatic mutations as well as large-scale chromosomal deletions, amplifications, and complex structural rearrangements. This characteristic is at least partially dependent on the ability of cancer cells to undergo recurrent chromosome breakage. In order to address the extent to which chromosomal structural rearrangement breakpoints correlate with recurrent DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs), we simultaneously mapped chromosome structural variation breakpoints (using whole-genome DNA-seq) and spontaneous DSB formation (using Break-seq) in the estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer cell line MCF-7 and a non-cancer control breast epithelium cell line MCF-10A. We identified concurrent DSBs and structural variation breakpoints almost exclusively in the pericentromeric region of chromosome 16q in MCF-7 cells. We fine-tuned the identification of copy number variation breakpoints on 16q. In addition, we detected recurrent DSBs that occurred in both MCF-7 and MCF-10A. We propose a model for DSB-driven chromosome rearrangements that lead to the translocation of 16q, likely with 10q, and the eventual 16q loss that does not involve the pericentromere of 16q. We present evidence from RNA-seq data that select genes, including SHCBP1, ORC6, and MYLK3, which are immediately downstream from the 16q pericentromere, show heightened expression in MCF-7 cell line compared to the control. Data published by The Cancer Genome Atlas show that all three genes have increased expression in breast tumor samples. We found that SHCBP1 and ORC6 are both strong poor prognosis and treatment outcome markers in the ER-positive breast cancer cohort. We suggest that these genes are potential oncogenes for breast cancer progression. The search for tumor suppressor loss that accompanies the 16q loss ought to be augmented by the identification of potential oncogenes that gained expression during chromosomal rearrangements.

Downregulated ADAMTS1 Incorporating A2M Contributes to Tumorigenesis and Alters Tumor Immune Microenvironment in Lung Adenocarcinoma

Simple Summary

Lung cancer is the most dreadful cancer type and has the worst cancer-related clinical outcomes. This study used specimens from the in-house lung cancer cohort and public cohort to verify the roles of downregulated ADAMTS1, a protease remodeling extracellular matrix, to facilitate cancer promotion and progress. Based on the clinical specimens, cell and animal study with the aid of the public databases, we concluded that downregulated expression of ADAMTS1 might promote tumor progression and metastasis and modify the tumor microenvironment in lung cancer. Further investigation would be required for its application in treating lung cancer.

Abstract

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) still holds the most dreadful clinical outcomes worldwide. Despite advanced treatment strategies, there are still some unmet needs. Next-generation sequencing of large-scale cancer genomics discovery projects combined with bioinformatics provides the opportunity to take a step forward in meeting clinical conditions. Based on in-house and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) cohorts, the results showed decreased levels of ADAMTS1 conferred poor survival compared with normal parts. Gene set enrichment analyses (GSEA) indicated the negative correlation between ADAMTS1 and the potential roles of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), metastasis, and poor prognosis in LUAD patients. With the knockdown of ADAMTS1, A549 lung cancer cells exhibited more aggressive behaviors such as EMT and increased migration, resulting in cancer metastasis in a mouse model. The pathway interaction network disclosed the linkage of downregulated α2-macroglobulin (A2M), which regulates EMT and metastasis. Furthermore, immune components analysis indicated a positive relationship between ADAMTS1 and the infiltrating levels of multiple immune cells, especially anticancer CD4⁺ T cells in LUAD. Notably, ADAMTS1 expression was also inversely correlated with the accumulation of immunosuppressive myeloid-derived suppressor cells and regulatory T cells, implying the downregulated ADAMTS1 mediated immune adjustment to fit the tumor survival disadvantages in LUAD patients. In conclusion, our study indicates that ADAMTS1 interacts with A2M in regulating EMT and metastasis in LUAD. Additionally, ADAMTS1 contributes to poor prognosis and immune infiltration in LUAD patients

Human Metabolites of Hamaforton™ (Hamamelis virginiana L. Extract) Modulates Fibroblast Extracellular Matrix Components in Response to UV-A Irradiation

Hamamelis virginiana L. a rich source of both condensed and hydrolyzable tannins, utilized to treat dermatological disorders. Since no experimental and clinical data is available for its use as oral formulation in skin related disorders, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of Hamaforton™ (Hamamelis virginiana extract) metabolites on gene dysregulation induced by ultraviolet A radiation in cultured human dermal fibroblasts. A combination of in vivo and ex vivo experimental designs has been exploited in order to take into account the polyphenol metabolic transformation that occurs in humans. 12 healthy volunteers received either a capsule of Hamaforton™ or a placebo in a randomized, blinded crossover trial. After Hamaforton™ ingestion, the kinetic of appearance of galloyl derivatives was measured in plasma. Then, in the ex vivo experiment, the serum isolated after supplementation was used as a source of Hamaforton™ metabolites to enrich the culture medium of dermal fibroblasts exposed to ultraviolet A radiation. Three different gallic acid metabolites (4-O-methyl gallic acid, 4-O-methyl gallic acid sulphate and trimethyl gallic acid glucuronide) were identified in volunteer plasma. While, ultraviolet A irradiation of dermal fibroblasts affected the expression of extracellular matrix genes, the presence of Hamaforton™ metabolites in the culture media did not affect the expression of most of those genes. However, the activation of the expression of 10 different genes involved in repair processes for the maintenance of skin integrity, suggest that the metabolites can play a role in damage recovery. To our knowledge, this is the first study that demonstrates the bioavailability of Hamaforton™ phenolic compounds, and the effects of its metabolites on cultured dermal fibroblast response to ultraviolet A irradiation.

Internal modulation of proteolysis in vascular extracellular matrix remodeling: role of ADAM metallopeptidase with thrombospondin type 1 motif 5 in the development of intracranial aneurysm rupture

Intracranial aneurysms (IAs) are common cerebrovascular diseases that carry a high mortality rate, and the mechanisms that contribute to IA formation and rupture have not been elucidated. ADAMTS-5 (ADAM Metallopeptidase with Thrombospondin Type 1 Motif 5) is a secreted proteinase involved in matrix degradation and ECM (extracellular matrix) remodeling processes, and we hypothesized that the dysregulation of ADAMTS-5 could play a role in the pathophysiology of IA. Immunofluorescence revealed that the ADAMTS-5 levels were decreased in human and murine IA samples. The administration of recombinant protein ADAMTS-5 significantly reduced the incidence of aneurysm rupture in the experimental model of IA. IA artery tissue was collected and utilized for histology, immunostaining, and specific gene expression analysis. Additionally, the IA arteries in ADAMTS-5-administered mice showed reduced elastic fiber destruction, proteoglycan accumulation, macrophage infiltration, inflammatory response, and apoptosis. To further verify the role of ADAMTS-5 in cerebral vessels, a specific ADAMTS-5 inhibitor was used on another model animal, zebrafish, and intracranial hemorrhage was observed in zebrafish embryos. In conclusion, our findings indicate that ADAMTS-5 is downregulated in human IA, and compensatory ADAMTS-5 administration inhibits IA development and rupture with potentially important implications for treating this cerebrovascular disease.

ADAM and ADAMTS Proteins, New Players in the Regulation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Microenvironment

Simple Summary

Members of the adamalysin family are multi-domain proteins involved in many cancer-related functions. In this review, we will examine the literature on the involvement of adamalysins in hepatocellular carcinoma progression and their importance in the tumor microenvironment where they regulate the inflammatory response and the epithelial–mesenchymal transition. We complete this review with an analysis of adamalysin expression in a large cohort of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. These original results give a new insight into the involvement of all adamalysins in the primary liver cancer.

Abstract

The tumor microenvironment plays a major role in tumor growth, invasion and resistance to chemotherapy, however understanding how all actors from microenvironment interact together remains a complex issue. The tumor microenvironment is classically represented as three closely connected components including the stromal cells such as immune cells, fibroblasts, adipocytes and endothelial cells, the extracellular matrix (ECM) and the cytokine/growth factors. Within this space, proteins of the adamalysin family (ADAM for a disintegrin and metalloproteinase; ADAMTS for ADAM with thrombospondin motifs; ADAMTSL for ADAMTS-like) play critical roles by modulating cell–cell and cell–ECM communication. During last decade, the implication of adamalysins in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been supported by numerous studies however the functional characterization of most of them remain unsettled. In the present review we propose both an overview of the literature and a meta-analysis of adamalysins expression in HCC using data generated by The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) Research Network.

Overcoming Obstacles to Targeting Muscarinic Receptor Signaling in Colorectal Cancer

Despite great advances in our understanding of the pathobiology of colorectal cancer and the genetic and environmental factors that mitigate its onset and progression, a paucity of effective treatments persists. The five-year survival for advanced, stage IV disease remains substantially less than 20%. This review examines a relatively untapped reservoir of potential therapies to target muscarinic receptor expression, activation, and signaling in colorectal cancer. Most colorectal cancers overexpress M₃ muscarinic receptors (M₃R), and both in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that activating these receptors stimulates cellular programs that result in colon cancer growth, survival, and spread. In vivo studies using mouse models of intestinal neoplasia have shown that using either genetic or pharmacological approaches to block M₃R expression and activation, respectively, attenuates the development and progression of colon cancer. Moreover, both in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that blocking the activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) that are induced selectively by M₃R activation, i.e., MMP1 and MMP7, also impedes colon cancer growth and progression. Nonetheless, the widespread expression of muscarinic receptors and MMPs and their importance for many cellular functions raises important concerns about off-target effects and the safety of employing similar strategies in humans. As we highlight in this review, highly selective approaches can overcome these obstacles and permit clinicians to exploit the reliance of colon cancer cells on muscarinic receptors and their downstream signal transduction pathways for therapeutic purposes.

Melatonin as a potential inhibitor of kidney cancer: A survey of the molecular processes

Studies have shown that despite the decreasing mortality rates of kidney cancer patients, its incidence is increasing. Therefore, a comprehensive re-evaluation of treatment options is necessary to provide appropriate treatments for the increasing number of patients. Moreover, the side effects caused by surgery, which is the main treatment of this disease, may lead to higher morbidity rates. Consequently, new safer approaches must be examined and considered. Major advancements have been made in the field of targeted agents as well as treatments based on immunotherapy since renal cell carcinoma (RCC) does not respond well to chemotherapy. While the therapeutic options for this cancer are increasing, the resulting complexity of selecting the best strategy for treating the patients is daunting. Moreover, each therapeutic option must be evaluated concerning toxicity, cost, and clinical advantages. Several characteristics, which are beneficial for cancer therapies have been attributed to melatonin. For decades, investigations have explored the application of melatonin in the treatment of cancer; insufficient attention has been paid to this molecule at the clinical level. Melatonin plays a role in cancer therapy due to its anti-tumor effects as well as by enhancing the efficacy of other drugs as an adjuvant. In this review, we discuss different roles of melatonin in the treatment of kidney cancer. The studies concerned with the applications of melatonin as an adjuvant in the immunotherapy of patients with kidney cancer are summarized. Also, we highlight the apoptotic and anti-angiogenic effects of melatonin on renal cancer cells which are mediated by different molecules (e.g., HIF-1 and VEGF, ADAMTS1, and MMP-9) and signaling pathways (e.g., P56, P52, and JNK). Furthermore, we take a look into available data on melatonin's ability to reduce the toxicities caused by kidney carcinogens, including ochratoxin A, potassium bromate, and Fe-NTA.

Melatonin-triggered post-transcriptional and post-translational modifications of ADAMTS1 coordinately retard tumorigenesis and metastasis of renal cell carcinoma

A disintegrin and metalloprotease with thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS) family are widely implicated in tissue remodeling events manifested in cancer development. ADAMTS1, the most fully characterized ADAMTS, plays conflicting roles in different cancer types; however, the role of ADAMTS1 in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) remains unclear. Herein, we found that ADAMTS1 is highly expressed in RCC tissues compared to normal renal tissues, and its expression was correlated with an advanced stage and a poor prognosis of RCC patients. In vitro, we observed higher expression of ADAMTS1 in metastatic (m)RCC cells compared to primary cells, and manipulation of ADAMTS1 expression affected cell invasion and clonogenicity. Results from protease array showed that ADAMTS1 is modulated by melatonin through mechanisms independent of the MT1 receptor in mRCC cells, and overexpression of ADAMTS1 relieved the invasion/clonogenicity and growth/metastasis inhibition imposed by melatonin treatment in vitro and in an orthotopic xenograft model. The human microRNA (miR) OneArray showed that miR-181d and miR-let-7f were induced by melatonin and, respectively, targeted the 3'-UTR and non-3'-UTR of ADAMTS1 to suppress its expression and mRCC invasive ability. Clinically, RCC patients with high levels of miR-181d or miR-let-7f and a low level of ADAMTS1 had the most favorable prognoses. In addition, ubiquitin/proteasome-mediated degradation of ADAMTS1 can also be triggered by melatonin. Together, our study indicates that ADAMTS1 may be a useful biomarker for predicting RCC progression. The novel convergence between melatonin and ADAMTS1 post-transcriptional and post-translational regulation provides new insights into the role of melatonin-induced molecular regulation in suppressing RCC progression.

CXCR4 Inhibition Enhances Efficacy of FLT3 Inhibitors in FLT3-Mutated AML Augmented by Suppressed TGF-b Signaling

Given the proven importance of the CXCL12/CXCR4 axis in the stroma–acute myeloid leukemia (AML) interactions and the rapid emergence of resistance to FLT3 inhibitors, we investigated the efficacy and safety of a novel CXCR4 inhibitor, LY2510924, in combination with FLT3 inhibitors in preclinical models of AML with FLT3-ITD mutations (FLT3-ITD-AML). Quizartinib, a potent FLT3 inhibitor, induced apoptosis in FLT3-ITD-AML, while LY2510924 blocked surface CXCR4 without inducing apoptosis. LY2510924 significantly reversed stroma-mediated resistance against quizartinib mainly through the MAPK pathway. In mice with established FLT3-ITD-AML, LY2510924 induced durable mobilization and differentiation of leukemia cells, resulting in enhanced anti-leukemia effects when combined with quizartinib, whereas transient effects were seen on non-leukemic blood cells in immune-competent mice. Sequencing of the transcriptome of the leukemic cells surviving in vivo treatment with quizartinib and LY2510924 revealed that genes related to TGF-β signaling may confer resistance against the drug combination. In co-culture experiments of FLT3-ITD-AML and stromal cells, both silencing of TGF-β in stromal cells or TGF-β-receptor kinase inhibitor enhanced apoptosis by combined treatment. Disruption of the CXCL12/CXCR4 axis in FLT3-ITD-AML by LY2510924 and its negligible effects on normal immunocytes could safely enhance the potency of quizartinib, which may be further improved by blockade of TGF-β signaling.

Identification of functionally distinct and interacting cancer cell subpopulations from glioblastoma with intratumoral genetic heterogeneity

Background

Glioblastomas display a high level of intratumoral heterogeneity with regard to both genetic and histological features. Within single tumors, subclones have been shown to communicate with each other to affect overall tumor growth. The aim of this study was to broaden the understanding of interclonal communication in glioblastoma.

Methods

We have used the U-343 model, consisting of U-343 MG, U-343 MGa, U-343 MGa 31L, and U-343 MGa Cl2:6, a set of distinct glioblastoma cell lines that have been derived from the same tumor. We characterized these with regard to temozolomide sensitivity, protein secretome, gene expression, DNA copy number, and cancer cell phenotypic traits. Furthermore, we performed coculture and conditioned media-based experiments to model cell-to-cell signaling in a setting of intratumoral heterogeneity.

Results

Temozolomide treatment of a coculture composed of all 4 U-343 cell lines presents a tumor relapse model where the least sensitive population, U-343 MGa 31L, outlives the others. Interestingly, the U-343 cell lines were shown to have distinct gene expression signatures and phenotypes although they were derived from a single tumor. The DNA copy number analysis revealed both common and unique alterations, indicating the evolutionary relationship between the cells. Moreover, these cells were found to communicate and affect each other’s proliferation, both via contact-dependent and -independent interactions, where NOTCH1, TGFBI, and ADAMTS1 signaling effects were involved, respectively.

Conclusions

These results provide insight into how complex the signaling events may prove to be in a setting of intratumoral heterogeneity in glioblastoma and provide a map for future studies.

ADAMTS-1 and syndecan-4 intersect in the regulation of cell migration and angiogenesis

ADAMTS-1 is an extracellular protease with critical roles in organogenesis and angiogenesis. Here we demonstrate a functional convergence of ADAMTS-1 and the transmembrane heparan sulfate proteoglycan syndecan-4 in influencing adhesion, migration and angiogenesis. Knockdown of ADAMTS-1 in endothelial cells resulted in a parallel reduction in cell surface syndecan-4, attributable to increased matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9) activity. Knockdown of either ADAMTS-1 or syndecan-4 increased cellular responses to vascular endothelial growth factor A isoform VEGFA₁₆₄, and increased ex vivo aortic ring microvessel sprouting. On fibronectin, knockdown of either protein enhanced migration and promoted formation of long α5 integrin-containing fibrillar adhesions. However, integrin α5 null cells still showed increased migration in response to ADAMTS-1 and syndecan-4 siRNA treatment. Plating of naïve endothelial cells on cell-conditioned matrix from ADAMTS-1 and syndecan-4 knockdown cells demonstrated that the altered adhesive behaviour was matrix dependent, and this correlated with a lack of expression of fibulin-1: an extracellular matrix co-factor for ADAMTS-1 that is known to inhibit migration. These findings support the notion that ADAMTS-1 and syndecan-4 are functionally interconnected in regulating cell migration and angiogenesis, via collaboration with MMP9 and fibulin-1.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.

Summary: ADAMTS-1 and syndecan-4 collaborate to regulate cell adhesion, migration and integrin α5 trafficking, and to sequester VEGFA₁₆₄, inhibiting angiogenesis.

Metalloproteinases and their roles in human cancer

It is now widely appreciated that members of the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) family of enzymes play a key role in cancer development and progression along with many of the hallmarks associated with them. The activity of these enzymes has been directly implicated in extracellular matrix remodeling, the processing of growth factors and receptors, the modulation of cell migration, proliferation, and invasion, the epithelial to mesenchymal transition, the regulation of immune responses, and the control of angiogenesis. Certain MMP family members have been validated as biomarkers of a variety of human cancers including those of the breast, brain, pancreas, prostate, ovary, and others. The related metalloproteinases, the A disintegrin and metalloproteinases (ADAMs), share a number of these functions as well. Here, we explore these essential metalloproteinases and some of their disease-associated activities in detail as well as some of their complementary translational potential. Anat Rec, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

ADAMTS5 acts as a tumor suppressor by inhibiting migration, invasion and angiogenesis in human gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

ADAMTS5 has been reported to be involved in the progression of several human tumors. Nevertheless, the role of ADAMTS5 in gastric cancer (GC) remains poorly defined.

METHODS

ADAMTS5 expression levels were analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) in GC cell lines and tissues, and the correlations between ADAMTS5 expression and clinicopathological features and survival were also examined. In vitro assays, including transwell assays, wound healing assays and cell adhesion assays, were employed to further explore the biological functions of ADAMTS5. A MAP kinase pathway microarray was used to identify the underlying mechanisms. The expression of ADAMTS5 and ETS1 and the microvessel density (MVD) were also analyzed using IHC to determine correlations with angiogenesis in GC.

RESULTS

ADAMTS5 expression was downregulated in gastric cancer tissues. Low expression of ADAMTS5 was associated with gender, histological type, degree of differentiation, M stage, TNM stage and vascular invasion, and was also an independent indicator of a poor prognosis for patients with GC. ADAMTS5 overexpression markedly inhibited GC cell migration and invasion and enhanced cell adhesion to the extracellular matrix (ECM), whereas knockdown of ADAMTS5 exerted the opposite effects. Furthermore, the ADAMTS5 expression status was negatively correlated with ETS1 expression and MVD.

CONCLUSION

ADAMTS5 is downregulated in GC and suppresses tumor metastasis and angiogenesis by inhibiting ETS1-mediated changes in MVD and potentially acts as a novel prognostic marker and a potential therapeutic target in human GC.

A facile consensus ranking approach enhances virtual screening robustness and identifies a cell-active DYRK1α inhibitor

BACKGROUND

Virtual screening is vital for contemporary drug discovery but striking performance fluctuations are commonly encountered, thus hampering error-free use. Results and Methodology: A conceptual framework is suggested for combining screening algorithms characterized by orthogonality (docking-scoring calculations, 3D shape similarity, 2D fingerprint similarity) into a simple, efficient and expansible python-based consensus ranking scheme. An original experimental dataset is created for comparing individual screening methods versus the novel approach. Its utilization leads to identification and phosphoproteomic evaluation of a cell-active DYRK1α inhibitor.

CONCLUSION

Consensus ranking considerably stabilizes screening performance at reasonable computational cost, whereas individual screens are heavily dependent on calculation settings. Results indicate that the novel approach, currently available as a free online tool, is highly suitable for prospective screening by nonexperts.

miR-365b-3p inhibits the cell proliferation and migration of human coronary artery smooth muscle cells by directly targeting ADAMTS1 in coronary atherosclerosis

Abnormal proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells serves a crucial role in the development of atherosclerosis. Previous studies have suggested that some microRNAs (miRs) are involved in this process; however, the associated underlying molecular mechanism is unclear. In present study, human coronary artery smooth muscle cells (HCASMCs) were used to explore the function of miR-365b-3p in the coronary atherosclerosis. It was indicated that platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) treatment inhibited miR-365b-3p expression and upregulated the expression of a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 1 (ADAMTS1) in HCASMCs. Subsequently, miR-365b-3p mimic was transfected in HCASMCs to explore the function of this miR. The results of reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis indicated that overexpression of miR-365b-3p significantly downregulated ADAMTS1 expression. Functional assay results revealed that overexpression of miR-365b-3p significantly attenuated PDGF-BB-induced proliferation and migration of HCASMCs. Furthermore, the dual-luciferase reporter assay results confirmed that ADAMTS1 is a direct target gene of miR-365b-3p. This discovery proposed a novel channel of communication between ADAMTS1 and HCASMCs, and suggests a potential therapeutic approach for coronary atherosclerosis.

miR-190 promotes HCC proliferation and metastasis by targeting PHLPP1

miRNAs regulate gene expression and enable clinicians to distinguish between benign and malignant tissues in cancers. PH domain leucine-rich repeat-containing protein phosphatase 1 (PHLPP1) is known to be a tumour suppressor. A lentiviral overexpression system was used to stably express miR-190, leading to the enhancement of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) proliferation and metastasis as a result of inhibited PHLPP1 expression. The results showed that stable miR-190 expression increased the expression of EMT-related proteins (Snail and TCF8/ZEB1) as well as the phosphorylation of Akt at Ser473 and the expression of a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 1 (ADAMTS1). However, restoring PHLPP1 expression counteracted the effects of miR-190 on HCC proliferation, migration and invasion. The results of the animal experiments showed that miR-190 improved the HepG2 cell tumour formation and lung metastasis ability. Stable miR-190 overexpression leads to the downregulation of PHLPP1 protein expression. miR-190 has potential as a target in the treatment and diagnosis of HCC.

Aberrant DNA methylation of ADAMTS16 in colorectal and other epithelial cancers

BACKGROUND

ADAMs (a disintegrin and metalloproteinase) have long been associated with tumor progression. Recent findings indicate that members of the closely related ADAMTS (ADAMs with thrombospondin motifs) family are also critically involved in carcinogenesis. Gene silencing through DNA methylation at CpG loci around e.g. transcription start or enhancer sites is a major mechanism in cancer development. Here, we aimed at identifying genes of the ADAM and ADAMTS family showing altered DNA methylation in the development or colorectal cancer (CRC) and other epithelial tumors.

METHODS

We investigated potential changes of DNA methylation affecting ADAM and ADAMTS genes in 117 CRC, 40 lung cancer (LC) and 15 oral squamous-cell carcinoma (SCC) samples. Tumor tissue was analyzed in comparison to adjacent non-malignant tissue of the same patients. The methylation status of 1145 CpGs in 51 ADAM and ADAMTS genes was measured with the HumanMethylation450 BeadChip Array. ADAMTS16 protein expression was analyzed in CRC samples by immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

In CRC, we identified 72 CpGs in 18 genes which were significantly affected by hyper- or hypomethylation in the tumor tissue compared to the adjacent non-malignant tissue. While notable/frequent alterations in methylation patterns within ADAM genes were not observed, conspicuous changes were found in ADAMTS16 and ADAMTS2. To figure out whether these differences would be CRC specific, additional LC and SCC tissue samples were analyzed. Overall, 78 differentially methylated CpGs were found in LC and 29 in SCC. Strikingly, 8 CpGs located in the ADAMTS16 gene were commonly differentially methylated in all three cancer entities. Six CpGs in the promoter region were hypermethylated, whereas 2 CpGs in the gene body were hypomethylated indicative of gene silencing. In line with these findings, ADAMTS16 protein was strongly expressed in globlet cells and colonocytes in control tissue but not in CRC samples. Functional in vitro studies using the colorectal carcinoma cell line HT29 revealed that ADAMTS16 expression restrained tumor cell proliferation.

CONCLUSIONS

We identified ADAMTS16 as novel gene with cancer-specific promoter hypermethylation in CRC, LC and SCC patients implicating ADAMTS16 as potential biomarker for these tumors. Moreover, our results provide evidence that ADAMTS16 may have tumor suppressor properties.

The Olive Biophenols Oleuropein and Hydroxytyrosol Selectively Reduce Proliferation, Influence the Cell Cycle, and Induce Apoptosis in Pancreatic Cancer Cells

Current chemotherapy drugs for pancreatic cancer only offer an increase in survival of up to six months. Additionally, they are highly toxic to normal tissues, drastically affecting the quality of life of patients. Therefore, the search for novel agents, which induce apoptosis in cancer cells while displaying limited toxicity towards normal cells, is paramount. The olive biophenols, oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol, have displayed cytotoxicity towards cancer cells without affecting non-tumorigenic cells in cancers of the breast and prostate. However, their activity in pancreatic cancer has not been investigated. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the anti-pancreatic cancer potential of oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol. Pancreatic cancer cells (MIA PaCa-2, BxPC-3, and CFPAC-1) and non-tumorigenic pancreas cells (HPDE) were treated with oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol to determine their effect on cell viability. Oleuropein displayed selective toxicity towards MIA PaCa-2 cells and hydroxytyrosol towards MIA PaCa-2 and HPDE cells. Subsequent analysis of Bcl-2 family proteins and caspase 3/7 activation determined that oleuropein and hydroxytyrosol induced apoptosis in MIA PaCa-2 cells, while oleuropein displayed a protective effect on HPDE cells. Gene expression analysis revealed putative mechanisms of action, which suggested that c-Jun and c-Fos are involved in oleuropein and hydroxytyrosol induced apoptosis of MIA PaCa-2 cells.

ADAMTS6 suppresses tumor progression via the ERK signaling pathway and serves as a prognostic marker in human breast cancer

A disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS) family is involved in tumor development. However, how ADAMTS6 influences cancer remains unknown. We investigated the biological function and clinical implications of ADAMTs6 in breast cancer (BC). Its functional significance in BC cell lines was confirmed by ADAMTs6 overexpression or downregulation both in vitro and in vivo studies. Enhanced ADAMTS6 expression suppressed cell migration, invasion, and tumorigenesis, whereas knockdown promoted these characteristics. The extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway was partially involved in ADAMTS6-mediated inhibition of BC development, and miR-221-3p was identified as a predicted target for ADAMTS6. Results from the luciferase assay confirmed that miR-221-3p directly inhibited ADAMTS6 expression by binding its 3′-untranslated region. In addition, immunohistochemistry data from specimens from 182 BC patients showed that high ADAMTS6 expression was significantly correlated with favorable disease-free survival (DFS, p = 0.045). Subgroup analysis of patients with ER positive, PR positive or HER-2 negative tumors revealed that high ADAMTS6 expression more strongly extended DFS compared to low expression (p = 0.004, p = 0.009, p = 0.017). Multivariate analyses confirmed that ADAMTS6 expression was an independent risk factor for DFS (p = 0.011). Together, these data demonstrate that ADAMTS6 inhibits tumor development by regulating the ERK pathway via binding of miR-221-3p. Thus, its expression may be a potential prognostic biomarker for BC.

Teaming Up for Trouble: Cancer Cells, Transforming Growth Factor-β1 Signaling and the Epigenetic Corruption of Stromal Naïve Fibroblasts

It is well recognized that cancer cells subvert the phenotype of stromal naïve fibroblasts and instruct the neighboring cells to sustain their growth agenda. The mechanisms underpinning the switch of fibroblasts to cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the focus of intense investigation. One of the most significant hallmarks of the biological identity of CAFs is that their tumor-promoting phenotype is stably maintained during in vitro and ex vivo propagation without the continual interaction with the adjacent cancer cells. In this review, we discuss robust evidence showing that the master cytokine Transforming Growth Factor-β1 (TGFβ-1) is a prime mover in reshaping, via epigenetic switches, the phenotype of stromal fibroblasts to a durable state. We also examine, in detail, the pervasive involvement of TGFβ-1 signaling from both cancer cells and CAFs in fostering cancer development, taking colorectal cancer (CRC) as a paradigm of human neoplasia. Finally, we review the stroma-centric anticancer therapeutic approach focused on CAFs—the most abundant cell population of the tumor microenvironment (TME)—as target cells.

The influence of Osmunda regalis root extract on head and neck cancer cell proliferation, invasion and gene expression

Background

According to only a handful of historical sources, Osmunda regalis, the royal fern, has been used already in the middle age as an anti-cancer remedy. To examine this ancient cancer cure, an ethanolic extract of the roots was prepared and analysed in vitro on its effectiveness against head and neck cancer cell lines.

Methods

Proliferation inhibition was measured with the MTT assay. Invasion inhibition was tested in a spheroid-based 3-D migration assay on different extracellular matrix surfaces.

Corresponding changes in gene expression were analysed by qRT-PCR array. Induction of apoptosis was measured by fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS) with the Annexin V binding method. The plant extract was analysed by preliminary phytochemical tests, liquid chromatography/mass spectroscopy (LC-MS) and thin layer chromatography (TLC). Anti-angiogenetic activity was determined by the tube formation assay.

Results

O. regalis extract revealed a growth inhibiting effect on the head and neck carcinoma cell lines HLaC78 and FaDu. The toxic effect seems to be partially modulated by p-glycoprotein, as the MDR-1 expressing HLaC79-Tax cells were less sensitive. O. regalis extract inhibited the invasion of cell lines on diverse extracellular matrix substrates significantly. Especially the dispersion of the highly motile cell line HlaC78 on laminin was almost completely abrogated.

Motility inhibition on laminin was accompanied by differential gene regulation of a variety of genes involved in cell adhesion and metastasis. Furthermore, O. regalis extract triggered apoptosis in HNSCC cell lines and inhibited tube formation of endothelial cells. Preliminary phytochemical analysis proved the presence of tannins, glycosides, steroids and saponins. Liquid chromatography/mass spectroscopy (LC-MS) revealed a major peak of an unknown substance with a molecular mass of 864.15 Da, comprising about 50% of the total extract. Thin layer chromatography identified ferulic acid to be present in the extract.

Conclusion

The presented results justify the use of royal fern extracts as an anti-cancer remedy in history and imply a further analysis of ingredients.

CD147 and downstream ADAMTSs promote the tumorigenicity of Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus infected endothelial cells

Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) is the etiologic agent of several human cancers, including Kaposi's sarcoma (KS), which preferentially arise in immunocompromised patients and lack effective therapeutic options. We have previously shown that KSHV or viral protein LANA up-regulates the glycoprotein CD147, thereby inducing primary endothelial cell invasiveness. In the current study, we identify the global network controlled by CD147 in KSHV-infected endothelial cells using Illumina microarray analysis. Among downstream genes, two specific metalloproteases, ADAMTS1 and 9, are strongly expressed in AIDS-KS tissues and contribute to KSHV-infected endothelial cell invasiveness through up-regulation of IL-6 and VEGF. By using a KS-like nude mouse model, we found that targeting CD147 and downstream ADAMTSs significantly suppressed KSHV-induced tumorigenesis in vivo. Taken together, targeting CD147 and associated proteins may represent a promising therapeutic strategy against these KSHV-related malignancies.

A glucocorticoid- and diet-responsive pathway toggles adipocyte precursor cell activity in vivo

Obesity is driven by excess caloric intake, which leads to the expansion of adipose tissue by hypertrophy and hyperplasia. Adipose tissue hyperplasia results from the differentiation of adipocyte precursor cells (APCs) that reside in adipose depots. Investigation into this process has elucidated a network of mostly transcription factors that drive APCs through the differentiation process. Using in vitro and in vivo approaches, our study revealed a signaling pathway that inhibited the initiation of the adipocyte differentiation program. Mouse adipocytes secreted the extracellular protease ADAMTS1, which triggered the production of the cytokine pleiotrophin (PTN) through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, and promoted proliferation rather than differentiation of APCs. Glucocorticoid exposure in vitro or in vivo reduced ADAMTS1 abundance in adipocytes. In addition, mice fed a high-fat diet showed decreased Adamts1 expression in the visceral perigonadal adipose depot, which expanded by adipogenesis in response to the diet, and increased Adamts1 expression in the subcutaneous inguinal adipose depot, which did not induce adipogenesis. Similar to what occurred in mouse subcutaneous adipose tissue, diet-induced weight gain increased the expression of ADAMTS1, PTN, and certain Wnt target genes in the subcutaneous adipose depot of human volunteers, suggesting the relevance of this pathway to physiological adipose tissue homeostasis and the pathogenesis of obesity. Thus, this pathway functions as a toggle on APCs, regulating a decision between differentiation and proliferation and coordinating the response of adipose tissue to systemic cues.

ADAMTS-1 Is Found in the Nuclei of Normal and Tumoral Breast Cells

Proteins secreted in the extracellular matrix microenvironment (ECM) by tumor cells are involved in cell adhesion, motility, intercellular communication and invasion. The tumor microenvironment is expansively modified and remodeled by proteases, resulting in important changes in both cell-cell and cell-ECM interactions and in the generation of new signals from the cell surface. Metalloproteinases belonging to the ADAMTS (a disintegrin and metalloprotease with thrombospondin motifs) family have been implicated in tissue remodeling events observed in cancer development, growth and progression. Here we investigated the subcellular localization of ADAMTS-1 in normal-like (MCF10-A) and tumoral (MCF7 and MDA-MB-231) human breast cells. ADAMTS-1 is a secreted protease found in the extracellular matrix. However, in this study we show for the first time that ADAMTS-1 is also present in the nuclei and nucleoli of the three mammary cell lines studied here. Our findings indicate that ADAMTS-1 has proteolytic functions in the nucleus through its interaction with aggrecan substrate.

The miR-181d-regulated metalloproteinase Adamts1 enzymatically impairs adipogenesis via ECM remodeling

The extracellular matrix (ECM) maintenance is crucial to the structural integrity of adipocytes and whole adipose tissue formation. However, the potential impact of the ECM on adipocyte lineage commitment is unclear. Herein, we demonstrate that forced expression of matrix-associated metalloproteinase Adamts1 (a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 1), which we show is targeted by microRNA-181d (miR-181d) during BMP4-induced adipocytic lineage commitment, markedly impairs adipocyte commitment. Conversely, siRNA-induced inhibition of Adamts1 promotes adipocyte commitment. Adamst1 metalloprotease activity is required for this inhibition and is determined to function via remodeling ECM components followed by activating FAK-ERK signaling pathway during the commitment process. Furthermore, ablation of Adamts1 in adipose tissue increases adipose tissue mass, reduces insulin sensitivity, and disrupts lipid homeostasis. This finding is consistent with Adamts1 decreased expression in the adipose tissue of obese mice and an inverse correlation of Adamts1 expression with body mass index in humans. Collectively, our results indicate that Adamts1 acts as an ECM 'modifier', with miR-181d-induced downregulation, that regulates adipocyte lineage commitment and obesity.

Progesterone acts via the progesterone receptor to induce adamts proteases in ovarian cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Ovarian carcinomas, usually associated with sex hormones dysregulation, are the leading cause of gynecological neoplastic death. In normal ovaries, hormones play a central role in regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. On the other hand, hormonal alterations also play a variety of roles in cancer. Stimulation by sex hormones potentially affects gene expression, invasiveness, cell growth and angiogenesis. Proteases of the "a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs" (ADAMTS) family are secreted by different cell types and become involved in collagen processing, cleavage of the proteoglycan matrix, and angiogenesis. We evaluated whether sex hormones affect ADAMTS 1 and 4 expression in ovarian cancer cells.

METHODS

We analysed mRNA and protein levels in human ovarian tumor cells with different degrees of malignancy, NIH-OVCAR-3 and ES-2, that were treated or not with estrogen, testosterone and progesterone.

RESULTS

Our results suggest that progesterone increases ADAMTS protein and mRNA levels in the lysates from ES-2 cells, and it increases ADAMTS protein in the lysates and conditioned media from NIH-OVCAR-3. Progesterone effects were reversed by RU486 treatment.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that progesterone acts via the progesterone receptor to modulate ADAMTS 1 and 4 levels in ovarian cancer cell lines.

ADAMTS-18 in the host tissues exerts little effect on breast tumor progress in a murine 4T1 breast cancer model

BACKGROUND

In this study, we aimed to identify a novel extracellular proteinase ADAMTS-18 that could be a potential tumor suppressor gene.

RESULTS

We successfully constructed Adamts-18 knockout mice with BALB / c background. RT-PCR analysis showed syngeneic mammary tumor cell line 4 T1 per se has weakly endogenous ADAMTS-18 expression. Orthotopic inoculation of 4 T1 cells within the mammary fat pad of host mice, we found no significant difference in tumor growth and metastasis between Adamts-18 knockout mice and widetype control.

CONCLUSIONS

We did not confirm that ADAMTS-18 in the host tissues is relevant for breast tumor progress in a murine 4 T1 breast cancer model.

In silico characterization of the interaction between LSKL peptide, a LAP-TGF-beta derived peptide, and ADAMTS1

Metalloproteases involved in extracellular matrix remodeling play a pivotal role in cell response by regulating the bioavailability of cytokines and growth factors. Recently, the disintegrin and metalloprotease, ADAMTS1 has been demonstrated to be able to activate the transforming growth factor TGF-β, a major factor in fibrosis and cancer. The KTFR sequence from ADAMTS1 is responsible for the interaction with the LSKL peptide from the latent form of TGF-β, leading to its activation. While the atomic details of the interaction site can be the basis of the rational design of efficient inhibitory molecules, the binding mode of interaction is totally unknown. In this study, we show that recombinant fragments of human ADAMTS1 containing KTFR sequence keep the ability to bind the latent form of TGF-β. The recombinant fragment with the best affinity is modeled to investigate the binding mode of LSKL peptide with ADAMTS1 at the atomic level. Using a combined approach with molecular docking and multiple independent molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, we provide the binding mode of LSKL peptide with ADAMTS1. The MD simulations starting with the two lowest energy model predicted by molecular docking shows stable interactions characterized by 3 salt bridges (K3-NH3(+) with E626-COO(-); L4-COO(-) with K619-NH3(+); L1-NH3(+) with E624-COO(-)) and 2 hydrogen bonds (S2-OH with E623-COO(-); L4-NH with E623-COO(-)). The knowledge of this interaction mechanism paves the way to the design of more potent and more specific inhibitors against the inappropriate activation of TGF-β by ADAMTS1 in liver diseases.

SP1 and USF differentially regulate ADAMTS1 gene expression under normoxic and hypoxic conditions in hepatoma cells

ADAM metallopeptidase with thrombospondin type I motif, 1 (ADAMTS1) that has both antiangiogenic and aggrecanase activity was dysregulated in many pathophysiologic circumstances. However, there is limited information available on the transcriptional regulation of ADAMTS1 gene. Therefore, this study mainly aimed to identify regulatory regions important for the regulation of ADAMTS1 gene under normoxic and hypoxic conditions in human hepatoma cells (HEP3B). Cultured HEP3B cells were exposed to normal oxygen condition, and Cobalt chloride (CoCl2) induced the hypoxic condition, which is an HIF-1 inducer. The cocl2-induced hypoxic condition led to the induced ADAMTS1 mRNA and protein expression in Hepatoma cells. Differential regulation of SP1 and USF transcription factors on ADAMTS1 gene expression was determined by transcriptional activity, mRNA and protein level of ADAMTS1 gene. Ectopic expression of SP1 and USF transcription factors resulted in the decrease in ADAMTS1 transcriptional activity of all promoter constructs consistent with mRNA and protein level in normoxic condition. However, overexpression of SP1 and USF led to the increase of ADAMTS1 gene expressions at mRNA and protein level in hypoxic condition. On the other hand, C/EBPα transcription factor didn't show any statistically significant effect on ADAMTS1 gene expression at mRNA, protein and transcriptional level under normoxic and hypoxic condition.

The ADAMTS (A Disintegrin and Metalloproteinase with Thrombospondin motifs) family

The ADAMTS (A Disintegrin and Metalloproteinase with Thrombospondin motifs) enzymes are secreted, multi-domain matrix-associated zinc metalloendopeptidases that have diverse roles in tissue morphogenesis and patho-physiological remodeling, in inflammation and in vascular biology. The human family includes 19 members that can be sub-grouped on the basis of their known substrates, namely the aggrecanases or proteoglycanases (ADAMTS1, 4, 5, 8, 9, 15 and 20), the procollagen N-propeptidases (ADAMTS2, 3 and 14), the cartilage oligomeric matrix protein-cleaving enzymes (ADAMTS7 and 12), the von-Willebrand Factor proteinase (ADAMTS13) and a group of orphan enzymes (ADAMTS6, 10, 16, 17, 18 and 19). Control of the structure and function of the extracellular matrix (ECM) is a central theme of the biology of the ADAMTS, as exemplified by the actions of the procollagen-N-propeptidases in collagen fibril assembly and of the aggrecanases in the cleavage or modification of ECM proteoglycans. Defects in certain family members give rise to inherited genetic disorders, while the aberrant expression or function of others is associated with arthritis, cancer and cardiovascular disease. In particular, ADAMTS4 and 5 have emerged as therapeutic targets in arthritis. Multiple ADAMTSs from different sub-groupings exert either positive or negative effects on tumorigenesis and metastasis, with both metalloproteinase-dependent and -independent actions known to occur. The basic ADAMTS structure comprises a metalloproteinase catalytic domain and a carboxy-terminal ancillary domain, the latter determining substrate specificity and the localization of the protease and its interaction partners; ancillary domains probably also have independent biological functions. Focusing primarily on the aggrecanases and proteoglycanases, this review provides a perspective on the evolution of the ADAMTS family, their links with developmental and disease mechanisms, and key questions for the future.

Differential expressions of cancer-associated genes and their regulatory miRNAs in colorectal carcinoma

Colorectal cancer is one of the frequently seen malignancies in the world. To date, several oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes have been identified and linked to colorectal cancer pathogenesis. Although recent advances in the diagnosis and therapy of colorectal cancer are promising, identifying novel genetic contributors is still high priority. In the present study, expression profile of some cancer-related genes and their regulatory miRNA molecules were evaluated by using a high-throughput real-time PCR method. For the study, a total of 54 patients diagnosed with CRC and normal colon tissue samples of 42 healthy controls were included. For the expression analysis, total RNA was extracted from FFPE tissue samples and converted to cDNA. All expression analyses were assessed by using Fluidigm Microfluidic Dynamic Array chips for 96 samples and the reactions were held in Fluidigm BioMark™ HD System Real-Time PCR. As a result of the study, expression of the ADAMTS1, FHIT, RUNX1, RUNX3 and WWOX genes was shown to be significantly altered in CRC tissues in contrast to normal tissue samples. Moreover, miR-378a-3p, miR-155-5p, miR-193b-3p, miR-96-5p, miR-17-5p, miR-27a-3p, miR-133b, miR-203a, miR-205-5p, miR-34c-5p, miR-130a-3p, miR-301a-3p, miR-132-3p, miR-222-3p, miR-34a-5p, miR-21-5p, miR-29a-3p and miR-29b-3p were found to be significantly deregulated in CRC. Consequently, results of the current study strongly suggest the involvement of novel cancer-related genes and their regulatory miRNAs in CRC physiopathology.

ADAMTS proteases and cancer

ADAMTSs (A disintegrin and metalloprotease domains with thrombospondins motifs) are complex extracellular proteases that have been related to both oncogenic and tumor-protective functions. These enzymes can be secreted by cancer and stromal cells and may contribute to modify the tumor microenvironment by multiple mechanisms. Thus, ADAMTSs can cleave or interact with a wide range of extracellular matrix components or regulatory factors, and therefore affect cell adhesion, migration, proliferation and angiogenesis. The balance of protumor versus antitumor effects of ADAMTSs may depend on the nature of their substrates or interacting-partners upon secretion from the cell. Moreover, different ADAMTS genes have been found overexpressed, mutated or epigenetically silenced in tumors from different origins, suggesting the direct impact of these metalloproteases in cancer development. However, despite the important advances on the tumor biology of ADAMTSs in recent years, more mechanistic and functional studies are necessary to fully understand how these proteases can influence tumor microenvironment to potentiate cancer growth or to induce tumor regression. This review outlines current and emerging connections between ADAMTSs and cancer.