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Yan W, Rao D, Fan F, Liang H, Zhang Z, Dong H. Hepatitis B virus X protein and TGF-β: partners in the carcinogenic journey of hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1407434. [PMID: 38962270 PMCID: PMC11220127 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1407434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B infection is substantially associated with the development of liver cancer globally, with the prevalence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cases exceeding 50%. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) encodes the Hepatitis B virus X (HBx) protein, a pleiotropic regulatory protein necessary for the transcription of the HBV covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) microchromosome. In previous studies, HBV-associated HCC was revealed to be affected by HBx in multiple signaling pathways, resulting in genetic mutations and epigenetic modifications in proto-oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes. In addition, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) has dichotomous potentials at various phases of malignancy as it is a crucial signaling pathway that regulates multiple cellular and physiological processes. In early HCC, TGF-β has a significant antitumor effect, whereas in advanced HCC, it promotes malignant progression. TGF-β interacts with the HBx protein in HCC, regulating the pathogenesis of HCC. This review summarizes the respective and combined functions of HBx and TGB-β in HCC occurrence and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Yan
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Province for the Clinical Medicine Research Center of Hepatic Surgery, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Dean Rao
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Province for the Clinical Medicine Research Center of Hepatic Surgery, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Feimu Fan
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Province for the Clinical Medicine Research Center of Hepatic Surgery, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Huifang Liang
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Province for the Clinical Medicine Research Center of Hepatic Surgery, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education, National Health Commission (NHC), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Zunyi Zhang
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Province for the Clinical Medicine Research Center of Hepatic Surgery, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Hanhua Dong
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Province for the Clinical Medicine Research Center of Hepatic Surgery, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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An F, Song J, Chang W, Zhang J, Gao P, Wang Y, Xiao Z, Yan C. Research Progress on the Mechanism of the SFRP-Mediated Wnt Signalling Pathway Involved in Bone Metabolism in Osteoporosis. Mol Biotechnol 2024; 66:975-990. [PMID: 38194214 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-023-01018-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Osteoporosis (OP) is a metabolic bone disease linked to an elevated fracture risk, primarily stemming from disruptions in bone metabolism. Present clinical treatments for OP merely alleviate symptoms. Hence, there exists a pressing need to identify novel targets for the clinical treatment of OP. Research indicates that the Wnt signalling pathway is modulated by serum-secreted frizzled-related protein 5 (SFRP5), potentially serving as a pivotal regulator in bone metabolism disorders. Moreover, studies confirm elevated SFRP5 expression in OP, with SFRP5 overexpression leading to the downregulation of Wnt and β-catenin proteins in the Wnt signalling pathway, as well as the expression of osteogenesis-related marker molecules such as RUNX2, ALP, and OPN. Conversely, the opposite has been reported when SFRP5 is knocked out, suggesting that SFRP5 may be a key factor involved in the regulation of bone metabolism via the Wnt signalling axis. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the action of SFRP5-induced OP have yet to be comprehensively elucidated. This review focusses on the molecular structure and function of SFRP5 and the potential molecular mechanisms of the SFRP5-mediated Wnt signalling pathway involved in bone metabolism in OP, providing reasonable evidence for the targeted therapy of SFRP5 for the prevention and treatment of OP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangyu An
- Teaching Experiment Training Center, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Jiayi Song
- School of Basic Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Weirong Chang
- School of Basic Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- School of Basic Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Peng Gao
- School of Basic Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Yujie Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Zhipan Xiao
- School of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Chunlu Yan
- School of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.
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Matsumoto S, Kikuchi A. Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in liver biology and tumorigenesis. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2024; 60:466-481. [PMID: 38379098 DOI: 10.1007/s11626-024-00858-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
The Wnt/β-catenin pathway is an evolutionarily conserved signaling pathway that controls fundamental physiological and pathological processes by regulating cell proliferation and differentiation. The Wnt/β-catenin pathway enables liver homeostasis by inducing differentiation and contributes to liver-specific features such as metabolic zonation and regeneration. In contrast, abnormalities in the Wnt/β-catenin pathway promote the development and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Similarly, hepatoblastoma, the most common childhood liver cancer, is frequently associated with β-catenin mutations, which activate Wnt/β-catenin signaling. HCCs with activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway have unique gene expression patterns and pathological and clinical features. Accordingly, they are highly differentiated with retaining hepatocyte-like characteristics and tumorigenic. Activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in HCC also alters the state of immune cells, causing "immune evasion" with inducing resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors, which have recently become widely used to treat HCC. Activated Wnt/β-catenin signaling exhibits these phenomena in liver tumorigenesis through the expression of downstream target genes, and the molecular basis is still poorly understood. In this review, we describe the physiological roles of Wnt/b-catenin signaling and then discuss their characteristic changes by the abnormal activation of Wnt/b-catenin signaling. Clarification of the mechanism would contribute to the development of therapeutic agents in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinji Matsumoto
- Departments of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamada-Oka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
- Integrated Frontier Research for Medical Science Division, Institute for Open and Transdisciplinary Research Initiatives (OTRI), 2-2 Yamada-Oka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
| | - Akira Kikuchi
- Departments of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamada-Oka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
- Center of Infectious Disease Education and Research (CiDER), Osaka University, 2-8 Yamada-Oka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
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Shi Z, Zhao T, Li D, Wang C, Luo Y, Zheng Y. Silencing of forkhead box C1 reduces nasal epithelial barrier damage in mice with allergic rhinitis via epigenetically upregulating secreted frizzled-related protein 5. Mol Immunol 2024; 168:51-63. [PMID: 38422887 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2024.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Allergic rhinitis (AR) is caused by immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated reactions to inhaled allergens, which leads to mucosal inflammation and barrier dysfunction. The transcription factor forkhead box C1 (FOXC1) has been identified to be associated with allergic inflammation. This study sought to uncover the role of FOXC1 in AR. A murine model of AR was induced by repeated intranasal ovalbumin (OVA) challenges. Results revealed that high FOXC1 expression was found in the nasal mucosal epithelium of AR mice. Nasal allergy symptoms, mucosal epithelial swelling, goblet cell hyperplasia and eosinophil infiltration in AR mice were attenuated after silencing of FOXC1. Knockdown of FOXC1 decreased the levels of T-helper 2 cytokines interleukin(IL)-4 and IL-13 in nasal lavage fluid, and serum OVA-specific IgE and histamine. Silencing of FOXC1 restored nasal epithelial integrity in AR mice by enhancing the expression of tight junctions (TJs) and adherence junction. Furthermore, knocking down FOXC1 increased tight junction expression and transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) in IL-13-treated air-liquid interface (ALI) cultures of human nasal epithelial cells (HNEpCs). Mechanistically, silencing of FOXC1 induced DNA methylation of secreted frizzled-related protein 5 (SFRP5) promoter and increased its expression in the nasal mucosa of AR mice and IL-13-treated ALI cultures. FOXC1 overexpression transcriptionally activated DNA methyltransferase 3B (DNMT3B) in IL-13-treated ALI cultures. Knockdown of SFRP5 reversed the protection of FOXC1 silencing on epithelial barrier damage induced by IL-13. Collectively, silencing of FOXC1 reduced allergic inflammation and nasal epithelial barrier damage in AR mice via upregulating SFRP5, which may be attribute to DNMT3B-driven DNA methylation. Our study indicated that FOXC1 may represent a potential therapeutic target for AR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaohui Shi
- Department of Otolaryngology, Shenzhen Longgang Otolaryngology Hospital & Shenzhen Otolaryngology Research Institute, Shenzhen 518172, Guangdong, China; Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Allergy, Naso-Orbital-Maxilla and Skull Base Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510630, Guangdong, China.
| | - Tianfeng Zhao
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of AFMU (Xijing Hospital), Air force Medical University, Xi'an 710032, Shaanxi , China
| | - Dingbo Li
- Department of Otolaryngology, Shenzhen Longgang Otolaryngology Hospital & Shenzhen Otolaryngology Research Institute, Shenzhen 518172, Guangdong, China
| | - Chong Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Shenzhen Longgang Otolaryngology Hospital & Shenzhen Otolaryngology Research Institute, Shenzhen 518172, Guangdong, China
| | - Yanjie Luo
- Department of Otolaryngology, Shenzhen Longgang Otolaryngology Hospital & Shenzhen Otolaryngology Research Institute, Shenzhen 518172, Guangdong, China; Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Allergy, Naso-Orbital-Maxilla and Skull Base Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510630, Guangdong, China
| | - Yangshan Zheng
- Department of Otolaryngology, Shenzhen Longgang Otolaryngology Hospital & Shenzhen Otolaryngology Research Institute, Shenzhen 518172, Guangdong, China
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Mohapatra P, Madhulika S, Behera S, Singh P, Sa P, Prasad P, Swain RK, Sahoo SK. Nimbolide-based nanomedicine inhibits breast cancer stem-like cells by epigenetic reprogramming of DNMTs-SFRP1-Wnt/β-catenin signaling axis. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2023; 34:102031. [PMID: 37771911 PMCID: PMC10523002 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2023.102031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) harbors a high percentage of breast cancer stem-like cells (BCSCs) that significantly contribute to poor prognosis, metastasis, and relapse of the disease. Thus, targeting BCSCs could be a promising approach to combat TNBC. In this context, we investigated nimbolide (Nim), a limonoid triterpenoid that has potent anticancer properties, but poor pharmacokinetics and low bioavailability limit its therapeutic application. So, to enhance the therapeutic potential of Nim, Nim-encapsulated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (Nim NPs) were formulated and the anticancer stem cell (CSC) effects evaluated in vitro and in vivo. In vitro studies suggested that Nim NPs significantly inhibited several inherent characteristics of BCSCs, such as stemness, self-renewability, chemoresistance, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and migration in comparison to native Nim. Next, the mechanism behind the anti-CSC effect of Nim was explored. Mechanistically, we found that Nim epigenetically restores tumor suppressor gene secreted frizzled-related protein 1 (SFRP1) expression by downregulating DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs), leading to Wnt/β-catenin signaling inhibition. Further, in vivo results demonstrated that Nim NPs showed enhanced anti-tumor and anti-metastatic effects compared to native Nim in two preclinical models without any systemic toxicity. Overall, these findings provide proof of concept that Nim-based phytonanomedicine can inhibit BCSCs by epigenetic reprogramming of the DNMTs-SFRP1-Wnt/β-catenin signaling axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Mohapatra
- Institute of Life Sciences, Nalco Square, Bhubaneswar 751023, Odisha, India
- Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad 121001, Haryana, India
| | - Swati Madhulika
- Institute of Life Sciences, Nalco Square, Bhubaneswar 751023, Odisha, India
- Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad 121001, Haryana, India
| | - Somalisa Behera
- Institute of Life Sciences, Nalco Square, Bhubaneswar 751023, Odisha, India
| | - Priya Singh
- Institute of Life Sciences, Nalco Square, Bhubaneswar 751023, Odisha, India
- Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad 121001, Haryana, India
| | - Pratikshya Sa
- Institute of Life Sciences, Nalco Square, Bhubaneswar 751023, Odisha, India
- Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad 121001, Haryana, India
| | - Punit Prasad
- Institute of Life Sciences, Nalco Square, Bhubaneswar 751023, Odisha, India
| | - Rajeeb Kumar Swain
- Institute of Life Sciences, Nalco Square, Bhubaneswar 751023, Odisha, India
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Gaździcka J, Świętek A, Hudy D, Dąbrowska N, Gołąbek K, Rydel M, Czyżewski D, Strzelczyk JK. Concentration of Secreted Frizzled-Related Proteins (SFRPs) in Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma Subtypes-A Preliminary Study. Curr Oncol 2023; 30:9968-9980. [PMID: 37999144 PMCID: PMC10670352 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol30110724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) is the most common lung cancer worldwide. Secreted frizzled-related proteins (SFRPs) are important tumour suppressors and antagonists of the Wnt signalling pathway, which is linked with cancer development. The aim of this study was to evaluate the concentrations of SFRP1, SFRP2, and SFRP5 proteins in tumour and non-tumour (NT) samples obtained from 65 patients with primary NSCLC. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to measure the concentrations of SFRPs in the tissue homogenates. A significantly lower SFRP2 protein concentration was found in the total NSCLC tumour samples and the following NSCLC subtypes: squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and adenocarcinoma (AC) (p > 0.05, p = 0.028 and p = 0.001, respectively). AC tumour samples had a higher SFRP1 level than NT samples (p = 0.022), while the highest SFRP1 concentration was found in NSCLC samples from patients with clinical stage T4 cancer. Increased concentrations of SFRP1 and SFRP5 were present in stage III NSCLC samples, while the tumour samples with high pleural invasion (PL2) had an increased level of SFRP2. The results from this study suggest that the tumour suppressor or oncogenic roles of SFRPs could be connected with the NSCLC subtype. The levels of SFRPs varied according to the clinicopathological parameters of NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jadwiga Gaździcka
- Department of Medical and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, 19 Jordana St., 41-808 Zabrze, Poland
| | - Agata Świętek
- Department of Medical and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, 19 Jordana St., 41-808 Zabrze, Poland
- Silesia LabMed Research and Implementation Center, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, 19 Jordana St., 41-808 Zabrze, Poland
| | - Dorota Hudy
- Department of Medical and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, 19 Jordana St., 41-808 Zabrze, Poland
| | - Natalia Dąbrowska
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, 161 Cathedral Street, Glasgow G4 0RE, UK
| | - Karolina Gołąbek
- Department of Medical and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, 19 Jordana St., 41-808 Zabrze, Poland
| | - Mateusz Rydel
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, 13/15 3-Go Maja St., 41-800 Zabrze, Poland
| | - Damian Czyżewski
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, 13/15 3-Go Maja St., 41-800 Zabrze, Poland
| | - Joanna Katarzyna Strzelczyk
- Department of Medical and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, 19 Jordana St., 41-808 Zabrze, Poland
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Liu J, Huang B, Ding F, Li Y. Environment factors, DNA methylation, and cancer. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2023; 45:7543-7568. [PMID: 37715840 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-023-01749-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023]
Abstract
Today, the rapid development of science and technology and the rapid change in economy and society are changing the way of life of human beings and affecting the natural, living, working, and internal environment on which human beings depend. At the same time, the global incidence of cancer has increased significantly yearly, and cancer has become the number one killer that threatens human health. Studies have shown that diet, living habits, residential environment, mental and psychological factors, intestinal flora, genetics, social factors, and viral and non-viral infections are closely related to human cancer. However, the molecular mechanisms of the environment and cancer development remain to be further explored. In recent years, DNA methylation has become a key hub and bridge for environmental and cancer research. Some environmental factors can alter the hyper/hypomethylation of human cancer suppressor gene promoters, proto-oncogene promoters, and the whole genome, causing low/high expression or gene mutation of related genes, thereby exerting oncogenic or anticancer effects. It is expected to develop early warning markers of cancer environment based on DNA methylation, thereby providing new methods for early detection of cancers, diagnosis, and targeted therapy. This review systematically expounds on the internal mechanism of environmental factors affecting cancer by changing DNA methylation, aiming to help establish the concept of cancer prevention and improve people's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lan Zhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the Digestive System Tumors of Gansu Province, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lan Zhou, China
| | - Binjie Huang
- Department of General Surgery, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lan Zhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the Digestive System Tumors of Gansu Province, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lan Zhou, China
| | - Feifei Ding
- Department of General Surgery, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lan Zhou, China
- Key Laboratory of the Digestive System Tumors of Gansu Province, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lan Zhou, China
| | - Yumin Li
- Department of General Surgery, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lan Zhou, China.
- Key Laboratory of the Digestive System Tumors of Gansu Province, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lan Zhou, China.
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Zhang W, Zhang K, Ma Y, Song Y, Qi T, Xiong G, Zhang Y, Kan C, Zhang J, Han F, Sun X. Secreted frizzled-related proteins: A promising therapeutic target for cancer therapy through Wnt signaling inhibition. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 166:115344. [PMID: 37634472 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The Wnt signaling system is a critical pathway that regulates embryonic development and adult homeostasis. Secreted frizzled-related proteins (SFRPs) are extracellular inhibitors of Wnt signaling that act by binding directly to Wnt ligands or Frizzled receptors. SFRPs can act as anti-Wnt agents and suppress cancer growth by blocking the action of Wnt ligands. However, SFRPs are often silenced by promoter methylation in cancer cells, resulting in hyperactivation of the Wnt pathway. Epigenetic modifiers can reverse this silencing and restore SFRPs expression. Despite the potential of SFRPs as a therapeutic target, the effects of SFRPs on tumor development remain unclear. Therefore, a review of the expression of various members of the SFRPs family in different cancers and their potential as therapeutic targets is warranted. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge of SFRPs in cancer, focusing on their expression patterns and their potential as novel therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenqiang Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China; Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China; Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China
| | - Kexin Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China; Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China
| | - Yanhui Ma
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China
| | - Yixin Song
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China; Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China
| | - Tongbing Qi
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China; Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China
| | - Guoji Xiong
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China; Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China
| | - Yuanzhu Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China
| | - Chengxia Kan
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China; Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China
| | - Jingwen Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China; Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China.
| | - Fang Han
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China; Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China; Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China.
| | - Xiaodong Sun
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China; Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261031, China.
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Locatelli M, Faure-Dupuy S. Virus hijacking of host epigenetic machinery to impair immune response. J Virol 2023; 97:e0065823. [PMID: 37656959 PMCID: PMC10537592 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00658-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic modifications, such as DNA hypermethylation, histone acetylation/methylation, or nucleosome positioning, result in differential gene expression. These modifications can have an impact on various pathways, including host antiviral immune responses. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of epigenetic modifications induced by viruses to counteract host antiviral immune responses, which are crucial for establishing and maintaining infection of viruses. Finally, we provide insights into the potential use of epigenetic modulators in combating viral infections and virus-induced diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maëlle Locatelli
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Suzanne Faure-Dupuy
- Université de Paris Cité, Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016-CNRS UMR8104, Paris, France
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Fu S, Debes JD, Boonstra A. DNA methylation markers in the detection of hepatocellular carcinoma. Eur J Cancer 2023; 191:112960. [PMID: 37473464 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2023.112960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver malignancy and has a poor prognosis. Epigenetic modification has been shown to be deregulated during HCC development by dramatically impacting the differentiation, proliferation, and function of cells. One important epigenetic modification is DNA methylation during which methyl groups are added to cytosines without changing the DNA sequence itself. Studies found that methylated DNA markers can be specific for detection of HCC. On the basis of these findings, the utility of methylated DNA markers as novel biomarkers for early-stage HCC has been measured in blood, and indeed superior sensitivity and specificity have been found in several studies when compared to current surveillance methods. However, a variety of factors currently limit the immediate application of these exciting biomarkers. In this review, we provide a detailed rationalisation of the approach and basis for the use of methylation biomarkers for HCC detection and summarise recent studies on methylated DNA markers in HCC focusing on the importance of the aetiological cause of liver disease in the mechanisms leading to cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyu Fu
- Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - José D Debes
- Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - André Boonstra
- Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
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11
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Rahmani F, Hashemian P, Tabrizi AT, Ghorbani Z, Ziaeemehr A, Alijannejad S, Ferns GA, Avan A, Shahidsales S. Regulatory role of miRNAs on Wnt/β-catenin signaling in tumorigenesis of glioblastoma. Indian J Cancer 2023; 60:295-302. [PMID: 37787188 DOI: 10.4103/ijc.ijc_251_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is one of the most aggressive tumors in the brain with high mortality worldwide. Despite recent advances in therapeutic strategies, the survival rate remains low in patients with GBM. The pathogenesis of GBM is a very complicated process involving various genetic mutations affecting several oncogenic signaling pathways like Wnt/β-catenin axis. Overactivation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is associated with decreased survival and poor prognosis in patients with GBM. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) were shown to play important roles in the regulation of cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and tumorigenesis by modulating the expression of their target genes. Aberrant expression of miRNAs were reported in various human malignancies including GBM, breast, colorectal, liver, and prostate cancers, but little is known about their cellular mechanisms. Therefore, recognition of the expression profile and regulatory effects of miRNAs on the Wnt/β-catenin pathway may offer a novel approach for the classification, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of patients with GBM. This review summarizes previous data on the modulatory role of miRNAs on the Wnt/β-catenin pathway implicated in tumorigenesis of GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farzad Rahmani
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center; Cancer Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Pedram Hashemian
- Department of Pathology, Jahad Daneshgahi Institute, Mashhad Branch, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Zeynab Ghorbani
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Aghigh Ziaeemehr
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Sajede Alijannejad
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Mashhad Branch, Islamic Azad University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Gordon A Ferns
- Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Division of Medical Education, Falmer, Brighton, Sussex, UK
| | - Amir Avan
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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12
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Catalano T, Selvaggi F, Esposito DL, Cotellese R, Aceto GM. Infectious Agents Induce Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway Deregulation in Primary Liver Cancers. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1632. [PMID: 37512809 PMCID: PMC10386003 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11071632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Interaction between infectious agents and liver tissue, as well as repeated and extreme biological events beyond adaptive capacities, may result in pathological conditions predisposing people to development of primary liver cancers (PLCs). In adults, PLCs mainly comprise hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). Various infectious agents in the hepatic microenvironment can destabilize normal liver cell functions by modulating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway components. Among them, hepatotropic viruses B, C, and D are involved in Wnt/β-catenin signaling dysregulation. Other microbial agents, including oncogenic viruses such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and human papilloma virus (HPV), bacteria, e.g., Mycoplasma hyorhinis and Salmonella Typhi, the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii, the fungus Aspergillus flavus, and liver flukes such as Clonorchissinensis or Opisthorchis viverrini, may induce malignant transformation in hepatocytes or in target cells of the biliary tract through aberrant Wnt signaling activation. This review focuses on new insights into infectious agents implicated in the deregulation of Wnt signaling and PLC development. Since the Wnt/β-catenin pathway is a driver of cancer following viral and bacterial infections, molecules inhibiting the complex axis of Wnt signaling could represent novel therapeutic approaches in PLC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Catalano
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Federico Selvaggi
- Unit of General Surgery, ASL2 Lanciano-Vasto-Chieti, Ospedale Clinicizzato SS Annunziata, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Diana Liberata Esposito
- Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine & Dentistry, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Roberto Cotellese
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Villa Serena Foundation for Research, 65013 Città Sant'Angelo, Italy
| | - Gitana Maria Aceto
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy
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13
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MacLennan SA, Marra MA. Oncogenic Viruses and the Epigenome: How Viruses Hijack Epigenetic Mechanisms to Drive Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119543. [PMID: 37298494 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Globally, viral infections substantially contribute to cancer development. Oncogenic viruses are taxonomically heterogeneous and drive cancers using diverse strategies, including epigenomic dysregulation. Here, we discuss how oncogenic viruses disrupt epigenetic homeostasis to drive cancer and focus on how virally mediated dysregulation of host and viral epigenomes impacts the hallmarks of cancer. To illustrate the relationship between epigenetics and viral life cycles, we describe how epigenetic changes facilitate the human papillomavirus (HPV) life cycle and how changes to this process can spur malignancy. We also highlight the clinical impact of virally mediated epigenetic changes on cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Signe A MacLennan
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
- Canada's Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre, BC Cancer, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4S6, Canada
| | - Marco A Marra
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
- Canada's Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre, BC Cancer, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4S6, Canada
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14
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Lin N, Yin W, Miller H, Byazrova MG, Herrada AA, Benlagha K, Lee P, Guan F, Lei J, Gong Q, Yan Y, Filatov A, Liu C. The role of regulatory T cells and follicular T helper cells in HBV infection. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1169601. [PMID: 37275865 PMCID: PMC10235474 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1169601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B has become one of the major global health threats, especially in developing countries and regions. Hepatitis B virus infection greatly increases the risk for liver diseases such as cirrhosis and cancer. However, treatment for hepatitis B is limited when considering the huge base of infected people. The immune response against hepatitis B is mediated mainly by CD8+ T cells, which are key to fighting invading viruses, while regulatory T cells prevent overreaction of the immune response process. Additionally, follicular T helper cells play a key role in B-cell activation, proliferation, differentiation, and formation of germinal centers. The pathogenic process of hepatitis B virus is generally the result of a disorder or dysfunction of the immune system. Therefore, we present in this review the critical functions and related biological processes of regulatory T cells and follicular T helper cells during HBV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nengqi Lin
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College and State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Disease, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wei Yin
- Wuhan Children’s Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Heather Miller
- Department of Research and Development, BD Biosciences, San Jose, CA, United States
| | - Maria G. Byazrova
- Laboratory of Immunochemistry, National Research Center Institute of Immunology, Federal Medical Biological Agency of Russia, Moscow, Russia
| | - Andrés A. Herrada
- Lymphatic Vasculature and Inflammation Research Laboratory, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Talca, Chile
| | - Kamel Benlagha
- Université de Paris, Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, EMiLy, Paris, France
| | - Pamela Lee
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Fei Guan
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College and State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Disease, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiahui Lei
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College and State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Disease, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Quan Gong
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
- Clinical Molecular Immunology Center, School of Medicine, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Youqing Yan
- Department of Infectious Disease, Wuhan No.7 Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Alexander Filatov
- Laboratory of Immunochemistry, National Research Center Institute of Immunology, Federal Medical Biological Agency of Russia, Moscow, Russia
| | - Chaohong Liu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College and State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Disease, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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15
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Secreted Frizzled Related Protein 5 (SFRP5) Serum Levels Are Decreased in Critical Illness and Sepsis and Are Associated with Short-Term Mortality. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11020313. [PMID: 36830849 PMCID: PMC9953555 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11020313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Sepsis is a major health burden with insufficiently understood mechanisms of inflammation and immune paralysis, leading to a life-threatening critical illness. The secreted frizzled related protein 5 (SFRP5) acts as an anti-inflammatory adipokine by antagonizing the Wnt5a pathway. The aim of this study was to elucidate the role of SFRP5 in critical illness and sepsis and to determine its value as a prognostic biomarker for mortality. We analyzed SFRP5 serum concentrations of 223 critically ill patients at admission to a medical intensive care unit (ICU) and compared those to 24 healthy individuals. SFRP5 serum concentrations were significantly decreased in critical illness as compared to healthy controls (24.66 vs. 100 ng/mL, p = 0.029). Even lower serum concentrations were found in septic as compared to nonseptic critically ill patients (19.21 vs. 32.83 ng/mL, p = 0.031). SFRP5 concentrations correlated with liver disease, age, anti-inflammation, and metabolic parameters. Furthermore, patients with sepsis recovered levels of SFRP5 in the first week of ICU treatment. SFRP5 levels at admission predicted short-term mortality in critically ill but not in septic patients. This study points to the role of the anti-inflammatory mediator SFRP5 not only in sepsis but also in nonseptic critically ill patients and associates high levels of SFRP5 to worse outcomes, predominantly in nonseptic critically ill patients.
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16
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Islam B, Yu HY, Duan TQ, Pan J, Li M, Zhang RQ, Masroor M, Huang JF. Cell cycle kinases (AUKA, CDK1, PLK1) are prognostic biomarkers and correlated with tumor-infiltrating leukocytes in HBV related HCC. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023; 41:11845-11861. [PMID: 36634158 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2022.2164056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the high incidence cancers and third leading cause of cancer-related mortality. HBV is the top most risk factor accounting for 50-80% of the HCC cases. Kinases: Aurora kinase A (AURKA), cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK1) and Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1), the key regulators of cell mitosis are overexpressed in varieties of cancers including HCC. However, the exact role of these genes in prognosis of HCC is not fully unveiled. In addition, there is no such an accurate prognostic biomarker for HBV-related HCC. To address this issue, we performed a multidimensional analysis of AURKA, CDK1 and PLK1 with a series of publicly available databases in multiple cancers and with experimental validation in HBV-related HCC tissues. Overexpression of AURKA, CDK1 and PLK1 was found in multiple cancers including HCC. Elevated expression of these genes could result from lowered DNA methylation and genomic alterations. Transcriptional overexpression was significantly correlated with poor prognosis of HCC patients. The expression levels were also significantly positively associated with tumor grades and stages. Furthermore, the expression levels of these genes had a strong correlation with infiltration of immune cells. Our analysis shows that AURKA, CDK1 and PLK1 are correlated with immune infiltration and are the prognostic biomarkers for HBV-induced HCC.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baitul Islam
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hai-Yang Yu
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Tian-Qi Duan
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jing Pan
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Min Li
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ru-Qi Zhang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Matiullah Masroor
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ju-Fang Huang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
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17
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Leung RWH, Lee TKW. Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling as a Driver of Stemness and Metabolic Reprogramming in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14215468. [PMID: 36358885 PMCID: PMC9656505 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14215468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Aberrant Wnt/β-catenin signaling has been reported to play crucial role in pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this review, we focus on the regulatory role of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in cancer stemness and metabolic reprogramming, which are two emerging hallmarks of cancer. Understanding the role of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in regulation of the above processes reveals novel therapeutic strategy against this deadly disease. Abstract Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major cause of cancer death worldwide due to its high rates of tumor recurrence and metastasis. Aberrant Wnt/β-catenin signaling has been shown to play a significant role in HCC development, progression and clinical impact on tumor behavior. Accumulating evidence has revealed the critical involvement of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in driving cancer stemness and metabolic reprogramming, which are regarded as emerging cancer hallmarks. In this review, we summarize the regulatory mechanism of Wnt/β-catenin signaling and its role in HCC. Furthermore, we provide an update on the regulatory roles of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in metabolic reprogramming, cancer stemness and drug resistance in HCC. We also provide an update on preclinical and clinical studies targeting Wnt/β-catenin signaling alone or in combination with current therapies for effective cancer therapy. This review provides insights into the current opportunities and challenges of targeting this signaling pathway in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rainbow Wing Hei Leung
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Terence Kin Wah Lee
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +852-3400-8799; Fax: +852-2364-9932
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18
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Liu Y, Wang J, Chen J, Wu S, Zeng X, Xiong Q, Guo Y, Sun J, Song F, Xu J, Yuan S, Li C, He Y, Wang M, Chen L, Shi YB, Guo M, Guo D, Sun G. Upregulation of miR-520c-3p via hepatitis B virus drives hepatocellular migration and invasion by the PTEN/AKT/NF-κB axis. MOLECULAR THERAPY - NUCLEIC ACIDS 2022; 29:47-63. [PMID: 35795482 PMCID: PMC9234012 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2022.05.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major risk factor for the development and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). It has been reported that viral infection can interfere with the expression of cellular microRNA (miRNA) to affect oncogenesis. In this study, we showed that miR-520c-3p was upregulated in liver tumor specimens, and we revealed that HBV infection enhanced the expression of miR-520c-3p through the interaction of viral protein HBV X protein (HBx) with transcription factor CREB1. We further showed that miR-520c-3p induced by HBV transfection/infection caused epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Using the miRNA target prediction database miRBase and luciferase reporter assays, we identified PTEN as a novel target gene of miR-520c-3p and miR-520c-3p directly targeted PTEN’s 3′-untranslated region. Moreover, we discovered that HBV promoted EMT via the miR-520c-3p-PTEN to activate AKT-NFκB signaling pathway, leading to increased HCC migration and invasion. Importantly, miR-520c-3p antagomir significantly represses invasiveness in HBx-induced hepatocellular xenograft models. Our findings indicate that miR-520c-3p is a novel regulator of HBV and plays an important role in HCC progression. It may serve as a new biomarker and molecular therapeutic target for HBV patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- Taikang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Jingwen Wang
- Taikang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Jianwen Chen
- Taikang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Shaoshuai Wu
- Taikang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Xianhuang Zeng
- Taikang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Qiushuang Xiong
- Taikang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Yandan Guo
- Taikang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Junwei Sun
- Department of Hepatic & Biliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Hubei Cancer Hospital, Affiliated Hubei Cancer Hospital of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430079, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Feifei Song
- Taikang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Jiaqi Xu
- Taikang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Sen Yuan
- Taikang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Chuang Li
- Taikang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, P.R. China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Yuan He
- Taikang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Ming Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Lang Chen
- Taikang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Yun-Bo Shi
- Section on Molecular Morphogenesis, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Mingxiong Guo
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, Hubei, P.R. China
- Ecological Research Center, College of Science, Tibet University, Lhasa 850012, Tibet, P.R. China
- Corresponding author Mingxiong Guo, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, Hubei, P.R. China.
| | - Deyin Guo
- Taikang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, P.R. China
- School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510000, Guangdong, P.R. China
- Corresponding author Deyin Guo, Taikang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, P.R. China.
| | - Guihong Sun
- Taikang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, P.R. China
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Allergy and Immunology, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, P.R. China
- Corresponding author Guihong Sun, Taikang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, P.R. China.
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Wang X, Zhou Y, Wang C, Zhao Y, Cheng Y, Yu S, Li X, Zhang W, Zhang Y, Quan H. HCV Core protein represses DKK3 expression via epigenetic silencing and activates the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway during the progression of HCC. CLINICAL & TRANSLATIONAL ONCOLOGY : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE FEDERATION OF SPANISH ONCOLOGY SOCIETIES AND OF THE NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE OF MEXICO 2022; 24:1998-2009. [PMID: 35768685 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-022-02859-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is frequently activated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). A number of studies have focused on the aberrant hypermethylation of the DKK family proteins and its role in regulating the activation of specific signaling pathways. However, the exact way by which DKK regulates the signaling pathway caused by Core protein of HCV has not been reported. In the present study, we evaluated the expression level of DKK and its aberrant promoter methylation to investigate the involvement of epigenetic regulation in hepatoma cell lines. The transcription and protein expression of DKK1 was significantly increased, whereas the transcription and protein expression levels of DKK2, DKK3, and DKK4 were significantly decreased following overexpression of Core protein. Pyrosequencing indicated that hypermethylation of DKK3 was increased. This was associated with increased expression of Dnmt1. The investigation of the molecular mechanism indicated that HCV Core protein interacted with Dnmt1, which combined with the promoter of DKK3, leading to methylation of DKK3. Functional studies indicated that Core protein promoted the growth, migration and invasion of cancer cells. However, upregulation of the expression of DKK3 and/or the knockdown of the expression of Dnmt1 inhibited the growth, migration and invasion of cancer cells. Taken together, the data indicated that epigenetic silencing of DKK3 caused by Dnmt1 activated the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in HCV Core-mediated HCC. Therefore, DKK3 may be a potential diagnostic and therapeutic target for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Yun Zhou
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Chunfu Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Yanyan Zhao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Yan Cheng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Suhuai Yu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Xiaofeng Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Wenjing Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Huiqin Quan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China.
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20
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Yang L, Zou T, Chen Y, Zhao Y, Wu X, Li M, Du F, Chen Y, Xiao Z, Shen J. Hepatitis B virus X protein mediated epigenetic alterations in the pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatol Int 2022; 16:741-754. [PMID: 35648301 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-022-10351-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a worldwide health problem. Hepatitis B virus X protein (HBx), a pleiotropic regulatory protein encoded by HBV, is necessary for the transcription of HBV covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) minichromosomes, and affects the epigenetic regulation of host cells. The epigenetic reprogramming of HBx on host cell genome is strongly involved in HBV-related HCC carcinogenesis. Here, we review the latest findings of the epigenetic regulation induced by HBx protein in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), including DNA methylation, histone modification and non-coding RNA expression. The influence of HBx on the epigenetic regulation of cccDNA is also summarized. In addition, preliminary studies of targeted drugs for epigenetic changes induced by HBx are also discussed. The exploration of epigenetic markers as potential targets will help to develop new prevention and/or treatment methods for HBx-related HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liqiong Yang
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, 646000, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Tao Zou
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, 646000, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Yao Chen
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, 646000, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Yueshui Zhao
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, 646000, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Xu Wu
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, 646000, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Mingxing Li
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, 646000, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Fukuan Du
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, 646000, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, 646000, China
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Zhangang Xiao
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China.
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, 646000, China.
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, China.
| | - Jing Shen
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China.
- Cell Therapy and Cell Drugs of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Luzhou, 646000, China.
- South Sichuan Institute of Translational Medicine, Luzhou, 646000, China.
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21
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Repurposing Antifungals for Host-Directed Antiviral Therapy? Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15020212. [PMID: 35215323 PMCID: PMC8878022 DOI: 10.3390/ph15020212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Because of their epidemic and pandemic potential, emerging viruses are a major threat to global healthcare systems. While vaccination is in general a straightforward approach to prevent viral infections, immunization can also cause escape mutants that hide from immune cell and antibody detection. Thus, other approaches than immunization are critical for the management and control of viral infections. Viruses are prone to mutations leading to the rapid emergence of resistant strains upon treatment with direct antivirals. In contrast to the direct interference with pathogen components, host-directed therapies aim to target host factors that are essential for the pathogenic replication cycle or to improve the host defense mechanisms, thus circumventing resistance. These relatively new approaches are often based on the repurposing of drugs which are already licensed for the treatment of other unrelated diseases. Here, we summarize what is known about the mechanisms and modes of action for a potential use of antifungals as repurposed host-directed anti-infectives for the therapeutic intervention to control viral infections.
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22
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Zheng C, Liu M, Ge Y, Qian Y, Fan H. HBx increases chromatin accessibility and ETV4 expression to regulate dishevelled-2 and promote HCC progression. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:116. [PMID: 35121725 PMCID: PMC8816937 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04563-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is the predominant causes of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). HBV X protein (HBx), as the most frequently integrated viral gene sequence following HBV infection, plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of HCC. H3K27ac is a characteristic marker for identifying active enhancers and even indicates chromatin accessibility associated with super-enhancers (SEs). In this study, H3K27ac ChIP-seq was applied for high-quality SE annotation of HBx-induced SEs and chromatin accessibility evaluation. The results indicated that HBx preferentially affects enrichment of H3K27ac in transcription factor signaling pathway genes, including ETV4. RNA-seq indicated that ETV4 is upregulated by HBx and that upregulated ETV4 promotes HCC progression. Interestingly, ETV4 was also included in the 568 cancer driver gene pool obtained by the Integrative OncoGenomics pipeline. However, the biological function and mechanism of ETV4 remain incompletely understood. In vivo and in vitro, we found that increased ETV4 expression promotes HCC cell migration and invasion by upregulating DVL2 and activating Wnt/β-catenin. The mRNA and protein levels of ETV4 are higher in tumor tissues compared with adjacent tissues, and high expression of ETV4 is associated with poor prognosis in HCC patients. In summary, we first confirm that ETV4 is significantly upregulated by HBx and involved in SE-associated chromatin accessibility. Increased expression of ETV4 promotes HCC cell invasion and metastasis by upregulating DVL2. The present study provides insight into the ETV4-DVL2-β-catenin axis in HBV-related HCC, which will be helpful for treating patients with aggressive HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuqian Zheng
- Department of Medical Genetics and Developmental Biology, School of Medicine, The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Diseases, Ministry of Education, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Min Liu
- School of Life Science and Technology, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yanping Ge
- School of Life Science and Technology, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yanyan Qian
- Department of Medical Genetics and Developmental Biology, School of Medicine, The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Diseases, Ministry of Education, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hong Fan
- Department of Medical Genetics and Developmental Biology, School of Medicine, The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Diseases, Ministry of Education, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.
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23
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Zhang D, Guo S, Schrodi SJ. Mechanisms of DNA Methylation in Virus-Host Interaction in Hepatitis B Infection: Pathogenesis and Oncogenetic Properties. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:9858. [PMID: 34576022 PMCID: PMC8466338 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22189858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV), the well-studied oncovirus that contributes to the majority of hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC) worldwide, can cause a severe inflammatory microenvironment leading to genetic and epigenetic changes in hepatocyte clones. HBV replication contributes to the regulation of DNA methyltransferase gene expression, particularly by X protein (HBx), and subsequent methylation changes may lead to abnormal transcription activation of adjacent genes and genomic instability. Undoubtedly, the altered expression of these genes has been known to cause diverse aspects of infected hepatocytes, including apoptosis, proliferation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, and immune responses. Additionally, pollutant-induced DNA methylation changes and aberrant methylation of imprinted genes in hepatocytes also complicate the process of tumorigenesis. Meanwhile, hepatocytes also contribute to epigenetic modification of the viral genome to affect HBV replication or viral protein production. Meanwhile, methylation levels of HBV integrants and surrounding host regions also play crucial roles in their ability to produce viral proteins in affected hepatocytes. Both host and viral changes can provide novel insights into tumorigenesis, individualized responses to therapeutic intervention, disease progress, and early diagnosis. As such, DNA methylation-mediated epigenetic silencing of cancer-related genes and viral replication is a compelling therapeutic goal to reduce morbidity and mortality from liver cancer caused by chronic HBV infection. In this review, we summarize the most recent research on aberrant DNA methylation associated with HBV infection, which is involved in HCC development, and provide an outlook on the future direction of the research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dake Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Biomechanics and Mechanobiology, Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Shicheng Guo
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA;
| | - Steven J. Schrodi
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA;
- Computation and Informatics in Biology and Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
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24
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Shokoohian B, Negahdari B, Aboulkheyr Es H, Abedi-Valugerdi M, Baghaei K, Agarwal T, Maiti TK, Hassan M, Najimi M, Vosough M. Advanced therapeutic modalities in hepatocellular carcinoma: Novel insights. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:8602-8614. [PMID: 34423899 PMCID: PMC8435417 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common type of liver cancer, is usually a latent and asymptomatic malignancy caused by different aetiologies, which is a result of various aberrant molecular heterogeneity and often diagnosed at advanced stages. The incidence and prevalence have significantly increased because of sedentary lifestyle, diabetes, chronic infection with hepatotropic viruses and exposure to aflatoxins. Due to advanced intra‐ or extrahepatic metastasis, recurrence is very common even after radical resection. In this paper, we highlighted novel therapeutic modalities, such as molecular‐targeted therapies, targeted radionuclide therapies and epigenetic modification‐based therapies. These topics are trending headlines and their combination with cell‐based immunotherapies, and gene therapy has provided promising prospects for the future of HCC treatment. Moreover, a comprehensive overview of current and advanced therapeutic approaches is discussed and the advantages and limitations of each strategy are described. Finally, very recent and approved novel combined therapies and their promising results in HCC treatment have been introduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahare Shokoohian
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Babak Negahdari
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Manuchehr Abedi-Valugerdi
- Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Experimental Cancer Medicine, Clinical Research Center (KFC), Novum, Karolinska University Hospital-Huddinge and Biomolecular and Cellular Medicine (BCM, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kaveh Baghaei
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tarun Agarwal
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, India
| | - Tapas Kumar Maiti
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, India
| | - Moustapha Hassan
- Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Experimental Cancer Medicine, Clinical Research Center (KFC), Novum, Karolinska University Hospital-Huddinge and Biomolecular and Cellular Medicine (BCM, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mustapha Najimi
- Laboratory of Pediatric Hepatology and Cell Therapy, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Massoud Vosough
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.,Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Experimental Cancer Medicine, Clinical Research Center (KFC), Novum, Karolinska University Hospital-Huddinge and Biomolecular and Cellular Medicine (BCM, Stockholm, Sweden
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25
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Elpek GO. Molecular pathways in viral hepatitis-associated liver carcinogenesis: An update. World J Clin Cases 2021; 9:4890-4917. [PMID: 34307543 PMCID: PMC8283590 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v9.i19.4890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Revised: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of cancer among primary malignant tumors of the liver and is a consequential cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. In recent years, uncovering the molecular mechanisms involved in the development and behavior of this tumor has led to the identification of multiple potential treatment targets. Despite the vast amount of data on this topic, HCC remains a challenging tumor to treat due to its aggressive behavior and complex molecular profile. Therefore, the number of studies aiming to elucidate the mechanisms involved in both carcinogenesis and tumor progression in HCC continues to increase. In this context, the close association of HCC with viral hepatitis has led to numerous studies focusing on the direct or indirect involvement of viruses in the mechanisms contributing to tumor development and behavior. In line with these efforts, this review was undertaken to highlight the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) participate in oncogenesis and tumor progression in HCC and summarize new findings. Cumulative evidence indicates that HBV DNA integration promotes genomic instability, resulting in the overexpression of genes related to cancer development, metastasis, and angiogenesis or inactivation of tumor suppressor genes. In addition, genetic variations in HBV itself, especially preS2 deletions, may play a role in malignant transformation. Epigenetic dysregulation caused by both viruses might also contribute to tumor formation and metastasis by modifying the methylation of DNA and histones or altering the expression of microRNAs. Similarly, viral proteins of both HBV and HCV can affect pathways that are important anticancer targets. The effects of these two viruses on the Hippo-Yap-Taz pathway in HCC development and behavior need to be investigated. Additional, comprehensive studies are also needed to determine these viruses' interaction with integrins, farnesoid X, and the apelin system in malignant transformation and tumor progression. Although the relationship of persistent inflammation caused by HBV and HCV hepatitis with carcinogenesis is well defined, further studies are warranted to decipher the relationship among inflammasomes and viruses in carcinogenesis and elucidate the role of virus-microbiota interactions in HCC development and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gulsum Ozlem Elpek
- Department of Pathology, Akdeniz University Medical School, Antalya 07070, Turkey
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26
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Lin T, Lin Z, Mai P, Zhang E, Peng L. Identification of prognostic biomarkers associated with the occurrence of portal vein tumor thrombus in hepatocellular carcinoma. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:11786-11807. [PMID: 33878734 PMCID: PMC8109071 DOI: 10.18632/aging.202876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/14/2021] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
The occurrence of portal vein tumor thrombus (PVTT) is strongly correlated to the staging and poor prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. However, the mechanisms of PVTT formation remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between primary tumor (PT) and PVTT tissues and comprehensively explored the underlying mechanisms of PVTT formation. The DEGs between PT and paired PVTT tissues were analyzed using transcriptional data from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The expression, clinical relevance, prognostic significance, genetic alternations, DNA methylation, correlations with immune infiltration, co-expression correlations, and functional enrichment analysis of the DEGs were explored using multiple databases. As result, 12 DEGs were commonly down-expressed in PVTT compared with PT tissues among three datasets. The expression of DCN, CCL21, IGJ, CXCL14, FCN3, LAMA2, and NPY1R was progressively decreased from normal liver, PT, to PVTT tissues, whose up-expression associated with favorable survivals of HCC patients. The genetic alternations and DNA methylation of the DEGs frequently occurred, and several methylated CpG sites of the DEGs significantly correlated with outcomes of HCC patients. The immune infiltration in the tumor microenvironment of HCC was correlated with the expression level of the DEGs. Besides, the DEGs and their co-expressive genes participated in the biological processes of extracellular matrix (ECM) organization and focal adhesion. In summary, this study indicated the dysregulation of ECM and focal adhesion might contribute to the formation of PVTT. And the above seven genes might serve as potential biomarkers of PVTT occurrence and prognosis of HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Lin
- The Fourth Clinical Medical School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhimei Lin
- The Fourth Clinical Medical School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Peipei Mai
- The Fourth Clinical Medical School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - E Zhang
- The Fourth Clinical Medical School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lisheng Peng
- Department of Science and Education, Shenzhen Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
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27
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Zeisel MB, Guerrieri F, Levrero M. Host Epigenetic Alterations and Hepatitis B Virus-Associated Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10081715. [PMID: 33923385 PMCID: PMC8071488 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10081715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most frequent primary malignancy of the liver and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Although much progress has been made in HCC drug development in recent years, treatment options remain limited. The major cause of HCC is chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Despite the existence of a vaccine, more than 250 million individuals are chronically infected by HBV. Current antiviral therapies can repress viral replication but to date there is no cure for chronic hepatitis B. Of note, inhibition of viral replication reduces but does not eliminate the risk of HCC development. HBV contributes to liver carcinogenesis by direct and indirect effects. This review summarizes the current knowledge of HBV-induced host epigenetic alterations and their association with HCC, with an emphasis on the interactions between HBV proteins and the host cell epigenetic machinery leading to modulation of gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirjam B. Zeisel
- Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), UMR Inserm 1052 CNRS 5286 Mixte CLB, Université de Lyon 1 (UCBL1), 69003 Lyon, France;
- Correspondence: (M.B.Z.); (M.L.)
| | - Francesca Guerrieri
- Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), UMR Inserm 1052 CNRS 5286 Mixte CLB, Université de Lyon 1 (UCBL1), 69003 Lyon, France;
| | - Massimo Levrero
- Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), UMR Inserm 1052 CNRS 5286 Mixte CLB, Université de Lyon 1 (UCBL1), 69003 Lyon, France;
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Croix Rousse, Service d’Hépato-Gastroentérologie, 69004 Lyon, France
- Correspondence: (M.B.Z.); (M.L.)
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28
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MicroRNA-27a targets Sfrp1 to induce renal fibrosis in diabetic nephropathy by activating Wnt/β-Catenin signalling. Biosci Rep 2021; 40:225114. [PMID: 32484208 PMCID: PMC7295625 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20192794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2019] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic nephropathy (DN) commonly causes end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Increasing evidence indicates that abnormal miRNA expression is tightly associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD). This work aimed to investigate whether miR-27a can promote the occurrence of renal fibrosis in DN by suppressing the expression of secreted frizzled-related protein 1 (Sfrp1) to activate Wnt/β-catenin signalling. Therefore, we assessed the expression levels of miR-27a, Sfrp1, Wnt signalling components, and extracellular matrix (ECM)-related molecules in vitro and in vivo. Sfrp1 was significantly down-regulated in a high-glucose environment, while miR-27a levels were markedly increased. A luciferase reporter assay confirmed that miR-27a down-regulated Sfrp1 by binding to the 3′ untranslated region directly. Further, NRK-52E cells under high-glucose conditions underwent transfection with miR-27a mimic or the corresponding negative control, miR-27a inhibitor or the corresponding negative control, si-Sfrp1, or combined miR-27a inhibitor and si-Sfrp1. Immunoblotting and immunofluorescence were performed to assess the relative expression levels of Wnt/β-catenin signalling and ECM components. The mRNA levels of Sfrp1, miR-27a, and ECM-related molecules were also detected by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). We found that miR-27a inhibitor inactivated Wnt/β-catenin signalling and reduced ECM deposition. Conversely, Wnt/β-catenin signalling was activated, while ECM deposition was increased after transfection with si-Sfrp1. Interestingly, miR-27a inhibitor attenuated the effects of si-Sfrp1. We concluded that miR-27a down-regulated Sfrp1 and activated Wnt/β-catenin signalling to promote renal fibrosis.
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29
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Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). There are approximately 250 million people in the world that are chronically infected by this virus, resulting in nearly 1 million deaths every year. Many of these patients die from severe liver diseases, including HCC. HBV may induce HCC through the induction of chronic liver inflammation, which can cause oxidative stress and DNA damage. However, many studies also indicated that HBV could induce HCC via the alteration of hepatocellular physiology that may involve genetic and epigenetic changes of the host DNA, the alteration of cellular signaling pathways, and the inhibition of DNA repair mechanisms. This alteration of cellular physiology can lead to the accumulation of DNA damages and the promotion of cell cycles and predispose hepatocytes to oncogenic transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyoung Lee
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, 2011 Zonal Avenue, HMR-401, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Kuen-Nan Tsai
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, 2011 Zonal Avenue, HMR-401, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Jing-Hsiung James Ou
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, 2011 Zonal Avenue, HMR-401, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA.
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30
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Bai Z, Li H, Li C, Sheng C, Zhao X. Integrated analysis identifies a long non-coding RNAs-messenger RNAs signature for prediction of prognosis in hepatitis B virus-hepatocellular carcinoma patients. Medicine (Baltimore) 2020; 99:e21503. [PMID: 33019382 PMCID: PMC7535691 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000021503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a leading cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but HBV-HCC related prognosis signature remains rarely investigated. This study was to identify an integrated long non-coding RNAs-messenger RNAs (lncRNA-mRNA) signature for prediction of overall survival (OS) and explore their underlying functions.One RNA-sequencing dataset (training set, n = 95) and one microarray dataset E-TABM-36 (validation set, n = 44) were collected. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator analysis was performed to identify an lncRNA-mRNA prognosis signature. The OS difference of patients in the high-risk and low-risk risk groups was evaluated by Kaplan-Meier curve. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), Harrell concordance index (C-index) calculation, and multivariate analyses with clinical characteristics were used to determine the prognostic ability. Furthermore, a coexpression network was constructed to interpret the functions.Nine signature genes (3 lncRNAs and 6 mRNAs) were selected to generate the risk score model. Patients belonging to the high-risk group showed a significantly shorter survival than those of the low-risk group. The prediction accuracy of the risk score for 5-year OS was 0.936 and 0.905 for the training set and validation set, respectively. Also, this risk score was independent of various clinical variables for the prognosis prediction. Incorporation of the risk score remarkably increased the predictive power of the routine clinical prognostic factors (vascular invasion status, tumor recurrence status) (AUC = 0.942 vs 0.628; C-index = 0.7997 vs 0.6908). Furthermore, LncRNA insulin-like growth factor 2 antisense RNA (IGF2-AS) and long intergenic non-protein coding RNA 342 (LINC00342) were predicted to exert tumor suppression effects by regulating homeobox D1 (HOXD1) and secreted frizzled related protein 5 (SFRP5), respectively; while lncRNA rhophilin Rho GTPase binding protein 1 antisense RNA 1 (RHPN1-AS1) may possess carcinogenic potential by promoting the transcription of chromobox 2 (CBX2), cell division cycle 20 (CDC20), matrix metallopeptidase 12 (MMP12), stratifin (SFN), tripartite motif containing 16 (TRIM16), and uroplakin 3A (UPK3A). These mRNAs may be associated with cell proliferation or apoptosis related pathways.This study may provide a novel, effective prognostic biomarker, and some therapeutic targets for HBV-HCC patients.
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31
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Javanmard D, Karbalaie Niya MH, Khalafkhany D, Najafi M, Ziaee M, Babaei MR, Kiani SJ, Esghaei M, Jazayeri SM, Panahi M, Safarnezhad Tameshkel F, Mehrabi M, Monavari SH, Bokharaei-Salim F. Downregulation of GSK3β and Upregulation of URG7 in Hepatitis B-Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma. HEPATITIS MONTHLY 2020; 20. [DOI: 10.5812/hepatmon.100899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 08/30/2023]
Abstract
: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is the leading cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The exact molecular contributors to the development of HBV-related HCC are not yet completely understood. Recent studies demonstrated that the deregulation of the Wnt pathway is highly associated with the development of HCC. Besides, HBV is known to have roles in the deregulation of this pathway. The present study evaluated the molecular aspects of the Wnt pathway in HBV-related HCC in liver tissue samples. Viral characterization was done by identifying the HBx mutations and the assessment of intrahepatic viral load. The expression of Wnt pathway genes was assessed using real-time PCR and methylation-specific PCR. The intrahepatic viral load was significantly higher in tumor samples than in normal tissues (P = 0.0008). Aberrant expression was observed in Wnt-1, Wnt-7a, FZD2, FZD7, β-catenin, URG7, c-Myc, SFRP5, and GSK3β, among which Wnt1, FZD2, SFRP5, Gsk3β, and URG7 were associated with HBV. HBx mutations at positions I88, L116, and I127 + F132 were associated with the decreased expression of GSK3β and overexpression of URG7 and Wnt1. Alterations in the expression level of β-catenin, as well as some mutants of HBx, were correlated with the level of c-Myc. HBV-related HCC seems to be mostly coordinated with epigenetic behaviors of HBx, such a multi-functional peptide with suppressing/trans-activating functions.
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32
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Ye Y, Yang J, Hu Q, Mao J, Yang Q, Chen H, Li D, Li P, Duan L, Wang B, Chen J, Chen W. SIP1 serves a role in HBx‑induced liver cancer growth and metastasis. Int J Oncol 2019; 55:1019-1032. [PMID: 31793654 PMCID: PMC6776188 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2019.4884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) has been revealed to be involved in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. However, the mechanism remains to be fully elucidated. Smad‑interacting protein 1 (SIP1) is a transcriptional repressor, which serves a pivotal role in cell metastasis. In the present study, the role of SIP1 in HBx‑induced hepatocyte EMT and cancer aggressiveness was examined. It was found that HBV X protein (HBx) increased the expression of SIP1 and recruited it to the promoter of E‑cadherin, resulting in depression of the transcription of E‑cadherin. Histone deacetylase 1 was also found to be involved in the repressive complex formation. Furthermore, in an orthotopic tumor transplantation model in vivo, HBx promoted tumor growth and metastasis, whereas the knockdown of SIP1 attenuated the effect of HBx. These results indicate a novel mechanism for the development of HBV‑related liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Ye
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, P.R. China
| | - Jun Yang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, P.R. China
| | - Qin Hu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, P.R. China
| | - Jinju Mao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, P.R. China
| | - Qianfan Yang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, P.R. China
| | - Hong Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, P.R. China
| | - Dandan Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, P.R. China
| | - Pu Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, P.R. China
| | - Liang Duan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, P.R. China
| | - Bo Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, P.R. China
| | - Juan Chen
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Infectious Diseases Designated by The Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, P.R. China
| | - Weixian Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, P.R. China
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Wnt ligand and receptor patterning in the liver. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2019; 62:17-25. [PMID: 31509785 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2019.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
In the liver, the tight spatiotemporal regulation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling is required to establish and maintain a metabolic form of tissue polarity termed zonation. In this review, we discuss the latest technologies applied in the study of liver zonation and provide a summary of the Wnt ligand and receptor expression patterns in the hepatic lobule. We further discuss the mechanisms, by which Wnt instructive cues might be spatially confined and propagated along the central vein-portal triad axis.
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Jiang Y, Han QJ, Zhang J. Hepatocellular carcinoma: Mechanisms of progression and immunotherapy. World J Gastroenterol 2019; 25:3151-3167. [PMID: 31333308 PMCID: PMC6626719 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v25.i25.3151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Revised: 04/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/18/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is one of the most common malignancies, and various pathogenic factors can lead to its occurrence and development. Among all primary liver cancers, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common. With extensive studies, an increasing number of molecular mechanisms that promote HCC are being discovered. Surgical resection is still the most effective treatment for patients with early HCC. However, early detection and treatment are difficult for most HCC patients, and the postoperative recurrence rate is high, resulting in poor clinical prognosis of HCC. Although immunotherapy takes longer than conventional chemotherapy to produce therapeutic effects, it persists for longer. In recent years, the emergence of many new immunotherapies, such as immune checkpoint blockade and chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapies, has given new hope for the treatment of HCC.
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MESH Headings
- Adjuvants, Immunologic/administration & dosage
- Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological/therapeutic use
- Cancer Vaccines/therapeutic use
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/immunology
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/pathology
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/therapy
- Clinical Trials as Topic
- Disease Progression
- Humans
- Immunotherapy, Adoptive/methods
- Liver Neoplasms/immunology
- Liver Neoplasms/pathology
- Liver Neoplasms/therapy
- Neoplasm Recurrence, Local/immunology
- Neoplasm Recurrence, Local/pathology
- Neoplasm Recurrence, Local/prevention & control
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/immunology
- Treatment Outcome
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Jiang
- Institute of Immunopharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong Province, China
| | - Qiu-Ju Han
- Institute of Immunopharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Institute of Immunopharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, Shandong Province, China
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Wang W, Smits R, Hao H, He C. Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling in Liver Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:E926. [PMID: 31269694 PMCID: PMC6679127 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11070926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 238] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Revised: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is among the leading global healthcare issues associated with high morbidity and mortality. Liver cancer consists of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), hepatoblastoma (HB), and several other rare tumors. Progression has been witnessed in understanding the interactions between etiological as well as environmental factors and the host in the development of liver cancers. However, the pathogenesis remains poorly understood, hampering the design of rational strategies aiding in preventing liver cancers. Accumulating evidence demonstrates that aberrant activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway plays an important role in the initiation and progression of HCC, CCA, and HB. Targeting Wnt/β-catenin signaling potentiates a novel avenue for liver cancer treatment, which may benefit from the development of numerous small-molecule inhibitors and biologic agents in this field. In this review, we discuss the interaction between various etiological factors and components of Wnt/β-catenin signaling early in the precancerous lesion and the acquired mechanisms to further enhance Wnt/β-catenin signaling to promote robust cancer formation at later stages. Additionally, we shed light on current relevant inhibitors tested in liver cancers and provide future perspectives for preclinical and clinical liver cancer studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Ron Smits
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center and Postgraduate School Molecular Medicine, Rotterdam 3015 CN, The Netherlands
| | - Haiping Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.
| | - Chaoyong He
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.
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Erstad DJ, Tanabe KK. Prognostic and Therapeutic Implications of Microvascular Invasion in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Ann Surg Oncol 2019; 26:1474-1493. [PMID: 30788629 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-019-07227-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 239] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a morbid condition for which surgical and ablative therapy are the only options for cure. Nonetheless, over half of patients treated with an R0 resection will develop recurrence. Early recurrences within 2 years after resection are thought to be due to the presence of residual microscopic disease, while late recurrences > 2 years after resection are thought to be de novo metachronous HCCs arising in chronically injured liver tissue. Microvascular invasion (MVI) is defined as the presence of micrometastatic HCC emboli within the vessels of the liver, and is a critical determinant of early recurrence and survival. In this review, we summarize the pathogenesis and clinical relevance of MVI, which correlates with adverse biological features, including high grade, large tumor size, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Multiple classification schemas have been proposed to capture the heterogeneous features of MVI that are associated with prognosis. However, currently, MVI can only be determined based on surgical specimens, limiting its clinical applicability. Going forward, advances in axial imaging technologies, molecular characterization of biopsy tissue, and novel serum biomarkers hold promise as future methods for non-invasive MVI detection. Ultimately, MVI status may be used to help clinicians determine treatment plans, particularly with respect to surgical intervention, and to provide more accurate prognostication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek J Erstad
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kenneth K Tanabe
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
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Nehme Z, Pasquereau S, Herbein G. Control of viral infections by epigenetic-targeted therapy. Clin Epigenetics 2019; 11:55. [PMID: 30917875 PMCID: PMC6437953 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-019-0654-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 03/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetics is defined as the science that studies the modifications of gene expression that are not owed to mutations or changes in the genetic sequence. Recently, strong evidences are pinpointing toward a solid interplay between such epigenetic alterations and the outcome of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection. Guided by the previous possibly promising experimental trials of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epigenetic reprogramming, the latter is paving the road toward two major approaches to control viral gene expression or latency. Reactivating HCMV from the latent phase ("shock and kill" paradigm) or alternatively repressing the virus lytic and reactivation phases ("block and lock" paradigm) by epigenetic-targeted therapy represent encouraging options to overcome latency and viral shedding or otherwise replication and infectivity, which could lead eventually to control the infection and its complications. Not limited to HIV and HCMV, this concept is similarly studied in the context of hepatitis B and C virus, herpes simplex virus, and Epstein-Barr virus. Therefore, epigenetic manipulations stand as a pioneering research area in modern biology and could constitute a curative methodology by potentially consenting the development of broad-spectrum antivirals to control viral infections in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeina Nehme
- Department Pathogens & Inflammation-EPILAB, UPRES EA4266, University of Franche-Comté, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, 16 route de Gray, F-25030 Besançon cedex, France
- Université Libanaise, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Sébastien Pasquereau
- Department Pathogens & Inflammation-EPILAB, UPRES EA4266, University of Franche-Comté, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, 16 route de Gray, F-25030 Besançon cedex, France
| | - Georges Herbein
- Department Pathogens & Inflammation-EPILAB, UPRES EA4266, University of Franche-Comté, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, 16 route de Gray, F-25030 Besançon cedex, France
- Department of Virology, CHRU Besancon, F-25030 Besançon, France
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Xu Q, Lü Z, Wang X, Zhu Q, Wu H. Secreted frizzled-related protein 5 suppresses aggressive phenotype and reverses docetaxel resistance in prostate cancer. J Investig Med 2019; 67:1009-1017. [DOI: 10.1136/jim-2018-000849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Secreted frizzled-related protein 5 (SFRP5) has been reported to be downregulated in prostate cancer. However, its biological role in this malignancy has not been clarified yet. In the present study, we performed SFRP5 overexpression experiments to determine its function in prostate cancer cell growth, invasion, tumorigenesis, and docetaxel sensitivity. Our results showed that overexpression of SFRP5 significantly suppressed the proliferation and colony formation of PC-3 and DU-145 cells, compared with vector-transfected control cells. SFRP5 overexpression arrested PC-3 and DU-145 cells at G0/G1 phase and induced apoptosis. Transwell invasion assay revealed that ectopic expression of SFRP5 inhibited the invasion of PC-3 cells. Overexpression of SFRP5 resensitized docetaxel-resistant PC-3 and DU-145 cells to docetaxel, which was coupled with increased apoptosis. Mechanistically, SFRP5 overexpression blocked β-catenin nuclear translocation and transcriptional activity. In vivo studies confirmed that overexpression of SFRP5 significantly suppressed the growth of PC-3 xenograft tumors. SFRP5-transfected xenograft tumors showed a reduction in the percentage of Ki-67-positive proliferating cells and an increase in terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferasebiotin-dUTP nick end labeling-positive cells. These data suggest that SFRP5 overexpression suppresses the aggressive phenotype of prostate cancer cells and overcomes docetaxel resistance through inactivation of β-catenin signaling. Therefore, delivery of SFRP5 may offer therapeutic benefits in the treatment of prostate cancer.
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Epigenetic silencing of SFRP5 promotes the metastasis and invasion of chondrosarcoma by expression inhibition and Wnt signaling pathway activation. Chem Biol Interact 2018; 296:1-8. [PMID: 30125549 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2018.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2018] [Accepted: 08/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUD/AIMS Abnormal activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling, which may be antagonized by the members of secreted frizzled-related proteins family (SFRPs), is implicated in tumor occurrence and development. However, the function of SFRP5 relating to Wnt/β-catenin pathway in chondrosarcoma is not clear yet. This study was undertaken to investigate the potential role of SFRP5 promoter methylation in chondrosarcoma metastasis and invasion through activating canonical Wnt signaling pathway. METHODS AND RESULTS The results demonstrated that SFRP5 promoter was hypermethylated and SFRP5 expression was significantly reduced in chondrosarcoma cell lines at the mRNA and protein levels. The canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling was observably activated with β-catenin stabilization by dephosphorylation and translocation into the nuclear. 5-Aza-2'-deoxycytidine (5-Aza-dC), the DNA methyltransferase inhibitor, significantly inhibited the proliferation of chondrosarcoma cells by cell cycle arrest through repressing the methylation of SFRP5 and promoting its expression. Both 5-Aza-dC treatment and SFRP5 overexpression could significantly inhibited the metastasis and invasion of chondrosarcoma cells by inactivating Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and promoting chondrosarcoma cells mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET). 5-Aza-dC also inhibited the xenograft growth and lung metastasis of chondrosarcoma cells in vivo via suppressing SFRP5 promotor methylation, inactivating Wnt/β-catenin pathway and inducing epithelial markers expression. CONCLUSION All of our results revealed the epigenetic silencing of SFRP5 by promoter methylation plays pivotal roles in chondrosarcoma development and metastasis through SFRP5/Wnt/β-catenin signaling axis. Modulation of their levels may serve as potential targets and diagnostic tools for novel therapeutic strategies of chondrosarcoma.
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The Wnt antagonist and secreted frizzled-related protein 5: implications on lipid metabolism, inflammation, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Biosci Rep 2018; 38:BSR20180011. [PMID: 29789397 PMCID: PMC6028759 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20180011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2018] [Revised: 05/10/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Various reports have suggested that secreted frizzled-related protein (SFRP) 5 (SFRP5) plays a regulatory role in the processes of cellular proliferation and differentiation, by means of inactivating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Recently, SFRP5 has been identified as an anti-inflammatory adipokine, which may be induced during preadipocyte proliferation, differentiation, and maturation. This review aims to identify the recent progress in the research and development of SFRP5 that can play a role in influencing lipid metabolism, inflammation, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Recent evidence has indicated that SFRP5 is capable of stimulating adipocyte differentiation via inhibition of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. In addition, SFRP5 binding with wingless-type murine mammary tumor virus integration site family, member 5A (Wnt5a), inhibits the activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) downstream of the Wnt signaling pathway. An antagonistic relationship has been found between the reductions in inflammatory cytokine production and serine phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) in regard to inhibition of insulin signaling network. By this mechanism, SFRP5 exerts its influence on metabolic function. Based on our review of the current available literature, we support the notion that SFRP5 can be used as a therapeutic target in the treatment of T2DM.
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Khanizadeh S, Hasanvand B, Esmaeil Lashgarian H, Almasian M, Goudarzi G. Interaction of viral oncogenic proteins with the Wnt signaling pathway. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2018; 21:651-659. [PMID: 30140402 PMCID: PMC6098952 DOI: 10.22038/ijbms.2018.28903.6982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2018] [Accepted: 03/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
It is estimated that up to 20% of all types of human cancers worldwide are attributed to viruses. The genome of oncogenic viruses carries genes that have protein products that act as oncoproteins in cell proliferation and transformation. The modulation of cell cycle control mechanisms, cellular regulatory and signaling pathways by oncogenic viruses, plays an important role in viral carcinogenesis. Different signaling pathways play a part in the carcinogenesis that occurs in a cell. Among these pathways, the Wnt signaling pathway plays a predominant role in carcinogenesis and is known as a central cellular pathway in the development of tumors. There are three Wnt signaling pathways that are well identified, including the canonical or Wnt/β-catenin dependent pathway, the noncanonical or β-catenin-independent planar cell polarity (PCP) pathway, and the noncanonical Wnt/Ca2+ pathway. Most of the oncogenic viruses modulate the canonical Wnt signaling pathway. This review discusses the interaction between proteins of several human oncogenic viruses with the Wnt signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayyad Khanizadeh
- Hepatitis Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
- Department of Virology, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Banafsheh Hasanvand
- Hepatitis Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Almasian
- Department of English Language, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Goudarzi
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
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Chen Y, Zhang F, Zhao Y, He K, Zheng X, Pan Y, Shao D, Shang P, Yang Y, Zhang D, Xie Y, Yao X, Chen L, Li J, Zhang X. Obesity-associated miR-27a upregulation promotes hepatocellular carcinoma metastasis through suppressing SFRP1. Onco Targets Ther 2018; 11:3281-3292. [PMID: 29910623 PMCID: PMC5987752 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s162978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Obesity was a recognized risk factor for the development and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the effects and mechanisms by which obesity promotes HCC metastasis remain poorly understood. Materials and methods We cultured adipocyte induced by preadipocyte 3T3-L1 in vitro and established HCC metastasis model in obesity mouse in vivo to mimic the tumor microenvironment in obese status. The mechanisms underlying obesity-associated miR-27a upregulation promoting HCC metastasis were investigated. Results In this study, we showed that miR-27a was upregulated in adipocytes, obese mouse model and clinical samples, and the increased miR-27a level promoted migration and invasion in HCC cells, increased the number of metastasis nodes in obese mouse model, and was associated with poor clinical outcomes. Overexpressed secreted frizzled-related protein 1 in HCC cells and tissues significantly alleviated the upregulation of β-catenin and matrix metalloproteinase-7 induced by high level of miR-27a. Meanwhile, the E-cadherin expression decreased and Vimentin expression increased, linking with high level of β-catenin in high-fat group. Conclusion Taken together, our results have elucidated the critical role of extracellular miR-27a as a pro-metastatic factor in HCC and revealed that obesity-associated miR-27a upregulation promoted HCC metastasis through activated Wnt/β-catenin signaling by suppressing secreted frizzled-related protein 1. Our findings shed light on the novel mechanism underlying HCC metastasis and provided miR-27a as a promising target for obese liver cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreas Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
| | - Fan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Yawei Zhao
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Kan He
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Xiao Zheng
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Yue Pan
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Dan Shao
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Pei Shang
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Yongsheng Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreas Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
| | - Dan Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreas Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
| | - Yingjun Xie
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreas Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Yao
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreas Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
| | - Li Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Nanomedicine Engineering Laboratory of Jilin Province, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Xuewen Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreas Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
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Zheng BY, Gao WY, Huang XY, Lin LY, Fang XF, Chen ZX, Wang XZ. HBx promotes the proliferative ability of HL‑7702 cells via the COX‑2/Wnt/β‑catenin pathway. Mol Med Rep 2018; 17:8432-8438. [PMID: 29693167 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2018.8906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2017] [Accepted: 02/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus X protein (HBx) has been termed a viral oncoprotein, and is involved in the initiation and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) and β‑catenin have been attributed to the oncogenic activity of HBx in HBV‑associated HCC. The present study aimed to determine whether there is crosstalk between COX‑2 and the Wnt/β‑catenin signaling pathway during HL‑7702‑HBx cell proliferation, and to investigate the associated underlying molecular mechanism. In the present study, cell proliferation assay, colony formation assay and flow cytometric analysis were used to detect the proliferative ability of cells. Reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting were performed to examine the mRNA and protein expression of COX‑2, β‑catenin, cyclin‑D1 and c‑myc. The results demonstrated that HL‑7702‑HBx exhibited increased cell proliferation, higher colony formation efficiency and a shortened G1 period of the cell cycle. In addition, the mRNA and protein expression levels of COX‑2 were increased, and this was associated with HL‑7702‑HBx cell growth. Furthermore, the expression of β‑catenin and its target genes, cyclin‑D1 and c‑myc proto‑oncogene protein, was upregulated by HBx via COX‑2. Finally, HBx promoted HL‑7702 cell proliferation through the Wnt/β‑catenin signaling pathway. In conclusion, the primary finding of the present study was that HBx may promote HL‑7702 cell proliferation via the COX‑2/Wnt/β‑catenin pathway. Thus, it may be helpful to further investigate the molecular mechanism of HBV‑associated hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bi-Yun Zheng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
| | - Wen-Yu Gao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Yun Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
| | - Li-Ying Lin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
| | - Xue-Fen Fang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
| | - Zhi-Xin Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Zhong Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350001, P.R. China
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Kahl VFS, Dhillon VS, Simon D, da Silva FR, Salvador M, Branco CDS, Cappetta M, Martínez-López W, Thiesen FV, Dias JF, Souza CTD, Fenech M, da Silva J. Chronic occupational exposure endured by tobacco farmers from Brazil and association with DNA damage. Mutagenesis 2018; 33:119-128. [PMID: 29669110 DOI: 10.1093/mutage/gex045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Tobacco farming is an important economic income in Brazil, although it has been challenged as regard the occupational exposure to both pesticides and nicotine endured by farmers. Chronic occupational exposure to complex mixtures can lead to health hazardous. We examined genomic instability and epigenetic changes in tobacco farmers occupationally exposed to pesticide mixtures and nicotine at tobacco fields. DNA damage was assessed by alkaline comet assay in blood cells. Genomic DNA was isolated, and telomere length was measured using quantitative polymerase chain reaction assay. We measured 5-methyl-2'-deoxycytidine, a marker of global DNA methylation, and p16 promoter methylation. The oxidative profile was evaluated by trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity and lipid peroxidation (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances) in serum. Exposure parameters, plasma cotinine and inorganic element levels, were also measured. DNA damage was significantly elevated for farmers in relation to unexposed group (P < 0.001; Mann-Whitney test) and positively associated with years of exposure. Inverse relationship between DNA damage and total equivalent antioxidant activity was demonstrated for exposed and unexposed groups. Exposed group showed significantly shorter telomeres (P < 0.001; unpaired t-test) and DNA hypomethylation (P < 0.001; unpaired t-test), as well as p16 hypermethylation (P = 0.003; Mann-Whitney test). Lipid peroxidation was increased for exposed group in relation to unexposed one (P = 0.02; Mann-Whitney test) and presented a positive correlation with global DNA methylation (P = 0.0264). Farmers have increased plasma cotinine levels (P < 0.001) and inorganic elements (phosphorus, sulphur and chlorine) in relation to unexposed group. Elevated oxidative stress levels due to chronic occupational pesticide mixtures and nicotine exposure in tobacco farmers were associated with higher DNA damage, shorter telomeres and altered DNA methylation. Telomere-accelerated attrition due to exposure may be potential intermediate step before a disease state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vívian F Silva Kahl
- Laboratory of Toxicological Genetics, Post-Graduate Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology Applied to Health (PPGBioSaúde), Lutheran University of Brazil (ULBRA), Av. Farroupilha, São José, Canoas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Varinderpal Singh Dhillon
- Health and Biosecurity Flagship, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO), Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Daniel Simon
- Laboratory of Human Molecular Genetics, Post-Graduate Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology Applied to Health (PPGBioSaúde), Lutheran University of Brazil (ULBRA), Av. Farroupilha, São José, Canoas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Rabaioli da Silva
- Postgraduate Program in Environmental Impact Assessment, UniLaSalle, Av. Victor Barreto, Canoas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Mirian Salvador
- Biotechnology Institute, University of Caxias do Sul, Rua Travessão Solferino, Cruzeiro, Caxias do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Cátia Dos Santos Branco
- Biotechnology Institute, University of Caxias do Sul, Rua Travessão Solferino, Cruzeiro, Caxias do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Mónica Cappetta
- Laboratory of Genetic Epidemiology, Genetics Department, Medicine School, Universidad de la República, Av. General Flores, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Wilner Martínez-López
- Department of Genetic Toxicology and Chromosome Patology, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Av. Italia, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Flávia V Thiesen
- Toxicology Institute, Catholic Pontifice University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Johnny F Dias
- Ion Implantation Laboratory, Physics Institute, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves, Agronomia, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Claudia Telles de Souza
- Ion Implantation Laboratory, Physics Institute, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves, Agronomia, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Michael Fenech
- Health and Biosecurity Flagship, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO), Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Juliana da Silva
- Laboratory of Toxicological Genetics, Post-Graduate Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology Applied to Health (PPGBioSaúde), Lutheran University of Brazil (ULBRA), Av. Farroupilha, São José, Canoas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
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Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to investigate the changes in the promoter methylation and gene expression of multiple Wnt antagonists between the chronic infection and eradication of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) in gastric carcinogenesis. METHODS The levels of methylation and corresponding mRNA expression of seven Wnt antagonist genes (SFRP1, -2, -5, DKK1, -2, -3, WIF1) were compared among the patients with H. pylori-positive gastric cancers (GCs), and H. pylori-positive and H. pylori-negative controls, by quantitative MethyLight assay and real-time reverse transcription (RT)-polymerase chain reaction (PCR), respectively. The changes of the methylation and expression levels of the genes were also compared between the H. pylori eradication and H. pylori-persistent groups 1 year after endoscopic resection of GCs. RESULTS The methylation levels of SFRP and DKK family genes were significantly increased in the patients with H. pylori-positive GCs and followed by H. pylori-positive controls compared with H. pylori-negative controls (P < 0.001). SFRP1, -2, and DKK3 gene expression was stepwise downregulated from H. pylori-negative controls, H. pylori-positive controls, and to H. pylori-positive GCs (P < 0.05). Among the Wnt antagonists, only the degrees of methylation and downregulation of DKK3 were significantly reduced after H. pylori eradication (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Epigenetic silencing of SFRP and DKK family genes may facilitate the formation of an epigenetic field during H. pylori-associated gastric carcinogenesis. The epigenetic field may not be reversed even after H. pylori eradication except by DKK3 methylation.
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46
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Chen W, Zhou J, Wu K, Huang J, Ding Y, Yun EJ, Wang B, Ding C, Hernandez E, Santoyo J, Chen H, Lin H, Sagalowsky A, He D, Zhou J, Hsieh JT. Targeting XBP1-mediated β-catenin expression associated with bladder cancer with newly synthetic Oridonin analogues. Oncotarget 2018; 7:56842-56854. [PMID: 27472396 PMCID: PMC5302956 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.10863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2016] [Accepted: 07/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Conventional chemotherapy is commonly used for advanced stages of transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) with modest success and high morbidity; however, TCC eventually develops resistance. Muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) is recognized as a lethal disease due to its poor response to traditional chemotherapy. Numerous studies have implicated β-catenin, a critical effector in Wnt–mediated pathway associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition and cancer stem cell, is involved in TCC progression, and furthermore closely associated with chemo-resistance. In this study, we discovered a novel natural product analogue CYD 6-17 that has a potent inhibitory effect on TCC cells exhibiting drug resistance to various chemotherapeutics, with an IC50 at nM range. Delivery of CYD 6-17 significantly inhibited the tumor growth using xenograft model but without detectable side effects. Mechanistically, it targeted β-catenin gene transcription by decreasing the binding of XBP1 to the promoter region, which appeared to be a new regulatory mechanism for β-catenin gene expression. Clinically, XBP1 expression correlated with the poor overall survival of patients. Overall, this study unveils unique mechanism of β-catenin gene regulation in advanced TCC and also offers a potential rational therapeutic regimen to MIBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Chen
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Medical School of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China.,Department of Urology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Jiancheng Zhou
- Department of Urology, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710068, P.R. China
| | - Kaijie Wu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Medical School of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
| | - Jun Huang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Medical School of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
| | - Ye Ding
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Eun-Jin Yun
- Department of Urology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Medical School of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China.,Department of Urology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Chunyong Ding
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Elizabeth Hernandez
- Department of Urology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - John Santoyo
- Department of Urology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Haiying Chen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Ho Lin
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40705, Taiwan
| | - Arthur Sagalowsky
- Department of Urology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Dalin He
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Medical School of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
| | - Jia Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Jer-Tsong Hsieh
- Department of Urology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.,Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan
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47
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Liu J, Zhu H, Wang H, Li J, Han F, Liu Y, Zhang W, He T, Li N, Zheng Z, Hu D. Methylation of secreted frizzled-related protein 1 (SFRP1) promoter downregulates Wnt/β-catenin activity in keloids. J Mol Histol 2018; 49:185-193. [DOI: 10.1007/s10735-018-9758-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 02/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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48
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DNA Tumor Virus Regulation of Host DNA Methylation and Its Implications for Immune Evasion and Oncogenesis. Viruses 2018; 10:v10020082. [PMID: 29438328 PMCID: PMC5850389 DOI: 10.3390/v10020082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Revised: 02/07/2018] [Accepted: 02/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Viruses have evolved various mechanisms to evade host immunity and ensure efficient viral replication and persistence. Several DNA tumor viruses modulate host DNA methyltransferases for epigenetic dysregulation of immune-related gene expression in host cells. The host immune responses suppressed by virus-induced aberrant DNA methylation are also frequently involved in antitumor immune responses. Here, we describe viral mechanisms and virus–host interactions by which DNA tumor viruses regulate host DNA methylation to evade antiviral immunity, which may contribute to the generation of an immunosuppressive microenvironment during cancer development. Recent trials of immunotherapies have shown promising results to treat multiple cancers; however, a significant number of non-responders necessitate identifying additional targets for cancer immunotherapies. Thus, understanding immune evasion mechanisms of cancer-causing viruses may provide great insights for reversing immune suppression to prevent and treat associated cancers.
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49
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Tornesello ML, Buonaguro L, Izzo F, Buonaguro FM. Molecular alterations in hepatocellular carcinoma associated with hepatitis B and hepatitis C infections. Oncotarget 2018; 7:25087-102. [PMID: 26943571 PMCID: PMC5041890 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.7837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2015] [Accepted: 02/20/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic infections with hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C viruses (HCV) are the leading cause of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) worldwide. Both viruses encode multifunctional regulatory proteins activating several oncogenic pathways, which induce accumulation of multiple genetic alterations in the infected hepatocytes. Gene mutations in HBV- and HCV-induced HCCs frequently impair the TP53, Wnt/b-catenin, RAS/RAF/MAPK kinase and AKT/mTOR pathways, which represent important anti-cancer targets. In this review, we highlight the molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of primary liver cancer, with particular emphasis on the host genetic variations identified by high-throughput technologies. In addition, we discuss the importance of genetic alterations, such as mutations in the telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) promoter, for the diagnosis, prognosis, and tumor stratification for development of more effective treatment approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Lina Tornesello
- Molecular Biology and Viral Oncology Unit, Department of Research, Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Napoli, Italy
| | - Luigi Buonaguro
- Molecular Biology and Viral Oncology Unit, Department of Research, Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Napoli, Italy
| | - Francesco Izzo
- Hepato-Biliary Surgery Department, Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Napoli, Italy
| | - Franco M Buonaguro
- Molecular Biology and Viral Oncology Unit, Department of Research, Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" - IRCCS, Napoli, Italy
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50
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Duan Y, Tian L, Gao Q, Liang L, Zhang W, Yang Y, Zheng Y, Pan E, Li S, Tang N. Chromatin remodeling gene ARID2 targets cyclin D1 and cyclin E1 to suppress hepatoma cell progression. Oncotarget 2018; 7:45863-45875. [PMID: 27351279 PMCID: PMC5216766 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.10244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2016] [Accepted: 06/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Exome and whole-genome sequencing studies have drawn attention to the role of somatic mutations in SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complexes in the carcinogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Here, we explored the molecular mechanisms underlying the biological roles of AT-rich interactive domain 2 (ARID2) in the pathogenesis of HCC. We found that ARID2 expression was significantly downregulated in HCC tissues compared with non-tumorous tissues. Restoration of ARID2 expression in hepatoma cells was sufficient to suppress cell proliferation and tumor growth in mice, whereas ARID2 knockdown contributed to the enhancement of cellular proliferation and tumorigenicity. Suppression of ARID2 expression accelerated G1/S transition associated with upregulation of cyclin D1, cyclin E1, CDK4, and phosphorylation of the retinoblastoma protein (Rb). Furthermore, we demonstrated that ARID2 physically interacts with E2F1 and decreases binding of E2F1/RNA Pol II to the promoters of CCND1 and CCNE1. Taken together, these results demonstrate that ARID2 suppresses tumor cell growth through repression of cyclin D1 and cyclin E1 expression, thereby retarding cell cycle progression and cell proliferation in hepatoma cells. These findings highlight the potential role of ARID2 as a tumor growth suppressor in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Duan
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Ling Tian
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Qingzhu Gao
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Li Liang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Wenlu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Yi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Yaqiu Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - E Pan
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Shengwei Li
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Ni Tang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
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