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Polyong CP, Roytrakul S, Sirivarasai J, Yingratanasuk T, Thetkathuek A. Novel Serum Proteomes Expressed from Benzene Exposure Among Gasoline Station Attendants. Biomark Insights 2024; 19:11772719241259604. [PMID: 38868168 PMCID: PMC11168042 DOI: 10.1177/11772719241259604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Research on the proteomes impact of benzene exposure in fuel station employees remains sparse, underscoring the need for detailed health impact assessments focusing on biomarker evaluation. Objectives This investigation aimed to analyze the differences in blood parameters and serum proteomes resulting from benzene exposure between gasoline station attendants (B-GSA) and a control group. Design and methods A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted with 96 participants, comprising 54 in the B-GSA group and 42 in the control group. The methodology employed included an interview questionnaire alongside urine and blood sample collections. The urine samples were analyzed for trans,trans-muconic acid (t,t-MA) levels, while the blood samples underwent complete blood count analysis and proteome profiling. Results Post-shift analysis indicated that the B-GSA group exhibited significantly higher levels of t,t-MA and monocytes compared to the control group (P < .05). Proteome quantification identified 1448 proteins differentially expressed between the B-GSA and control groups. Among these, 20 proteins correlated with the levels of t,t-MA in urine. Notably, 4 proteins demonstrated more than a 2-fold down-regulation in the B-GSA group: HBS1-like, non-structural maintenance of chromosomes element 1 homolog, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 4, and zinc finger protein 658. The KEGG pathway analysis revealed associations with apoptosis, cancer pathways, p53 signaling, and the TNF signaling pathway. Conclusion The changes in these 4 significant proteins may elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying benzene toxicity and suggest their potential as biomarkers for benzene poisoning in future assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chan Pattama Polyong
- Occupational Health and Safety Program, Faculty of Science and Technology, Bansomdejchaopraya Rajabhat University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sittiruk Roytrakul
- National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency, Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | - Jintana Sirivarasai
- Nutrition Division, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Tanongsak Yingratanasuk
- Department of Industrial Hygiene and Safety, Faculty of Public Health, Burapha University, Chonburi, Thailand
| | - Anamai Thetkathuek
- Department of Industrial Hygiene and Safety, Faculty of Public Health, Burapha University, Chonburi, Thailand
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Hamm P, Meinel L, Driessen MD. An Introductory Guide to Protease Sensitive Linker Design Using Matrix Metalloproteinase 13 as an Example. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2024; 10:3693-3706. [PMID: 38813796 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.4c00407] [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] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Proteases play a crucial role, not only in physiological, but also in pathological processes, such as cancer, inflammation, arthritis, Alzheimer's, and infections, to name but a few. Their ability to cleave peptides can be harnessed for a broad range of biotechnological purposes. To do this efficiently, it is essential to find an amino acid sequence that meets the necessary requirements, including interdependent factors like specificity, selectivity, cleavage kinetics, or synthetic accessibility. Cleavage sequences from natural substrates of the protease may not be optimal in terms of specificity and selectivity, which is why these frequently require arduous and sometimes unsuccessful optimization such as by iterative exchange of single amino acids. Hence, here we describe the systematic design of protease sensitive linkers (PSLs)─peptide sequences specifically cleaved by a target protease─guided by the mass spectrometry based determination of target protease specific cleavage sites from a proteome-based peptide library. It includes a procedure for identifying bespoke PSL sequences, their optimization, synthesis, and validation and introduces a program that can indicate potential cleavage sites by hundreds of enzymes in any arbitrary amino acid sequence. Thereby, we provide an introduction to PSL design, illustrated by the example of matrix metalloproteinase 13 (MMP13). This introduction can serve as a guide and help to greatly accelerate the development and use of protease-sensitive linkers in diverse applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prisca Hamm
- Institute for Pharmacy and Food Chemistry, University of Würzburg, 97074 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Lorenz Meinel
- Institute for Pharmacy and Food Chemistry, University of Würzburg, 97074 Würzburg, Germany
- Helmholtz-Institute for RNA-Based Infection Research (HIRI), 97070 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Marc D Driessen
- Institute of Molecular Medicine I, Proteome Research, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Department for Oral and Craniomaxillofacial and Plastic Surgery, University Hospital Cologne and Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany
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3
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Zeng W, Wu Z, Xu Y, Yang W, Zhang B. Furin-Catalyzed Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging Probe for Differential Diagnosis of Malignant Breast Cancers. Anal Chem 2024; 96:6707-6714. [PMID: 38631336 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.4c00334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Molecular magnetic resonance imaging (mMRI) of biomarkers is essential for accurate cancer detection in precision medicine. However, the current clinically used contrast agents provide structural magnetic resonance imaging (sMRI) information only and rarely provide mMRI information. Here, a tumor-specific furin-catalyzed nanoprobe (NP) was reported for differential diagnosis of malignant breast cancers (BCs) in vivo. This NP with a compact structure of Fe3O4@Gd-DOTA NPs (FFG NPs) contains an "always-on" T2-weighted MR signal provided by the magnetic Fe3O4 core and a furin-catalyzed enhanced T1-weighted MR signal provided by the Gd-DOTA moiety. The FFG NPs were found to produce an activated T1 signal in the presence of furin catalysis and an "always-on" T2 signal, providing mMRI and sMRI information simultaneously. Ratiometric mMRI:sMRI intensity can be used for differential diagnosis of malignant BCs MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7, where the furin levels relatively differ. The proposed probe not only provides structural imaging but also enables real-time molecular differential visualization of BC through enzymatic activities of cancer tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwei Zeng
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Nanocatalytic Medicine, The Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Nano Science, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200065, China
| | - Zhuoyao Wu
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Nanocatalytic Medicine, The Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Nano Science, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200065, China
| | - Yan Xu
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Nanocatalytic Medicine, The Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Nano Science, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200065, China
| | - Weitao Yang
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Nanocatalytic Medicine, The Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Nano Science, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200065, China
| | - Bingbo Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Nanocatalytic Medicine, The Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Nano Science, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200065, China
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Cabezuelo MT, Torres L, Ortiz-Zapater E, López-Rodas G, Marín MP, Timoneda J, Viña JR, Zaragozá R, Barber T. Vitamin A Status Modulates Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition in the Lung: The Role of Furin. Nutrients 2024; 16:1177. [PMID: 38674868 PMCID: PMC11053499 DOI: 10.3390/nu16081177] [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: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) induced TGF-β hyperactivation and reduced expression of cell adhesion proteins in the lung, suggesting that the disruption of retinoic acid (RA) signaling leads to epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). To elucidate the role of lung vitamin A status in EMT, several EMT markers and the expression of the proprotein convertase furin, which activates TGF-β, were analyzed in two experimental models. Our in vivo model included control rats, VAD rats, and both control rats and VAD rats, treated with RA. For the in vitro studies, human bronchoalveolar epithelial cells treated with RA were used. Our data show that EMT and furin are induced in VAD rats. Furthermore, furin expression continues to increase much more markedly after treatment of VAD rats with RA. In control rats and cell lines, an acute RA treatment induced a significant increase in furin expression, concomitant with changes in EMT markers. A ChIP assay demonstrated that RA directly regulates furin transcription. These results emphasize the importance of maintaining vitamin A levels within the physiological range since both levels below and above this range can cause adverse effects that, paradoxically, could be similar. The role of furin in EMT is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Teresa Cabezuelo
- Department of Physiology, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
- Centro Salud Safranar, Hospital Universitario Doctor Peset, 46017 Valencia, Spain
| | - Luis Torres
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology-IIS INCLIVA, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (L.T.); (E.O.-Z.); (G.L.-R.); (J.T.); (J.R.V.); (T.B.)
| | - Elena Ortiz-Zapater
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology-IIS INCLIVA, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (L.T.); (E.O.-Z.); (G.L.-R.); (J.T.); (J.R.V.); (T.B.)
| | - Gerardo López-Rodas
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology-IIS INCLIVA, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (L.T.); (E.O.-Z.); (G.L.-R.); (J.T.); (J.R.V.); (T.B.)
| | - M. Pilar Marín
- Microscopy Unit IIS La Fe Valencia, 46009 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Joaquín Timoneda
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology-IIS INCLIVA, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (L.T.); (E.O.-Z.); (G.L.-R.); (J.T.); (J.R.V.); (T.B.)
| | - Juan R. Viña
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology-IIS INCLIVA, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (L.T.); (E.O.-Z.); (G.L.-R.); (J.T.); (J.R.V.); (T.B.)
| | - Rosa Zaragozá
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology-IIS INCLIVA, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Teresa Barber
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology-IIS INCLIVA, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (L.T.); (E.O.-Z.); (G.L.-R.); (J.T.); (J.R.V.); (T.B.)
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Zhou ZH, Zhou XY, Zhang YY, Zhao TC, Li J, Zhong LP, Pang YC. Macrophage-Capturing Self-Assembly Photosensitizer Nanoparticles Induces Immune Microenvironment Re-Programming and Golgi-Responsive Immunogenic Cell Death in Head and Neck Carcinoma. Adv Healthc Mater 2024:e2400012. [PMID: 38553781 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202400012] [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: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Head and neck carcinoma treatment is shifted toward the combination of therapy causing immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) and immunogenic cell death. In this study, a CSFRi-chimeric TAMCSFR+-targeting extracellular vesicle (EV@CSFRi) platform is developed and designed an intracellular protoporphyrin conjugated with RVRR peptide sequence for furin-cleavage to perform Golgi-targeting and generating ROS (GT-RG). The graphical abstract illustrates the self-assembly of GT-RG nanoparticles into nanofiber through the hydrophily of RVRR and hydrophobicity of RG, and the red line indicates the site of furin cleavage. As is shown in the Graphical abstract, the Golgi-targeting Protoporphyrin-RVRR platform is composed with CSFRi-chimeric extracellular vesicles and forms the tumor-responsive TAM-reprogramming bilayers (GT-RGEV@CSFRi). The GT-RGEV@CSFRi acted as a multifunctional theranostic platform, which can induce immunogenic cell death and further help modulate TAM, thus suppressing the HNC xenograft model by combination therapy with anti-PD-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Hang Zhou
- Department of Stomatology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
- Department of Oral Pathology, Ninth People's Hospital, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, P. R. China
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Ninth People's Hospital, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Xin-Yu Zhou
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Ninth People's Hospital, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center of Stomatology, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Yi-Yi Zhang
- Department of Oral Pathology, Ninth People's Hospital, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, P. R. China
| | - Tong-Chao Zhao
- Department of Stomatology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Jiang Li
- Department of Oral Pathology, Ninth People's Hospital, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, P. R. China
| | - Lai-Ping Zhong
- Department of Stomatology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Yi-Chuan Pang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
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Grinstein-Koren O, Lusthaus M, Tabibian-Keissar H, Kaplan I, Buchner A, Ilatov R, Vered M, Zlotogorski-Hurvitz A. Pathological changes in oral epithelium and the expression of SARS-CoV-2 entry receptors, ACE2 and furin. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0300269. [PMID: 38489333 PMCID: PMC10942036 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0300269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Expression of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)-2 and co-factors like furin, play key-roles in entry of SARS-CoV-2 into host cells. Furin is also involved in oral carcinogenesis. We investigated their expression in oral pre-malignant/malignant epithelial pathologies to evaluate whether ACE2 and furin expression might increase susceptibility of patients with these lesions for SARS-CoV-2 infection. METHODS Study included normal oral mucosa (N = 14), epithelial hyperplasia-mild dysplasia (N = 27), moderate-to-severe dysplasia (N = 24), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC, N = 34) and oral lichen planus (N = 51). Evaluation of ACE2/furin membranous/membranous-cytoplasmic immunohistochemical expression was divided by epithelial thirds (basal/middle/upper), on a 5-tier scale (0, 1-weak, 1.5 -weak-to-moderate, 2-moderate, 3-strong). Total score per case was the sum of all epithelial thirds, and the mean staining score per group was calculated. Real time-polymerase chain reaction was performed for ACE2-RNA. Statistical differences were analyzed by One-way ANOVA, significance at p<0.05. RESULTS All oral mucosa samples were negative for ACE2 immuno-expression and its transcripts. Overall, furin expression was weakly present with total mean expression being higher in moderate-to-severe dysplasia and hyperplasia-mild dysplasia than in normal epithelium (p = 0.01, each) and SCC (p = 0.008, p = 0.009, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Oral mucosa, normal or with epithelial pathologies lacked ACE2 expression. Furin was weak and mainly expressed in dysplastic lesions. Thus, patients with epithelial pathologies do not seem to be at higher risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Overall, results show that oral mucosae do not seem to be a major site of SARS-CoV-2 entry and these were discussed vis-à-vis a comprehensive analysis of the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osnat Grinstein-Koren
- Department of Oral Pathology, Oral Medicine and Maxillofacial Imaging, Goldschleger School of Dental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Michal Lusthaus
- Department of Oral Pathology, Oral Medicine and Maxillofacial Imaging, Goldschleger School of Dental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | | | - Ilana Kaplan
- Department of Oral Pathology, Oral Medicine and Maxillofacial Imaging, Goldschleger School of Dental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Institute of Pathology, Rabin Medical Center, Petach-Tikva, Israel
| | - Amos Buchner
- Department of Oral Pathology, Oral Medicine and Maxillofacial Imaging, Goldschleger School of Dental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Ron Ilatov
- Goldschleger School of Dental Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Marilena Vered
- Department of Oral Pathology, Oral Medicine and Maxillofacial Imaging, Goldschleger School of Dental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Institute of Pathology, The Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Ayelet Zlotogorski-Hurvitz
- Department of Oral Pathology, Oral Medicine and Maxillofacial Imaging, Goldschleger School of Dental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Rabin Medical Center, Petach-Tikva, Israel
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Zaafour A, Seeneevassen L, Nguyen TL, Genevois C, Nicolas N, Sifré E, Giese A, Porcheron C, Descarpentrie J, Dubus P, Khatib AM, Varon C. Inhibition of proprotein convertases activity results in repressed stemness and invasiveness of cancer stem cells in gastric cancer. Gastric Cancer 2024; 27:292-307. [PMID: 38280128 DOI: 10.1007/s10120-023-01462-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastric cancer (GC), the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide, with most deaths caused by advanced and metastatic disease, has limited curative options. Here, we revealed the importance of proprotein convertases (PCs) in the malignant and metastatic potential of GC cells through the regulation of the YAP/TAZ/TEAD pathway and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in cancer stem cells (CSC). METHODS The general PCs inhibitor, decanoyl-RVKR-chloromethyl-ketone (CMK), was used to repress PCs activity in CSCs of various GC cell lines. Their tumorigenic properties, drug resistance, YAP/TAZ/TEAD pathway activity, and invasive properties were then investigated in vitro, and their metastatic properties were explored in a mouse xenograft model. The prognostic value of PCs in GC patients was also explored in molecular databases of GC. RESULTS Inhibition of PCs activity in CSCs in all GC cell lines reduced tumorsphere formation and growth, drug efflux, EMT phenotype, and invasive properties that are associated with repressed YAP/TAZ/TEAD pathway activity in vitro. In vivo, PCs' inhibition in GC cells reduced their metastatic spread. Molecular analysis of tumors from GC patients has highlighted the prognostic value of PCs. CONCLUSIONS PCs are overexpressed in GC and associated with poor prognosis. PCs are involved in the malignant and metastatic potential of CSCs via the regulation of EMT, the YAP/TAZ/TEAD oncogenic pathway, and their stemness and invasive properties. Their repression represents a new strategy to target CSCs and impair metastatic spreading in GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anissa Zaafour
- BoRdeaux Institute of onCology (BRIC), INSERM U1312, Univ. Bordeaux, 33000, Bordeaux, France
| | - Lornella Seeneevassen
- BoRdeaux Institute of onCology (BRIC), INSERM U1312, Univ. Bordeaux, 33000, Bordeaux, France
| | - Tra Ly Nguyen
- BoRdeaux Institute of onCology (BRIC), INSERM U1312, Univ. Bordeaux, 33000, Bordeaux, France
| | - Coralie Genevois
- BoRdeaux Institute of onCology (BRIC), INSERM U1312, Univ. Bordeaux, 33000, Bordeaux, France
- Vivoptic Platform, CNRS, INSERM TBM-Core UAR3427 US5, Univ. Bordeaux, 33000, Bordeaux, France
| | - Nour Nicolas
- BoRdeaux Institute of onCology (BRIC), INSERM U1312, Univ. Bordeaux, 33000, Bordeaux, France
| | - Elodie Sifré
- BoRdeaux Institute of onCology (BRIC), INSERM U1312, Univ. Bordeaux, 33000, Bordeaux, France
| | - Alban Giese
- BoRdeaux Institute of onCology (BRIC), INSERM U1312, Univ. Bordeaux, 33000, Bordeaux, France
| | - Chloé Porcheron
- BoRdeaux Institute of onCology (BRIC), INSERM U1312, Univ. Bordeaux, 33000, Bordeaux, France
| | - Jean Descarpentrie
- BoRdeaux Institute of onCology (BRIC), INSERM U1312, Univ. Bordeaux, 33000, Bordeaux, France
| | - Pierre Dubus
- BoRdeaux Institute of onCology (BRIC), INSERM U1312, Univ. Bordeaux, 33000, Bordeaux, France
- Department of Histology and Pathology, CHU Bordeaux, 33000, Bordeaux, France
| | - Abdel-Majid Khatib
- BoRdeaux Institute of onCology (BRIC), INSERM U1312, Univ. Bordeaux, 33000, Bordeaux, France
| | - Christine Varon
- BoRdeaux Institute of onCology (BRIC), INSERM U1312, Univ. Bordeaux, 33000, Bordeaux, France.
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Al‐kuraishy HM, Al‐Maiahy TJ, Al‐Gareeb AI, Alexiou A, Papadakis M, Saad HM, Batiha GE. The possible role furin and furin inhibitors in endometrial adenocarcinoma: A narrative review. Cancer Rep (Hoboken) 2024; 7:e1920. [PMID: 38018319 PMCID: PMC10809206 DOI: 10.1002/cnr2.1920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometrial adenocarcinoma (EAC) is a malignant tumor of the endometrium. EAC is the most common female malignancy following the menopause period. About 40% of patients with EAC are linked with obesity and interrelated with hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and high circulating estrogen levels. Proprotein convertase (PC) furin was involved in the progression of EAC. RECENT FINDINGS Furin is a protease enzyme belonging to the subtilisin PC family called PC subtilisin/kexin type 3 that converts precursor proteins to biologically active forms and products. Aberrant activation of furin promotes abnormal cell proliferation and the development of cancer. Furin promotes angiogenesis, malignant cell proliferation, and tissue invasion by malignant cells through its pro-metastatic and oncogenic activities. Furin activity is correlated with the malignant proliferation of EAC. Higher expression of furin may increase the development of EAC through overexpression of pro-renin receptors and disintegrin and metalloprotease 17 (ADAM17). As well, inflammatory signaling in EAC promotes the expression of furin with further propagation of malignant transformation. CONCLUSION Furin is associated with the development and progression of EAC through the induction of proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of malignant cells of EAC. Furin induces ontogenesis in EAC through activation expression of ADAM17, pro-renin receptor, CD109, and TGF-β. As well, EAC-mediated inflammation promotes the expression of furin with further propagation of neoplastic growth and invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayder M. Al‐kuraishy
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and MedicineCollege of Medicine, Mustansiriyah UniversityBaghdadIraq
| | - Thabat J. Al‐Maiahy
- Department of Gynecology and ObstetricsCollege of Medicine, Mustansiriyah UniversityBaghdadIraq
| | - Ali I. Al‐Gareeb
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and MedicineCollege of Medicine, Mustansiriyah UniversityBaghdadIraq
| | - Athanasios Alexiou
- University Centre for Research & DevelopmentChandigarh University, Chandigarh‐Ludhiana HighwayMohaliPunjabIndia
- Department of Research & DevelopmentFunogenAthensGreece
- Department of Research & DevelopmentAFNP MedWienAustria
- Department of Science and EngineeringNovel Global Community Educational FoundationHebershamNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Marios Papadakis
- Department of Surgery IIUniversity Hospital Witten‐Herdecke, University of Witten‐HerdeckeWuppertalGermany
| | - Hebatallah M. Saad
- Department of PathologyFaculty of Veterinary Medicine, Matrouh UniversityMatrouhEgypt
| | - Gaber El‐Saber Batiha
- Department of Pharmacology and TherapeuticsFaculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour UniversityDamanhourAlBeheiraEgypt
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Pant A, Dakal TC, Moar K, Dhabhai B, Arora TK, Sharma NK, Ranga V, Maurya PK. Assessment of MMP14, CAV2, CLU and SPARCL1 expression profiles in endometriosis. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 251:154892. [PMID: 37898038 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023]
Abstract
Endometriotic cells exhibit a notable degree of invasiveness and some characteristics of tissue remodeling underlying lesion formation. In this regard, do matrix metalloproteinases 14 (MMP14) and other related genes such as SPARC-like protein 1 (SPARCL1), caveolin 2 (CAV2), and clusterin (CLU) exert any significant influence in the processes of endometriosis development and pathophysiology is not apparent. We aim to assess whether these genes could serve as potential diagnostic biomarkers in endometriosis. Microarray-based gene expression analysis was performed on total RNA extracted from endometriotic tissue samples treated with and without gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa). The GnRHa untreated patients were considered the control group. The validation of genes was performed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). qRT-PCR analysis showed significant downregulation in the expression of MMP14 (p = 0.024), CAV2 (p = 0.017), and upregulation of CLU (p = 0.005) in endometriosis patients treated with GnRHa. SPARCL1 did not show any significant (p = 0.30) change in the expression compared to the control group. These data have the potential to contribute to the comprehension of the molecular pathways implicated in the remodeling of the extracellular matrix, which is a vital step for the physiology of the endometrium. Based on the result, it is concluded that changes in the expression of MMP14, CAV2, and CLU post-treatment imply their role in the pathophysiology of endometriosis and may serve as a potential diagnostic biomarker of endometriosis in response to GnRHa treatment in patients with ovarian endometrioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anuja Pant
- Department of Biochemistry, Central University of Haryana, Mahendergarh 123031, India
| | - Tikam Chand Dakal
- Genome and Computational Biology Lab, Department of Biotechnology, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur 313001, Rajasthan, India
| | - Kareena Moar
- Department of Biochemistry, Central University of Haryana, Mahendergarh 123031, India
| | - Bhanupriya Dhabhai
- Genome and Computational Biology Lab, Department of Biotechnology, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur 313001, Rajasthan, India
| | - Taruna K Arora
- Reproductive Biology and Maternal Child Health Division, Indian Council of Medical Research, New Delhi 110029, India
| | - Narendra Kumar Sharma
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Banasthali Vidyapith, Tonk 304022, Rajasthan, India
| | - Vipin Ranga
- Department of Biotechnology-North East Centre for Agricultural Biotechnology (DBT-NECAB), Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat 785013, Assam, India
| | - Pawan Kumar Maurya
- Department of Biochemistry, Central University of Haryana, Mahendergarh 123031, India.
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Zhou Q, Xiang J, Qiu N, Wang Y, Piao Y, Shao S, Tang J, Zhou Z, Shen Y. Tumor Abnormality-Oriented Nanomedicine Design. Chem Rev 2023; 123:10920-10989. [PMID: 37713432 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
Anticancer nanomedicines have been proven effective in mitigating the side effects of chemotherapeutic drugs. However, challenges remain in augmenting their therapeutic efficacy. Nanomedicines responsive to the pathological abnormalities in the tumor microenvironment (TME) are expected to overcome the biological limitations of conventional nanomedicines, enhance the therapeutic efficacies, and further reduce the side effects. This Review aims to quantitate the various pathological abnormalities in the TME, which may serve as unique endogenous stimuli for the design of stimuli-responsive nanomedicines, and to provide a broad and objective perspective on the current understanding of stimuli-responsive nanomedicines for cancer treatment. We dissect the typical transport process and barriers of cancer drug delivery, highlight the key design principles of stimuli-responsive nanomedicines designed to tackle the series of barriers in the typical drug delivery process, and discuss the "all-into-one" and "one-for-all" strategies for integrating the needed properties for nanomedicines. Ultimately, we provide insight into the challenges and future perspectives toward the clinical translation of stimuli-responsive nanomedicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Zhou
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Smart Biomaterials and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Department of Cell Biology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Jiajia Xiang
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Smart Biomaterials and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Department of Cell Biology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Nasha Qiu
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Smart Biomaterials and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yechun Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Ying Piao
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Smart Biomaterials and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Shiqun Shao
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Smart Biomaterials and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Jianbin Tang
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Smart Biomaterials and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Zhuxian Zhou
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Smart Biomaterials and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Youqing Shen
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Smart Biomaterials and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
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Paul DC, Bhattacharjee M, Mahato DR, Sarma MP. Natural furin inhibitor(s) as potent therapeutic molecule to mitigate SARS-CoV-2 infection. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023; 41:7365-7371. [PMID: 36099195 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2022.2121760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
The COVID 2019 has had been going pandemic as per WHO situation reports. The major differentiating point in this virus is the presence of a unique furin cleavage site. Our insilico study points out to the effectiveness of a potent plant origin furin inhibitor. We exploited the aspect of the cleavage machinery of furin subunits which is critical and indispensible to the entry of SARS-CoV-2 in human cells and subsequent massive contagion. In-silico analysis was done to observe the interactions of proposed analogs of protease inhibitor of plant origin against furin protein as well as the furin spike glycoprotein (SGP) binding machinery. This was done by docking protocols using Hex 6.0 software followed by molecular Dynamic simulation (MDS) analysis in 100 ns scale using Amber94. Further, the images were analysed with PyMol software. The analogs I, II and III included in our study showed strong interactivity against furin individually, as well as the furin-Spike Glycoprotein 1 binding machinery. The findings were confirmed using molecular dynamic simulation analysis which indicated good structural stability and ability to neutralise furin and furin-spike glycoprotein 1. Analog II was found to be the best interactive molecule against furin, showing the least deviation (1.484 ± 0.0064). Also, it was the most effective against furin + Spike glycoprotein I machinery [1.575 ± 0.01]. We report the first of its kind of natural furin inhibitor(s) which would disrupt the furin machinery of SARS-CoV-2 and help in controlling the COVID-19 contagion.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhiman Chandra Paul
- Department of Biotechnology, Assam Down Town University, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | | | - Dhani Ram Mahato
- Institut de Química Computacional i Catàlisi, Universitat de Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Manash Pratim Sarma
- Department of Biotechnology, Assam Down Town University, Guwahati, Assam, India
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Elkrief A, Odintsov I, Markov V, Caeser R, Sobczuk P, Tischfield SE, Bhanot U, Vanderbilt CM, Cheng EH, Drilon A, Riely GJ, Lockwood WW, de Stanchina E, Tirunagaru VG, Doebele RC, Quintanal-Villalonga Á, Rudin CM, Somwar R, Ladanyi M. Combination Therapy With MDM2 and MEK Inhibitors Is Effective in Patient-Derived Models of Lung Adenocarcinoma With Concurrent Oncogenic Drivers and MDM2 Amplification. J Thorac Oncol 2023; 18:1165-1183. [PMID: 37182602 PMCID: PMC10524759 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtho.2023.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although targeted therapies have revolutionized the therapeutic landscape of lung adenocarcinomas (LUADs), disease progression on single-agent targeted therapy against known oncogenic drivers is common, and therapeutic options after disease progression are limited. In patients with MDM2 amplification (MDM2amp) and a concurrent oncogenic driver alteration, we hypothesized that targeting of the tumor-suppressor pathway (by means of restoration of p53 using MDM2 inhibition) and simultaneous targeting of co-occurring MAPK oncogenic pathway might represent a more durably effective therapeutic strategy. METHODS We evaluated genomic next-generation sequencing data using the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center-Integrated Mutation Profiling of Actionable Cancer Targets platform to nominate potential targets for combination therapy in LUAD. We investigated the small molecule MDM2 inhibitor milademetan in cell lines and patient-derived xenografts of LUAD with a known driver alteration and MDM2amp. RESULTS Of 10,587 patient samples from 7121 patients with LUAD profiled by next-generation sequencing, 6% (410 of 7121) harbored MDM2amp. MDM2amp was significantly enriched among tumors with driver alterations in METex14 (36%, p < 0.001), EGFR (8%, p < 0.001), RET (12%, p < 0.01), and ALK (10%, p < 0.01). The combination of milademetan and the MEK inhibitor trametinib was synergistic in growth inhibition of ECLC5-GLx (TRIM33-RET/MDM2amp), LUAD12c (METex14/KRASG12S/MDM2amp), SW1573 (KRASG12C, TP53 wild type), and A549 (KRASG12S) cells and in increasing expression of proapoptotic proteins PUMA and BIM. Treatment of ECLC5-GLx and LUAD12c with single-agent milademetan increased ERK phosphorylation, consistent with previous data on ERK activation with MDM2 inhibition. This ERK activation was effectively suppressed by concomitant administration of trametinib. In contrast, ERK phosphorylation induced by milademetan was not suppressed by concurrent RET inhibition using selpercatinib (in ECLC5-GLx) or MET inhibition using capmatinib (in LUAD12c). In vivo, combination milademetan and trametinib was more effective than either agent alone in ECLC5-GLx, LX-285 (EGFRex19del/MDM2amp), L13BS1 (METex14/MDM2amp), and A549 (KRASG12S, TP53 wild type). CONCLUSIONS Combined MDM2/MEK inhibition was found to have efficacy across multiple patient-derived LUAD models harboring MDM2amp and concurrent oncogenic drivers. This combination, potentially applicable to LUADs with a wide variety of oncogenic driver mutations and kinase fusions activating the MAPK pathway, has evident clinical implications and will be investigated as part of a planned phase 1/2 clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arielle Elkrief
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York; Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York; Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Igor Odintsov
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York; Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Vladimir Markov
- Antitumor Assessment Core Facility, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Rebecca Caeser
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Pawel Sobczuk
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York; Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Sam E Tischfield
- Marie-Josée and Henry R. Kravis Center for Molecular Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Umesh Bhanot
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Chad M Vanderbilt
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Emily H Cheng
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York; Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Alexander Drilon
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York; Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Gregory J Riely
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York; Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - William W Lockwood
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Elisa de Stanchina
- Antitumor Assessment Core Facility, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | | | | | | | - Charles M Rudin
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York; Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Romel Somwar
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York; Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Marc Ladanyi
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York; Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York.
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Azevedo MT, Macedo S, Canberk S, Cardoso L, Gaspar TB, Pestana A, Batista R, Sobrinho-Simões M, Soares P. Significance of Furin Expression in Thyroid Neoplastic Transformation. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3909. [PMID: 37568724 PMCID: PMC10417020 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15153909] [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: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2), Transmembrane Serine Protease 2 (TMPRSS2), and Furin were known to be key players in the SARS-CoV-2 infection, and the thyroid gland was revealed to be one of the relevant targets of the virus. Regardless of the viral infection, the expression of these molecules in the thyroid gland and their putative role in the neoplastic transformation of the thyrocytes has not been thoroughly explored. In this work, we aimed to characterize the mRNA and protein expression pattern of ACE2, TMPRSS2, and Furin in a series of patients with thyroid lesions. Our main results revealed a significantly decreased expression of ACE2 mRNA in the thyroid neoplasms in comparison to normal adjacent tissue. Furin mRNA was significantly increased in thyroid neoplasms when compared to normal adjacent tissue. In addition, a higher Furin mRNA level in thyroid carcinomas was associated with the presence of lymph node metastasis. Furin mRNA expression revealed a high discriminatory power between adjacent tissue and neoplasms. Protein expression of these molecules did not correlate with mRNA expression. Our study shows the mRNA downregulation of ACE2 and overexpression of Furin in thyroid neoplasms. Further studies are required to clarify if Furin expression can be a potential diagnostic indicator in thyroid neoplasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Teresa Azevedo
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (M.T.A.); (S.M.); (S.C.); (L.C.); (T.B.G.); (R.B.); (M.S.-S.)
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology and Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto (FMUP), 4200-139 Porto, Portugal
| | - Sofia Macedo
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (M.T.A.); (S.M.); (S.C.); (L.C.); (T.B.G.); (R.B.); (M.S.-S.)
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology and Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto (FMUP), 4200-139 Porto, Portugal
- Abel Salazar Biomedical Sciences Institute (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Sule Canberk
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (M.T.A.); (S.M.); (S.C.); (L.C.); (T.B.G.); (R.B.); (M.S.-S.)
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology and Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto (FMUP), 4200-139 Porto, Portugal
- Abel Salazar Biomedical Sciences Institute (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Luís Cardoso
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (M.T.A.); (S.M.); (S.C.); (L.C.); (T.B.G.); (R.B.); (M.S.-S.)
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-370 Coimbra, Portugal
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Coimbra Hospital and University Center, 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Tiago Bordeira Gaspar
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (M.T.A.); (S.M.); (S.C.); (L.C.); (T.B.G.); (R.B.); (M.S.-S.)
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology and Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto (FMUP), 4200-139 Porto, Portugal
- Abel Salazar Biomedical Sciences Institute (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Pestana
- Charité Comprehensive Cancer Center, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Rui Batista
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (M.T.A.); (S.M.); (S.C.); (L.C.); (T.B.G.); (R.B.); (M.S.-S.)
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Manuel Sobrinho-Simões
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (M.T.A.); (S.M.); (S.C.); (L.C.); (T.B.G.); (R.B.); (M.S.-S.)
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology and Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto (FMUP), 4200-139 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology, Centro Hospitalar de São João, 4200-139 Porto, Portugal
| | - Paula Soares
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (M.T.A.); (S.M.); (S.C.); (L.C.); (T.B.G.); (R.B.); (M.S.-S.)
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology and Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto (FMUP), 4200-139 Porto, Portugal
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Gilad AA, Bar-Shir A, Bricco AR, Mohanta Z, McMahon MT. Protein and peptide engineering for chemical exchange saturation transfer imaging in the age of synthetic biology. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2023; 36:e4712. [PMID: 35150021 PMCID: PMC10642350 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.4712] [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: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
At the beginning of the millennium, the first chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) contrast agents were bio-organic molecules. However, later, metal-based CEST agents (paraCEST agents) took center stage. This did not last too long as paraCEST agents showed limited translational potential. By contrast, the CEST field gradually became dominated by metal-free CEST agents. One branch of research stemming from the original work by van Zijl and colleagues is the development of CEST agents based on polypeptides. Indeed, in the last 2 decades, tremendous progress has been achieved in this field. This includes the design of novel peptides as biosensors, genetically encoded recombinant as well as synthetic reporters. This was a result of extensive characterization and elucidation of the theoretical requirements for rational designing and engineering of such agents. Here, we provide an extensive overview of the evolution of more precise protein-based CEST agents, review the rationalization of enzyme-substrate pairs as CEST contrast enhancers, discuss the theoretical considerations to improve peptide selectivity, specificity and enhance CEST contrast. Moreover, we discuss the strong influence of synthetic biology on the development of the next generation of protein-based CEST contrast agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Assaf A. Gilad
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
- Department of Radiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Amnon Bar-Shir
- Department of Molecular Chemistry and Materials Science, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Alexander R. Bricco
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Zinia Mohanta
- Division of MR Research, The Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- F.M. Kirby Research Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Michael T. McMahon
- Division of MR Research, The Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- F.M. Kirby Research Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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15
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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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16
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Tang B, Zhao X, Liu H, Zhang Q, Liu K, Yang X, Huang Y. Construction of an STK11 Mutation and Immune-Related Prognostic Prediction Model in Lung Adenocarcinoma. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BIOTECHNOLOGY 2023; 21:e3168. [PMID: 37228630 PMCID: PMC10203181 DOI: 10.30498/ijb.2022.307202.3168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Background STK11 mutation in LUAD affects immune cell infiltration in tumor tissue, and is associated with tumor prognosis. Objective This study aimed to construct a STK11 mutation and immune-related LUAD prognostic model. Materials and Methods The mutation frequency of STK11 in LUAD was queried via cBioPortal in TCGA and PanCancer Atlas databases. The degree of immune infiltration was analyzed by CIBERSORT analysis. DEGs in STK11mut and STK11wt samples were analyzed. Metascape, GO and KEGG methods were adopted for functional and signaling pathway enrichment analysis of DEGs. Genes related to immune were overlapped with DEGs to acquire immune-related DEGs, whose Cox regression and LASSO analyses were employed to construct prognostic model. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses verified the independence of riskscore and clinical features. A nomogram was established to predict the OS of patients. Additionally, TIMER was introduced to analyze relationship between infiltration abundance of 6 immune cells and expression of feature genes in LUAD. Results The mutation frequency of STK11 in LUAD was 16%, and the degrees of immune cell infiltration were different between the wild-type and mutant STK11. DEGs of STK11 mutated and unmutated LUAD samples were mainly enriched in immune-related biological functions and signaling pathways. Finally, 6 feature genes were obtained, and a prognostic model was established. Riskscore was an independent immuno-related prognostic factor for LUAD. The nomogram diagram was reliable. Conclusion Collectively, genes related to STK11 mutation and immunity were mined from the public database, and a 6-gene prognostic prediction signature was generated.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Yun Huang
- Department of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery, Zigong Fourth People’s Hospital, Zigong, Sichuan 643099, China
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Wang T, Zhou Y, Zhou Z, Zhang P, Yan R, Sun L, Ma W, Zhang T, Shen S, Liu H, Lu H, Ye L, Feng J, Chen Z, Zhong X, Wu G, Cai Y, Jia W, Gao P, Zhang H. Secreted protease PRSS35 suppresses hepatocellular carcinoma by disabling CXCL2-mediated neutrophil extracellular traps. Nat Commun 2023; 14:1513. [PMID: 36934105 PMCID: PMC10024721 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37227-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocytes function largely through the secretion of proteins that regulate cell proliferation, metabolism, and intercellular communications. During the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the hepatocyte secretome changes dynamically as both a consequence and a causative factor in tumorigenesis, although the full scope of secreted protein function in this process remains unclear. Here, we show that the secreted pseudo serine protease PRSS35 functions as a tumor suppressor in HCC. Mechanistically, we demonstrate that active PRSS35 is processed via cleavage by proprotein convertases. Active PRSS35 then suppresses protein levels of CXCL2 through targeted cleavage of tandem lysine (KK) recognition motif. Consequently, CXCL2 degradation attenuates neutrophil recruitment to tumors and formation of neutrophil extracellular traps, ultimately suppressing HCC progression. These findings expand our understanding of the hepatocyte secretome's role in cancer development while providing a basis for the clinical translation of PRRS35 as a therapeutic target or diagnostic biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Wang
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Anhui Provincial Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- The Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Yingli Zhou
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Anhui Provincial Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- The Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Zilong Zhou
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Anhui Provincial Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- The Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Pinggen Zhang
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Anhui Provincial Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- The Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Ronghui Yan
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Anhui Provincial Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- The Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Linchong Sun
- Medical Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenhao Ma
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Anhui Provincial Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- The Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Tong Zhang
- Medical Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shengqi Shen
- Medical Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haiying Liu
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Anhui Provincial Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- The Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Hui Lu
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Anhui Provincial Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- The Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Ling Ye
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Anhui Provincial Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- The Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Junru Feng
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Anhui Provincial Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- The Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Zhaolin Chen
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Anhui Provincial Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Xiuying Zhong
- Medical Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Gao Wu
- The Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Yongping Cai
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Weidong Jia
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Anhui Provincial Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Ping Gao
- The Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
- Medical Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Huafeng Zhang
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Anhui Provincial Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
- The Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Biomedical Aging Research, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
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18
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Ji S, Li S, Gao H, Wang J, Wang K, Nan W, Chen H, Hao Y. An AIEgen-based "turn-on" probe for sensing cancer cells and tiny tumors with high furin expression. Biomater Sci 2023; 11:2221-2229. [PMID: 36748329 DOI: 10.1039/d2bm01979e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Peptide-aggregation-induced emission (AIE) luminogen (AIEgen) conjugates are widely used in the bioimaging field for their good resistance to photobleaching, red and near-infrared light emission, good biocompatibility, etc. However, their peptides are mainly negatively charged and the positively charged peptide-AIEgen conjugates are rarely used in in vivo imaging due to their high non-specific interaction with protein to cause "false-positive" results and their potential risk of triggering hemolysis. Herein, we introduce a black hole quencher 3 (BHQ3) to RVRRGFF-AIE (FA) to build a "turn-on" probe, named BHQ3-RVRRGFF-AIE (BFA). Compared with FA, BFA has advantages in the anti-interference ability for different proteins and many solution environments. But, both BFA and FA have high risks of inducing hemolysis, which restricts their further application. Through co-assembly with poly-γ-glutamic acid (γ-PGA), molecular probes BFA and FA are formed into PGA-BFA and PGA-FA nanoparticles with high biocompatibility and suppressed phototoxicity. Cell studies show that PGA-BFA can discriminate cancer cells with high furin expression from low furin-expressed cancer cells and normal cells. In vivo studies show that PGA-BFA can light up tiny tumors in the abdominal cavity with a better tumor-to-intestine ratio (3.14) than that of PGA-FA (1.47), which is helpful for the accurate excision of tiny tumors. This study will advance the development of constructing good biosafety probes with a high signal-to-noise ratio for fluorescence image-guided cancer surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenglu Ji
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China. .,The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China
| | - Songge Li
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China.
| | - Heqi Gao
- Center for AIE Research, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Polymer Science and Technology, Guangdong Research Center for Interfacial Engineering of Functional Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, College of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Jiayang Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China.
| | - Kaiyuan Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China.
| | - Wenbin Nan
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China. .,The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China
| | - Hongli Chen
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China. .,The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China
| | - Yongwei Hao
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China.
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19
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Lu W, Liu X, Zhao L, Yan S, Song Q, Zou C, Li X. MiR-22-3p in exosomes increases the risk of heart failure after down-regulation of FURIN. Chem Biol Drug Des 2023; 101:550-567. [PMID: 36063111 DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.14142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Heart failure (HF) is often the inevitable manifestation of myocardial ischemia. Hypoxia can induce cardiomyocytes to express many microRNAs (miRNAs), which are highly expressed in exosomes. In addition, miR-22-3p is a marker in heart failure. Therefore, miR-22-3p was taken as the research object to explore its role and mechanism in HF. HF differentially expressed miRNAs were screened by bioinformatic analysis. The HF rats model was constructed and identified by detecting serum brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and ultrasound analysis [left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and left ventricular fractional shortening (LVFS)]. The extracted exosomes were identified by transmission electron microscopy, and Western blot was used to detect the expressions of Tsg101 and CD63. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction detected miR-22-3p expression in serum, exosomes, and serum without exosomes, while the cardiomyocytes cytotoxicity was detected by 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) and PKH26 staining. After overexpressing/silencing miR-22-3p in cells, cell viability, apoptosis, and apoptosis-associated markers were detected. Bioinformatic analysis screened the target gene of miR-22-3p, which was verified by dual-luciferase assay. Regulation of miR-22-3p on FURIN was measured by rescue tests. In vivo experiments were verified the above results. MiR-22-3p was identified as the research object. BNP was increased in the model group, while LVEF and LVFS were decreased. MiR-22-3p was overexpressed in HF-treated serum and exosomes. Normal exosomes did not affect cardiomyocyte function, while high concentrations of HF-treated exosomes were cytotoxic. By regulating apoptosis-related genes, overexpressed miR-22-3p inhibited cell activity and promoted cell apoptosis. Silenced miR-22-3p with opposite effects counteracted effects of HF-treated exosomes. FURIN, target gene of miR-22-3p, was negatively regulated by miR-22-3p, while overexpressed FURIN promoted cell activity and inhibited apoptosis. In vivo research was consistent with the results of cell experiments. By regulating FURIN, miR-22-3p in exosomes increases the risk of HF damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenlin Lu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Wuxi No. 2 People's Hospital, Wuxi, China
| | - Xuhui Liu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Huai'an Second People's Hospital, Huai'an, China
| | - Linghui Zhao
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Huaiyin Hospital of Huai'an City, Huai'an, China
| | - Shirong Yan
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Huaiyin Hospital of Huai'an City, Huai'an, China
| | - Qingyun Song
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Huaiyin Hospital of Huai'an City, Huai'an, China
| | - Cao Zou
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xun Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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20
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Ni L, Li P, Li M, Huang S, Dang N. SERPINB8 and furin regulate ITGAX expression and affect the proliferation and invasion of melanoma cells. Exp Dermatol 2023; 32:24-29. [PMID: 36134483 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14677] [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: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
In the past 10 years, the systemic treatment of advanced melanoma has undergone tremendous changes through the development of targeted therapy. However, there is still a long way to go. This study aims to characterize the function and interaction of ITGAX, SERPINB8 and furin in BRAF V600E mutant melanoma. Differentially expressed genes related to BRAF V600E mutation and BRAFi treatment were obtained by analysing GSE141484 and GSE22838. two kinds of BRAFi (Vemurafenib, 10 μM; Dabrafenib, 1 μM) were used to treat A375 and 1205Lu cells, respectively. The expression of ITGAX, SERPINB8 and Furin in A375 and 1205Lu cells was down-regulated by specific siRNAs, and cell proliferation, clone formation and invasion were detected by CCK-8, colony formation and transwell assays. The physical binding of furin and SERPINB8 was detected by immunoprecipitation. BRAFi treatment down-regulated the ITGAX and SERPINB8 expression and did not change furin expression. Knockdown of ITGAX and SERPINB8 both inhibited the proliferation and invasion of A375 and 1205Lu cells. Knocking down SERPINB8 down-regulated the expression of ITGAX. Furin knockdown and inhibitors all up-regulated the protein level of ITGAX. SERPINB8 can physically bind to furin. In summary, SERPINB8 and furin regulate the expression of ITGAX in melanoma cells, and ITGAX significantly promotes the proliferation and invasion of melanoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Ni
- Department of Dermatology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Pin Li
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Mingming Li
- Department of Dermatology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Shuhong Huang
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Institute of Basic Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Ningning Dang
- Department of Dermatology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
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21
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Cheng X, Xie Q, Sun Y. Advances in nanomaterial-based targeted drug delivery systems. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1177151. [PMID: 37122851 PMCID: PMC10133513 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1177151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Nanomaterial-based drug delivery systems (NBDDS) are widely used to improve the safety and therapeutic efficacy of encapsulated drugs due to their unique physicochemical and biological properties. By combining therapeutic drugs with nanoparticles using rational targeting pathways, nano-targeted delivery systems were created to overcome the main drawbacks of conventional drug treatment, including insufficient stability and solubility, lack of transmembrane transport, short circulation time, and undesirable toxic effects. Herein, we reviewed the recent developments in different targeting design strategies and therapeutic approaches employing various nanomaterial-based systems. We also discussed the challenges and perspectives of smart systems in precisely targeting different intravascular and extravascular diseases.
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22
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Gomari MM, Abkhiz S, Pour TG, Lotfi E, Rostami N, Monfared FN, Ghobari B, Mosavi M, Alipour B, Dokholyan NV. Peptidomimetics in cancer targeting. Mol Med 2022; 28:146. [PMID: 36476230 PMCID: PMC9730693 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-022-00577-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The low efficiency of treatment strategies is one of the main obstacles to developing cancer inhibitors. Up to now, various classes of therapeutics have been developed to inhibit cancer progression. Peptides due to their small size and easy production compared to proteins are highly regarded in designing cancer vaccines and oncogenic pathway inhibitors. Although peptides seem to be a suitable therapeutic option, their short lifespan, instability, and low binding affinity for their target have not been widely applicable against malignant tumors. Given the peptides' disadvantages, a new class of agents called peptidomimetic has been introduced. With advances in physical chemistry and biochemistry, as well as increased knowledge about biomolecule structures, it is now possible to chemically modify peptides to develop efficient peptidomimetics. In recent years, numerous studies have been performed to the evaluation of the effectiveness of peptidomimetics in inhibiting metastasis, angiogenesis, and cancerous cell growth. Here, we offer a comprehensive review of designed peptidomimetics to diagnose and treat cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Mahmoudi Gomari
- grid.411746.10000 0004 4911 7066Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shadi Abkhiz
- grid.411746.10000 0004 4911 7066Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Taha Ghantab Pour
- grid.411746.10000 0004 4911 7066Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsan Lotfi
- grid.411746.10000 0004 4911 7066Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Neda Rostami
- grid.411425.70000 0004 0417 7516Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Arak University, Arak, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Nafe Monfared
- grid.411705.60000 0001 0166 0922Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Babak Ghobari
- grid.412831.d0000 0001 1172 3536Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mona Mosavi
- grid.411746.10000 0004 4911 7066Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behruz Alipour
- grid.411705.60000 0001 0166 0922Medical Biotechnology Department, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nikolay V. Dokholyan
- grid.240473.60000 0004 0543 9901Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA USA ,grid.240473.60000 0004 0543 9901Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA USA
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23
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Bodén E, Andreasson J, Hirdman G, Malmsjö M, Lindstedt S. Quantitative Proteomics Indicate Radical Removal of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer and Predict Outcome. Biomedicines 2022; 10:2738. [PMID: 36359256 PMCID: PMC9687227 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10112738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is associated with low survival rates, often due to late diagnosis and lack of personalized medicine. Diagnosing and monitoring NSCLC using blood samples has lately gained interest due to its less invasive nature. In the present study, plasma was collected at three timepoints and analyzed using proximity extension assay technology and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction in patients with primary NSCLC stages IA-IIIA undergoing surgery. Results were adjusted for patient demographics, tumor, node, metastasis (TNM) stage, and multiple testing. Major histocompatibility (MHC) class 1 polypeptide-related sequence A/B (MIC-A/B) and tumor necrosis factor ligand superfamily member 6 (FASLG) were significantly increased post-surgery, suggesting radical removal of cancerous cells. Levels of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) initially increased postoperatively but were later lowered, potentially indicating radical removal of malignant cells. The levels of FASLG in patients who later died or had a relapse of NSCLC were lower at all three timepoints compared to surviving patients without relapse, indicating that FASLG may be used as a prognostic biomarker. The biomarkers were confirmed using microarray data. In conclusion, quantitative proteomics could be used for NSCLC identification but may also provide information on radical surgical removal of NSCLC and post-surgical prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Embla Bodén
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, 22362 Lund, Sweden
- Wallenberg Center for Molecular Medicine, Lund University, 22363 Lund, Sweden
- Lund Stem Cell Center, Lund University, 22362 Lund, Sweden
| | - Jesper Andreasson
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, 22362 Lund, Sweden
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery and Transplantation, Skåne University Hospital, 22242 Lund, Sweden
| | - Gabriel Hirdman
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, 22362 Lund, Sweden
- Wallenberg Center for Molecular Medicine, Lund University, 22363 Lund, Sweden
- Lund Stem Cell Center, Lund University, 22362 Lund, Sweden
| | - Malin Malmsjö
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, 22362 Lund, Sweden
| | - Sandra Lindstedt
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, 22362 Lund, Sweden
- Wallenberg Center for Molecular Medicine, Lund University, 22363 Lund, Sweden
- Lund Stem Cell Center, Lund University, 22362 Lund, Sweden
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery and Transplantation, Skåne University Hospital, 22242 Lund, Sweden
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24
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Zhang Y, Gao X, Bai X, Yao S, Chang YZ, Gao G. The emerging role of furin in neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases. Transl Neurodegener 2022; 11:39. [PMID: 35996194 PMCID: PMC9395820 DOI: 10.1186/s40035-022-00313-1] [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: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Furin is an important mammalian proprotein convertase that catalyzes the proteolytic maturation of a variety of prohormones and proproteins in the secretory pathway. In the brain, the substrates of furin include the proproteins of growth factors, receptors and enzymes. Emerging evidence, such as reduced FURIN mRNA expression in the brains of Alzheimer's disease patients or schizophrenia patients, has implicated a crucial role of furin in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases. Currently, compared to cancer and infectious diseases, the aberrant expression of furin and its pharmaceutical potentials in neurological diseases remain poorly understood. In this article, we provide an overview on the physiological roles of furin and its substrates in the brain, summarize the deregulation of furin expression and its effects in neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders, and discuss the implications and current approaches that target furin for therapeutic interventions. This review may expedite future studies to clarify the molecular mechanisms of furin deregulation and involvement in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases, and to develop new diagnosis and treatment strategies for these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Laboratory of Molecular Iron Metabolism, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, China
| | - Xiaoqin Gao
- Shijiazhuang People's Hospital, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050027, China
| | - Xue Bai
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Laboratory of Molecular Iron Metabolism, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, China
| | - Shanshan Yao
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Laboratory of Molecular Iron Metabolism, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, China
| | - Yan-Zhong Chang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Laboratory of Molecular Iron Metabolism, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, China.
| | - Guofen Gao
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Laboratory of Molecular Iron Metabolism, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, China.
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25
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Hagihara K, Haraguchi N, Nishimura J, Yasueda A, Fujino S, Ogino T, Takahashi H, Miyoshi N, Uemura M, Matsuda C, Mizushima T, Yamamoto H, Mori M, Doki Y, Eguchi H. PLXND1/SEMA3E Promotes Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Partly via the PI3K/AKT-Signaling Pathway and Induces Heterogenity in Colorectal Cancer. Ann Surg Oncol 2022; 29:7435-7445. [PMID: 35917012 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-022-11945-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major cause of cancer-related deaths. Metastasis is enhanced through epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a process primarily induced by the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β)-mediated canonical Smad pathway. This study focused on plexin D1 (PLXND1), a chemoreceptor for the ligand SEMA3E to mechanosensory, showing that PLXND1 induces EMT via activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway in CRC cells. The findings showed that PLXND1-knockdown decreases cell migration and invasion significantly, and that the binding of p61-SEMA3E to the PLXND1 enhances the invasiveness and migration through EMT. Furin inhibitor suppresses EMT, decreasing cell migration and invasion. Furin cleaves full-length SEMA3E and converts it to p61-SEMA3E, suggesting that furin inhibitors block PLXND1 and p61-SEMA3E binding. Furin is a potential therapeutic target for the purpose of suppressing EMT by inhibiting the binding of p61-SEMA3E to PLXND1. In vivo experiments have shown that PLXND1-knockdown suppresses EMT. Mesenchymal cells labeled with ZEB1 showed heterogeneity depending on PLXND1 expression status. The high-expression group of PLXND1 in 182 CRC samples was significantly associated with poor overall survival compared with the low-expression group (P = 0.0352, median follow-up period of 60.7 months) using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis. Further research is needed to determine whether cell fractions with a different expression of PLXND1 have different functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiyotaka Hagihara
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Naotsugu Haraguchi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka International Cancer Institute, Osaka-shi, Osaka, Japan.
| | - Junichi Nishimura
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka International Cancer Institute, Osaka-shi, Osaka, Japan
| | - Asuka Yasueda
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka International Cancer Institute, Osaka-shi, Osaka, Japan
| | - Shiki Fujino
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takayuki Ogino
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hidekazu Takahashi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Norikatsu Miyoshi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Mamoru Uemura
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Chu Matsuda
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tsunekazu Mizushima
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Yamamoto
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Masaki Mori
- Department of Surgery and Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Doki
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hidetoshi Eguchi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
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Abu El-Asrar AM, Nawaz MI, Ahmad A, Siddiquei MM, Allegaert E, Gikandi PW, De Hertogh G, Opdenakker G. Proprotein convertase furin is a driver and potential therapeutic target in proliferative diabetic retinopathy. Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2022; 50:632-652. [PMID: 35322530 DOI: 10.1111/ceo.14077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Furin converts inactive proproteins into bioactive forms. By activating proinflammatory and proangiogenic factors, furin might play a role in pathophysiology of proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). METHODS We studied vitreous samples from PDR and nondiabetic patients, epiretinal membranes from PDR patients, retinal microvascular endothelial cells (HRMECs), retinal Müller cells and rat retinas by ELISA, Western blot analysis, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence microscopy. We performed in vitro angiogenesis assays and assessed adherence of monocytes to HRMECs. RESULTS Furin levels were significantly increased in PDR vitreous samples. In epiretinal membranes, immunohistochemistry analysis revealed furin expression in monocytes/macrophages, vascular endothelial cells and myofibroblasts. Furin was significantly upregulated in diabetic rat retinas. Hypoxia and TNF-α induced significant upregulation of furin in Müller cells and HRMECs. Furin induced upregulation of phospho-ERK1/2, p65 subunit of NF-κB, ADAM17 and MCP-1 in cultured Müller cells and phospho-ERK1/2 in cultured HRMECs and induced HRMECs migration. Treatment of monocytes with furin significantly increased their adhesion to HRMECs. Intravitreal administration of furin in normal rats induced significant upregulation of p65 subunit of NF-κB, phospho-ERK1/2 and ICAM-1 in the retina. Inhibition of furin with dec-CMK significantly decreased levels of MCP-1 in culture medium of Müller cells and HRMECs and significantly attenuated TNF-α-induced upregulation of p65 subunit of NF-κB, ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 in HRMECs. Dec-CMK significantly decreased adherence of monocytes to HRMECs and TNF-α-induced upregulation of adherence of monocytes to HRMECs. Treatment of HRMECs with dec-CMK significantly attenuated migration of HRMECs. CONCLUSIONS Furin is a potential driver molecule of PDR-associated inflammation and angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed M Abu El-Asrar
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Dr. Nasser Al-Rashid Research Chair in Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohd I Nawaz
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ajmal Ahmad
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad M Siddiquei
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Eef Allegaert
- Laboratory of Histochemistry and Cytochemistry, University of Leuven, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,University Hospitals UZ Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Priscilla W Gikandi
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Gert De Hertogh
- Laboratory of Histochemistry and Cytochemistry, University of Leuven, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,University Hospitals UZ Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ghislain Opdenakker
- University Hospitals UZ Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium.,Rega Institute for Medical Research, Department of Microbiology and Immunology and Transplantation, University of Leuven, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Study of protease-mediated processes initiating viral infection and cell-cell viral spreading of SARS-CoV-2. J Mol Model 2022; 28:224. [PMID: 35854129 PMCID: PMC9296015 DOI: 10.1007/s00894-022-05206-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Viral-cell entry and cell-cell viral spreading processes of SARS-CoV-2 are subjected to fast evolutionary optimization because of its worldwide spreading, requiring the need for new drug developments. However, this task is still challenging, because a detailed understanding of the underlying molecular processes, mediated by the key cellular proteases TMPRSS2 and furin, is still lacking. Here, we show by large-scale atomistic calculations that binding of the ACE2 cell receptor at one of the heteromers of the SARS-CoV-2 spike leads to a release of its furin cleavage site (S1/S2), enabling an enhanced furin binding, and that this latter process promotes the binding of TMPRSS2 through the release of the TMPRSS2 cleavage site (S2') out of the ACE2-binding heteromer. Moreover, we find that, after proteolytic cleavage, improved furin binding causes that parts of the S2 subunit dissociate from the complex, suggesting that furin promotes the fusion of the S2 subunit with the cell membrane before transfer of the viral RNA. Here we show by computational means that binding of the ACE2-cell receptor at one of the heteromers of the SARS-CoV-2 spike leads to an enhanced binding of the protease furin, promoting the binding of the protease TMPRSS2. Moreover, we show that, after proteolytic cleavage, improved furin binding causes that parts of the heteromer dissociate from the spike.
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28
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Yuan Y, Bulte JWM. Enzyme-mediated intratumoral self-assembly of nanotheranostics for enhanced imaging and tumor therapy. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2022; 14:e1786. [PMID: 35229485 PMCID: PMC9437863 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Enzyme-mediated intratumoral self-assembled (EMISA) nanotheranostics represent a new class of smart agents for combined imaging and therapy of cancer. Cancer cells overexpress various enzymes that are essential for high metabolism, fast proliferation, and tissue invasion and metastasis. By conjugating small molecules that contain an enzyme-specific cleavage site to appropriate chemical linkers, it is possible to induce self-assembly of nanostructures in tumor cells having the target enzyme. This approach of injecting small theranostic molecules that eventually become larger nanotheranostics in situ avoids some of the major limitations that are encountered when injecting larger, pre-assembled nanotheranostics. The advantage of EMISA nanotheranostics include the avoidance of nonspecific uptake and rapid clearance by phagocytic cells, increased cellular accumulation, reduced drug efflux and prolonged cellular exposure time, all of which lead to an amplified imaging signal and therapeutic efficacy. We review here the different approaches that can be used for preparing EMISA-based organic, inorganic, or organic/inorganic hybrid nanotheranostics based on noncovalent interactions and/or covalent bonding. Imaging examples are shown for fluorescence imaging, nuclear imaging, photoacoustic imaging, Raman imaging, computed tomography imaging, bioluminescent imaging, and magnetic resonance imaging. This article is categorized under: Diagnostic Tools > In Vivo Nanodiagnostics and Imaging Biology-Inspired Nanomaterials > Peptide-Based Structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Yuan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Jeff W. M. Bulte
- The Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Cellular Imaging Section and Vascular Biology Program, Institute for Cell Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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29
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Hippocampal Iron Accumulation Impairs Synapses and Memory via Suppressing Furin Expression and Downregulating BDNF Maturation. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:5574-5590. [PMID: 35732869 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-02929-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Brain iron overload is positively correlated with the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the role of iron in AD pathology is not completely understood. Furin is the first identified mammalian proprotein convertase that catalyzes the proteolytic maturation of large numbers of prohormones and proproteins. The correlation between altered furin expression and AD pathology has been suggested, but the underlying mechanism remains to be clarified. Here, we found that the expression of furin in the hippocampus of Alzheimer's model APP/PS1 mice was significantly reduced, and we demonstrated that the reduction of furin was directly caused by hippocampal iron overload using wild-type mice with intrahippocampal injection of iron. In cultured neuronal cells, this suppression effect was observed as transcriptional inhibition. Regarding the changes of furin-mediated activities caused by hippocampal iron overload, we found that the maturation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) was impeded and the expression levels of synaptogenesis-related proteins were downregulated, leading to cognitive decline. Furthermore, iron chelation or furin overexpression in the hippocampus of APP/PS1 mice increased furin expression, restored synapse plasticity, and ameliorated cognitive decline. Therefore, the inhibitory effect of hippocampal iron accumulation on furin transcription may be an important pathway involved in iron-mediated synapse damage and memory loss in AD. This study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms of the toxic effects of iron in neurons and AD pathophysiology and renders furin as a potential target for treatment of iron overload-related neurodegenerative diseases.
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Douglas LEJ, Reihill JA, Ho MWY, Axten JM, Campobasso N, Schneck JL, Rendina AR, Wilcoxen KM, Martin SL. A highly selective, cell-permeable furin inhibitor BOS-318 rescues key features of cystic fibrosis airway disease. Cell Chem Biol 2022; 29:947-957.e8. [PMID: 35202587 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2022.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In cystic fibrosis (CF), excessive furin activity plays a critical role in the activation of the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC), dysregulation of which contributes to airway dehydration, ineffective mucociliary clearance (MCC), and mucus obstruction. Here, we report a highly selective, cell-permeable furin inhibitor, BOS-318, that derives selectivity by eliciting the formation of a new, unexpected binding pocket independent of the active site catalytic triad. Using human ex vivo models, BOS-318 showed significant suppression of ENaC, which led to enhanced airway hydration and an ∼30-fold increase in MCC rate. Furin inhibition also protected ENaC from subsequent activation by neutrophil elastase, a soluble protease dominant in CF airways. Additional therapeutic benefits include protection against epithelial cell death induced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa exotoxin A. Our findings demonstrate the utility of selective furin inhibition as a mutation-agnostic approach that can correct features of CF airway pathophysiology in a manner expected to deliver therapeutic value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa E J Douglas
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - James A Reihill
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Melisa W Y Ho
- GlaxoSmithKline Research and Development, Collegeville, PA 19426, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Axten
- GlaxoSmithKline Research and Development, Collegeville, PA 19426, USA
| | - Nino Campobasso
- GlaxoSmithKline Research and Development, Collegeville, PA 19426, USA
| | - Jessica L Schneck
- GlaxoSmithKline Research and Development, Collegeville, PA 19426, USA
| | - Alan R Rendina
- GlaxoSmithKline Research and Development, Collegeville, PA 19426, USA
| | | | - S Lorraine Martin
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK.
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Integrative multi-omic analysis identifies genetically influenced DNA methylation biomarkers for breast and prostate cancers. Commun Biol 2022; 5:594. [PMID: 35710732 PMCID: PMC9203749 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03540-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant DNA methylation has emerged as a hallmark in several cancers and contributes to risk, oncogenesis, progression, and prognosis. In this study, we performed imputation-based and conventional methylome-wide association analyses for breast cancer (BrCa) and prostate cancer (PrCa). The imputation-based approach identified DNA methylation at cytosine-phosphate-guanine sites (CpGs) associated with BrCa and PrCa risk utilising genome-wide association summary statistics (NBrCa = 228,951, NPrCa = 140,254) and prebuilt methylation prediction models, while the conventional approach identified CpG associations utilising TCGA and GEO experimental methylation data (NBrCa = 621, NPrCa = 241). Enrichment analysis of the association results implicated 77 and 81 genetically influenced CpGs for BrCa and PrCa, respectively. Furthermore, analysis of differential gene expression around these CpGs suggests a genome-epigenome-transcriptome mechanistic relationship. Conditional analyses identified multiple independent secondary SNP associations (Pcond < 0.05) around 28 BrCa and 22 PrCa CpGs. Cross-cancer analysis identified eight common CpGs, including a strong therapeutic target in SREBF1 (17p11.2)—a key player in lipid metabolism. These findings highlight the utility of integrative analysis of multi-omic cancer data to identify robust biomarkers and understand their regulatory effects on cancer risk. Methylome-wide association studies identify genetically-influenced CpGs associated with breast and prostate cancer risk and (epi)genome-transcriptome mechanistic relationships, with lipid metabolism genes implicated as potential therapeutic targets.
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32
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Furin extracellularly cleaves secreted PTENα/β to generate C-terminal fragment with a tumor-suppressive role. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:532. [PMID: 35668069 PMCID: PMC9170693 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04988-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
PTENα and PTENβ (PTENα/β), two long translational variants of phosphatase and tensin homolog on chromosome 10 (PTEN), exert distinct roles from canonical PTEN, including promoting carcinogenesis and accelerating immune-resistant cancer progression. However, their roles in carcinogenesis remain greatly unknown. Herein, we report that, after secreting into the extracellular space, PTENα/β proteins are efficiently cleaved into a short N-terminal and a long C-terminal fragment by the proprotein convertase Furin at a polyarginine stretch in their N-terminal extensions. Although secreted PTENα/β and their cleaved fragment cannot enter cells, treatment of the purified C-terminal fragment but not cleavage-resistant mutants of PTENα exerts a tumor-suppressive role in vivo. As a result, overexpression of cleavage-resistant PTENα mutants manifest a tumor-promoting role more profound than that of wild-type PTENα. In line with these, the C-terminal fragment is significantly downregulated in liver cancer tissues compared to paired normal tissues, which is consistent with the downregulated expression of Furin. Collectively, we show that extracellular PTENα/β present opposite effects on carcinogenesis from intracellular PTENα/β, and propose that the tumor-suppressive C-terminal fragment of PTENα/β might be used as exogenous agent to treat cancer.
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33
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Yu Q, Zhao L, Yan XX, Li Y, Chen XY, Hu XH, Bu Q, Lv XP. Identification of a TGF-β signaling-related gene signature for prediction of immunotherapy and targeted therapy for lung adenocarcinoma. World J Surg Oncol 2022; 20:183. [PMID: 35668494 PMCID: PMC9172180 DOI: 10.1186/s12957-022-02595-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling functions importantly in regulating tumor microenvironment (TME). This study developed a prognostic gene signature based on TGF-β signaling-related genes for predicting clinical outcome of patients with lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). METHODS TGF-β signaling-related genes came from The Molecular Signature Database (MSigDB). LUAD prognosis-related genes were screened from all the genes involved in TGF-β signaling using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression analysis and then used to establish a risk score model for LUAD. ESTIMATE and CIBERSORT analyzed infiltration of immune cells in TME. Immunotherapy response was analyzed by the TIDE algorithm. RESULTS A LUAD prognostic 5-gene signature was developed based on 54 TGF-β signaling-related genes. Prognosis of high-risk patients was significantly worse than low-risk patients. Both internal validation and external dataset validation confirmed a high precision of the risk model in predicting the clinical outcomes of LUAD patients. Multivariate Cox analysis demonstrated the model independence in OS prediction of LUAD. The risk model was significantly related to the infiltration of 9 kinds of immune cells, matrix, and immune components in TME. Low-risk patients tended to respond more actively to anti-PD-1 treatment, while high-risk patients were more sensitive to chemotherapy and targeted therapy. CONCLUSIONS The 5-gene signature based on TGF-β signaling-related genes showed potential for LUAD management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Yu
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, No. 6 Shuangyong Rd, Nanning, 450100, China
| | - Liang Zhao
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, No. 6 Shuangyong Rd, Nanning, 450100, China
| | - Xue-Xin Yan
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, No. 6 Shuangyong Rd, Nanning, 450100, China
| | - Ye Li
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, No. 6 Shuangyong Rd, Nanning, 450100, China
| | - Xin-Yu Chen
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, No. 6 Shuangyong Rd, Nanning, 450100, China
| | - Xiao-Hua Hu
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, No. 6 Shuangyong Rd, Nanning, 450100, China.
| | - Qing Bu
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, No. 6 Shuangyong Rd, Nanning, 450100, China.
| | - Xiao-Ping Lv
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, No. 6 Shuangyong Rd, Nanning, 450100, China.
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Abstract
Supramolecular assemblies are essential components of living organisms. Cellular scaffolds, such as the cytoskeleton or the cell membrane, are formed via secondary interactions between proteins or lipids and direct biological processes such as metabolism, proliferation and transport. Inspired by nature’s evolution of function through structure formation, a range of synthetic nanomaterials has been developed in the past decade, with the goal of creating non-natural supramolecular assemblies inside living mammalian cells. Given the intricacy of biological pathways and the compartmentalization of the cell, different strategies can be employed to control the assembly formation within the highly crowded, dynamic cellular environment. In this Review, we highlight emerging molecular design concepts aimed at creating precursors that respond to endogenous stimuli to build nanostructures within the cell. We describe the underlying reaction mechanisms that can provide spatial and temporal control over the subcellular formation of synthetic nanostructures. Showcasing recent advances in the development of bioresponsive nanomaterials for intracellular self-assembly, we also discuss their impact on cellular function and the challenges associated with establishing structure–bioactivity relationships, as well as their relevance for the discovery of novel drugs and imaging agents, to address the shortfall of current solutions to pressing health issues. ![]()
Creating artificial nanostructures inside living cells requires the careful design of molecules that can transform into active monomers within a complex cellular environment. This Review explores the recent development of bioresponsive precursors for the controlled formation of intracellular supramolecular assemblies.
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Qiu H, Wang N, Lin D, Yuan Y, Li J, Mao D, Meng Y. The positive feedback loop of furin and TGFβ1 enhances the immune responses of Tregs to hepatocellular carcinoma cells and hepatitis B virus in vitro. Cell Biol Int 2022; 46:1215-1226. [PMID: 35349767 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) can exert immunosuppressive activity. Furin can regulate Treg functions, hepatitis B virus (HBV) persistent infection, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. However, it remains unknown whether furin can regulate the immune responses of Tregs to HBV and HCC cells. Here, coculture systems of HBV1.3P-HepG2.3P-HepG2 cells and Tregs transduced with or without lentiviral particles that could overexpress furin or knockdown furin/transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) were established to investigate the regulatory relationship between furin and TGFβ1 and the effect of furin/TGFβ1 on Treg activity. Also, the effects of furin overexpression or furin/TGFβ1 knockdown in Tregs on the immunological activity of effector T cells (Teffs)/cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) and HBV replication/expression were explored in the coculture system of Teff/CTL, Treg, and HBV1.3P-HepG2 cells. Our results showed that furin expression and TGFβ1 secretion were notably increased in Tregs, and Furin and TGFβ1 formed a positive feedback loop to activate Tregs in the coculture system of Tregs and HBV1.3P-HepG2 cells. Furin or TGFβ1 knockdown in Tregs promoted Teff cell proliferation, stimulated interleukin-2 and interferon-γ secretion, and inhibited HBV replication/gene expression in the coculture system of Teff, Treg, and HBV1.3P-HepG2 cells. Moreover, furin or TGFβ1 depletion in Tregs enhanced the killing activity of CTLs against HBV1.3P-HepG2 cells and curbed HBV replication/gene expression in the coculture system of Tregs, CTLs, and HBV1.3P-HepG2 cells. In conclusion, the positive feedback loop of furin and TGFβ1 enhanced the immune responses of Tregs to HCC cells and HBV in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Qiu
- Department of Chinese Medicine (CM), Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Na Wang
- Department of Live Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Dongyi Lin
- Department of Chinese Medicine (CM), Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Ying Yuan
- Department of Chinese Medicine (CM), Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Jinyuan Li
- Department of Chinese Medicine (CM), Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Dewen Mao
- Department of Live Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yinjie Meng
- Department of Live Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi, China
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The Path to Therapeutic Furin Inhibitors: From Yeast Pheromones to SARS-CoV-2. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073435. [PMID: 35408793 PMCID: PMC8999023 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The spurious acquisition and optimization of a furin cleavage site in the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein is associated with increased viral transmission and disease, and has generated intense interest in the development and application of therapeutic furin inhibitors to thwart the COVID-19 pandemic. This review summarizes the seminal studies that informed current efforts to inhibit furin. These include the convergent efforts of endocrinologists, virologists, and yeast geneticists that, together, culminated in the discovery of furin. We describe the pioneering biochemical studies which led to the first furin inhibitors that were able to block the disease pathways which are broadly critical for pathogen virulence, tumor invasiveness, and atherosclerosis. We then summarize how these studies subsequently informed current strategies leading to the development of small-molecule furin inhibitors as potential therapies to combat SARS-CoV-2 and other diseases that rely on furin for their pathogenicity and progression.
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Identification of Kukoamine A, Zeaxanthin, and Clexane as New Furin Inhibitors. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052796. [PMID: 35269938 PMCID: PMC8911046 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The endogenous protease furin is a key protein in many different diseases, such as cancer and infections. For this reason, a wide range of studies has focused on targeting furin from a therapeutic point of view. Our main objective consisted of identifying new compounds that could enlarge the furin inhibitor arsenal; secondarily, we assayed their adjuvant effect in combination with a known furin inhibitor, CMK, which avoids the SARS-CoV-2 S protein cleavage by means of that inhibition. Virtual screening was carried out to identify potential furin inhibitors. The inhibition of physiological and purified recombinant furin by screening selected compounds, Clexane, and these drugs in combination with CMK was assayed in fluorogenic tests by using a specific furin substrate. The effects of the selected inhibitors from virtual screening on cell viability (293T HEK cell line) were assayed by means of flow cytometry. Through virtual screening, Zeaxanthin and Kukoamine A were selected as the main potential furin inhibitors. In fluorogenic assays, these two compounds and Clexane inhibited both physiological and recombinant furin in a dose-dependent way. In addition, these compounds increased physiological furin inhibition by CMK, showing an adjuvant effect. In conclusion, we identified Kukoamine A, Zeaxanthin, and Clexane as new furin inhibitors. In addition, these drugs were able to increase furin inhibition by CMK, so they could also increase its efficiency when avoiding S protein proteolysis, which is essential for SARS-CoV-2 cell infection.
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Liu Y, Teng L, Yin B, Meng H, Yin X, Huan S, Song G, Zhang XB. Chemical Design of Activatable Photoacoustic Probes for Precise Biomedical Applications. Chem Rev 2022; 122:6850-6918. [PMID: 35234464 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.1c00875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Photoacoustic (PA) imaging technology, a three-dimensional hybrid imaging modality that integrates the advantage of optical and acoustic imaging, has great application prospects in molecular imaging due to its high imaging depth and resolution. To endow PA imaging with the ability for real-time molecular visualization and precise biomedical diagnosis, numerous activatable molecular PA probes which can specifically alter their PA intensities upon reacting with the targets or biological events of interest have been developed. This review highlights the recent developments of activatable PA probes for precise biomedical applications including molecular detection of the biotargets and imaging of the biological events. First, the generation mechanism of PA signals will be given, followed by a brief introduction to contrast agents used for PA probe design. Then we will particularly summarize the general design principles for the alteration of PA signals and activatable strategies for developing precise PA probes. Furthermore, we will give a detailed discussion of activatable PA probes in molecular detection and biomedical imaging applications in living systems. At last, the current challenges and outlooks of future PA probes will be discussed. We hope that this review will stimulate new ideas to explore the potentials of activatable PA probes for precise biomedical applications in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongchao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P. R. China
| | - Lili Teng
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P. R. China
| | - Baoli Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P. R. China
| | - Hongmin Meng
- College of Chemistry, Green Catalysis Center, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Xia Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P. R. China
| | - Shuangyan Huan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P. R. China
| | - Guosheng Song
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P. R. China
| | - Xiao-Bing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P. R. China
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Abstract
Analysis of the SARS-CoV-2 sequence revealed a multibasic furin cleavage site at the S1/S2 boundary of the spike protein distinguishing this virus from SARS-CoV. Furin, the best-characterized member of the mammalian proprotein convertases, is an ubiquitously expressed single pass type 1 transmembrane protein. Cleavage of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein by furin promotes viral entry into lung cells. While furin knockout is embryonically lethal, its knockout in differentiated somatic cells is not, thus furin provides an exciting therapeutic target for viral pathogens including SARS-CoV-2 and bacterial infections. Several peptide-based and small-molecule inhibitors of furin have been recently reported, and select cocrystal structures have been solved, paving the way for further optimization and selection of clinical candidates. This perspective highlights furin structure, substrates, recent inhibitors, and crystal structures with emphasis on furin's role in SARS-CoV-2 infection, where the current data strongly suggest its inhibition as a promising therapeutic intervention for SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Essam
Eldin A. Osman
- Department
of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo 11562, Egypt
| | - Alnawaz Rehemtulla
- Department
of Radiation Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Nouri Neamati
- Department
of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
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40
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Bräutigam K, Reinhard S, Galván JA, Wartenberg M, Hewer E, Schürch CM. Systematic Investigation of SARS-CoV-2 Receptor Protein Distribution along Viral Entry Routes in Humans. Respiration 2022; 101:610-618. [PMID: 35038715 PMCID: PMC8805044 DOI: 10.1159/000521317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The novel beta-coronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), enters the human body via mucosal surfaces of the upper and/or lower respiratory tract. Viral entry into epithelial cells is mediated via angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and auxiliary molecules, but the precise anatomic site of infection still remains unclear. Methods Here, we systematically investigated the main SARS-CoV-2 receptor proteins ACE2 and transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2), as well as 2 molecules potentially involved in viral entry, furin and CD147, in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded human tissues. Tissue microarrays incorporating a total of 879 tissue cores from conjunctival (n = 84), sinonasal (n = 95), and lung (bronchiolar/alveolar; n = 96) specimens were investigated for protein expression by immunohistochemistry. Results ACE2 and TMPRSS2 were expressed in ciliated epithelial cells of the conjunctivae and sinonasal tissues, with highest expression levels observed in the apical cilia. In contrast, in the lung, the expression of those molecules in bronchiolar and alveolar epithelial cells was much rarer and only very focal when present. Furin and CD147 were more uniformly expressed in all tissues analyzed, including the lung. Interestingly, alveolar macrophages consistently expressed high levels of all 4 molecules investigated. Conclusions Our study confirms and extends previous findings and contributes to a better understanding of potential SARS-CoV-2 infection sites along the human respiratory tract.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stefan Reinhard
- Institute of Pathology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - José A Galván
- Institute of Pathology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Ekkehard Hewer
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Christian M Schürch
- Department of Pathology and Neuropathology, University Hospital and Comprehensive Cancer Center Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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41
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Gutierrez-Gongora D, Geddes-McAlister J. Peptidases: promising antifungal targets of the human fungal pathogen, Cryptococcus neoformans. Facets (Ott) 2022. [DOI: 10.1139/facets-2021-0157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans is a globally important fungal pathogen, primarily inflicting disease on immunocompromised individuals. The widespread use of antifungal agents in medicine and agriculture supports the development of antifungal resistance through evolution, and the emergence of new strains with intrinsic resistance drives the need for new therapeutics. For C. neoformans, the production of virulence factors, including extracellular peptidases (e.g., CnMpr-1 and May1) with mechanistic roles in tissue invasion and fungal survival, constitute approximately 2% of the fungal proteome and cover five classes of enzymes. Given their role in fungal virulence, peptidases represent promising targets for anti-virulence discovery in the development of new approaches against C. neoformans. Additionally, intracellular peptidases, which are involved in resistance mechanisms against current treatment options (e.g., azole drugs), as well as capsule biosynthesis and elaboration of virulence factors, present additional opportunities to combat the pathogen. In this review, we highlight key cryptococcal peptidases with defined or predicted roles in fungal virulence and assess sequence alignments against their human homologs. With this information, we define the feasibility of the select peptidases as “druggable” targets for inhibition, representing prospective therapeutic options against the deadly fungus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davier Gutierrez-Gongora
- The Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
- Centro de Estudio de Proteínas, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de La Habana, La Habana, Cuba
| | - Jennifer Geddes-McAlister
- The Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
- Canadian Proteomics and Artificial Intelligence Research and Training Consortium
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42
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Therapeutic anti-glioma effect of the combined action of PCSK inhibitor with the anti-tumoral factors secreted by Poly (I:C)-stimulated macrophages. Cancer Gene Ther 2022; 29:22-36. [PMID: 33402730 PMCID: PMC8761570 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-020-00286-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Macrophages plasticity is a key feature in cancer progression. Neoplastic cells can alter their immune functions and orient them into a pro-tumoral phenotype. In this context, we developed a new therapeutic strategy to switch macrophages phenotype and reactivate their anti-tumoral functions. We showed a dual activity of a proprotein convertases inhibitor as anti-glioma drug and anti-tumoral macrophages' reactivation drug. Proprotein convertases are proteases that cleave proteins into functional proteins. Several of their substrates are involved in tumorigenesis and immunosuppression. We combine here proprotein convertases inhibitor with Poly (I:C), a TLR3 ligand, to increase the anti-tumoral activity of macrophages. With mass spectrometry-based proteomics, system biology, combined with biological assays, we established that a stimulation of macrophages with Poly (I:C) increased their secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and anti-tumoral factors. 3D invasion assay showed the efficacy of these anti-tumoral factors against mixed glioma cells and macrophages spheroids. Besides, immunofluorescence and proliferation assays showed an additive effect of the proprotein convertases inhibitor and the anti-tumoral factors secreted by Poly (I:C)-treated macrophages on both anti-glioma activity and macrophages anti-tumoral orientation directly in tumor microenvironment, leading to an innovative glioma therapy.
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43
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Deng M, Rao JD, Guo R, Li M, He Q. Size-Adjustable Nano-Drug Delivery Systems for Enhanced Tumor Retention and Penetration. PHARMACEUTICAL FRONTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1736474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past decades, nano-drug delivery systems have shown great potential in improving tumor treatment. And the controllability and design flexibility of nanoparticles endow them a broad development space. The particle size is one of the most important factors affecting the potency of nano-drug delivery systems. Large-size (100–200 nm) nanoparticles are more conducive to long circulation and tumor retention, but have poor tumor penetration; small-size (<50 nm) nanoparticles can deeply penetrate tumor but are easily cleared. Most of the current fixed-size nanoparticles are difficult to balance the retention and penetration, while the proposal of size-adjustable nano-drug delivery systems offers a solution to this paradox. Many endogenous and exogenous stimuli, such as acidic pH, upregulated enzymes, temperature, light, catalysts, redox conditions, and reactive oxygen species, can trigger the in situ transformation of nanoparticles based on protonation, hydrolysis, click reaction, phase transition, photoisomerization, redox reaction, etc. In this review, we summarize the principles and applications of stimuli-responsive size-adjustable strategies, including size-enlargement strategies and size-shrinkage strategies. We also propose the challenges faced by size-adjustable nano-drug delivery systems, hoping to promote the development of this strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao Deng
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing-Dong Rao
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Rong Guo
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Man Li
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Qin He
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
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44
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Weighted gene coexpression network analysis reveals ESR1, FLNA and Furin as hub genes for DEHP-induced prepubertal testicular injury. Reprod Toxicol 2021; 106:115-125. [PMID: 34718101 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2021.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is an environmental endocrine disruptor that accumulates in organisms in various ways and induces male reproductive system disorders. In this study, we established a testicular injury model by gavage with different concentrations of DEHP. The testes were then collected for RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), and the results were analyzed by bioinformatics and verified by experiments. Our research results show that different concentrations of DEHP interfere with testicular development differently. Weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA) generated sixteen modules and identified the turquoise module as key. Then, estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1), filamin A (Flna) and Furin were identified as hub genes. qPCR and immunohistochemistry results revealed that all three hub genes were upregulated. We detected the locations of these genes by immunohistochemistry. ESR1 was mainly located in Leydig cells; Flna immunostaining is observed in the Leydig and some germ cells and Furin staining was seen in almost all types of testicular cells. Furthermore, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses showed enrichment mainly in MAPK signaling pathways, p53 signaling pathways, HIF-1 signaling pathways, protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum, apoptosis, the cell cycle, RNA degradation, etc. This is the first study using WGCNA to investigate the mechanism of DEHP-induced injury in the prepubertal testis, providing new research angles to further understand the mechanism of DEHP-induced injury in the prepubertal testis.
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45
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Li D, Liu X, Zhang L, He J, Chen X, Liu S, Fu J, Fu S, Chen H, Fu J, Cheng J. COVID-19 disease and malignant cancers: The impact for the furin gene expression in susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2. Int J Biol Sci 2021; 17:3954-3967. [PMID: 34671211 PMCID: PMC8495395 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.63072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Furin is a proprotein convertase that activates different kinds of regulatory proteins, including SARS-CoV-2 spike protein which contains an additional furin-specific cleavage site. It is essential in predicting cancer patients' susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 and the disease outcomes due to varying furin expressions in tumor tissues. In this study, we analyzed furin's expression, methylation, mutation rate, functional enrichment, survival rate and COVID-19 outcomes in normal and cancer tissues using online databases, and our IHC. As a result, furin presented with biased expression profiles in normal tissues, showing 12.25-fold higher than ACE2 in the lungs. The furin expression in tumors were significantly increased in ESCA and TGCT, and decreased in DLBC and THYM, indicating furin may play critical mechanistic functions in COVID-19 viral entry into cells in these cancer patients. Line with furin over/downexpression, furin promoter hypo-/hyper-methylation may be the regulatory cause of disease and lead to pathogenesis of ESCA and THYM. Furthermore, presence of FURIN-201 isoform with functional domains (P_proprotein, Peptidase_S8 and S8_pro-domain) is highest in all cancer types in comparison to other isoforms, demonstrating its use in tumorigenesis and SARS-Cov-2 entry into tumor tissues. Furin mutation frequency was highest in UCES, and its mutation might elevate ACE2 expression in LUAD and UCEC, reduce ACE2 expression in COAD, elevate HSPA5 expression in PAAD, and elevate TMPRSS2 expression in BRCA. These results showed that furin mutations mostly increased expression of ACE2, HSPA5, and TMPRSS2 in certain cancers, indicating furin mutations might facilitate COVID-19 cell entry in cancer patients. In addition, high expression of furin was significantly inversely correlated with long overall survival (OS) in LGG and correlated with long OS in COAD and KIRC, indicating that it could be used as a favorable prognostic marker for cancer patients' survival. GO and KEGG demonstrated that furin was mostly enriched in genes for metabolic and biosynthetic processes, retinal dehydrogenase activity, tRNA methyltransferase activity, and genes involving COVID-19, further supporting its role in COVID-19 and cancer metabolism. Moreover, Cordycepin (CD) inhibited furin expression in a dosage dependent manner. Altogether, furin's high expression might not only implies increased susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 and higher severity of COVID-19 symptoms in cancer patients, but also it highlights the need for cancer treatment and therapy during the COVID-19 pandemic. CD might have a potential to develop an anti-SARS-CoV-2 drug through inhibiting furin expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dabing Li
- Basic Medical School, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan Province, China.,Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, the Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Xiaoyan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, the Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Lianmei Zhang
- Department of Pathology, the Affiliated Huaian No. 1 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huai'an 223300, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jiayue He
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, the Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Xianmao Chen
- Basic Medical School, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan Province, China.,Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, the Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Shuguang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, the Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Jiewen Fu
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, the Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Shangyi Fu
- School of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston 77030, Texas, USA.,Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston 77030, Texas, USA
| | - Hanchun Chen
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan Province, China
| | - Junjiang Fu
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, the Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Jingliang Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, the Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan Province, China.,Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
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46
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Dong S, Lu Y, Peng G, Li J, Li W, Li M, Wang H, Liu L, Zhao Q. Furin inhibits epithelial cell injury and alleviates experimental colitis by activating the Nrf2-Gpx4 signaling pathway. Dig Liver Dis 2021; 53:1276-1285. [PMID: 33640301 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2021.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Furin is a proprotein convertase reported to have protective effects in several autoimmune diseases. However, the role of furin in ulcerative colitis (UC) remains unclear. We aimed to clarify this role. METHODS Furin expression was measured in UC and dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis. Gain- and loss-of-function experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of furin in UC using DSS-treated NCM460 cells. Several ferroptotic parameters, including cell viability, cell death rate, lipid reactive oxygen species level, mitochondrial membrane damage and glutathione peroxidase 4 (Gpx4) expression, were measured. Exogenous furin was used to treat the DSS-induced colitis in mice to confirm the results in vivo. Finally, the activation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-like 2 (Nrf2) was detected to explore the mechanism. RESULTS Furin expression was aberrant in UC. Furin overexpression attenuated DSS-induced ferroptosis-like injury and upregulated Gpx4 in NCM460 cells, whereas silencing furin had the opposite effects. Exogenous furin treatment alleviated DSS-induced colitis in mice by upregulating Gpx4. Mechanistic experiments revealed that furin activated Nrf2 both in vitro and in vivo. CONCLUSIONS Furin protects epithelial cells from DSS-induced ferroptosis-like cell injury and alleviates experimental colitis by activating the Nrf2-Gpx4 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shouquan Dong
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan City, Hubei Province 430071, China; Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Disease, Wuhan City, Hubei Province 430071, China
| | - Yuanyuan Lu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan City, Hubei Province 430071, China; Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Disease, Wuhan City, Hubei Province 430071, China
| | - Ganjing Peng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan City, Hubei Province 430071, China; Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Disease, Wuhan City, Hubei Province 430071, China
| | - Juanjuan Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan City, Hubei Province 430071, China; Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Disease, Wuhan City, Hubei Province 430071, China
| | - Wenjie Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan City, Hubei Province 430071, China; Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Disease, Wuhan City, Hubei Province 430071, China
| | - Mengting Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan City, Hubei Province 430071, China; Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Disease, Wuhan City, Hubei Province 430071, China
| | - Hongling Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan City, Hubei Province 430071, China; Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Disease, Wuhan City, Hubei Province 430071, China
| | - Lan Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan City, Hubei Province 430071, China; Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Disease, Wuhan City, Hubei Province 430071, China.
| | - Qiu Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan City, Hubei Province 430071, China; Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Disease, Wuhan City, Hubei Province 430071, China.
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Kwon W, Choi SK, Kim D, Kim HG, Park JK, Han JE, Cho GJ, Yun S, Yu W, Han SH, Ha YS, Lee JN, Kwon TG, Cho DH, Yi JK, Kim MO, Ryoo ZY, Park S. ZNF507 affects TGF-β signaling via TGFBR1 and MAP3K8 activation in the progression of prostate cancer to an aggressive state. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2021; 40:291. [PMID: 34537073 PMCID: PMC8449443 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-02094-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Background The progression of prostate cancer (PC) to the highly aggressive metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) or neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC) is a fatal condition and the underlying molecular mechanisms are poorly understood. Here, we identified the novel transcriptional factor ZNF507 as a key mediator in the progression of PC to an aggressive state. Methods We analyzed ZNF507 expression in the data from various human PC database and high-grade PC patient samples. By establishment of ZNF507 knockdown and overexpression human PC cell lines, we assessed in vitro PC phenotype changes including cell proliferation, survival, migration and invasion. By performing microarray with ZNF507 knockdown PC cells, we profiled the gene clusters affected by ZNF507 knockdown. Moreover, ZNF507 regulated key signal was evaluated by dual-luciferase reporter and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays. Finally, we performed xenograft and in vivo metastasis assay to confirm the effect of ZNF507 knockdown in PC cells. Results We found that ZNF507 expression was increased, particularly in the highly graded PC. ZNF507 was also found to be associated with metastatic PC of a high grade. Loss- or gain-of-function–based analysis revealed that ZNF507 promotes the growth, survival, proliferation, and metastatic properties of PC (e.g., epithelial-mesenchymal transition) by upregulating TGF-β signaling. Profiling of gene clusters affected by ZNF507 knockdown revealed that ZNF507 positively regulated the transcription of TGFBR1, MAP3K8, and FURIN, which in turn promoted the progression of PC to highly metastatic and aggressive state. Conclusions Our findings suggest that ZNF507 is a novel key regulator of TGF-β signaling in the progression of malignant PC and could be a promising target for studying the development of advanced metastatic PCs. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13046-021-02094-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wookbong Kwon
- Core Protein Resources Center, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea.,Division of Biotechnology, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Kyoon Choi
- Core Protein Resources Center, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea. .,Division of Biotechnology, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea.
| | - Daehwan Kim
- Core Protein Resources Center, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea.,Division of Biotechnology, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea.,School of Life Science, BK21 FOUR KNU Creative Bioresearch, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea
| | - Hyeon-Gyeom Kim
- Core Protein Resources Center, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Kyu Park
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 41566, Daegu, Korea
| | - Jee Eun Han
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 41566, Daegu, Korea
| | - Gil-Jae Cho
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 41566, Daegu, Korea
| | - Sungho Yun
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 41566, Daegu, Korea
| | - Wookyung Yu
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Se-Hyeon Han
- School of Media Communication, Hanyang University, Wangsimni-ro 222, Seongdong- gu, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of News-team, SBS (Seoul Broadcasting System), Mokdongseo-ro 161, Yangcheon-gu, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yun-Sok Ha
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea
| | - Jun Nyung Lee
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea
| | - Tae Gyun Kwon
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea
| | - Dong-Hyung Cho
- School of Life Science, BK21 FOUR KNU Creative Bioresearch, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea.,Brain Science and Engineering Institute, Kyungpook National University, 41566, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun-Koo Yi
- Gyeongsangbuk-do Livestock Research institute, Yeongju, South Korea
| | - Myoung Ok Kim
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, ITRD, Kyungpook National University, 37224, Sangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Zae Young Ryoo
- School of Life Science, BK21 FOUR KNU Creative Bioresearch, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea.
| | - Song Park
- Core Protein Resources Center, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea. .,Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, DGIST, Daegu, Republic of Korea.
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Luo L, Li M, Su J, Yao X, Luo H. FURIN correlated with immune infiltration serves as a potential biomarker in SARS-CoV-2 infection-related lung adenocarcinoma. Clin Exp Med 2021; 22:371-384. [PMID: 34510311 PMCID: PMC8435175 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-021-00760-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
FURIN, as a proprotein convertase, has been found to be expressed in a variety of cancers and plays an important role in cancer. In addition, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) requires FURIN to enter human cells. However, the role of FURIN in lung adenocarcinoma remains unclear. And the expression of SARS-CoV-2 related gene in lung adenocarcinoma has not been clarified. Therefore, in order to explore the prognostic value and mechanism of FURIN in lung adenocarcinoma, we performed bioinformatics analysis with Oncomine, Tumor Immune Estimation Resource, Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis, human protein atlas, UALCAN, PrognoScan, Kaplan–Meier plotter, cBioPortal and LinkedOmics databases. And then we used GSE44274 in the GEO (Gene Expression Omnibus) database to analyze the expression of FURIN in LUAD patients who infected with SARS-CoV. FURIN was highly expressed in lung adenocarcinoma and was significantly associated with poor overall survival. FURIN expression was found to be correlated with six major permeable immune cells and with macrophage immune marker in LUAD patients. In addition, SARS-CoV-2 infection might affect the expression of FURIN. FURIN can be used as a promising biomarker for determining prognosis and immune infiltration in LUAD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lianxiang Luo
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhanjiang), Zhanjiang, 524023, Guangdong, China. .,The Marine Biomedical Research Institute, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524023, Guangdong, China. .,The Marine Biomedical Research Institute of Guangdong Zhanjiang, Zhanjiang, 524023, Guangdong, China.
| | - Manshan Li
- The First Clinical College, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524023, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiating Su
- The First Clinical College, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524023, Guangdong, China
| | - Xinyue Yao
- The First Clinical College, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524023, Guangdong, China
| | - Hui Luo
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhanjiang), Zhanjiang, 524023, Guangdong, China. .,The Marine Biomedical Research Institute, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524023, Guangdong, China. .,The Marine Biomedical Research Institute of Guangdong Zhanjiang, Zhanjiang, 524023, Guangdong, China.
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49
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Chen Y, Guo M, Qu D, Liu Y, Guo J, Chen Y. Furin-responsive triterpenine-based liposomal complex enhances anticervical cancer therapy through size modulation. Drug Deliv 2021; 27:1608-1624. [PMID: 33179521 PMCID: PMC7676817 DOI: 10.1080/10717544.2020.1827086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The accumulation and penetration of antitumor drugs in tumor tissues are directly related to their antitumor effects. The particle size of the nanodrug delivery system is one of the most important factors for the accumulation and penetration of antitumor drugs within tumor tissues. Generally, nanodelivery systems of intermediate size (100–120 nm) are capable of efficient accumulation owing to prolonged circulation and enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect; however, smaller ones (20–40 nm) are effective for deep penetration within tumor tissue. Currently a conventional drug delivery system cannot possess two types of optimal sizes, simultaneously. To solve this and to enhance cervical cancer treatment, a furin-responsive triterpenine-based liposomal complex (PEGcleavable Tf-CTM/L), with Tf-CTM (transferrin-modified tripterine-loaded coix seed oil microemulsion) in core, coated with a thermo-sensitive lipid and a kind of PEG shell modified with a furin-cleavable peptide was developed to improve tumor-specific accumulation and penetration. Herein, PEGcleavable Tf-CTM/L was capable of efficient accumulation because of EPR effect. The PEG shells could timely detach under stimulation of overexpressed furin protein to solve the problem of the steric hindrance dilemma. The small-sized Tf-CTM released under stimulation of tumor microthermal environment in cervical cancer, which was efficient with regards to deep penetration at tumor sites. Notably, compared to the use of triterpenine alone, PEGcleavable Tf-CTM/L promoted anticervical efficacy and displayed diminished systemic toxicity by efficient accumulation and deep penetration of antitumor drugs within tumor tissues. Our study provides a new strategy, and holds promising potential for anticervical cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunyan Chen
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Provincial Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.,School of Pharmacy,Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
| | - Mengfei Guo
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Provincial Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Ding Qu
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Provincial Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuping Liu
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Provincial Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jian Guo
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Provincial Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan Chen
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Provincial Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
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50
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Zhang Y, Xu C, Tang Z, Guo D, Yao R, Zhao H, Chen Z, Ni X. Furin is involved in uterine activation for labor. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21565. [PMID: 33864414 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202002128rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The uterus undergoes distinct molecular and functional changes during pregnancy and parturition. These processes are associated with the dramatic changes in various proteins. Given that the maturation and activation of many proteins require proteolytic processing by proprotein convertases (PCs), we sought to explore the role of PCs in uterine activation for labor. First, we found that furin was the most dramatically increased PC member in myometrial tissues from the pregnant women after onset of labor at term. Using the model of cultured human myometrial smooth muscle cells (HMSMCs), we showed that furin inhibitor CMK, D6R treatment and furin siRNA transfection suppressed contractility. Inhibition of furin activity or interfering furin expression decreased connexin 43 (CX43), prostaglandin (PG) endoperoxide synthase-2 (COX-2) and PGF2α receptor (FP) expression and NF-κB activation. In mouse model, administration of furin inhibitors prolonged gestational length. However, D6R treatment did not affect RU38486- and lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-induced preterm birth. Furthermore, D6R and furin siRNA treatment reduced the release of soluble form of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK), while furin overexpression led to an increase in soluble TWEAK release in cultured HMSMCs. D6R treatment decreased TWEAK level in blood of pregnant mice. TWEAK treatment promoted contractility and NF-κB activation, while TWEAK receptor fibroblast growth factor-inducible 14 (FN14) antagonist treatment inhibited contractility and NF-κB activation in HMSMCs. In pregnant mice, administration of FN14 antagonist prolonged gestational length. Our data suggest that furin can act as a stimulator for uterine activation for labor at term. TWEAK is one of the potential substrates which mediate furin regulation of parturition initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youyi Zhang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Research Center for Molecular Metabolomics, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, Changsha, China.,Department of Physiology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, General Hospital of Western Theater Command of PLA, Chengdu, China
| | - Chen Xu
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Shanghai Medical School of Fundan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhengshan Tang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Research Center for Molecular Metabolomics, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Dewei Guo
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Research Center for Molecular Metabolomics, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ruojin Yao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Research Center for Molecular Metabolomics, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Huina Zhao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Changhai Hospital, Shanghai, China.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shanghai Seventh People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Zixi Chen
- Department of Physiology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Ni
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Research Center for Molecular Metabolomics, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, Changsha, China.,Department of Physiology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, Changsha, China
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