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Ivachtchenko AV, Khvat AV, Shkil DO. Development and Prospects of Furin Inhibitors for Therapeutic Applications. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:9199. [PMID: 39273149 PMCID: PMC11394684 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25179199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2024] [Revised: 08/17/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Furin, a serine protease enzyme located in the Golgi apparatus of animal cells, plays a crucial role in cleaving precursor proteins into their mature, active forms. It is ubiquitously expressed across various tissues, including the brain, lungs, gastrointestinal tract, liver, pancreas, and reproductive organs. Since its discovery in 1990, furin has been recognized as a significant therapeutic target, leading to the active development of furin inhibitors for potential use in antiviral, antibacterial, anticancer, and other therapeutic applications. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the progress in the development and characterization of furin inhibitors, encompassing peptides, linear and macrocyclic peptidomimetics, and non-peptide compounds, highlighting their potential in the treatment of both infectious and non-infectious diseases.
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Li J, Yang Z, Wang T, Li M, Wu X, Fu X, Yang C, Li Y, Wang X, Lan Z, Li M, Chen S. Causal relationship between lipid-lowering drugs and ovarian cancer, cervical cancer: a drug target mendelian randomization study. BMC Cancer 2024; 24:667. [PMID: 38822303 PMCID: PMC11143665 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-024-12434-z] [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: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The causal impact of lipid-lowering drugs on ovarian cancer (OC) and cervical cancer (CC) has received considerable attention, but its causal relationship is still a subject of debate. Hence, the objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of lipid-lowering medications on the occurrence risk of OC and CC through Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis of drug targets. METHODS This investigation concentrated on the primary targets of lipid-lowering medications, specifically, 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR) and proprotein convertase kexin 9 (PCSK9). Genetic variations associated with HMGCR and PCSK9 were derived from published genome-wide association study (GWAS) findings to serve as substitutes for HMGCR and PCSK9 inhibitors. Employing a MR approach, an analysis was conducted to scrutinize the impact of inhibitors targeting HMGCR and PCSK9 on the occurrence of OC and CC. Coronary heart disease (CHD) risk was utilized as a positive control, and the primary outcomes encompassed OC and CC. RESULTS The findings of the study suggest a notable elevation in the risk of OC among patients treated with HMGCR inhibitors (OR [95%CI] = 1.815 [1.316, 2.315], p = 0.019). In contrast, no significant correlation was observed between PCSK9 inhibitors and the occurrence of OC. Additionally, the analysis did not reveal any noteworthy connection between HMGCR inhibitors, PCSK9 inhibitors, and CC. CONCLUSION HMGCR inhibitors significantly elevate the risk of OC in patients, but their mechanism needs further investigation, and no influence of PCSK9 inhibitors on OC has been observed. There is no significant relationship between HMGCR inhibitors, PCSK9 inhibitors, and CC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinshuai Li
- The fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518033, China
- Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518033, China
| | - Zixian Yang
- Jinan University School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, China
| | - Tao Wang
- The fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518033, China
- Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518033, China
| | - Mengqi Li
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Xiangjian Wu
- The fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518033, China
- Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518033, China
| | - Xiaoyan Fu
- The fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518033, China
- Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518033, China
| | - Chunfeng Yang
- The fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518033, China
- Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518033, China
| | - Yangpu Li
- The fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518033, China
- Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518033, China
| | - Ximing Wang
- The fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518033, China
- Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518033, China
| | - Zhiming Lan
- The fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518033, China
- Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518033, China
| | - Minfang Li
- The fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518033, China
- Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518033, China
| | - Sheng Chen
- The fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518033, China.
- Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518033, China.
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Zhang H, Zhang H, Yang H, Shuid AN, Sandai D, Chen X. Machine learning-based integrated identification of predictive combined diagnostic biomarkers for endometriosis. Front Genet 2023; 14:1290036. [PMID: 38098472 PMCID: PMC10720908 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1290036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Endometriosis (EM) is a common gynecological condition in women of reproductive age, with diverse causes and a not yet fully understood pathogenesis. Traditional diagnostics rely on single diagnostic biomarkers and does not integrate a variety of different biomarkers. This study introduces multiple machine learning techniques, enhancing the accuracy of predictive models. A novel diagnostic approach that combines various biomarkers provides a new clinical perspective for improving the diagnostic efficiency of endometriosis, holding significant potential for clinical application. Methods: In this study, GSE51981 was used as a test set, and 11 machine learning algorithms (Lasso, Stepglm, glmBoost, Support Vector Machine, Ridge, Enet, plsRglm, Random Forest, LDA, XGBoost, and NaiveBayes) were employed to construct 113 predictive models for endometriosis. The optimal model was determined based on the AUC values derived from various algorithms. These genes were then evaluated using nine machine learning algorithms (Random Forest, SVM, Gradient Boosting Machine, LASSO, XGB, NNET, Generalized Linear Model, KNN, and Decision Tree) to assess significance scores and identify diagnostic genes for each algorithm. The diagnostic value of these genes was further validated in external datasets from GSE7305, GSE11691, and GSE120103. Results: Analysis of the GSE51981 dataset revealed 62 DEGs. The Stepglm [Both] and plsRglm algorithms identified 30 genes with the most potential using the AUC evaluation. Subsequently, nine machine learning algorithms were applied to select diagnostic genes, leading to the identification of five key diagnostic genes using the LASSO algorithm. The ADAT1 gene exhibited the best single-gene predictive performance, with an AUC of 0.785. A combination of genes (FOS, EPHX1, DLGAP5, PCSK5, and ADAT1) achieves an AUC of 0.836 in the test dataset. Moreover, these genes consistently exhibited an AUC exceeding 0.78 in all validation datasets, demonstrating superior predictive performance. Furthermore, correlation analysis with immune infiltration strengthened their predictive value by demonstrating the close relationship of the diagnostic genes with immune infiltrating cells. Conclusion: A combination of biomarkers consisting of FOS, EPHX1, DLGAP5, PCSK5, and ADAT1 can serve as a diagnostic tool for endometriosis, enhancing diagnostic efficiency. The association of these genes with immune infiltrating cells reveals their potential role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis, providing new insights for early detection and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haolong Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Haoling Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Huadi Yang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, China
| | - Ahmad Naqib Shuid
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Doblin Sandai
- Department of Community Health, Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Xingbei Chen
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, China
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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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Toledano S, Neufeld G. Plexins as Regulators of Cancer Cell Proliferation, Migration, and Invasivity. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4046. [PMID: 37627074 PMCID: PMC10452846 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15164046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Plexins are a family of nine single-pass transmembrane receptors with a conserved GTPase activating protein (GAP) domain. The plexin family is divided into four subfamilies: Type-A, type-B, type-C, and type-D plexins. Plexins function as receptors for axon guidance factors of the semaphorin family. The semaphorin gene family contains 22 genes that are divided into eight subclasses of which subclasses three to seven represent vertebrate semaphorins. The plexins and their semaphorin ligands have important roles as regulators of angiogenesis, cancer proliferation, and metastasis. Class 3 semaphorins, with the exception of sema3E, are the only semaphorins that do not bind directly to plexins. In order to transduce their signals, they bind instead to complexes consisting of receptors of the neuropilin family and various plexins. Some plexins also form complexes with tyrosine-kinase receptors such as the epidermal growth factor receptor ErbB2, the mesenchymal epithelial transition factor receptor (MET), and the Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) and, as a result, can modulate cell proliferation and tumor progression. This review focuses on the roles of the different plexins in the control of cancer cell proliferation and invasiveness. Plexins also affect tumor progression and tumor metastasis by indirect mechanisms, such as modulation of angiogenesis and immune responses. However, these topics are not covered in the present review.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gera Neufeld
- The Cancer Research Center, The Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3109602, Israel;
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6
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Mohammad AH, Couture F, Gamache I, Chen O, El-Assaad W, Abdel-Malak N, Kwiatkowska A, Muller W, Day R, Teodoro JG. Cleavage of the V-ATPase associated prorenin receptor is mediated by PACE4 and is essential for growth of prostate cancer cells. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288622. [PMID: 37463144 PMCID: PMC10353799 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) mutation is common in prostate cancer during progression to metastatic and castration resistant forms. We previously reported that loss of PTEN function in prostate cancer leads to increased expression and secretion of the Prorenin Receptor (PRR) and its soluble processed form, the soluble Prorenin Receptor (sPRR). PRR is an essential factor required for proper assembly and activity of the vacuolar-ATPase (V-ATPase). The V-ATPase is a rotary proton pump required for the acidification of intracellular vesicles including endosomes and lysosomes. Acidic vesicles are involved in a wide range of cancer related pathways such as receptor mediated endocytosis, autophagy, and cell signalling. Full-length PRR is cleaved at a conserved consensus motif (R-X-X-R↓) by a member of the proprotein convertase family to generate sPRR, and a smaller C-terminal fragment, designated M8.9. It is unclear which convertase processes PRR in prostate cancer cells and how processing affects V-ATPase activity. In the current study we show that PRR is predominantly cleaved by PACE4, a proprotein convertase that has been previously implicated in prostate cancer. We further demonstrate that PTEN controls PRR processing in mouse tissue and controls PACE4 expression in prostate cancer cells. Furthermore, we demonstrate that PACE4 cleavage of PRR is needed for efficient V-ATPase activity and prostate cancer cell growth. Overall, our data highlight the importance of PACE4-mediated PRR processing in normal physiology and prostate cancer tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amro H Mohammad
- Goodman Cancer Research Center, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Frédéric Couture
- Department of Surgery/Urology, Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Isabelle Gamache
- Goodman Cancer Research Center, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Owen Chen
- Goodman Cancer Research Center, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Wissal El-Assaad
- Goodman Cancer Research Center, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Nelly Abdel-Malak
- Goodman Cancer Research Center, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Anna Kwiatkowska
- Department of Surgery/Urology, Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - William Muller
- Goodman Cancer Research Center, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Robert Day
- PhenoSwitch Bioscience, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Jose G Teodoro
- Goodman Cancer Research Center, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
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7
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Oldham JM, Allen RJ, Lorenzo-Salazar JM, Molyneaux PL, Ma SF, Joseph C, Kim JS, Guillen-Guio B, Hernández-Beeftink T, Kropski JA, Huang Y, Lee CT, Adegunsoye A, Pugashetti JV, Linderholm AL, Vo V, Strek ME, Jou J, Muñoz-Barrera A, Rubio-Rodriguez LA, Hubbard R, Hirani N, Whyte MKB, Hart S, Nicholson AG, Lancaster L, Parfrey H, Rassl D, Wallace W, Valenzi E, Zhang Y, Mychaleckyj J, Stockwell A, Kaminski N, Wolters PJ, Molina-Molina M, Banovich NE, Fahy WA, Martinez FJ, Hall IP, Tobin MD, Maher TM, Blackwell TS, Yaspan BL, Jenkins RG, Flores C, Wain LV, Noth I. PCSK6 and Survival in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2023; 207:1515-1524. [PMID: 36780644 PMCID: PMC10263132 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.202205-0845oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a devastating disease characterized by limited treatment options and high mortality. A better understanding of the molecular drivers of IPF progression is needed. Objectives: To identify and validate molecular determinants of IPF survival. Methods: A staged genome-wide association study was performed using paired genomic and survival data. Stage I cases were drawn from centers across the United States and Europe and stage II cases from Vanderbilt University. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to identify gene variants associated with differential transplantation-free survival (TFS). Stage I variants with nominal significance (P < 5 × 10-5) were advanced for stage II testing and meta-analyzed to identify those reaching genome-wide significance (P < 5 × 10-8). Downstream analyses were performed for genes and proteins associated with variants reaching genome-wide significance. Measurements and Main Results: After quality controls, 1,481 stage I cases and 397 stage II cases were included in the analysis. After filtering, 9,075,629 variants were tested in stage I, with 158 meeting advancement criteria. Four variants associated with TFS with consistent effect direction were identified in stage II, including one in an intron of PCSK6 (proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 6) reaching genome-wide significance (hazard ratio, 4.11 [95% confidence interval, 2.54-6.67]; P = 9.45 × 10-9). PCSK6 protein was highly expressed in IPF lung parenchyma. PCSK6 lung staining intensity, peripheral blood gene expression, and plasma concentration were associated with reduced TFS. Conclusions: We identified four novel variants associated with IPF survival, including one in PCSK6 that reached genome-wide significance. Downstream analyses suggested that PCSK6 protein plays a potentially important role in IPF progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin M. Oldham
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Richard J. Allen
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Jose M. Lorenzo-Salazar
- Genomics Division, Instituto Tecnológico y de Energías Renovables, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Philip L. Molyneaux
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals, Guy’s and St. Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Shwu-Fan Ma
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine and
| | | | - John S. Kim
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine and
| | - Beatriz Guillen-Guio
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
- Research Unit, Hospital Universitario Nuestra Señora de Candelaria, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Tamara Hernández-Beeftink
- Research Unit, Hospital Universitario Nuestra Señora de Candelaria, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
- Research Unit, Hospital Universitario de Gran Canaria Dr. Negrin, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
| | - Jonathan A. Kropski
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Yong Huang
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine and
| | - Cathryn T. Lee
- Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Ayodeji Adegunsoye
- Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Janelle Vu Pugashetti
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, California
| | - Angela L. Linderholm
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, California
| | - Vivian Vo
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, California
| | - Mary E. Strek
- Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Jonathan Jou
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Illinois, Peoria, Illinois
| | - Adrian Muñoz-Barrera
- Genomics Division, Instituto Tecnológico y de Energías Renovables, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Luis A. Rubio-Rodriguez
- Genomics Division, Instituto Tecnológico y de Energías Renovables, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Richard Hubbard
- Division of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health Research, Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Nik Hirani
- Medical Research Council Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Moira K. B. Whyte
- Medical Research Council Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Simon Hart
- Respiratory Research Group, Hull York Medical School, Castle Hill Hospital, Cottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew G. Nicholson
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals, Guy’s and St. Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lisa Lancaster
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Helen Parfrey
- Cambridge Interstitial Lung Disease Service, Royal Papworth Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Doris Rassl
- Cambridge Interstitial Lung Disease Service, Royal Papworth Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - William Wallace
- Medical Research Council Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Eleanor Valenzi
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Yingze Zhang
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Josyf Mychaleckyj
- Center for Public Health Genomics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | | | - Naftali Kaminski
- Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Paul J. Wolters
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Allergy and Sleep Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Maria Molina-Molina
- Servei de Pneumologia, Laboratori de Pneumologia Experimental, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Bellvitge, Campus de Bellvitge, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - William A. Fahy
- Discovery Medicine, GlaxoSmithKline, Stevenage, United Kingdom
| | | | - Ian P. Hall
- Division of Respiratory Medicine and
- National Institute for Health Research, Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Martin D. Tobin
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health Research, Leicester Respiratory Biomedical Research Centre, Glenfield Hospital, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Toby M. Maher
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California; and
| | - Timothy S. Blackwell
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
| | | | - R. Gisli Jenkins
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals, Guy’s and St. Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Carlos Flores
- Genomics Division, Instituto Tecnológico y de Energías Renovables, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
- Research Unit, Hospital Universitario Nuestra Señora de Candelaria, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Fernando Pessoa Canarias, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
| | - Louise V. Wain
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health Research, Leicester Respiratory Biomedical Research Centre, Glenfield Hospital, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Imre Noth
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine and
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Lu JZ, Yang J, Zhou ST, Xie KL. Circ_0002984 promotes proliferation, migration and inflammatory cytokine secretion and inhibits apoptosis of rheumatoid arthritis fibroblast-like synoviocytes by inducing PCSK6 through miR-543. J Orthop Surg Res 2023; 18:335. [PMID: 37149637 PMCID: PMC10163683 DOI: 10.1186/s13018-023-03823-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is inflammatory arthritic disease, and circular RNA is involved in RA development. The aim of the present work is to analyze the role of circ_0002984 in the process of RA fibroblast-like synoviocytes (RAFLSs) and the underlying mechanism. METHODS Circ_0002984, miR-543, and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 6 (PCSK6) expression levels were analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction or western blotting. Cell proliferation, migration, inflammatory response, and apoptosis were investigated through 5-Ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine assay, wound-healing assay, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and flow cytometry analysis. Dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation assay were performed to assess the binding relationship. RESULTS Circ_0002984 and PCSK6 expression were increased, while miR-543 expression was decreased in the synovial tissues of RA patients and RAFLSs. Circ_0002984 introduction facilitated RAFLS cell proliferation, migration and inflammatory response and repressed apoptosis, but circ_0002984 knockdown had an opposite role. Circ_0002984 targeted miR-543, and PCSK6 was targeted by miR-543. MiR-543 downregulation or PCSK6 overexpression restored the effects of circ_0002984 interference on RAFLS phenotypes. CONCLUSION Circ_0002984 promoted RAFLS proliferation, migration and inflammatory cytokine secretion and inhibited apoptosis by binding to miR-543 to induce PCSK6 production, providing a potential target for RA therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Zuo Lu
- Department of Orthopedics, The People's Hospital of Wenzhou City, No. 57, Canghou Lane, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, The People's Hospital of Wenzhou City, No. 57, Canghou Lane, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Sheng-Tuo Zhou
- Department of Orthopedics, The People's Hospital of Wenzhou City, No. 57, Canghou Lane, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Kai-Luo Xie
- Department of Orthopedics, The People's Hospital of Wenzhou City, No. 57, Canghou Lane, Wenzhou, 325000, China.
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9
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Lu Z, Liu D, Wei P, Yi T. Activated aggregation strategies to construct size-increasing nanoparticles for cancer therapy. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2023; 15:e1848. [PMID: 36039701 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The development of novel therapeutic strategies and modalities for tumors is still one of the important areas of current scientific research. Low permeability and short residence time of drugs in solid tumor areas are important reasons for the low efficiency of existing therapeutic strategies. Typically, nanoparticles with large size displayed enhanced residence time but low permeability. Therefore, to prolong the retention time of materials in solid tumors, size-increasing strategies have been developed to directly generate large-scale nanoparticles using small molecular compounds or increase the size of small nanoparticles in solid tumor areas. In this review, we summarize recently reported activatable aggregation systems that could be activated by cancer-related substances for cancer therapy and classify them by the mechanisms that lead to aggregation. In the end, we propose some potential challenges briefly from the view of our opinion. This article is categorized under: Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Oncologic Disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenni Lu
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Nano-Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Donghua University, Shanghai, China
| | - Dongya Liu
- Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Peng Wei
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Nano-Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Donghua University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tao Yi
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Nano-Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Donghua University, Shanghai, China
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10
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Mehranzadeh E, Crende O, Badiola I, Garcia-Gallastegi P. What Are the Roles of Proprotein Convertases in the Immune Escape of Tumors? Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10123292. [PMID: 36552048 PMCID: PMC9776400 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10123292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein convertases (PCs) play a significant role in post-translational procedures by transforming inactive precursor proteins into their active forms. The role of PCs is crucial for cellular homeostasis because they are involved in cell signaling. They have also been described in many diseases such as Alzheimer's and cancer. Cancer cells are secretory cells that send signals to the tumor microenvironment (TME), remodeling the surrounding space for their own benefits. One of the most important components of the TME is the immune system of the tumor. In this review, we describe recent discoveries that link PCs to the immune escape of tumors. Among PCs, many findings have determined the role of Furin (PC3) as a paramount enzyme causing the TME to induce tumor immune evasion. The overexpression of various cytokines and proteins, for instance, IL10 and TGF-B, moves the TME towards the presence of Tregs and, consequently, immune tolerance. Furthermore, Furin is implicated in the regulation of macrophage activity that contributes to the increased impairment of DCs (dendritic cells) and T effector cells. Moreover, Furin interferes in the MHC Class_1 proteolytic cleavage in the trans-Golgi network. In tumors, the T cytotoxic lymphocytes (CTLs) response is impeded by the PD1 receptor (PD1-R) located on CTLs and its ligand, PDL1, located on cancer cells. The inhibition of Furin is a subtle means of enhancing the antitumor response by repressing PD-1 expression in tumors or macrophage cells. The impacts of other PCs in tumor immune escape have not yet been clarified to the extent that Furin has. Accordingly, the influence of other types of PCs in tumor immune escape is a promising topic for further consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Mehranzadeh
- Cell Biology and Histology Department, Faculty of Medicine and Nursery, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Barrio Sarriena, sn., 48940 Leioa, Spain
| | - Olatz Crende
- Cell Biology and Histology Department, Faculty of Medicine and Nursery, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Barrio Sarriena, sn., 48940 Leioa, Spain
| | - Iker Badiola
- Cell Biology and Histology Department, Faculty of Medicine and Nursery, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Barrio Sarriena, sn., 48940 Leioa, Spain
- Nanokide Therapeutics SL, Ed. ZITEK, Barrio Sarriena, sn., 48940 Leioa, Spain
| | - Patricia Garcia-Gallastegi
- Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine and Nursery, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Barrio Sarriena, sn., 48940 Leioa, Spain
- Correspondence:
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11
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Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin 6 in Cardiovascular Biology and Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232113429. [DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin 6 (PCSK6) is a secreted serine protease expressed in most major organs, where it cleaves a wide range of growth factors, signaling molecules, peptide hormones, proteolytic enzymes, and adhesion proteins. Studies in Pcsk6-deficient mice have demonstrated the importance of Pcsk6 in embryonic development, body axis specification, ovarian function, and extracellular matrix remodeling in articular cartilage. In the cardiovascular system, PCSK6 acts as a key modulator in heart formation, lipoprotein metabolism, body fluid homeostasis, cardiac repair, and vascular remodeling. To date, dysregulated PCSK6 expression or function has been implicated in major cardiovascular diseases, including atrial septal defects, hypertension, atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, and cardiac aging. In this review, we describe biochemical characteristics and posttranslational modifications of PCSK6. Moreover, we discuss the role of PCSK6 and related molecular mechanisms in cardiovascular biology and disease.
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12
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Hartal-Benishay LH, Saadi E, Toubiana S, Shaked L, Lalzar M, Abu Hatoum O, Tal S, Selig S, Barki-Harrington L. MBTPS1 regulates proliferation of colorectal cancer primarily through its action on sterol regulatory element-binding proteins. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1004014. [PMID: 36300096 PMCID: PMC9592115 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1004014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the main metabolic pathways implicated in cancer cell proliferation are those of cholesterol and fatty acid synthesis, both of which are tightly regulated by sterol regulatory element-binding proteins (SREBPs). SREBPs are activated through specific cleavage by membrane-bound transcription factor protease 1 (MBTPS1), a serine protease that cleaves additional substrates (ATF6, BDNF, CREBs and somatostatin), some of which are also implicated in cell proliferation. The goal of this study was to determine whether MBTPS1 may serve as a master regulator in proliferation of colorectal cancer (CRC). Tumors from CRC patients showed variable levels of MBTPS1 mRNA, which were in positive correlation with the levels of SREBPs and ATF6, and in reverse correlation with BDNF levels. Chemical inhibition of MBTPS1 activity in two CRC-derived cell lines resulted in a marked decrease in the levels of SREBPs, but not of its other substrates and a marked decrease in cell proliferation, which suggested that MBTPS1 activity is critical for proliferation of these cells. In accordance, CRISPR/Cas9 targeted knockout (KO) of the MBTPS1 gene resulted in the survival of only a single clone that presented a phenotype of severely attenuated proliferation and marked downregulation of several energy metabolism pathways. We further showed that survival of the MBTPS1 KO clone was dependent upon significant upregulation of the type-1 interferon pathway, the inhibition of which halted proliferation entirely. Finally, rescue of the MBTPS1 KO cells, resulted in partial restoration of MBTPS1 levels, which was in accordance with partial recovery in proliferation and in SREBP levels. These finding suggest that MBTPS1 plays a critical role in regulating colon cancer proliferation primarily through SREBP-associated lipid metabolism, and as such may serve as a possible therapeutic target in CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liat H. Hartal-Benishay
- Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Esraa Saadi
- Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Shir Toubiana
- Department of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine and Research Institute, Technion, Haifa, Israel
| | - Lior Shaked
- Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Maya Lalzar
- Bioinformatics Service Unit, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Ossama Abu Hatoum
- Department of Surgery, Ha’emek Medical Center, Afula, Israel
- Department of Medicine, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine and Research Institute, Technion, Haifa, Israel
| | - Sharon Tal
- Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Sara Selig
- Department of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine and Research Institute, Technion, Haifa, Israel
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Liza Barki-Harrington
- Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
- *Correspondence: Liza Barki-Harrington,
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13
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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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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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15
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Testicular Germ Cell Tumours and Proprotein Convertases. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14071633. [PMID: 35406405 PMCID: PMC8996948 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14071633] [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: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Despite the high survival rate of the most common neoplasia in young Caucasian men: Testicular Germ Cell Tumors (TGCT), the quality of life of these patients is impaired by the multiple long-term side effects of their treatment. The study of molecules that can serve both as diagnostic biomarkers for tumor development and as therapeutic targets seems necessary. Proprotein convertases (PC) are a group of proteases responsible for the maturation of inactive proproteins with very diverse functions, whose alterations in expression have been associated with various diseases, such as other types of cancer and inflammation. The study of the immune tumor microenvironment and the substrates of PCs could contribute to the development of new and necessary immunotherapies to treat this pathology. Abstract Testicular Germ Cell Tumours (TGCT) are widely considered a “curable cancer” due to their exceptionally high survival rate, even if it is reduced by many years after the diagnosis due to metastases and relapses. The most common therapeutic approach to TGCTs has not changed in the last 50 years despite its multiple long-term side effects, and because it is the most common malignancy in young Caucasian men, much research is needed to better the quality of life of the many survivors. Proprotein Convertases (PC) are nine serine proteases responsible for the maturation of inactive proproteins with many diverse functions. Alterations in their expression have been associated with various diseases, including cancer and inflammation. Many of their substrates are adhesion molecules, metalloproteases and proinflammatory molecules, all of which are involved in tumour development. Inhibition of certain convertases has also been shown to slow tumour formation, demonstrating their involvement in this process. Considering the very established link between PCs and inflammation-related malignancies and the recent studies carried out into the immune microenvironment of TGCTs, the study of the involvement of PCs in testicular cancer may open up avenues for being both a biomarker for diagnosis and a therapeutic target.
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16
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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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17
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de Souza AA, de Andrade DM, Siqueira FDS, Di Iorio JF, Veloso MP, Coelho CDM, Viegas Junior C, Gontijo VS, Dos Santos MH, Meneghetti MCZ, Nader HB, Tersariol ILDS, Juliano L, Juliano MA, Judice WADS. Semysinthetic biflavonoid Morelloflavone-7,4',7″,3‴,4‴-penta-O-butanoyl is a more potent inhibitor of Proprotein Convertases Subtilisin/Kexin PC1/3 than Kex2 and Furin. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2021; 1865:130016. [PMID: 34560176 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2021.130016] [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: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Garcinia brasiliensis is a species native to the Amazon forest. The white mucilaginous pulp is used in folk medicine as a wound healing agent and for peptic ulcer, urinary, and tumor disease treatments. The activity of the proprotein convertases (PCs) Subtilisin/Kex is associated with the development of viral, bacterial and fungal infections, osteoporosis, hyperglycemia, atherosclerosis, cardiovascular, neurodegenerative and neoplastic diseases. METHODS Morelloflavone (BF1) and semisynthetic biflavonoid (BF2, 3 and 4) from Garcinia brasiliensis were tested as inhibitor of PCs Kex2, PC1/3 and Furin, and determined IC50, Ki, human proinflammatory cytokines secretion in Caco-2 cells, mechanism of inhibition, and performed molecular docking studies. RESULTS Biflavonoids were more effective in the inhibition of neuroendocrine PC1/3 than mammalian Furin and fungal Kex2. BF1 presented a mixed inhibition mechanism for Kex2 and PC1, and competitive inhibition for Furin. BF4 has no good interaction with Kex2 and Furin since carboxypropyl groups results in steric hindrance to ligand-protein interactions. Carboxypropyl groups of BF4 promote steric hindrance with Kex2 and Furin, but effective in the affinity of PC1/3. BF4 was more efficient at inhibiting PCl/3 (IC50 = 1.13 μM and Ki = 0,59 μM, simple linear competitive mechanism of inhibition) than Kex2, Furin. Also, our results strongly suggested that BF4 also inhibits the endogenous cellular PC1/3 activity in Caco-2 cells, since PC1/3 inhibition by BF4 causes a large increase in IL-8 and IL-1β secretion in Caco-2 cells. CONCLUSIONS BF4 is a potent and selective inhibitor of PC1/3. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE BF4 is the best candidate for further clinical studies on inhibition of PC1/3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline Aparecida de Souza
- Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Bioquímica, Universidade de Mogi das Cruzes, 08780-911 Mogi das Cruzes, SP, Brazil
| | - Débora Martins de Andrade
- Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Bioquímica, Universidade de Mogi das Cruzes, 08780-911 Mogi das Cruzes, SP, Brazil
| | - Fábio da Silva Siqueira
- Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Bioquímica, Universidade de Mogi das Cruzes, 08780-911 Mogi das Cruzes, SP, Brazil
| | - Juliana Fortes Di Iorio
- Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Bioquímica, Universidade de Mogi das Cruzes, 08780-911 Mogi das Cruzes, SP, Brazil
| | - Marcia Paranho Veloso
- Laboratório de Modelagem Molecular e Simulação Computacional, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, 37130-001 Alfenas, MG, Brazil
| | - Camila de Morais Coelho
- Laboratório de Modelagem Molecular e Simulação Computacional, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, 37130-001 Alfenas, MG, Brazil
| | - Claudio Viegas Junior
- Laboratório de Pesquisa em Química Medicinal, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, 37,133-840 Alfenas, MG, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Silva Gontijo
- Laboratório de Pesquisa em Química Medicinal, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, 37,133-840 Alfenas, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Maria Cecília Zorél Meneghetti
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, 04044-020 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Helena Bonciani Nader
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, 04044-020 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Ivarne Luis Dos Santos Tersariol
- Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Bioquímica, Universidade de Mogi das Cruzes, 08780-911 Mogi das Cruzes, SP, Brazil; Departamento de Bioquímica, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, 04044-020 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Luiz Juliano
- Departamento de Biofísica, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, 04044-020 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria Aparecida Juliano
- Departamento de Biofísica, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, 04044-020 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Wagner Alves de Souza Judice
- Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Bioquímica, Universidade de Mogi das Cruzes, 08780-911 Mogi das Cruzes, SP, Brazil.
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Bonaventura A, Vecchié A, Ruscica M, Grossi F, Dentali F. PCSK9 as a new player in cancer: New opportunity or red herring? Curr Med Chem 2021; 29:960-969. [PMID: 34781861 DOI: 10.2174/0929867328666211115122324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Initially described as a factor involved in liver regeneration and neuronal differentiation, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) has become one of the key regulators of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Besides that, a number of studies have suggested PCSK9 may play a role in cancer biology. This is particularly true for gastroenteric (gastric and liver cancers) and lung cancers, where higher PCSK9 levels were associated with the increased ability of the tumor to develop and give metastasis as well as with reduced overall survival. Accordingly, monoclonal antibodies blocking PCSK9 were recently shown to synergize with immunotherapy in different types of cancers to achieve tumor growth suppression through an increased intratumoral infiltration of cytotoxic T cells. Anti-PCSK9 vaccines have been tested in animal models with encouraging results only in colon carcinoma. As most of this evidence is based on pre-clinical studies, this has led to some controversies and inconsistencies, thus suggesting that additional research is needed to clarify the topic. Finally, modulation of intracellular PCSK9 levels by silencing RNA (siRNA) may help understand the physiological and pathological mechanisms of PCSK9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldo Bonaventura
- Department of Internal Medicine, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese. Italy
| | | | - Massimiliano Ruscica
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan. Italy
| | - Francesco Grossi
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, ASST Sette Laghi, Varese. Italy
| | - Francesco Dentali
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Insubria University, Varese. Italy
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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: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [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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20
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Mahboobnia K, Pirro M, Marini E, Grignani F, Bezsonov EE, Jamialahmadi T, Sahebkar A. PCSK9 and cancer: Rethinking the link. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 140:111758. [PMID: 34058443 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer is emerging as a major problem globally, as it accounts for the second cause of death despite medical advances. According to epidemiological and basic studies, cholesterol is involved in cancer progression and there are abnormalities in cholesterol metabolism of cancer cells including prostate, breast, and colorectal carcinomas. However, the importance of cholesterol in carcinogenesis and thereby the role of cholesterol homeostasis as a therapeutic target is still a debated area in cancer therapy. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type-9 (PCSK9), a serine protease, modulates cholesterol metabolism by attachment to the LDL receptor (LDLR) and reducing its recycling by targeting the receptor for lysosomal destruction. Published research has shown that PCSK9 is also involved in degradation of other LDLR family members namely very-low-density-lipoprotein receptor (VLDLR), lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP-1), and apolipoprotein E receptor 2 (ApoER2). As a result, this protein represents an interesting therapeutic target for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. Interestingly, clinical trials on PCSK9-specific monoclonal antibodies have reported promising results with high efficacy in lowering LDL-C and in turn reducing cardiovascular complications. It is important to note that PCSK9 mediates several other pathways apart from its role in lipid homeostasis, including antiviral activity, hepatic regeneration, neuronal apoptosis, and modulation of various signaling pathways. Furthermore, recent literature has illustrated that PCSK9 is closely associated with incidence and progression of several cancers. In a number of studies, PCSK9 siRNA was shown to effectively suppress the proliferation and invasion of the several studied tumor cells. Hence, a novel application of PCSK9 inhibitors/silencers in cancer/metastasis could be considered. However, due to poor data on effectiveness and safety of PCSK9 inhibitors in cancer, the impact of PCSK9 inhibition in these pathological conditions is still unknown. SEARCH METHODS A vast literature search was conducted to find intended studies from 1956 up to 2020, and inclusion criteria were original peer-reviewed publications. PURPOSE OF REVIEW To date, PCSK9 has been scantly investigated in cancer. The question that needs to be discussed is "How does PCSK9 act in cancer pathophysiology and what are the risks or benefits associated to its inhibition?". We reviewed the available publications highlighting the contribution of this proprotein convertase in pathways related to cancer, with focus on the potential implications of its long-term pharmacological inhibition in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khadijeh Mahboobnia
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Matteo Pirro
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Angiology and Arteriosclerosis Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Ettore Marini
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Angiology and Arteriosclerosis Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Francesco Grignani
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Angiology and Arteriosclerosis Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Evgeny E Bezsonov
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Pathology of Cardiovascular System, Institute of Human Morphology, 3 Tsyurupa Street, Moscow 117418, Russia; Laboratory of Angiopathology, Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, 8 Baltiiskaya Street, Moscow 125315, Russia
| | - Tannaz Jamialahmadi
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Quchan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Quchan, Iran; Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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21
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Wu Y, Huang Y, Zhang W, Gunst SJ. The proprotein convertase furin inhibits IL-13-induced inflammation in airway smooth muscle by regulating integrin-associated signaling complexes. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2021; 321:L102-L115. [PMID: 34009050 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00618.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Furin is a proprotein convertase that regulates the activation and the inactivation of multiple proteins including matrix metalloproteinases, integrins, and cytokines. It is a serine endoprotease that localizes to the plasma membrane and can be secreted into the extracellular space. The role of furin in regulating inflammation in isolated canine airway smooth muscle tissues was investigated. The treatment of airway tissues with recombinant furin (rFurin) inhibited the activation of Akt and eotaxin secretion induced by IL-13, and it prevented the IL-13-induced suppression of smooth muscle myosin heavy chain expression. rFurin promoted a differentiated phenotype by activating β1-integrin proteins and stimulating the activation of the adhesome proteins vinculin and paxillin by talin. Activated paxillin induced the binding of Akt to β-parvin IPP [integrin-linked kinase (ILK), PINCH, parvin] complexes, which inhibits Akt activation. Treatment of tissues with a furin inhibitor or the depletion of endogenous furin using shRNA resulted in Akt activation and inflammatory responses similar to those induced by IL-13. Furin inactivation or IL-13 caused talin cleavage and integrin inactivation, resulting in the inactivation of vinculin and paxillin. Paxillin inactivation resulted in the coupling of Akt to α-parvin IPP complexes, which catalyze Akt activation and an inflammatory response. The results demonstrate that furin inhibits inflammation in airway smooth muscle induced by IL-13 and that the anti-inflammatory effects of furin are mediated by activating integrin proteins and integrin-associated signaling complexes that regulate Akt-mediated pathways to the nucleus. Furin may have therapeutic potential for the treatment of inflammatory conditions of the lungs and airways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yidi Wu
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Youliang Huang
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Wenwu Zhang
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Susan J Gunst
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
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22
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Rose M, Duhamel M, Rodet F, Salzet M. The Role of Proprotein Convertases in the Regulation of the Function of Immune Cells in the Oncoimmune Response. Front Immunol 2021; 12:667850. [PMID: 33995401 PMCID: PMC8117212 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.667850] [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: 02/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Proprotein convertases (PC) are a family of 9 serine proteases involved in the processing of cellular pro-proteins. They trigger the activation, inactivation or functional changes of many hormones, neuropeptides, growth factors and receptors. Therefore, these enzymes are essential for cellular homeostasis in health and disease. Nine PC subtilisin/kexin genes (PCSK1 to PCSK9) encoding for PC1/3, PC2, furin, PC4, PC5/6, PACE4, PC7, SKI-1/S1P and PCSK9 are known. The expression of PC1/3, PC2, PC5/6, Furin and PC7 in lymphoid organs such as lymph nodes, thymus and spleen has suggested a role for these enzymes in immunity. In fact, knock-out of Furin in T cells was associated with high secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and autoantibody production in mice. This suggested a key role for this enzyme in immune tolerance. Moreover, Furin through its proteolytic activity, regulates the suppressive functions of Treg and thus prevents chronic inflammation and autoimmune diseases. In macrophages, Furin is also involved in the regulation of their inflammatory phenotype. Similarly, PC1/3 inhibition combined with TLR4 stimulation triggers the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway with an increased secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Factors secreted by PC1/3 KD macrophages stimulated with LPS exert a chemoattractive effect on naive auxiliary T lymphocytes (Th0) and anti-tumoral activities. The link between TLR and PCs is thus very important in inflammatory response regulation. Furin regulates TL7 and TLR8 processing and trafficking whereas PC1/3 controls TLR4 and TLR9 trafficking. Since PC1/3 and Furin are key regulators of both the innate and adaptive immune responses their inhibition may play a major role in oncoimmune therapy. The role of PCs in the oncoimmune response and therapeutic strategies based on PCs inhibition are proposed in the present review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélanie Rose
- Université Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1192, Laboratoire Protéomique, Réponse Inflammatoire et Spectrométrie de Masse (PRISM), Lille, France
| | - Marie Duhamel
- Université Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1192, Laboratoire Protéomique, Réponse Inflammatoire et Spectrométrie de Masse (PRISM), Lille, France
| | - Franck Rodet
- Université Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1192, Laboratoire Protéomique, Réponse Inflammatoire et Spectrométrie de Masse (PRISM), Lille, France
| | - Michel Salzet
- Université Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1192, Laboratoire Protéomique, Réponse Inflammatoire et Spectrométrie de Masse (PRISM), Lille, France
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23
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Kwek G, Do TC, Lu X, Lin J, Xing B. Scratching the Surface of Unventured Possibilities with In Situ Self-Assembly: Protease-Activated Developments for Imaging and Therapy. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2021; 4:2192-2216. [PMID: 35014345 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.0c01340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In situ self-assembly has attracted increasing research interest for applications in imaging and therapy in recent years. Particularly for protease-activated developments, inspiration is drawn from the innate specificity of their catalytic activities, rapid discovery of the various roles they play in the proliferation of certain diseases, and inherent susceptibility of small molecule peptide conjugates to proteolytic digestion in vivo. The overexpression of a disease-related protease of interest can be exploited as an endogenous stimulus for site-specific self-assembly to largely amplify a molecular event happening at the cellular level. This holds great potential for applications in early stage disease detection, long-term disease monitoring, and sustained therapeutic effects. This review summarizes the recent developments in protease-activated self-assemblies for imaging and therapeutic applications toward the manifestation of tumors, bacterial infections, neurodegenerative disorders, and wound recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Germain Kwek
- Division of Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, School of Physical & Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 637371 Singapore
| | - Thang Cong Do
- Division of Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, School of Physical & Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 637371 Singapore
| | - Xiaoling Lu
- International Nanobody Research Centre of Guangxi, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, China
| | - Jun Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130022, China
| | - Bengang Xing
- Division of Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, School of Physical & Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 637371 Singapore.,School of Chemical & Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 637549 Singapore
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24
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Testa G, Staurenghi E, Giannelli S, Sottero B, Gargiulo S, Poli G, Gamba P, Leonarduzzi G. Up-regulation of PCSK6 by lipid oxidation products: A possible role in atherosclerosis. Biochimie 2021; 181:191-203. [PMID: 33359561 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2020.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a degenerative disease characterized by lesions that develop in the wall of large- and medium-sized arteries due to the accumulation of low-density lipoproteins (LDLs) in the intima. A growing bulk of evidence suggests that cholesterol oxidation products, known as oxysterols, and the aldehyde 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (HNE), the major pro-atherogenic components of oxidized LDLs, significantly contribute to atherosclerotic plaque progression and destabilization, with eventual plaque rupture. The involvement of certain members of the protein convertase subtilisin/kexin proteases (PCSKs) in atherosclerosis has been recently hypothesized. Among them, PCSK6 has been associated with plaque instability, mainly thanks to its ability to stimulate the activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) involved in extracellular matrix remodeling and to enhance inflammation. In U937 promonocytic cells and in human umbilical vein endothelial cells, an oxysterol mixture and HNE were able to up-regulate the level and activity of PCSK6, resulting in MMP-9 activation as demonstrated by PCSK6 silencing. Inflammation, enhanced by these lipid oxidation products, plays a key role in the up-regulation of PCSK6 activity as demonstrated by cell pretreatment with NS-398, with epigallocatechin gallate or with acetylsalicylic acid, all with anti-inflammatory effects. For the first time, we demonstrated that both oxysterols and HNE, which substantially accumulate in the atherosclerotic plaque, up-regulate the activity of PCSK6. Of note, we also suggest a potential association between PCSK6 activity and MMP-9 activation, pointing out that PCSK6 could contribute to atherosclerotic plaque development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella Testa
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Turin, 10043, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Erica Staurenghi
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Turin, 10043, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Serena Giannelli
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Turin, 10043, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Barbara Sottero
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Turin, 10043, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Simona Gargiulo
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Turin, 10043, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Poli
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Turin, 10043, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Paola Gamba
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Turin, 10043, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Gabriella Leonarduzzi
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Turin, 10043, Orbassano, Turin, Italy.
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25
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Activation of proprotein convertase in the mouse habenula causes depressive-like behaviors through remodeling of extracellular matrix. Neuropsychopharmacology 2021; 46:442-454. [PMID: 32942293 PMCID: PMC7852607 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-020-00843-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The lateral habenula (LHb) attracts a growing interest as a regulator of monoaminergic activity which were frequently reported to be defective in depression. Here we found that chronic social defeat stress (CSDS) increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in LHb associated with mobilization of monocytes and remodeling of extracellular matrix by increased matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity. RNA-seq analysis identified proprotein convertase Pcsk5 as an upstream regulator of MMP activation, with upregulation in LHb neurons of mice with susceptibility to CSDS. PCSK5 facilitated motility of microglia in vitro by converting inactive pro-MMP14 and pro-MMP2 to their active forms, highlighting its role in mobilization of microglia and monocytes in neuroinflammation. Suppression of Pcsk5 expression via small interfering RNA (siRNA) ameliorated depressive-like behaviors and pathological mobilization of monocytes in mice with susceptibility to CSDS. PCSK5-MMPs signaling pathway could be a target for development of the antidepressants targeting the inflammatory response in specific brain regions implicated in depression.
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26
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Lin Y, Long H, Tan X, Zhang D, Jiang L. PACE4 Expression is a Novel Independent Prognostic Factor in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma. Cancer Manag Res 2020; 12:8623-8629. [PMID: 32982453 PMCID: PMC7509316 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s264143] [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: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Paired basic amino acid-cleaving enzyme 4 (PACE4) belongs to the family of proprotein convertase and is essential for tumor progression, whereas its role in cancer remains controversial and little is known about its role in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). The aim of this study was to examine if the expression of PACE4 is a prognostic biomarker for patients with NPC. Methods Immunofluorescence (IF) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were used to analyze PACE4 expression in NPC cell line CNE1 and 172 clinicopathologically characterized NPC tissues. The data were analyzed by Chi-square test, Kaplan–Meier plots, and Cox proportional hazards regression model. Results IF and IHC staining results showed that PACE4 was mainly located in the cytoplasm of NPC cell line (CNE1) and NPC tissues. Expression of PACE4 was observed in 46/172 (26.7%) of NPC tissues. Further analysis showed that expression of PACE4 was positively associated with late N stage, distant metastasis, and late clinical stage (P<0.05). High expression of PACE4 predicted shorter 5-year overall survival of patients with NPC, especially for the patients in advanced stage (32.7% vs 77.3%, P<0.001). Furthermore, multivariate analysis showed that PACE4 expression may serve as a potential prognostic factor for NPC. Conclusion Our results suggest that PACE4 may play a crucial role in tumor progression and may serve as a valuable prognostic biomarker for patients with NPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunen Lin
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510120, People's Republic of China
| | - Huidong Long
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510095, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaojun Tan
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510120, People's Republic of China
| | - Donghui Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510120, People's Republic of China
| | - Liwen Jiang
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510120, People's Republic of China
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Shedding of cancer susceptibility candidate 4 by the convertases PC7/furin unravels a novel secretory protein implicated in cancer progression. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:665. [PMID: 32820145 PMCID: PMC7441151 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-02893-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The proprotein convertases (PCs) are responsible for the maturation of precursor proteins, and are involved in multiple and critical biological processes. Over the past 30 years, the PCs have had great translational applications, but the physiological roles of PC7, the seventh member of the family, are still obscure. Searching for new substrates of PC7, a quantitative proteomics screen for selective enrichment of N-glycosylated polypeptides secreted from hepatic HuH7 cells identified two human type-II transmembrane proteins of unknown function(s): Cancer Susceptibility Candidate 4 (CASC4) and Golgi Phosphoprotein of 130 kDa (GPP130/GOLIM4). Concentrating on CASC4, its mutagenesis characterized the PC7/Furin-shedding site to occur at KR66↓NS, in HEK293 cells. We defined PC7 and Furin trafficking and activity, and demonstrated that CASC4 shedding occurs in acidic endosomes and/or in the trans-Golgi Network. Our data unraveled a cancer-protective role for CASC4, because siRNA silencing of endogenous CASC4 expression in the invasive triple-negative breast cancer human cell line MDA-MB-231 resulted in a significantly increased cellular migration and invasion. Conversely, MDA-MB-231 cells stably expressing CASC4 exhibited reduced migration and invasion, which can be explained by an increased number of paxillin-positive focal adhesions. This phenotypic cancer-protective role of CASC4 is reversed in cells overexpressing an optimally PC7/Furin-cleaved CASC4 mutant, or upon overexpression of the N-terminally convertase-generated membrane-bound segment. This phenotype was associated with increased formation of podosome-like structures, especially evident in cells overexpressing the N-terminal fragment. In accord, breast cancer patients’ data sets show that high CASC4 and PCSK7 expression levels predict a significantly worse prognosis compared to high CASC4 but low PCSK7 levels. In conclusion, CASC4 shedding not only disrupts its anti-migratory/invasive role, but also generates a membrane-bound fragment that drastically modifies the actin cytoskeleton, resulting in an enhanced cellular migration and invasion. This phenotype might be clinically relevant in the prognosis of breast cancer patients.
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Cesaro A, Bianconi V, Gragnano F, Moscarella E, Fimiani F, Monda E, Scudiero O, Limongelli G, Pirro M, Calabrò P. Beyond cholesterol metabolism: The pleiotropic effects of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9). Genetics, mutations, expression, and perspective for long-term inhibition. Biofactors 2020; 46:367-380. [PMID: 31999032 DOI: 10.1002/biof.1619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) has a crucial role in lipid metabolism, particularly due to its function in low-density lipoprotein receptor degradation. Gain-of-function genetic mutations of PCSK9 result in autosomal dominant familial hypercholesterolemia, characterized by high levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and clinical signs of early atherosclerosis. In recent years, PCSK9 has become an important therapeutic target for cholesterol-lowering therapy. Particularly, its inhibition with monoclonal antibodies has shown excellent efficacy in decreasing LDL-C and reducing cardiovascular events. However, PCSK9, first identified in the brain, seems to be a ubiquitous protein with different tissue-specific functions also independent of cholesterol metabolism. Accordingly, it appears to be involved in the immune response, haemostasis, glucose metabolism, neuronal survival, and several other biological functions. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the genetics, biochemical structure, expression, and function of PCSK9 and discusses the potential implications of its long-term pharmacological inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arturo Cesaro
- Division of Clinical Cardiology, A.O.R.N. "Sant'Anna e San Sebastiano", Caserta, Italy
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Vanessa Bianconi
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Felice Gragnano
- Division of Clinical Cardiology, A.O.R.N. "Sant'Anna e San Sebastiano", Caserta, Italy
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Moscarella
- Division of Clinical Cardiology, A.O.R.N. "Sant'Anna e San Sebastiano", Caserta, Italy
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Fabio Fimiani
- Division of Clinical Cardiology, A.O.R.N. "Sant'Anna e San Sebastiano", Caserta, Italy
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Emanuele Monda
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
- Division of Cardiology, Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Olga Scudiero
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, Napoli, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Limongelli
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
- Division of Cardiology, Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Matteo Pirro
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Paolo Calabrò
- Division of Clinical Cardiology, A.O.R.N. "Sant'Anna e San Sebastiano", Caserta, Italy
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
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29
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Röhl S, Suur BE, Lengquist M, Seime T, Caidahl K, Hedin U, Arner A, Matic L, Razuvaev A. Lack of PCSK6 Increases Flow-Mediated Outward Arterial Remodeling in Mice. Cells 2020; 9:cells9041009. [PMID: 32325687 PMCID: PMC7225991 DOI: 10.3390/cells9041009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Proprotein convertases (PCSKs) process matrix metalloproteases and cytokines, but their function in the vasculature is largely unknown. Previously, we demonstrated upregulation of PCSK6 in atherosclerotic plaques from symptomatic patients, localization to smooth muscle cells (SMCs) in the fibrous cap and positive correlations with inflammation, extracellular matrix remodeling and cytokines. Here, we hypothesize that PCSK6 could be involved in flow-mediated vascular remodeling and aim to evaluate its role in the physiology of this process using knockout mice. Pcsk6−/− and wild type mice were randomized into control and increased blood flow groups and induced in the right common carotid artery (CCA) by ligation of the left CCA. The animals underwent repeated ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) examinations followed by euthanization with subsequent evaluation using wire myography, transmission electron microscopy or histology. The Pcsk6−/− mice displayed a flow-mediated increase in lumen circumference over time, assessed with UBM. Wire myography revealed differences in the flow-mediated remodeling response detected as an increase in lumen circumference at optimal stretch with concomitant reduction in active tension. Furthermore, a flow-mediated reduction in expression of SMC contractile markers SMA, MYH11 and LMOD1 was seen in the Pcsk6−/− media. Absence of PCSK6 increases outward remodeling and reduces medial contractility in response to increased blood flow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Röhl
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden; (S.R.); (B.E.S.); (M.L.); (T.S.); (K.C.); (U.H.)
| | - Bianca E. Suur
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden; (S.R.); (B.E.S.); (M.L.); (T.S.); (K.C.); (U.H.)
| | - Mariette Lengquist
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden; (S.R.); (B.E.S.); (M.L.); (T.S.); (K.C.); (U.H.)
| | - Till Seime
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden; (S.R.); (B.E.S.); (M.L.); (T.S.); (K.C.); (U.H.)
| | - Kenneth Caidahl
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden; (S.R.); (B.E.S.); (M.L.); (T.S.); (K.C.); (U.H.)
- Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ulf Hedin
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden; (S.R.); (B.E.S.); (M.L.); (T.S.); (K.C.); (U.H.)
| | - Anders Arner
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Thoracic Surgery, Lund University, 221 84 Lund, Sweden;
| | - Ljubica Matic
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden; (S.R.); (B.E.S.); (M.L.); (T.S.); (K.C.); (U.H.)
- Correspondence: (L.M.); (A.R.); Tel.: +46-(0)-73-962-42-79 (L.M.); +46-(0)-76-238-44-75 (A.R.)
| | - Anton Razuvaev
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden; (S.R.); (B.E.S.); (M.L.); (T.S.); (K.C.); (U.H.)
- Correspondence: (L.M.); (A.R.); Tel.: +46-(0)-73-962-42-79 (L.M.); +46-(0)-76-238-44-75 (A.R.)
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Chou CL, Chen TJ, Lin CY, Lee SW, Wang SC, Chu SS, Yang CC. PCSK1 Overexpression in Rectal Cancer Correlates with Poor Response to Preoperative Chemoradiotherapy and Prognosis. Onco Targets Ther 2020; 13:3141-3150. [PMID: 32346297 PMCID: PMC7167277 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s243750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In a data mining search for potential therapeutic targets to improve the outcome of rectal cancer, we identified PCSK1 as the cell-cell signaling gene most significantly associated with poor response to concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT). This study aims to investigate the prognostic value of PCSK1 expression in rectal cancer patients who underwent neoadjuvant CCRT. Methods Endoscopic biopsy specimens from 172 rectal cancer patients receiving neoadjuvant CCRT followed by curative surgery were assessed immunohistochemically for PCSK1 expression, and H-scores were determined. Expression levels of PCSK1 were further analyzed for correlations with clinicopathologic features, tumor regression grade, metastasis-free survival, disease-specific survival, and recurrence-free survival. Results PCKS1 overexpression was significantly associated with pretreatment tumor status (T3-4; p = 0.009), pretreatment nodal status (N1-2; p < 0.001), posttreatment tumor status (T3-4; p < 0.001), posttreatment nodal status (N1-2; p < 0.001), vascular invasion (p = 0.003), and perineurial invasion (p = 0.023). PCKS1 overexpression was also found to be significantly associated with a lower degree of tumor regression (p < 0.001). In the univariate analysis, PCSK1 overexpression was significantly associated with lower disease-specific survival, metastasis-free survival, and recurrence-free survival (p < 0.005). PCSK1 overexpression remained an independent prognostic factor of lower disease-specific survival (p = 0.003; hazard ratio, 5.478) in the multivariate analysis. Conclusion Determination of PCSK1 overexpression may be useful for identifying rectal cancer patients at risk for a poor response and worse survival after CCRT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Lin Chou
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan.,Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Ju Chen
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of Pathology, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan.,Department of Optometry, Chung Hwa University of Medical Technology, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Yi Lin
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Sung-Wei Lee
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Chi Mei Medical Center, Liouying, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Chang Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Shou-Sheng Chu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Chieh Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan.,Department of Pharmacy, Chia-Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Tainan, Taiwan
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Han K, Pierce SE, Li A, Spees K, Anderson GR, Seoane JA, Lo YH, Dubreuil M, Olivas M, Kamber RA, Wainberg M, Kostyrko K, Kelly MR, Yousefi M, Simpkins SW, Yao D, Lee K, Kuo CJ, Jackson PK, Sweet-Cordero A, Kundaje A, Gentles AJ, Curtis C, Winslow MM, Bassik MC. CRISPR screens in cancer spheroids identify 3D growth-specific vulnerabilities. Nature 2020; 580:136-141. [PMID: 32238925 PMCID: PMC7368463 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-020-2099-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 177] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Cancer genomics studies have identified thousands of putative cancer driver genes1. Development of high-throughput and accurate models to define the functions of these genes is a major challenge. Here we devised a scalable cancer-spheroid model and performed genome-wide CRISPR screens in 2D monolayers and 3D lung-cancer spheroids. CRISPR phenotypes in 3D more accurately recapitulated those of in vivo tumours, and genes with differential sensitivities between 2D and 3D conditions were highly enriched for genes that are mutated in lung cancers. These analyses also revealed drivers that are essential for cancer growth in 3D and in vivo, but not in 2D. Notably, we found that carboxypeptidase D is responsible for removal of a C-terminal RKRR motif2 from the α-chain of the insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor that is critical for receptor activity. Carboxypeptidase D expression correlates with patient outcomes in patients with lung cancer, and loss of carboxypeptidase D reduced tumour growth. Our results reveal key differences between 2D and 3D cancer models, and establish a generalizable strategy for performing CRISPR screens in spheroids to reveal cancer vulnerabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyuho Han
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - Sarah E Pierce
- Program in Cancer Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Amy Li
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Kaitlyn Spees
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Gray R Anderson
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Jose A Seoane
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Yuan-Hung Lo
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Michael Dubreuil
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Program in Cancer Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Micah Olivas
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Roarke A Kamber
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Michael Wainberg
- Department of Computer Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Kaja Kostyrko
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Marcus R Kelly
- Program in Cancer Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Maryam Yousefi
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Scott W Simpkins
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - David Yao
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Keonil Lee
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Calvin J Kuo
- Program in Cancer Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Peter K Jackson
- Program in Cancer Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Baxter Laboratory, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | - Anshul Kundaje
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Computer Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Andrew J Gentles
- Departments of Medicine and Biomedical Data Science, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Christina Curtis
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Program in Cancer Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Monte M Winslow
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Program in Cancer Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Michael C Bassik
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Program in Cancer Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Program in Chemistry, Engineering and Medicine for Human Health (ChEM-H), Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
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Neuropilin: Handyman and Power Broker in the Tumor Microenvironment. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1223:31-67. [PMID: 32030684 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-35582-1_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Neuropilin-1 and neuropilin-2 form a small family of transmembrane receptors, which, due to the lack of a cytosolic protein kinase domain, act primarily as co-receptors for various ligands. Performing at the molecular level both the executive and organizing functions of a handyman as well as of a power broker, they are instrumental in controlling the signaling of various receptor tyrosine kinases, integrins, and other molecules involved in the regulation of physiological and pathological angiogenic processes. In this setting, the various neuropilin ligands and interaction partners on various cells of the tumor microenvironment, such as cancer cells, endothelial cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts, and immune cells, are surveyed. The suitability of various neuropilin-targeting substances and the intervention in neuropilin-mediated interactions is considered as a possible building block of tumor therapy.
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Rykaczewska U, Suur BE, Röhl S, Razuvaev A, Lengquist M, Sabater-Lleal M, van der Laan SW, Miller CL, Wirka RC, Kronqvist M, Gonzalez Diez M, Vesterlund M, Gillgren P, Odeberg J, Lindeman JH, Veglia F, Humphries SE, de Faire U, Baldassarre D, Tremoli E, Lehtiö J, Hansson GK, Paulsson-Berne G, Pasterkamp G, Quertermous T, Hamsten A, Eriksson P, Hedin U, Matic L. PCSK6 Is a Key Protease in the Control of Smooth Muscle Cell Function in Vascular Remodeling. Circ Res 2020; 126:571-585. [PMID: 31893970 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.119.316063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE PCSKs (Proprotein convertase subtilisins/kexins) are a protease family with unknown functions in vasculature. Previously, we demonstrated PCSK6 upregulation in human atherosclerotic plaques associated with smooth muscle cells (SMCs), inflammation, extracellular matrix remodeling, and mitogens. OBJECTIVE Here, we applied a systems biology approach to gain deeper insights into the PCSK6 role in normal and diseased vessel wall. METHODS AND RESULTS Genetic analyses revealed association of intronic PCSK6 variant rs1531817 with maximum internal carotid intima-media thickness progression in high-cardiovascular risk subjects. This variant was linked with PCSK6 mRNA expression in healthy aortas and plaques but also with overall plaque SMA+ cell content and pericyte fraction. Increased PCSK6 expression was found in several independent human cohorts comparing atherosclerotic lesions versus healthy arteries, using transcriptomic and proteomic datasets. By immunohistochemistry, PCSK6 was localized to fibrous cap SMA+ cells and neovessels in plaques. In human, rat, and mouse intimal hyperplasia, PCSK6 was expressed by proliferating SMA+ cells and upregulated after 5 days in rat carotid balloon injury model, with positive correlation to PDGFB (platelet-derived growth factor subunit B) and MMP (matrix metalloprotease) 2/MMP14. Here, PCSK6 was shown to colocalize and cointeract with MMP2/MMP14 by in situ proximity ligation assay. Microarrays of carotid arteries from Pcsk6-/- versus control mice revealed suppression of contractile SMC markers, extracellular matrix remodeling enzymes, and cytokines/receptors. Pcsk6-/- mice showed reduced intimal hyperplasia response upon carotid ligation in vivo, accompanied by decreased MMP14 activation and impaired SMC outgrowth from aortic rings ex vivo. PCSK6 silencing in human SMCs in vitro leads to downregulation of contractile markers and increase in MMP2 expression. Conversely, PCSK6 overexpression increased PDGFBB (platelet-derived growth factor BB)-induced cell proliferation and particularly migration. CONCLUSIONS PCSK6 is a novel protease that induces SMC migration in response to PDGFB, mechanistically via modulation of contractile markers and MMP14 activation. This study establishes PCSK6 as a key regulator of SMC function in vascular remodeling. Visual Overview: An online visual overview is available for this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urszula Rykaczewska
- From the Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institute and Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden (U.R., B.E.S., S.R., A.R., M.L., M.K., U.H., L.M.)
| | - Bianca E Suur
- From the Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institute and Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden (U.R., B.E.S., S.R., A.R., M.L., M.K., U.H., L.M.)
| | - Samuel Röhl
- From the Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institute and Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden (U.R., B.E.S., S.R., A.R., M.L., M.K., U.H., L.M.)
| | - Anton Razuvaev
- From the Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institute and Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden (U.R., B.E.S., S.R., A.R., M.L., M.K., U.H., L.M.)
| | - Mariette Lengquist
- From the Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institute and Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden (U.R., B.E.S., S.R., A.R., M.L., M.K., U.H., L.M.)
| | - Maria Sabater-Lleal
- Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institute and Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden (M.S.-L., M.G.D., G.P.-B., G.K.H., A.H., P.E., J.O.).,Unit of Genomics of Complex Diseases, Institut de Recerca Hospital de Sant Pau (IIB-Sant Pau), Barcelona, Spain (M.S.-L.)
| | - Sander W van der Laan
- Central Diagnostics Laboratory, Laboratories, Pharmacy, and Biomedical Genetics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, The Netherlands (S.v.d.L.)
| | - Clint L Miller
- Center for Public Health Genomics, Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville (C.L.M.).,Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, CA (C.L.M., R.C.W., T.Q.)
| | - Robert C Wirka
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, CA (C.L.M., R.C.W., T.Q.)
| | - Malin Kronqvist
- From the Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institute and Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden (U.R., B.E.S., S.R., A.R., M.L., M.K., U.H., L.M.)
| | - Maria Gonzalez Diez
- Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institute and Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden (M.S.-L., M.G.D., G.P.-B., G.K.H., A.H., P.E., J.O.)
| | - Mattias Vesterlund
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Sweden (M.V., J.L.)
| | - Peter Gillgren
- Department of Clinical Science and Education, Södersjukhuset, Karolinska Institutet, and Department of Vascular Surgery, Södersjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden (P.G.)
| | - Jacob Odeberg
- Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institute and Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden (M.S.-L., M.G.D., G.P.-B., G.K.H., A.H., P.E., J.O.).,Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Proteomics, School of Chemistry Biotechnology and Health (CBH), KTH, Stockholm, Sweden (J.O.)
| | - Jan H Lindeman
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, The Netherlands (J.H.N.L.)
| | - Fabrizio Veglia
- Centro Cardiologico Monzino, IRCCS, Milan, Italy (F.V., D.B., E.T.)
| | - Steve E Humphries
- Cardiovascular Genetics, Institute Cardiovascular Science, University College of London, Department of Medicine, Rayne Building, United Kingdom (S.E.H.)
| | - Ulf de Faire
- Division of Cardiovascular Epidemiology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden (H.d.F.)
| | - Damiano Baldassarre
- Centro Cardiologico Monzino, IRCCS, Milan, Italy (F.V., D.B., E.T.).,Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, Università di Milano, Milan, Italy (D.B.)
| | - Elena Tremoli
- Centro Cardiologico Monzino, IRCCS, Milan, Italy (F.V., D.B., E.T.)
| | | | - Janne Lehtiö
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Sweden (M.V., J.L.)
| | - Göran K Hansson
- Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institute and Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden (M.S.-L., M.G.D., G.P.-B., G.K.H., A.H., P.E., J.O.)
| | - Gabrielle Paulsson-Berne
- Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institute and Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden (M.S.-L., M.G.D., G.P.-B., G.K.H., A.H., P.E., J.O.)
| | - Gerard Pasterkamp
- Laboratory of Experimental Cardiology, Division Heart & Lungs, University Medical Center Utrecht, The Netherlands (G.P.)
| | - Thomas Quertermous
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, CA (C.L.M., R.C.W., T.Q.)
| | - Anders Hamsten
- Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institute and Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden (M.S.-L., M.G.D., G.P.-B., G.K.H., A.H., P.E., J.O.)
| | - Per Eriksson
- Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institute and Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden (M.S.-L., M.G.D., G.P.-B., G.K.H., A.H., P.E., J.O.)
| | - Ulf Hedin
- From the Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institute and Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden (U.R., B.E.S., S.R., A.R., M.L., M.K., U.H., L.M.)
| | - Ljubica Matic
- From the Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institute and Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden (U.R., B.E.S., S.R., A.R., M.L., M.K., U.H., L.M.)
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Ahmad M, Winkler CM, Kolmbauer M, Pichler H, Schwab H, Emmerstorfer‐Augustin A. Pichia pastoris protease-deficient and auxotrophic strains generated by a novel, user-friendly vector toolbox for gene deletion. Yeast 2019; 36:557-570. [PMID: 31148217 PMCID: PMC6771850 DOI: 10.1002/yea.3426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Revised: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Targeted gene knockouts play an important role in the study of gene function. For the generation of knockouts in the industrially important yeast Pichia pastoris, several protocols have been published to date. Nevertheless, creating a targeted knockout in P. pastoris still is a time-consuming process, as the existing protocols are labour intensive and/or prone to accumulate nucleotide mutations. In this study, we introduce a novel, user-friendly vector-based system for the generation of targeted knockouts in P. pastoris. Upon confirming the successful knockout, respective selection markers can easily be recycled. Excision of the marker is mediated by Flippase (Flp) recombinase and occurs at high frequency (≥95%). We validated our knockout system by deleting 20 (confirmed and putative) protease genes and five genes involved in biosynthetic pathways. For the first time, we describe gene deletions of PRO3 and PHA2 in P. pastoris, genes involved in proline, and phenylalanine biosynthesis, respectively. Unexpectedly, knockout strains of PHA2 did not display the anticipated auxotrophy for phenylalanine but rather showed a bradytroph phenotype on minimal medium hinting at an alternative but less efficient pathway for production of phenylalanine exists in P. pastoris. Overall, all knockout vectors can easily be adapted to the gene of interest and strain background by efficient exchange of target homology regions and selection markers in single cloning steps. Average knockout efficiencies for all 25 genes were shown to be 40%, which is comparably high.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mudassar Ahmad
- Institute of Molecular BiotechnologyGraz University of TechnologyGrazAustria
| | | | - Markus Kolmbauer
- Institute of Molecular BiotechnologyGraz University of TechnologyGrazAustria
| | - Harald Pichler
- Institute of Molecular BiotechnologyGraz University of TechnologyGrazAustria,Austrian Centre of Industrial Biotechnology (ACIB)GrazAustria
| | - Helmut Schwab
- Institute of Molecular BiotechnologyGraz University of TechnologyGrazAustria,Austrian Centre of Industrial Biotechnology (ACIB)GrazAustria
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Pathogenetic gene changes of eutopic endometrium in patients with ovarian endometriosis. Chin Med J (Engl) 2019; 132:1107-1109. [PMID: 30882467 PMCID: PMC6595869 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000000195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
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Braun E, Sauter D. Furin-mediated protein processing in infectious diseases and cancer. Clin Transl Immunology 2019; 8:e1073. [PMID: 31406574 PMCID: PMC6682551 DOI: 10.1002/cti2.1073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 200] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2019] [Revised: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Proteolytic cleavage regulates numerous processes in health and disease. One key player is the ubiquitously expressed serine protease furin, which cleaves a plethora of proteins at polybasic recognition motifs. Mammalian substrates of furin include cytokines, hormones, growth factors and receptors. Thus, it is not surprising that aberrant furin activity is associated with a variety of disorders including cancer. Furthermore, the enzymatic activity of furin is exploited by numerous viral and bacterial pathogens, thereby enhancing their virulence and spread. In this review, we describe the physiological and pathophysiological substrates of furin and discuss how dysregulation of a simple proteolytic cleavage event may promote infectious diseases and cancer. One major focus is the role of furin in viral glycoprotein maturation and pathogenicity. We also outline cellular mechanisms regulating the expression and activation of furin and summarise current approaches that target this protease for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Braun
- Institute of Molecular VirologyUlm University Medical CenterUlmGermany
| | - Daniel Sauter
- Institute of Molecular VirologyUlm University Medical CenterUlmGermany
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37
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Bonaventura A, Grossi F, Carbone F, Vecchié A, Minetti S, Bardi N, Elia E, Ansaldo AM, Ferrara D, Rijavec E, Dal Bello MG, Rossi G, Biello F, Tagliamento M, Alama A, Coco S, Spallarossa P, Dallegri F, Genova C, Montecucco F. Serum PCSK9 levels at the second nivolumab cycle predict overall survival in elderly patients with NSCLC: a pilot study. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2019; 68:1351-1358. [PMID: 31327024 PMCID: PMC11028217 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-019-02367-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Monoclonal antibodies targeting PD-1 are used for treating NSCLC. To date, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) has been poorly investigated in the oncologic field. Here, we aimed at evaluating whether serum PCSK9 might represent a predictive factor for OS in older patients with advanced NSCLC under nivolumab treatment. Among 78 patients with advanced, pre-treated NSCLC previously enrolled in a prospective study at Ospedale Policlinico San Martino in Genoa (Italy), 44 patients have been included in this sub-analysis due to the availability of serum samples for the measurement of PCSK9. Before each nivolumab administration, clinical information and blood samples were collected. Median age was 71, with a prevalence of the male sex. The most represented histological type of lung cancer was adenocarcinoma. The majority of patients were former smokers (72.1%). Median PCSK9 levels were 123.59 (86.32-169.89) ng/mL and 117.17 (80.46-147.79) ng/mL at cycle 1 and 2, respectively. Based on a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, a PCSK9 value at cycle 2 of 95 ng/mL was found as the best cutoff point for OS. Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated that patients below the PCSK9 cutoff (< 95 ng/mL) experienced a better OS, as confirmed by Cox proportional hazard regression analysis. In this pilot study, circulating levels of PCSK9 < 95 ng/mL at the time of the second cycle of nivolumab treatment could independently predict a better OS in elderly patients with advanced, pre-treated NSCLC. However, further studies are warranted to validate these preliminary results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldo Bonaventura
- Department of Internal Medicine, First Clinic of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 6, 16132, Genoa, Italy.
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Pauley Heart Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, 1200 East Marshall Street, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA.
| | - Francesco Grossi
- Medical Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Federico Carbone
- Department of Internal Medicine, First Clinic of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 6, 16132, Genoa, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino Genova, Italian Cardiovascular Network, Largo R. Benzi 10, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Alessandra Vecchié
- Department of Internal Medicine, First Clinic of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 6, 16132, Genoa, Italy
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Pauley Heart Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, 1200 East Marshall Street, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
| | - Silvia Minetti
- Department of Internal Medicine, First Clinic of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 6, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Nicholas Bardi
- Department of Internal Medicine, First Clinic of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 6, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Edoardo Elia
- Department of Internal Medicine, First Clinic of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 6, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Ansaldo
- Department of Internal Medicine, First Clinic of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 6, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Daniele Ferrara
- Department of Internal Medicine, First Clinic of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 6, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Erika Rijavec
- UOS Tumori Polmonari, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino Genova, Largo R. Benzi 10, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Maria Giovanna Dal Bello
- UOS Tumori Polmonari, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino Genova, Largo R. Benzi 10, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Giovanni Rossi
- UOS Tumori Polmonari, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino Genova, Largo R. Benzi 10, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Federica Biello
- Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy
| | - Marco Tagliamento
- UOS Tumori Polmonari, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino Genova, Largo R. Benzi 10, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Angela Alama
- UOS Tumori Polmonari, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino Genova, Largo R. Benzi 10, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Simona Coco
- UOS Tumori Polmonari, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino Genova, Largo R. Benzi 10, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Paolo Spallarossa
- Cardiovascular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino Genova, Italian Cardiovascular Network, Largo R. Benzi 10, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Franco Dallegri
- Department of Internal Medicine, First Clinic of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 6, 16132, Genoa, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino Genova, Italian Cardiovascular Network, Largo R. Benzi 10, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Carlo Genova
- UOS Tumori Polmonari, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino Genova, Largo R. Benzi 10, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Montecucco
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino Genova, Italian Cardiovascular Network, Largo R. Benzi 10, 16132, Genoa, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine, First Clinic of Internal Medicine and Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research (CEBR), University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 6, 16132, Genoa, Italy
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Zhu L, Liu HW, Yang Y, Hu XX, Li K, Xu S, Li JB, Ke G, Zhang XB. Near-Infrared Fluorescent Furin Probe for Revealing the Role of Furin in Cellular Carcinogenesis and Specific Cancer Imaging. Anal Chem 2019; 91:9682-9689. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.9b01220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Longmin Zhu
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory (MBL), College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P.R. China
| | - Hong-Wen Liu
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory (MBL), College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P.R. China
- College of Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Environmentally Friendly Chemistry and Applications of Ministry of Education, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan 411105, P.R. China
| | - Yue Yang
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory (MBL), College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Xiao Hu
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory (MBL), College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P.R. China
| | - Ke Li
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory (MBL), College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P.R. China
| | - Shuai Xu
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory (MBL), College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P.R. China
| | - Jun-Bin Li
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory (MBL), College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P.R. China
| | - Guoliang Ke
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory (MBL), College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Bing Zhang
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory (MBL), College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P.R. China
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Braun E, Hotter D, Koepke L, Zech F, Groß R, Sparrer KM, Müller JA, Pfaller CK, Heusinger E, Wombacher R, Sutter K, Dittmer U, Winkler M, Simmons G, Jakobsen MR, Conzelmann KK, Pöhlmann S, Münch J, Fackler OT, Kirchhoff F, Sauter D. Guanylate-Binding Proteins 2 and 5 Exert Broad Antiviral Activity by Inhibiting Furin-Mediated Processing of Viral Envelope Proteins. Cell Rep 2019; 27:2092-2104.e10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.04.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2018] [Revised: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
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Multifaceted Functional Role of Semaphorins in Glioblastoma. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20092144. [PMID: 31052281 PMCID: PMC6539029 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20092144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Revised: 04/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most malignant tumor type affecting the adult central nervous system. Despite advances in therapy, the prognosis for patients with GBM remains poor, with a median survival of about 15 months. To date, few treatment options are available and recent trials based on the molecular targeting of some of the GBM hallmark pathways (e.g., angiogenesis) have not produced any significant improvement in overall survival. The urgent need to develop more efficacious targeted therapies has led to a better molecular characterization of GBM, revealing an emerging role of semaphorins in GBM progression. Semphorins are a wide group of membrane-bound and secreted proteins, originally identified as axon guidance cues, signaling through their receptors, neuropilins, and plexins. A number of semaphorin signals involved in the control of axonal growth and navigation during development have been found to furthermore participate in crosstalk with different dysfunctional GBM pathways, controlling tumor cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, as well as tumor angiogenesis or immune response. In this review, we summarize the regulatory activities mediated by semaphorins and their receptors on the oncogenic pathways implicated in GBM growth and invasive/metastatic progression.
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Lavi N, Kessler O, Ziv K, Nir-Zvi I, Mumblat Y, Eiza N, Paran Y, Brenner B, Vadasz Z, Neufeld G. Semaphorin-3A inhibits multiple myeloma progression in a mouse model. Carcinogenesis 2019; 39:1283-1291. [PMID: 30102336 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgy106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies revealed that progression of multiple myeloma (MM) is associated with downregulation of semaphorin-3A (sema3A) expression in bone marrow endothelial cells. We therefore determined if serum sema3A concentrations are correlated with MM progression and if sema3A can affect MM progression. We find that the concentration of sema3A in sera of MM patients is strongly reduced and that the decrease is correlated with disease progression. A similar depletion is found in patients having acute myeloid leukemia and acute lymphoblastic leukemia but not in cancer forms that do not involve the bone marrow such as in colon cancer. Expression of a modified sema3A [furin-resistant sema3A (FR-sema3A)] stabilized against cleavage by furin-like proprotein convertases in CAG MM cells did not affect their behavior in-vitro. CAG cells injected into the tail vein of severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mice home to the bone marrow and proliferate, mimicking MM disease progression. Disease progression in mice injected with CAG cells expressing FR-sema3A was inhibited, resulting in prolonged survival and a lower incidence of bone lesions. Histological examination and fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis revealed that FR-sema3A expression reduced the infiltration of the CAG cells into the bone marrow, reduced bone marrow necrosis and reduced angiogenesis induced by the MM cells in the bone marrow. Our results suggest that measurement of sema3A serum concentrations may be of use for the diagnosis and for the monitoring of malignancies of the bone marrow such as MM. Furthermore, our results suggest that FR-sema3A may perhaps find use as an inhibitor of MM disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noa Lavi
- Cancer Research Center, The Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel.,Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Institute, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Ofra Kessler
- Cancer Research Center, The Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Keren Ziv
- Cancer Research Center, The Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Inbal Nir-Zvi
- Cancer Research Center, The Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Yelena Mumblat
- Cancer Research Center, The Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Nasrene Eiza
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Bnai Zion Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Yael Paran
- Cancer Research Center, The Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Benjamin Brenner
- Cancer Research Center, The Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel.,Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Institute, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Zahava Vadasz
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Bnai Zion Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Gera Neufeld
- Cancer Research Center, The Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
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Klein-Szanto AJP, Bassi DE. Keep recycling going: New approaches to reduce LDL-C. Biochem Pharmacol 2019; 164:336-341. [PMID: 30953636 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2019.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Hypercholesterolemia represents a leading cause in the development of atherosclerotic plaques, increasing the risk for ACVS. It actually counts as a major cause of cardiovascular disease etiopathogenesis. The causes of hypercholesterolemia are multifactorial, spanning from genetic constitution, age, sex, to sedentary lifestyle and diets rich in sugars and lipids. Although dietary restriction in saturated fats, increased exercise, and other modification in lifestyle represent a first-line approach to treat very initial stages in hypercholesterolemia, most patients will require the addition of pharmacological agents. Pharmacological approaches include inhibition of cholesterol synthesis, decreased fat absorption from the GI tract, and increased degradation of FA. These strategies present a series of side effects, low therapeutic efficiency in some patients, and reduced tolerability. One of the major goals in treatment for hypercholesterolemia is to decrease the levels of low density lipoproteins (LDL), while maintaining those of high density lipoproteins (HDL). LDL particles contain about 80% of lipids, most of it cholesterol and cholesteryl esters, and 20% of the ApoB-100 protein. LDL carries cholesterol to the tissues, to be incorporated to biological membranes, or to be transformed to steroids. Excess of LDL translates into increased levels of circulating cholesterol particles and accumulation in certain tissues, especially vascular tissue, initiating a fatty streak, which may evolve to an atheroma, causing a series of cardiovascular problems, including impaired circulation, high blood pressure, increased cardiac workload, and coronary artery disease. It is essential to prevent LDL accumulation into the bloodstream to avoid the formation of these fatty streaks and the initiation of a cascade that will lead to the development of atherosclerosis. In healthy individuals. Under physiological conditions, LDL is effectively removed from circulation through receptor-mediated endocytosis. LDL clearance involves binding to its receptor, LDLR, which enables the internalization of the LDL particle and drives its degradation in lysosomes. Once the LDL particle is degraded, the free receptor recycles to the plasma membrane, and captures new LDL particles. Adequate levels of LDLR are essential to remove the excess of cholesterol-laden LDL. Proprotein convertase, subtilysin kexin type 9 (PCSK-9), expressed in liver and intestine, binds to LDLR, and internalized. Once inside the cell, PCSK-9 catalyzes the proteolysis of LDLR, preventing its recycling to the cell surface, and effectively decreasing the number of LDLR, notoriously decreasing the ability to clear LDL from circulation. Levels of PCSK-9 varies with age, gender, and levels of insulin, glucose, and triglycerides. Loss-of-function mutations in PCSK-9 gene invariably translates into lower levels of LDL, and decreased risk of developing coronary artery disease. Conversely, increased activity or expression of this enzyme leads to hypercholesterolemia. Inhibition of PCSK9 has proven to be successful in decreasing LDL levels and risk of the development of hypercholesterolemia with its associated higher risk for ASCVD. Patient with gain-of-function mutations in the PCSK9 undoubtedly benefit from therapies based on PCSK-9 inhibitors. However, millions of patients show statin intolerance, or cannot be efficiently controlled by statins alone- the most prevalent therapy for hypeprcholesterolemia. This commentary will evaluate the possibilities, caveats and future directions in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia, and therapies with combination of drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniel E Bassi
- Fox Chase Cancer Center, 333 Cotman Ave, Philadelphia 19111, United States; Holy Family University, Frankford Ave, Philadelphia 19114, United States.
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Niland S, Eble JA. Neuropilins in the Context of Tumor Vasculature. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20030639. [PMID: 30717262 PMCID: PMC6387129 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20030639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Revised: 01/23/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropilin-1 and Neuropilin-2 form a small family of plasma membrane spanning receptors originally identified by the binding of semaphorin and vascular endothelial growth factor. Having no cytosolic protein kinase domain, they function predominantly as co-receptors of other receptors for various ligands. As such, they critically modulate the signaling of various receptor tyrosine kinases, integrins, and other molecules involved in the regulation of physiological and pathological angiogenic processes. This review highlights the diverse neuropilin ligands and interacting partners on endothelial cells, which are relevant in the context of the tumor vasculature and the tumor microenvironment. In addition to tumor cells, the latter contains cancer-associated fibroblasts, immune cells, and endothelial cells. Based on the prevalent neuropilin-mediated interactions, the suitability of various neuropilin-targeted substances for influencing tumor angiogenesis as a possible building block of a tumor therapy is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan Niland
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany.
| | - Johannes A Eble
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany.
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Class-3 Semaphorins and Their Receptors: Potent Multifunctional Modulators of Tumor Progression. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20030556. [PMID: 30696103 PMCID: PMC6387194 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20030556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Revised: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Semaphorins are the products of a large gene family containing 28 genes of which 21 are found in vertebrates. Class-3 semaphorins constitute a subfamily of seven vertebrate semaphorins which differ from the other vertebrate semaphorins in that they are the only secreted semaphorins and are distinguished from other semaphorins by the presence of a basic domain at their C termini. Class-3 semaphorins were initially characterized as axon guidance factors, but have subsequently been found to regulate immune responses, angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis, and a variety of additional physiological and developmental functions. Most class-3 semaphorins transduce their signals by binding to receptors belonging to the neuropilin family which subsequently associate with receptors of the plexin family to form functional class-3 semaphorin receptors. Recent evidence suggests that class-3 semaphorins also fulfill important regulatory roles in multiple forms of cancer. Several class-3 semaphorins function as endogenous inhibitors of tumor angiogenesis. Others were found to inhibit tumor metastasis by inhibition of tumor lymphangiogenesis, by direct effects on the behavior of tumor cells, or by modulation of immune responses. Notably, some semaphorins such as sema3C and sema3E have also been found to potentiate tumor progression using various mechanisms. This review focuses on the roles of the different class-3 semaphorins in tumor progression.
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Rath B, Klameth L, Plangger A, Hochmair M, Ulsperger E, Huk I, Zeillinger R, Hamilton G. Expression of Proteolytic Enzymes by Small Cell Lung Cancer Circulating Tumor Cell Lines. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11010114. [PMID: 30669448 PMCID: PMC6357007 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11010114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Revised: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is an aggressive type of lung cancer which disseminates vigorously and has a dismal prognosis. Metastasis of SCLC is linked to an extremely high number of circulating tumor cells (CTCs), which form chemoresistant spheroids, termed tumorospheres. Intravasation and extravasation during tumor spread requires the activity of a number of proteases to disintegrate the stroma and vascular tissue. Generation of several permanent SCLC CTC lines allowed us to screen for the expression of 35 proteases using Western blot arrays. Cell culture supernatants of two CTC lines, namely BHGc7 and 10, were analyzed for secreted proteases, including matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), ADAM/TS, cathepsins, kallikreins, and others, and compared to proteases expressed by SCLC cell lines (GLC14, GLC16, NCI-H526 and SCLC26A). In contrast to NCI-H526 and SCLC26A, MMP-9 was highly expressed in the two CTC lines and in GLC16 derived of a relapse. Furthermore, cathepsins (S, V, X/Z/P, A and D) were highly expressed in the CTC lines, whereas ADAM/TS and kallikreins were not detectable. In conclusion, SCLC CTCs express MMP-9 and a range of cathepsins for proteolysis and, aside from tissue degradation, these enzymes are involved in cell signaling, survival, and the chemoresistance of tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Rath
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Lukas Klameth
- Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Adelina Plangger
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | | | | | - Ihor Huk
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Robert Zeillinger
- Molecular Oncology Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Comprehensive Cancer Center-Gynecological Cancer Unit, Medical University of Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Gerhard Hamilton
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria.
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Fradet L, Temmar R, Couture F, Belzile M, Fortier PH, Day R. Evaluation of PACE4 isoforms as biomarkers in thyroid cancer. J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2018; 47:63. [PMID: 30340539 PMCID: PMC6194618 DOI: 10.1186/s40463-018-0311-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2018] [Accepted: 10/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background To date, no single molecular marker has been demonstrated as clinically useful in differentiating malignant from benign thyroid nodules when a fine needle aspiration falls in the “unknown significance” categories of the Bethesda Classification. PACE4, a member of the proprotein convertase family of enzymes, has been shown to play a major role in the pathogenesis of prostate cancer, through the formation of an oncogenic isoform named PACE4-altCT. PACE4 isoforms have also been suggested to play a role in other cancers, including thyroid cancer, but have never been investigated in a detailed manner. Our objective is to compare the histochemical distribution of the two major PACE4 isoforms in benign and malignant thyroid nodules, in order to determine their potential usefulness as discriminatory biomarkers. Methods Thyroid tissues of patients who underwent thyroidectomy were classified according to final pathology. Corresponding tissue sections were immunostained, using two previously validated antibodies raised against the C-terminal end of the two PACE4 isoforms, namely the full-length PACE4 protein (PACE4-FL) and its alternative isoform (PACE4-altCT). Nodules were compared with adjacent normal parenchyma and immunostaining was rated as “low” or “high” by a head and neck pathologist. Results Non-lesional thyroid parenchyma did not express PACE4-FL (p = 0.002). As a group, malignant (n = 17) nodules expressed PACE4-FL significantly more than benign (n = 24) nodules (percentage of high immunostaining: 52.9% vs 4.2%; p = 0.001). Reciprocally, there was a statistically lower expression of PACE4-altCT in malignant nodules than in adjacent non-lesional parenchyma (p = 0.014). The specificity of a high PACE4-FL immunostaining in determining malignancy was 95.8% (95% CI, 78.9% to 99.9%). Conclusion This study supports the previously described relationship between PACE4-FL and PACE4-altCT through alternative splicing. It also suggests that PACE4-FL is a promising biomarker for thyroid malignancy. Its high specific expression for malignancy could make it an interesting “rule in” test for thyroid cancer. Further prospective, quantitative studies are currently being designed to address how measurements of PACE4 isoforms could be used in a clinical setting. Trial registration This study does not report the results of a health care intervention on human participants. It was nonetheless registered on ClinicalTrials.gov under reference number NCT03160482. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s40463-018-0311-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurent Fradet
- Division of Otolaryngology, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Sherbrooke, CIUSSS de l'Estrie - CHUS, Hôpital Hôtel-Dieu de Sherbrooke, 580 Bowen S, Sherbrooke, QC, J1G 2E8, Canada.
| | - Rabia Temmar
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Sherbrooke, CIUSSS de l'Estrie - CHUS, Hôpital Hôtel-Dieu de Sherbrooke, 580 Bowen S, Sherbrooke, QC, J1G 2E8, Canada
| | - Frédéric Couture
- Divison of Urology, Departemnt of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Sherbrooke, Institut de pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, 3001 12th Ave N, Sherbrooke, QC, J1H 5N4, Canada
| | - Mathieu Belzile
- Division of Otolaryngology, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Sherbrooke, CIUSSS de l'Estrie - CHUS, Hôpital Hôtel-Dieu de Sherbrooke, 580 Bowen S, Sherbrooke, QC, J1G 2E8, Canada
| | - Pierre-Hugues Fortier
- Division of Otolaryngology, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Sherbrooke, CIUSSS de l'Estrie - CHUS, Hôpital Hôtel-Dieu de Sherbrooke, 580 Bowen S, Sherbrooke, QC, J1G 2E8, Canada
| | - Robert Day
- Divison of Urology, Departemnt of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Sherbrooke, Institut de pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, 3001 12th Ave N, Sherbrooke, QC, J1H 5N4, Canada
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Hu X, Li F, Wang S, Xia F, Ling D. Biological Stimulus-Driven Assembly/Disassembly of Functional Nanoparticles for Targeted Delivery, Controlled Activation, and Bioelimination. Adv Healthc Mater 2018; 7:e1800359. [PMID: 29782706 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201800359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2018] [Revised: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Nanoassembly technology has emerged as a powerful tool for targeted drug delivery and provides a basis for fabricating medical theranostic nanosystems. However, it is extremely difficult to concentrate nanoparticles at tumor sites, and the poor target-to-background ratio undoubtedly obstructs the accurate diagnosis and effective therapy of cancerous tissues. Importantly, the addition of biological stimulus-responsive groups to nanoassembly systems can enable a biological stimulus-driven assembly-disassembly mutual switch or structural composition/conformation change, thereby amplifying the imaging signal and/or enhancing the therapeutic effect. This progress report provides an overview of well-designed biological stimulus-responsive nanosystems that can realize precise assembly-disassembly switches by disrupting or rebuilding the intricate balance between the entropy and enthalpy of the nanosystems in response to stimuli (pH, redox, enzymes, etc.) in tumor tissues. The discussion encompasses different biological stimulus-responsive groups, fabrication approaches, and outstanding selective "turn-on" performance for efficient tumor imaging, therapy, and bioelimination. This progress report is expected to inspire more extensive research for the development of smart "turn-on" nanomaterials with increased signal-to-noise (S/N) ratios for diagnosis and drug delivery, which may pave the way for precise nanomedicine with site-specific theranostic features and biocompatibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Hu
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research; College of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Zhejiang University; Hangzhou 310058 China
| | - Fangyuan Li
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research; College of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Zhejiang University; Hangzhou 310058 China
- Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine; College of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Zhejiang University; Hangzhou 310058 China
| | - Shuying Wang
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research; College of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Zhejiang University; Hangzhou 310058 China
| | - Fan Xia
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research; College of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Zhejiang University; Hangzhou 310058 China
- Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine; College of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Zhejiang University; Hangzhou 310058 China
| | - Daishun Ling
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research; College of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Zhejiang University; Hangzhou 310058 China
- Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine; College of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Zhejiang University; Hangzhou 310058 China
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering of the Ministry of Education; College of Biomedical Engineering and Instrument Science; Zhejiang University; Hangzhou 310027 China
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48
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Franzén B, Kamali-Moghaddam M, Alexeyenko A, Hatschek T, Becker S, Wik L, Kierkegaard J, Eriksson A, Muppani NR, Auer G, Landegren U, Lewensohn R. A fine-needle aspiration-based protein signature discriminates benign from malignant breast lesions. Mol Oncol 2018; 12:1415-1428. [PMID: 30019538 PMCID: PMC6120227 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.12350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Revised: 06/01/2018] [Accepted: 06/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
There are increasing demands for informative cancer biomarkers, accessible via minimally invasive procedures, both for initial diagnostics and to follow-up personalized cancer therapy. Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy provides ready access to relevant tissues; however, the minute sample amounts require sensitive multiplex molecular analysis to achieve clinical utility. We have applied proximity extension assays (PEA) and NanoString (NS) technology for analyses of proteins and of RNA, respectively, in FNA samples. Using samples from patients with breast cancer (BC, n = 25) or benign lesions (n = 33), we demonstrate that these FNA-based molecular analyses (a) can offer high sensitivity and reproducibility, (b) may provide correct diagnosis in shorter time and at a lower cost than current practice, (c) correlate with results from routine analysis (i.e., benchmarking against immunohistochemistry tests for ER, PR, HER2, and Ki67), and (d) may also help identify new markers related to immunotherapy. A specific 11-protein signature, including FGF binding protein 1, decorin, and furin, distinguished all cancer patient samples from all benign lesions in our main cohort and in smaller replication cohort. Due to the minimally traumatic sampling and rich molecular information, this combined proteomics and transcriptomic methodology is promising for diagnostics and evaluation of treatment efficacy in BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Franzén
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Cancer Center Karolinska, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Masood Kamali-Moghaddam
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Sweden
| | - Andrey Alexeyenko
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology (MTC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,National Bioinformatics Infrastructure Sweden, Science for Life Laboratory, Solna, Sweden
| | - Thomas Hatschek
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Cancer Center Karolinska, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Susanne Becker
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology (MTC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,National Bioinformatics Infrastructure Sweden, Science for Life Laboratory, Solna, Sweden
| | - Lotta Wik
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Sweden
| | - Jonas Kierkegaard
- BröstCentrum City, Stockholm, Sweden.,Capio S:t Görans Sjukhus, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Annika Eriksson
- KIGene, MMK, Neurogenetics Unit, CMM, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Naveen R Muppani
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Sweden
| | - Gert Auer
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Cancer Center Karolinska, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ulf Landegren
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Sweden
| | - Rolf Lewensohn
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Cancer Center Karolinska, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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49
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Vijayaraghavan B, Danabal K, Padmanabhan G, Ramanathan K. Study on Regulation of Low Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Metabolism using PCSK9 Gene Silencing: A computational Approach. Bioinformation 2018; 14:248-251. [PMID: 30108423 PMCID: PMC6077823 DOI: 10.6026/97320630014248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2018] [Revised: 05/05/2018] [Accepted: 05/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Combating and preventing abnormality in lipid metabolism becomes a pivotal criterion for research. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is a circulating protein; it promotes the degradation of low-density lipoprotein receptors (LDL-R) and hence increases LDL-C levels. Silencing the gene PCSK9 at post-transcriptional level with the help of small interfering Ribo nucleic acid (siRNA) gives a new insight and a novel therapeutic way to regulate LDL-C metabolism. Designing and selecting an efficient siRNA for silencing PCSK9 at post transcriptional level through computational approach. We have designed three siRNAs to silence each mRNA of PCSK9 through computational analysis using software Invivogen. Their minimum free energy of hybridization along with their secondary structure was obtained using bioinformatics tool BIBISERV2-RNAHYBRID. Further factors like GC content, structural linearity and h-b index of mRNA-siRNA complex was calculated to assess their knockdown efficiency. The minimum free energy of hybridization of the three designed siRNA1, siRNA2 and siRNA3 for target mRNA is as follows -27.1kcal/mol, -25.7kcal/mol and - 28.8 kcal/mol. siRNA1 having the least minimum free energy of hybridization i.e. -27.1 kcal/mol are predicted to be the most efficient towards the PCSK9 gene silencing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kavitha Danabal
- Department of Botany & Microbiology, AVVM Sri Puspam College (Autonomous), Poondi, Thanjavur, India
| | - Giri Padmanabhan
- Kidney Care, C50, 10TH B Cross, East Thillai Nagar, Tiruchirappalli-620 018, India
| | - Kumaresan Ramanathan
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University (Ayder Campus), Mekelle, Ethiopia
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50
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Tajbakhsh A, Pasdar A, Rezaee M, Fazeli M, Soleimanpour S, Hassanian SM, FarshchiyanYazdi Z, Younesi Rad T, Ferns GA, Avan A. The current status and perspectives regarding the clinical implication of intracellular calcium in breast cancer. J Cell Physiol 2018; 233:5623-5641. [PMID: 29150934 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.26277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Calcium ions (Ca2+ ) act as second messengers in intracellular signaling. Ca2+ pumps, channels, sensors, and calcium binding proteins, regulate the concentrations of intracellular Ca2+ as a key regulator of important cellular processes such as gene expression, proliferation, differentiation, DNA repair, apoptosis, metastasis, and hormone secretion. Intracellular Ca2+ also influences the functions of several organelles, that include: the endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, the Golgi, and cell membrane both in normal and breast cancer cells. In breast cancer, the disruption of intracellular: Ca2+ homeostasis may cause tumor progression by affecting key factors/pathways including phospholipase C (PLC), inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3), calmodulin (CaM), nuclear factor of activated T-cells (NFAT), calpain, calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), poly (ADP-Ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP1), estrogen, and estrogen receptor. Because the foregoing molecules play crucial roles in breast cancer, the factors/pathways influencing intracellular Ca2+ concentrations are putative targets for cancer treatment, using drugs such as Mephebrindole, Tilapia piscidin 4, Nifetepimine, Paricalcitol, and Prednisolone. We have explored the factors/pathways which are related to breast cancer and Ca2+ homeostasis and signaling in this review, and also discussed their potential as biomarkers for breast cancer staging, prognosis, and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Tajbakhsh
- Department of Modern Sciences and Technologies, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Alireza Pasdar
- Department of Modern Sciences and Technologies, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Division of Applied Medicine, Medical School, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, UK.,Medical Genetics Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mehdi Rezaee
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mostafa Fazeli
- Department of Modern Sciences and Technologies, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Saman Soleimanpour
- Department of Microbiology and Virology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Seyed Mahdi Hassanian
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Zahra FarshchiyanYazdi
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Tayebe Younesi Rad
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Gordon A Ferns
- Division of Medical Education, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer, Brighton, Sussex, UK
| | - Amir Avan
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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