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Liu Z, Xiao Z, Wang X, Zhang L, Zhang Z. Ion channel gene GJB2 influences the intercellular communication by Up-regulating the SPP1 signaling pathway identified by the single-cell RNA sequencing in lung adenocarcinoma. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1146976. [PMID: 37188183 PMCID: PMC10175797 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1146976] [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: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Firstly, observe the prognostic significance and the biological functional effects of gap junction protein beta 2 (GJB2 or Cx26) in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Subsequently, explore the role played by GJB2 in intercellular communication by single-cell RNA sequencing. Method We made a differential analysis of GJB2 expression through public databases and investigated the clinical characteristics and prognostic significance. ESTIMATE analysis and Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER) database were utilized to illustrate the association of GJB2 with immune infiltration and components of the tumor microenvironment. Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG), and Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) were performed to study the biological function of GJB2. Cell-cell communication was analyzed using the CellChat R package through sc-RNA data. Results GJB2 has an outstanding prognosis value in LUAD and a close relationship was found between GJB2 and immune infiltration in LUAD. GJB2 could participate in several tumor biological processes, including extracellular matrix remodeling and upregulation of multiple cancer-related active pathways. GJB2 related hub-genes influence intercellular communication through the SPP1 signaling pathway. Conclusion Our study illustrates one mechanism by which GJB2 exerts its cancer-specific relevant effects, that is, causing changes in intercellular communication through the SPP1 signaling pathway. Blockade of this pathway may limit the functional role of GJB2 and provide us with promising new perceptions for LUAD treatment.
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Tang T, Tan X, Wang Z, Wang S, Wang Y, Xu J, Wei X, Zhang D, Liu Q, Jiang J. Germline Mutations in Patients With Early-Onset Prostate Cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 12:826778. [PMID: 35734583 PMCID: PMC9207501 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.826778] [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: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate the inherited mutations and their association with clinical features and treatment response in young-onset prostate cancer patients. Method Targeted gene sequencing on 139 tumor susceptibility genes was conducted with a total of 24 patients diagnosed with PCa under the age of 63 years old. Meanwhile, the related clinical information of those patients is collected and analyzed. Results Sixty-two germline mutations in 45 genes were verified in 22 patients. BRCA2 (20.8%) and GJB2 (20.8%) were found to be the most frequently mutated, followed by CHEK2, BRCA1, PALB2, CDKN2A, HOXB13, PPM1D, and RECQL (8.3% of each, 2/24). Of note, 58.3% (14/24) patients carry germline mutations in DNA repair genes (DRGs). Four families with HRR (homologous recombination repair)-related gene mutations were described and analyzed in detail. Two patients with BRCA2 mutation responded well to the combined treatment of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and radiotherapy/chemotherapy. Conclusion Mutations in DRGs are more prevalent in early-onset PCa with advanced clinical stages, and these patients had shorter progression-free survival. ADT Combined with either radiotherapy or chemotherapy may be effective in treating PCa caused by HRR-related gene mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tang Tang
- Department of Urology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xintao Tan
- Department of Urology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ze Wang
- Department of Urology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shuo Wang
- Department of Urology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yapeng Wang
- Department of Urology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Xu
- Department of Urology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiajie Wei
- Genetron Health (Beijing) Co., Beijing, China
| | - Dianzheng Zhang
- Department of Bio-Medical Sciences, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Qiuli Liu
- Department of Urology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jun Jiang
- Department of Urology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Citrus Flavone Tangeretin Inhibits CRPC Cell Proliferation by Regulating Cx26, AKT, and AR Signaling. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:6422500. [PMID: 35111229 PMCID: PMC8803427 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6422500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) progression depends on the action of androgen receptors (AR). Therefore, preventing ligand-mediated activation of AR is the first-line treatment strategy for metastatic PCa. Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) can inhibit ligand binding to AR and alleviate PCa progression initially. However, due to the adaptation of PCa and recovery of AR signaling, castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) eventually develops. Exploring novel dietary compounds that can target AR signaling appears to be a viable alternative therapeutic option for CRPC. In the present study, compounds from the citrus fruits were focused upon, which contain various flavonoid ingredients. Key components contained within orange peel, which is frequently used in traditional Chinese medicine, and downstream targets were first analyzed using network pharmacology approach. Notably, it was found that tangeretin, an active ingredient from orange peel, can significantly inhibit CRPC cell (C4-2 and Du145 cells) proliferation and migration whilst also synergistically increasing the sensitivity of CRPC cells to anti-tumor drugs sorafenib or cisplatin. Tangeretin also significantly reduced AR and AKT expressions in C4-2 cells and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 expression in the androgen-insensitive cell line Du145. In addition, tangeretin increased the expression of both connexin26 (Cx26) and gap junction function, which may mediate the bystander effects of cisplatin or sorafenib. Taken together, the present study revealed a novel molecular mechanism by which tangeretin may inhibit the proliferation of CRPC cells, by affecting the Cx26/AKT/AR pathway, to synergistically increase the sensitivity of CRPC cells to sorafenib and cisplatin.
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Yang Y, Gu X, Li Z, Zheng C, Wang Z, Zhou M, Chen Z, Li M, Li D, Xiang J. Whole-exome sequencing of rectal cancer identifies locally recurrent mutations in the Wnt pathway. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:23262-23283. [PMID: 34642262 PMCID: PMC8544332 DOI: 10.18632/aging.203618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Locally recurrent rectal cancer (LRRC) leads to a poor prognosis and appears as a clinically predominant pattern of failure. In this research, whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed on 21 samples from 8 patients to search for the molecular mechanisms of LRRC. The data was analyzed by bioinformatics. Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) and Human Protein Atlas (HPA) were performed to validate the candidate genes. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the protein expression of LEF1 and CyclinD1 in LRRC, primary rectal cancer (PRC), and non-recurrent rectal cancer (NRRC) specimens. The results showed that LRRC, PRC, and NRRC had 668, 794, and 190 specific genes, respectively. FGFR1 and MYC have copy number variants (CNVs) in PRC and LRRC, respectively. LRRC specific genes were mainly enriched in positive regulation of transcription from RNA polymerase II promoter, plasma membrane, and ATP binding. The specific signaling pathways of LRRC were Wnt signaling pathway, gap junction, and glucagon signaling pathway, etc. The transcriptional and translational expression levels of genes including NFATC1, PRICKLE1, SOX17, and WNT6 related to Wnt signaling pathway were higher in rectal cancer (READ) tissues than normal rectal tissues. The PRICKLE1 mutation (c.C875T) and WNT6 mutation (c.G629A) were predicted as “D (deleterious)”. Expression levels of LEF1 and cytokinin D1 proteins: LRRC > PRC > NRRC > normal rectal tissue. Gene variants in the Wnt signaling pathway may be critical for the development of LRRC. The present study may provide a basis for the prediction of LRRC and the development of new therapeutic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Xiaodong Gu
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Zhenyang Li
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Chuang Zheng
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Zihao Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Minwei Zhou
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Zongyou Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Mengzhen Li
- MyGene Diagnostics Co., Ltd, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Dongbing Li
- MyGene Diagnostics Co., Ltd, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Jianbin Xiang
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
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Boucher J, Balandre AC, Debant M, Vix J, Harnois T, Bourmeyster N, Péraudeau E, Chépied A, Clarhaut J, Debiais F, Monvoisin A, Cronier L. Cx43 Present at the Leading Edge Membrane Governs Promigratory Effects of Osteoblast-Conditioned Medium on Human Prostate Cancer Cells in the Context of Bone Metastasis. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12103013. [PMID: 33081404 PMCID: PMC7602984 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12103013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In its late stages, prostate cancer (PCa) is characterized by a high propensity to form osteoblastic bone metastases, mainly treated by palliative approaches. In a previous work, we demonstrated that a gap junctional protein, connexin43 (Cx43) is implicated both in the increase of aggressiveness of PCa cells and in their impact on bone. To analyze the reciprocal part of the dialogue, the current study addresses the role of Cx43 in the impact of bone microenvironment on PCa cells abilities. Using Cx43-overexpressing PCa cell lines, we determined that Cx43 is necessary for promigratory effect induced by osteoblastic conditioned media (ObCM) on individual cells. Next, we demonstrated the requirement of Cx43 membrane localization at the leading edge and the involvement of the cytoplasmic part in this ObCM-induced migration. Overall, our findings precise the role of Cx43 during PCa progression and its putative use as aggressiveness marker and as potential therapeutic targets. Abstract Among the different interacting molecules implicated in bone metastases, connexin43 (Cx43) may increase sensitivity of prostate cancer (PCa) cells to bone microenvironment, as suggested by our in silico and human tissue samples analyses that revealed increased level of Cx43 expression with PCa progression and a Cx43 specific expression in bone secondary sites. The goal of the present study was to understand how Cx43 influences PCa cells sensitivity and aggressiveness to bone microenvironment. By means of Cx43-overexpressing PCa cell lines, we revealed a Cx43-dependent promigratory effect of osteoblastic conditioned media (ObCM). This effect on directional migration relied on the presence of Cx43 at the plasma membrane and not on gap junctional intercellular communication and hemichannel functions. ObCM stimulation induced Rac1 activation and Cx43 interaction with cortactin in protrusions of migrating PCa cells. Finally, by transfecting two different truncated forms of Cx43 in LNCaP cells, we determined that the carboxy terminal (CT) part of Cx43 is crucial for the responsiveness of PCa cells to ObCM. Our study demonstrates that Cx43 level and its membrane localization modulate the phenotypic response of PCa cells to osteoblastic microenvironment and that its CT domain plays a pivotal role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Boucher
- CNRS ERL7003, Laboratory Signalisation et Transports Ioniques Membranaires (STIM), University of Poitiers, 1 rue Georges Bonnet, TSA 51106, CEDEX 09, 86073 Poitiers, France; (J.B.); (A.-C.B.); (M.D.); (J.V.); (T.H.); (N.B.); (F.D.); (A.M.)
| | - Annie-Claire Balandre
- CNRS ERL7003, Laboratory Signalisation et Transports Ioniques Membranaires (STIM), University of Poitiers, 1 rue Georges Bonnet, TSA 51106, CEDEX 09, 86073 Poitiers, France; (J.B.); (A.-C.B.); (M.D.); (J.V.); (T.H.); (N.B.); (F.D.); (A.M.)
| | - Marjolaine Debant
- CNRS ERL7003, Laboratory Signalisation et Transports Ioniques Membranaires (STIM), University of Poitiers, 1 rue Georges Bonnet, TSA 51106, CEDEX 09, 86073 Poitiers, France; (J.B.); (A.-C.B.); (M.D.); (J.V.); (T.H.); (N.B.); (F.D.); (A.M.)
| | - Justine Vix
- CNRS ERL7003, Laboratory Signalisation et Transports Ioniques Membranaires (STIM), University of Poitiers, 1 rue Georges Bonnet, TSA 51106, CEDEX 09, 86073 Poitiers, France; (J.B.); (A.-C.B.); (M.D.); (J.V.); (T.H.); (N.B.); (F.D.); (A.M.)
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Center of Poitiers, 2 Rue de la Milétrie, 86021 Poitiers, France
| | - Thomas Harnois
- CNRS ERL7003, Laboratory Signalisation et Transports Ioniques Membranaires (STIM), University of Poitiers, 1 rue Georges Bonnet, TSA 51106, CEDEX 09, 86073 Poitiers, France; (J.B.); (A.-C.B.); (M.D.); (J.V.); (T.H.); (N.B.); (F.D.); (A.M.)
| | - Nicolas Bourmeyster
- CNRS ERL7003, Laboratory Signalisation et Transports Ioniques Membranaires (STIM), University of Poitiers, 1 rue Georges Bonnet, TSA 51106, CEDEX 09, 86073 Poitiers, France; (J.B.); (A.-C.B.); (M.D.); (J.V.); (T.H.); (N.B.); (F.D.); (A.M.)
| | - Elodie Péraudeau
- University Hospital Center of Poitiers, 2 rue de la Milétrie, 86021 Poitiers, France; (E.P.); (J.C.)
- CNRS UMR 7285, Institut de Chimie des Milieux et des Matériaux de Poitiers (IC2MP), University of Poitiers, 4 Rue Michel Brunet, TSA 51106, CEDEX 09, 86073 Poitiers, France
| | - Amandine Chépied
- Laboratory of Experimental and Clinical Neurosciences, LNEC-INSERM U1084, UBM-Laboratoire de Cancérologie Biologique, CHU de Poitiers, 2 Rue de la Milétrie, 86000 Poitiers, France;
| | - Jonathan Clarhaut
- University Hospital Center of Poitiers, 2 rue de la Milétrie, 86021 Poitiers, France; (E.P.); (J.C.)
- CNRS UMR 7285, Institut de Chimie des Milieux et des Matériaux de Poitiers (IC2MP), University of Poitiers, 4 Rue Michel Brunet, TSA 51106, CEDEX 09, 86073 Poitiers, France
| | - Françoise Debiais
- CNRS ERL7003, Laboratory Signalisation et Transports Ioniques Membranaires (STIM), University of Poitiers, 1 rue Georges Bonnet, TSA 51106, CEDEX 09, 86073 Poitiers, France; (J.B.); (A.-C.B.); (M.D.); (J.V.); (T.H.); (N.B.); (F.D.); (A.M.)
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Center of Poitiers, 2 Rue de la Milétrie, 86021 Poitiers, France
| | - Arnaud Monvoisin
- CNRS ERL7003, Laboratory Signalisation et Transports Ioniques Membranaires (STIM), University of Poitiers, 1 rue Georges Bonnet, TSA 51106, CEDEX 09, 86073 Poitiers, France; (J.B.); (A.-C.B.); (M.D.); (J.V.); (T.H.); (N.B.); (F.D.); (A.M.)
| | - Laurent Cronier
- CNRS ERL7003, Laboratory Signalisation et Transports Ioniques Membranaires (STIM), University of Poitiers, 1 rue Georges Bonnet, TSA 51106, CEDEX 09, 86073 Poitiers, France; (J.B.); (A.-C.B.); (M.D.); (J.V.); (T.H.); (N.B.); (F.D.); (A.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-5-49-45-37-52
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Novel combination therapy for melanoma induces apoptosis via a gap junction positive feedback mechanism. Oncotarget 2020; 11:3443-3458. [PMID: 32973969 PMCID: PMC7500108 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.27732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastatic melanoma cells overexpressing gap junctions were assayed for their ability to propagate cell death by a novel combination therapy that generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) by both 1) non-thermal plasma (NTP) and 2) tirapazamine (TPZ) under hypoxic conditions. Results demonstrate additive-to-synergistic effects of combination therapy compared to each agent individually. NTP induces highly localized cell death in target areas whereas TPZ partially reduces viability over the total surface area. However, when high gap junction expression was induced in melanoma cells, effects of combination NTP+TPZ therapy was augmented, spreading cell death across the entire plate. Similarly, in vivo studies of human metastatic melanoma in a mouse tumor model demonstrate that the combined effect of NTP+TPZ causes a 90% reduction in tumor volume, specifically in the model expressing gap junctions. Treatment with NTP+TPZ increases gene expression in the apoptotic pathway and oxidative stress while decreasing genes related to cell migration. Immune response was also elicited through differential regulation of cytokines and chemokines, suggesting potential for this therapy to induce a cytotoxic immune response with fewer side effects than current therapies. Interestingly, the gap junction protein, Cx26 was upregulated following treatment with NTP+TPZ and these gap junctions were shown to maintain functionality during the onset of treatment. Therefore, we propose that gap junctions both increase the efficacy of NTP+TPZ and perpetuate a positive feedback mechanism of gap junction expression and tumoricidal activity. Our unique approach to ROS induction in tumor cells with NTP+TPZ shows potential as a novel cancer treatment.
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Antagonistic Functions of Connexin 43 during the Development of Primary or Secondary Bone Tumors. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10091240. [PMID: 32859065 PMCID: PMC7565206 DOI: 10.3390/biom10091240] [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: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite research and clinical advances during recent decades, bone cancers remain a leading cause of death worldwide. There is a low survival rate for patients with primary bone tumors such as osteosarcoma and Ewing’s sarcoma or secondary bone tumors such as bone metastases from prostate carcinoma. Gap junctions are specialized plasma membrane structures consisting of transmembrane channels that directly link the cytoplasm of adjacent cells, thereby enabling the direct exchange of small signaling molecules between cells. Discoveries of human genetic disorders due to genetic mutations in gap junction proteins (connexins) and experimental data using connexin knockout mice have provided significant evidence that gap-junctional intercellular communication (Gj) is crucial for tissue function. Thus, the dysfunction of Gj may be responsible for the development of some diseases. Gj is thus a main mechanism for tumor cells to communicate with other tumor cells and their surrounding microenvironment to survive and proliferate. If it is well accepted that a low level of connexin expression favors cancer cell proliferation and therefore primary tumor development, more evidence is suggesting that a high level of connexin expression stimulates various cellular process such as intravasation, extravasation, or migration of metastatic cells. If so, connexin expression would facilitate secondary tumor dissemination. This paper discusses evidence that suggests that connexin 43 plays an antagonistic role in the development of primary bone tumors as a tumor suppressor and secondary bone tumors as a tumor promoter.
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Sultan M, Ben-Shushan D, Peled M, Kamari Y, Isman S, Barshack I, Kuban RJ, Kühn H, Harats D, Shaish A. Specific overexpression of 15-lipoxygenase in endothelial cells promotes cancer cell death in an in vivo Lewis lung carcinoma mouse model. Adv Med Sci 2020; 65:111-119. [PMID: 31923770 DOI: 10.1016/j.advms.2019.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Revised: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Lipoxygenases (LOX) have been implicated in carcinogenesis, however both pro- and anti-carcinogenic effects have been reported in different cancer models. Using transgenic mice, which specifically overexpress human 15-lipoxygenase (ALOX15) in endothelial cells (EC), we previously demonstrated significant inhibition of tumor development. In the Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) model, the primary tumor developed similarly in both wild type (WT) and ALOX15 overexpressing mice. However, metastases development was significantly inhibited in the transgenic mice. Here, we explored the molecular basis for the anti-metastatic effect of endothelial cell specific ALOX15 overexpression. MATERIALS/METHODS We used ALOX15 overexpressing mice, and in-vitro cell model to evaluate the molecular effect of ALOX15 on EC and LLC cells. RESULTS When LLC cells were injected in WT and ALOX15 overexpressing mice, we observed a higher degree of apoptosis and necrosis in primary and metastatic tumors of ALOX15 overexpressing animals. These anti-carcinogenic and anti-metastatic effects were paralleled by augmented expression of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1A (CDKN1A; p21) and of the peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor (PPAR)γ and by downregulation of the steady state concentrations of connexin26 mRNA. Consistent with these in vivo effects, ALOX15 overexpression in LLC and HeLa cancer cells in vitro significantly reduced cell viability in culture. In contrast, similar treatment of non-cancerous B2B epithelial cells did not impact cell viability. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, our data suggests that endothelial cell specific overexpression of ALOX15 promotes apoptosis and necrosis in primary and metastatic tumors in mice, by upregulation of P21 and PPARγ expression in adjacent cancer cells.
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Direct Intercellular Communications and Cancer: A Snapshot of the Biological Roles of Connexins in Prostate Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11091370. [PMID: 31540089 PMCID: PMC6770088 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11091370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Revised: 08/04/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Tissue homeostasis is the result of a complex intercellular network controlling the behavior of every cell for the survival of the whole organism. In mammalian tissues, cells do communicate via diverse long- and short-range communication mechanisms. While long-range communication involves hormones through blood circulation and neural transmission, short-range communication mechanisms include either paracrine diffusible factors or direct interactions (e.g., gap junctions, intercellular bridges and tunneling nanotubes) or a mixture of both (e.g., exosomes). Tumor growth represents an alteration of tissue homeostasis and could be the consequence of intercellular network disruption. In this network, direct short-range intercellular communication seems to be particularly involved. The first type of these intercellular communications thought to be involved in cancer progression were gap junctions and their protein subunits, the connexins. From these studies came the general assumption that global decreased connexin expression is correlated to tumor progression and increased cell proliferation. However, this assumption appeared more complicated by the fact that connexins may act also as pro-tumorigenic. Then, the concept that direct intercellular communication could be involved in cancer has been expanded to include new forms of intercellular communication such as tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) and exosomes. TNTs are intercellular bridges that allow free exchange of small molecules or even mitochondria depending on the presence of gap junctions. The majority of current research shows that such exchanges promote cancer progression by increasing resistance to hypoxia and chemotherapy. If exosomes are also involved in these mechanisms, more studies are needed to understand their precise role. Prostate cancer (PCa) represents a type of malignancy with one of the highest incidence rates worldwide. The precise role of these types of direct short-range intercellular communication has been considered in the progression of PCa. However, even though data are in favor of connexins playing a key role in PCa progression, a clear understanding of the role of TNTs and exosomes is needed to define their precise role in this malignancy. This review article summarizes the current view of the main mechanisms involved in short-range intercellular communication and their implications in cancer and delves into the biological, predictive and therapeutic role of connexins in PCa.
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Gap Junction Intercellular Communication in the Carcinogenesis Hallmarks: Is This a Phenomenon or Epiphenomenon? Cells 2019; 8:cells8080896. [PMID: 31416286 PMCID: PMC6721698 DOI: 10.3390/cells8080896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 08/03/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
If occupational tumors are excluded, cancer causes are largely unknown. Therefore, it appeared useful to work out a theory explaining the complexity of this disease. More than fifty years ago the first demonstration that cells communicate with each other by exchanging ions or small molecules through the participation of connexins (Cxs) forming Gap Junctions (GJs) occurred. Then the involvement of GJ Intercellular Communication (GJIC) in numerous physiological cellular functions, especially in proliferation control, was proven and accounts for the growing attention elicited in the field of carcinogenesis. The aim of the present paper is to verify and discuss the role of Cxs, GJs, and GJIC in cancer hallmarks, pointing on the different involved mechanisms in the context of the multi-step theory of carcinogenesis. Functional GJIC acts both as a tumor suppressor and as a tumor enhancer in the metastatic stage. On the contrary, lost or non-functional GJs allow the uncontrolled proliferation of stem/progenitor initiated cells. Thus, GJIC plays a key role in many biological phenomena or epiphenomena related to cancer. Depending on this complexity, GJIC can be considered a tumor suppressor in controlling cell proliferation or a cancer ally, with possible preventive or therapeutic implications in both cases.
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PDE4 and Epac1 Synergistically Promote Rectal Carcinoma via the cAMP Pathway. Anal Cell Pathol (Amst) 2019; 2019:7145198. [PMID: 30809467 PMCID: PMC6364102 DOI: 10.1155/2019/7145198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2018] [Revised: 09/09/2018] [Accepted: 09/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To assess the expression levels of exchange protein 1 directly activated by cAMP (Epac1) and phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) in rectal carcinoma, and their associations with clinicopathological indexes. In addition, the associations of PDE4 and Epac1 with A-kinase anchor protein 95, connexin 43, cyclin D1, and cyclin E1 were evaluated. Methods The PV-9000 two-step immunohistochemistry method was used to determine protein expression in 44 rectal carcinoma tissue samples and 16 paracarcinoma tissue specimens. Results The positive rate of PDE4 protein expression in rectal carcinoma tissues was higher than that of paracarcinoma tissues (59.09% vs. 12.5%, P < 0.05). Similar findings were obtained for Epac1 (55% vs. 6.25%, P < 0.05). No significant associations of PDE4 and Epac1 with degree of differentiation, histological type, and lymph node metastasis were found in rectal carcinoma (P > 0.05). Correlations between PDE4 and Epac1, PDE4 and Cx43, PDE4 and cyclin E1, and Epac1 and Cx43 were observed (all P < 0.05). There was no correlation between the other protein pairs examined (P > 0.05). Conclusion PDE4 and Epac1 expression levels are increased in rectal carcinoma tissues, suggesting that the two proteins may be involved in the development of this malignancy. Meanwhile, correlations between PDE4 and Epac1, PDE4 and Cx43, PDE4 and cyclin E1, and Epac1 and Cx43 suggested synergistic effects of these proteins in promoting rectal carcinoma.
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Hejmej A, Bilinska B. The effects of flutamide on cell-cell junctions in the testis, epididymis, and prostate. Reprod Toxicol 2018; 81:1-16. [PMID: 29958919 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2018.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Revised: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In this review, we summarize recent findings on the effect of the anti-androgen flutamide on cell-cell junctions in the male reproductive system. We outline developmental aspects of flutamide action on the testis, epididymis, and prostate, and describe changes in junction protein expression and organization of junctional complexes in the adult boar following prenatal and postnatal exposure. We also discuss findings on the mechanisms by which flutamide induces alterations in cell-cell junctions in reproductive tissues of adult males, with special emphasis on cytoplasmic effects. Based on the results from in vivo and in vitro studies in the rat, we propose that flutamide affects the expression of junction proteins and junction complex structure not only by inhibiting androgen receptor activity, but equally important by modulating protein kinase-dependent signaling in testicular cells. Additionally, results from studies on prostate cancer cell lines point to a role for the cellular molecular outfit in response to flutamide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Hejmej
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Barbara Bilinska
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland.
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13
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Wu D, Li B, Liu H, Yuan M, Yu M, Tao L, Dong S, Tong X. In vitro inhibited effect of gap junction composed of Cx43 in the invasion and metastasis of testicular cancer resistanced to cisplatin. Biomed Pharmacother 2018; 98:826-833. [PMID: 29571253 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2018.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Revised: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The effect of gap junction intercellular communication composed of connexin on cancer invasion/metastasis has been thoroughly explored; however, its effect on testicular cancer resistanced to chemotherapy is still unclear. In this study, we found that the capability of invasion and migration of I-10/DDP (cisplatin (DDP)-resistance) cells were elevated. Furthermore, the expression of Cx43 and the function of gap junction (GJ) in I-10/DDP cells were decreased compared with parental I-10 cells. Pharmacological inhibition of GJs by oleamide (Olea) enhanced invasion and migration. However, enhancement of GJs by retinoic acid (RA) decreased invasion and migration of I-10/DDP cells. To further clarify the invasion/migration inhibited effect of GJ in the testicular cancer resistanced to DDP, GJ function was modulated by overexpression and knockdown of Cx43 expression. Overexpression of Cx43 reduced invasion and migration of I-10/DDP cells. Conversely, knockdown of Cx43 expression increased invasion and migration of I-10/DDP cells. In summary, GJ composed of Cx43 inhibits I-10/DDP cells invasion and migration, and it may become the potential therapeutic target for testicular cancer chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui 233030, PR China
| | - Beibei Li
- Department of Pharmacy, The People's Hospital of Lixin County, Anhui, Bozhou, 236700, PR China
| | - Haofeng Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui 233030, PR China
| | - Min Yuan
- School of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui 233030, PR China
| | - Meiling Yu
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Anhui, Bengbu, 233004, PR China
| | - Liang Tao
- Department of Pharmacology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, PR China
| | - Shuying Dong
- School of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui 233030, PR China.
| | - Xuhui Tong
- School of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui 233030, PR China.
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14
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Boucher J, Monvoisin A, Vix J, Mesnil M, Thuringer D, Debiais F, Cronier L. Connexins, important players in the dissemination of prostate cancer cells. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2017; 1860:202-215. [PMID: 28693897 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2017.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2017] [Revised: 06/22/2017] [Accepted: 06/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Over the past 50years, increasing experimental evidences have established that connexins (Cxs) and gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) ensure an important role in both the onset and development of cancerous processes. In the present review, we focus on the impact of Cxs and GJIC during the development of prostate cancer (PCa), from the primary growth mainly localized in acinar glands and ducts to the distant metastasis mainly concentrated in bone. As observed in several other types of solid tumours, Cxs and especially Cx43 exhibit an ambivalent role with a tumour suppressor effect in the early stages and, conversely, a rather pro-tumoural profile for most of invasion and dissemination steps to secondary sites. We report here the current knowledge on the function of Cxs during PCa cells migration, cytoskeletal dynamics, proteinases activities and the cross talk with the surrounding stromal cells in the microenvironment of the tumour and the bones. In addition, we discuss the role of Cxs in the bone tropism even if the prostate model is rarely used to study the complete sequence of cancer dissemination compared to breast cancer or melanoma. Even if not yet fully understood, these recent findings on Cxs provide new insights into their molecular mechanisms associated with progression and bone targeted behaviour of PCa. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Gap Junction Proteins edited by Jean Claude Herve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Boucher
- Laboratory Signalisation et Transports Ioniques Membranaires (STIM), ERL7368 - CNRS, University of Poitiers, Poitiers, France
| | - Arnaud Monvoisin
- Laboratory Signalisation et Transports Ioniques Membranaires (STIM), ERL7368 - CNRS, University of Poitiers, Poitiers, France
| | - Justine Vix
- Laboratory Signalisation et Transports Ioniques Membranaires (STIM), ERL7368 - CNRS, University of Poitiers, Poitiers, France; Department of Rheumatology, C.H.U. la Milétrie, Poitiers, France
| | - Marc Mesnil
- Laboratory Signalisation et Transports Ioniques Membranaires (STIM), ERL7368 - CNRS, University of Poitiers, Poitiers, France
| | | | - Françoise Debiais
- Laboratory Signalisation et Transports Ioniques Membranaires (STIM), ERL7368 - CNRS, University of Poitiers, Poitiers, France; Department of Rheumatology, C.H.U. la Milétrie, Poitiers, France
| | - Laurent Cronier
- Laboratory Signalisation et Transports Ioniques Membranaires (STIM), ERL7368 - CNRS, University of Poitiers, Poitiers, France.
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15
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Liu Q, Ji X, Ge Z, Diao H, Chang X, Wang L, Wu Q. Role of connexin 43 in cadmium-induced proliferation of human prostate epithelial cells. J Appl Toxicol 2017; 37:933-942. [PMID: 28176351 DOI: 10.1002/jat.3441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Revised: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 12/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Connexins (Cxs), the subunits of gap junction channels, are involved in many physiological processes. Aberrant control of Cxs and gap junction intercellular communication may contribute to many diseases, including the promotion of cancer. Cd exposure is associated with increased risk of human prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia. The roles of Cxs in the effects of Cd on the prostate have, however, not been reported previously. In this study, the human prostate epithelial cell line RWPE-1 was exposed to Cd. A low dose of Cd stimulated cell proliferation along with a lower degree of gap junction intercellular communication and an elevated level of the protein Cx43. Cd exposure increased the levels of intracellular Ca2+ and phosphorylated Cx43 at the Ser368 site. Knockdown of Cx43 using siRNA blocked Cd-induced proliferation and interfered with the Cd-induced changes in the protein levels of cyclin D1, cyclin B1, p27Kip1 (p27) and p21Waf1/Cip1 (p21). The increase in Cx43 expression induced by Cd was presumably mediated by the androgen receptor, because it was abolished upon treatment with the androgen receptor antagonist, flutamide. Thus, a low dose of Cd promotes cell proliferation in RWPE-1, possibly mediated by Cx43 expression through an effect on cell cycle-associated proteins. Cx43 might be a target for prostatic diseases associated with Cd exposure. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingping Liu
- School of Public Health, Fudan University, DongAn Road, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Ministry of Education, DongAn Road, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xiaoli Ji
- School of Public Health, Fudan University, DongAn Road, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Ministry of Education, DongAn Road, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Zehe Ge
- School of Public Health, Fudan University, DongAn Road, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Ministry of Education, DongAn Road, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Haipeng Diao
- School of Public Health, Fudan University, DongAn Road, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Ministry of Education, DongAn Road, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xiuli Chang
- School of Public Health, Fudan University, DongAn Road, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Ministry of Education, DongAn Road, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Lihua Wang
- Shanghai Jinshan District Center for Disease Control & Prevention, Weisheng Road, Jinshan District, Shanghai, 201599, China
| | - Qing Wu
- School of Public Health, Fudan University, DongAn Road, Shanghai, 200032, China.,Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Ministry of Education, DongAn Road, Shanghai, 200032, China
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16
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Polusani SR, Kalmykov EA, Chandrasekhar A, Zucker SN, Nicholson BJ. Cell coupling mediated by connexin 26 selectively contributes to reduced adhesivity and increased migration. J Cell Sci 2016; 129:4399-4410. [PMID: 27777264 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.185017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2016] [Accepted: 10/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junction proteins (connexins) have crucial effects on cell motility in many systems, from migration of neural crest cells to promotion of metastatic invasiveness. Here, we show that expression of Cx26 (also known as GJB2) in HeLa cells specifically enhances cell motility in scrape wounding and sparse culture models. This effect is dependent on gap junction channels and is isotype specific [Cx26 enhances motility, whereas Cx43 (also known as GJA1) does not and Cx32 (also known as GJB1) has an intermediate effect]. The increased motility is associated with reduced cell adhesiveness, caused by loss of N-cadherin protein and RNA at the wound edge. This in turn causes a redistribution of N-cadherin-binding proteins (p120 catenin and β-catenin) to the cytosol and nucleus, respectively. The former activates Rac-1, which mediates cytoskeletal rearrangements needed for filopod extension. The latter is associated with increased expression of urokinase plasminogen activating receptor (an activator of extracellular proteases) and secretion of extracellular matrix components like collagen. Although these effects were dependent on Cx26-mediated coupling of the cells, they are not mediated by the same signal (i.e. cAMP) through which Cx26 has been shown to suppress proliferation in the same system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srikanth R Polusani
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Edward A Kalmykov
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Anjana Chandrasekhar
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Shoshanna N Zucker
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Bruce J Nicholson
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
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17
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Hamon L, Savarin P, Pastré D. Polyamine signal through gap junctions: A key regulator of proliferation and gap-junction organization in mammalian tissues? Bioessays 2016; 38:498-507. [DOI: 10.1002/bies.201500195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Loic Hamon
- Laboratoire Structure-Activité des Biomolécules Normales et Pathologiques; INSERM U1204 and Université Evry-Val d'Essonne; Evry France
| | - Philippe Savarin
- Centre National de Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Equipe Spectroscopie des Biomolécules et des Milieux Biologiques (SBMB); Université Paris 13, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Laboratoire Chimie, Structures, Propriétés de Biomatériaux et d'Agents Thérapeutiques (CSPBAT), Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR) 7244; Bobigny France
| | - David Pastré
- Laboratoire Structure-Activité des Biomolécules Normales et Pathologiques; INSERM U1204 and Université Evry-Val d'Essonne; Evry France
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18
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Bell CL, Murray SA. Adrenocortical Gap Junctions and Their Functions. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2016; 7:82. [PMID: 27445985 PMCID: PMC4925680 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2016.00082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2016] [Accepted: 06/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Adrenal cortical steroidogenesis and proliferation are thought to be modulated by gap junction-mediated direct cell-cell communication of regulatory molecules between cells. Such communication is regulated by the number of gap junction channels between contacting cells, the rate at which information flows between these channels, and the rate of channel turnover. Knowledge of the factors regulating gap junction-mediated communication and the turnover process are critical to an understanding of adrenal cortical cell functions, including development, hormonal response to adrenocorticotropin, and neoplastic dedifferentiation. Here, we review what is known about gap junctions in the adrenal gland, with particular attention to their role in adrenocortical cell steroidogenesis and proliferation. Information and insight gained from electrophysiological, molecular biological, and imaging (immunocytochemical, freeze fracture, transmission electron microscopic, and live cell) techniques will be provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl L. Bell
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Sandra A. Murray
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- *Correspondence: Sandra A. Murray,
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19
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Qin Y, Mohandessi S, Gordon L, Wadehra M. Regulation of FAK Activity by Tetraspan Proteins: Potential Clinical Implications in Cancer. Crit Rev Oncog 2015; 20:391-405. [PMID: 27279237 PMCID: PMC5390008 DOI: 10.1615/critrevoncog.v20.i5-6.110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is a non-receptor tyrosine kinase that regulates multiple cell signaling pathways in both physiological and pathological conditions. Overexpression and activation of FAK is associated with many advanced stage cancers through promoting cancer cell tumorigenicity and progression as well as by regulating the tumor microenvironment. FAK has multiple binding partners through which FAK exerts its functions including RhoGEF, Src family, talin, cortactin, and paxilin. Over the last few years, it has been proposed that a novel group of four transmembrane proteins can interact with FAK and regulate its activity. These include select tetraspanins such as CD151 and CD9 as well as the GAS3 family members epithelial membrane protein-2 (EMP2) and peripheral myelin protein-22 (PMP22). In this review, we discuss the current knowledge of the interaction between FAK and tetraspan proteins in physiological and pathological conditions, with an emphasis on the potential of tetraspan family members as therapeutic targets in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Qin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jules Stein Eye Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Shabnam Mohandessi
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Lynn Gordon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jules Stein Eye Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Madhuri Wadehra
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
- Center to Eliminate Cancer Health Disparities, Charles Drew University, Los Angeles, CA
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20
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Connexins in migration during development and cancer. Dev Biol 2014; 401:143-51. [PMID: 25553982 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2014.12.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2014] [Revised: 12/17/2014] [Accepted: 12/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Connexins, the gap junction proteins, through their multitude of actions are implicated in a variety of cell processes during animal development and cancer. They allow direct or paracrine/autocrine cell communication through their channel and hemi-channel functions. They enable adhesion and interact with a plethora of signalling molecules. Here, we review the common themes in developmental and pathological processes and we focus in their involvement in cell migration in four different systems: neurons, astrocytes, neural crest and cancer.
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21
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Xiao D, Chen S, Shao Q, Chen J, Bijian K, Laird DW, Alaoui-Jamali MA. Dynamin 2 interacts with connexin 26 to regulate its degradation and function in gap junction formation. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2014; 55:288-97. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2014.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2014] [Revised: 09/09/2014] [Accepted: 09/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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22
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Schalper KA, Carvajal-Hausdorf D, Oyarzo MP. Possible role of hemichannels in cancer. Front Physiol 2014; 5:237. [PMID: 25018732 PMCID: PMC4073485 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2014.00237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2014] [Accepted: 06/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In humans, connexins (Cxs) and pannexins (Panxs) are the building blocks of hemichannels. These proteins are frequently altered in neoplastic cells and have traditionally been considered as tumor suppressors. Alteration of Cxs and Panxs in cancer cells can be due to genetic, epigenetic and post-transcriptional/post-translational events. Activated hemichannels mediate the diffusional membrane transport of ions and small signaling molecules. In the last decade hemichannels have been shown to participate in diverse cell processes including the modulation of cell proliferation and survival. However, their possible role in tumor growth and expansion remains largely unexplored. Herein, we hypothesize about the possible role of hemichannels in carcinogenesis and tumor progression. To support this theory, we summarize the evidence regarding the involvement of hemichannels in cell proliferation and migration, as well as their possible role in the anti-tumor immune responses. In addition, we discuss the evidence linking hemichannels with cancer in diverse models and comment on the current technical limitations for their study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurt A Schalper
- Servicio Anatomía Patológica, Clínica Alemana de Santiago, Facultad de Medicina Clinica Alemana Universidad del Desarrollo Santiago, Chile ; Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Mauricio P Oyarzo
- Servicio Anatomía Patológica, Clínica Alemana de Santiago, Facultad de Medicina Clinica Alemana Universidad del Desarrollo Santiago, Chile
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23
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Ryszawy D, Sarna M, Rak M, Szpak K, Kędracka-Krok S, Michalik M, Siedlar M, Zuba-Surma E, Burda K, Korohoda W, Madeja Z, Czyż J. Functional links between Snail-1 and Cx43 account for the recruitment of Cx43-positive cells into the invasive front of prostate cancer. Carcinogenesis 2014; 35:1920-30. [PMID: 24503443 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgu033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Suppressive function of connexin(Cx)43 in carcinogenesis was recently contested by reports that showed a multifaceted function of Cx43 in cancer progression. These studies did not attempt to model the dynamics of intratumoral heterogeneity involved in the metastatic cascade. An unorthodox look at the phenotypic heterogeneity of prostate cancer cells in vitro enabled us to identify links between Cx43 functions and Snail-1-regulated functional speciation of invasive cells. Incomplete Snail-1-dependent phenotypic shifts accounted for the formation of phenotypically stable subclones of AT-2 cells. These subclones showed diverse predilection for invasive behavior. High Snail-1 and Cx43 levels accompanied high motility and nanomechanical elasticity of the fibroblastoid AT-2_Fi2 subclone, which determined its considerable invasiveness. Transforming growth factor-β and ectopic Snail-1 overexpression induced invasiveness and Cx43 expression in epithelioid AT-2 subclones and DU-145 cells. Functional links between Snail-1 function and Cx43 expression were confirmed by Cx43 downregulation and phenotypic shifts in AT-2_Fi2, DU-145 and MAT-LyLu cells upon Snail-1 silencing. Corresponding morphological changes and Snail-1 downregulation were seen upon Cx43 silencing in AT-2_Fi2 cells. This indicates that feedback loops between both proteins regulate cell invasive behavior. We demonstrate that Cx43 may differentially predispose prostate cancer cells for invasion in a coupling-dependent and coupling-independent manner. When extrapolated to in vivo conditions, these data show the complexity of Cx43 functions during the metastatic cascade of prostate cancer. They may explain how Cx43 confers a selective advantage during cooperative invasion of clonally evolving, invasive prostate cancer cell subpopulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damian Ryszawy
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, ul. Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland, Department of Medical Physics and Biophysics, AGH University of Science and Technology, 30-059 Kraków, Poland, Department of Physical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, ul. Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland and Department of Clinical Immunology, Polish-American Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 30-663 Kraków, Poland
| | - Michał Sarna
- Department of Medical Physics and Biophysics, AGH University of Science and Technology, 30-059 Kraków, Poland
| | - Monika Rak
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, ul. Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland, Department of Medical Physics and Biophysics, AGH University of Science and Technology, 30-059 Kraków, Poland, Department of Physical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, ul. Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland and Department of Clinical Immunology, Polish-American Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 30-663 Kraków, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Szpak
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, ul. Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland, Department of Medical Physics and Biophysics, AGH University of Science and Technology, 30-059 Kraków, Poland, Department of Physical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, ul. Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland and Department of Clinical Immunology, Polish-American Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 30-663 Kraków, Poland
| | - Sylwia Kędracka-Krok
- Department of Physical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, ul. Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland and
| | - Marta Michalik
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, ul. Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland, Department of Medical Physics and Biophysics, AGH University of Science and Technology, 30-059 Kraków, Poland, Department of Physical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, ul. Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland and Department of Clinical Immunology, Polish-American Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 30-663 Kraków, Poland
| | - Maciej Siedlar
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Polish-American Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 30-663 Kraków, Poland
| | - Ewa Zuba-Surma
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, ul. Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland, Department of Medical Physics and Biophysics, AGH University of Science and Technology, 30-059 Kraków, Poland, Department of Physical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, ul. Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland and Department of Clinical Immunology, Polish-American Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 30-663 Kraków, Poland
| | - Kvetoslava Burda
- Department of Medical Physics and Biophysics, AGH University of Science and Technology, 30-059 Kraków, Poland
| | - Włodzimierz Korohoda
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, ul. Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland, Department of Medical Physics and Biophysics, AGH University of Science and Technology, 30-059 Kraków, Poland, Department of Physical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, ul. Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland and Department of Clinical Immunology, Polish-American Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 30-663 Kraków, Poland
| | - Zbigniew Madeja
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, ul. Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland, Department of Medical Physics and Biophysics, AGH University of Science and Technology, 30-059 Kraków, Poland, Department of Physical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, ul. Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland and Department of Clinical Immunology, Polish-American Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 30-663 Kraków, Poland
| | - Jarosław Czyż
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, ul. Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland, Department of Medical Physics and Biophysics, AGH University of Science and Technology, 30-059 Kraków, Poland, Department of Physical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, ul. Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland and Department of Clinical Immunology, Polish-American Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 30-663 Kraków, Poland
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24
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Defamie N, Chepied A, Mesnil M. Connexins, gap junctions and tissue invasion. FEBS Lett 2014; 588:1331-8. [PMID: 24457198 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2014.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2013] [Revised: 01/13/2014] [Accepted: 01/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Formation of metastases negatively impacts the survival prognosis of cancer patients. Globally, if the various steps involved in their formation are relatively well identified, the molecular mechanisms responsible for the emergence of invasive cancer cells are still incompletely resolved. Elucidating what are the mechanisms that allow cancer cells to evade from the tumor is a crucial point since it is the first step of the metastatic potential of a solid tumor. In order to be invasive, cancer cells have to undergo transformations such as down-regulation of cell-cell adhesions, modification of cell-matrix adhesions and acquisition of proteolytic properties. These transformations are accompanied by the capacity to "activate" stromal cells, which may favor the motility of the invasive cells through the extracellular matrix. Since modulation of gap junctional intercellular communication is known to be involved in cancer, we were interested to consider whether these different transformations necessary for the acquisition of invasive phenotype are related with gap junctions and their structural proteins, the connexins. In this review, emerging roles of connexins and gap junctions in the process of tissue invasion are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norah Defamie
- Team IP2C, STIM laboratory, University of Poitiers, CNRS ERL 7368, 1 rue Georges Bonnet, B36, 86073 Poitiers Cedex9, France.
| | - Amandine Chepied
- Team IP2C, STIM laboratory, University of Poitiers, CNRS ERL 7368, 1 rue Georges Bonnet, B36, 86073 Poitiers Cedex9, France.
| | - Marc Mesnil
- Team IP2C, STIM laboratory, University of Poitiers, CNRS ERL 7368, 1 rue Georges Bonnet, B36, 86073 Poitiers Cedex9, France.
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Wan HT, Mruk DD, Wong CKC, Cheng CY. Perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) perturbs male rat Sertoli cell blood-testis barrier function by affecting F-actin organization via p-FAK-Tyr(407): an in vitro study. Endocrinology 2014; 155:249-62. [PMID: 24169556 PMCID: PMC3868803 DOI: 10.1210/en.2013-1657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Environmental toxicants such as perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) have been implicated in male reproductive dysfunction, including reduced sperm count and semen quality, in humans. However, the underlying mechanism(s) remains unknown. Herein PFOS at 10-20 μM (∼5-10 μg/mL) was found to be more potent than bisphenol A (100 μM) in perturbing the blood-testis barrier (BTB) function by disrupting the Sertoli cell tight junction-permeability barrier without detectable cytotoxicity. We also delineated the underlying molecular mechanism by which PFOS perturbed Sertoli cell BTB function using an in vitro model that mimics the BTB in vivo. First, PFOS perturbed F-actin organization in Sertoli cells, causing truncation of actin filaments at the BTB. Thus, the actin-based cytoskeleton was no longer capable of supporting the distribution and/or localization of actin-regulatory and adhesion proteins at the cell-cell interface necessary to maintain BTB integrity. Second, PFOS was found to perturb inter-Sertoli cell gap junction (GJ) communication based on a dye-transfer assay by down-regulating the expression of connexin-43, a GJ integral membrane protein. Third, phosphorylated focal adhesion kinase (FAK)-Tyr(407) was found to protect the BTB from the destructive effects of PFOS as shown in a study via an overexpression of an FAK Y407E phosphomimetic mutant. Also, transfection of Sertoli cells with an FAK-specific microRNA, miR-135b, to knock down the expression of phosphorylated FAK-Tyr(407) was found to worsen PFOS-mediated Sertoli cell tight junction disruption. In summary, PFOS-induced BTB disruption is mediated by down-regulating phosphorylated FAK-Tyr(407) and connexin-43, which in turn perturbed F-actin organization and GJ-based intercellular communication, leading to mislocalization of actin-regulatory and adhesion proteins at the BTB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hin-Ting Wan
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research (H.-T.W., D.D.M., C.Y.C.), Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York 10065; and Department of Biology (C.K.C.W.), Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
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Morpho-physiological heterogeneity of cells within two rat prostate carcinoma cell lines AT-2 and MAT-LyLu differing in the degree of malignancy observed by cell cloning and the effects of caffeine, theophylline and papaverine upon a proportion of the clones. Oncol Rep 2013; 29:1789-96. [DOI: 10.3892/or.2013.2323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2012] [Accepted: 01/08/2013] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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Teleki I, Krenacs T, Szasz MA, Kulka J, Wichmann B, Leo C, Papassotiropoulos B, Riemenschnitter C, Moch H, Varga Z. The potential prognostic value of connexin 26 and 46 expression in neoadjuvant-treated breast cancer. BMC Cancer 2013; 13:50. [PMID: 23374644 PMCID: PMC3583680 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-13-50] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2012] [Accepted: 01/30/2013] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several classification systems are available to assess pathological response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in breast cancer, but reliable biomarkers to predict the efficiency of primary systemic therapy (PST) are still missing. Deregulation of gap junction channel forming connexins (Cx) has been implicated in carcinogenesis and tumour progression through loss of cell cycle control. In this study we correlated Cx expression and cell proliferation with disease survival and pathological response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in breast cancers using existing classification systems. METHODS The expression of Cx26, Cx32, Cx43, Cx46 and Ki67 was evaluated in 96 breast cancer patients prior to and after neoadjuvant chemotherapy using duplicate cores in tissue microarrays (TMA). Cx plaques of <1μm were detected with multilayer, multichannel fluorescence digital microscopy. Current classifications to assess residual tumour burden after primary systemic therapy included the EWGBSP, CPS-EG, Miller-Payne, Sataloff and NSABP systems. RESULTS In our cohort dominated by hormone receptor (ER/PR) positive and HER2 negative cases, only the CPS-EG classification showed prognostic relevance: cases with scores 1-2 had significantly better overall survival (p=0.015) than cases with scores 3-5. Pre-chemotherapy Cx43 expression correlated positively with hormone receptor status both before and after chemotherapy and had a negative correlation with HER2 expression pre-chemotherapy. There was a positive correlation between Cx32 and HER2 expression pre-chemotherapy and between Cx32 and Ki67 expression post-chemotherapy. A negative correlation was found between post-chemotherapy Cx46 and Ki67 expression. Decreased post-chemotherapy Cx26 expression (<5%) statistically correlated with better overall survival (p=0.011). Moderate or higher Cx46 expression (>20%) pre- and post-chemotherapy correlated with significantly better survival in the intermediate prognostic subgroups of EWGBSP TR2b (p(pre-chemo)=0.006; Sataloff TB (p(pre-chemo)=0.005; p(post-chemo)=0.029) and in Miller-Payne G3 (p(pre-chemo)=0.002; p(post-chemo)=0.012) classifications. Pre-chemotherapy, Cx46 expression was the only marker that correlated with overall survival within these subgroups. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that Cx46 and Cx26 expression in breast cancer may improve the assessment of pathological response and refine intermediate prognostic subgroups of residual tumour classifications used after neoadjuvant chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivett Teleki
- 1st Department of Pathology & Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tibor Krenacs
- 1st Department of Pathology & Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-SE Tumour Progression Research Group, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Marcell A Szasz
- 2nd Department of Pathology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Janina Kulka
- 2nd Department of Pathology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Barna Wichmann
- 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Cornelia Leo
- Division of Gynecology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Holger Moch
- Institute of Surgical Pathology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Zsuzsanna Varga
- Institute of Surgical Pathology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Bijnsdorp IV, Rozendaal L, van Moorselaar RJA, Geldof AA. A predictive role for noncancerous prostate cells: low connexin-26 expression in radical prostatectomy tissues predicts metastasis. Br J Cancer 2012; 107:1963-8. [PMID: 23169284 PMCID: PMC3516687 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.2012.500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: It is important to identify markers that predict whether prostate cancer will metastasise. The adjacent noncancerous cells (influenced by the tumour cells) may also express potential markers. The objective of this study was to determine the influence of cancer cells on noncancerous cells and to assess the value of the cell-communication protein connexin-26 (Cx26) as a marker to predict the development of metastasis. Methods: The effect of conditioned medium (CM) from PrCa cells on in vitro noncancerous cell proliferation, migration and invasion and Cx26 expression was determined. Connexin-26 expression was investigated in prostatectomy tissues from 51 PrCa patients by immunohistochemistry and compared with various clinicopathological parameters. Results: Proliferation, migration and invasion of noncancerous cells were influenced by CM from the PrCa cell lines. Importantly, a clear relation was found between low Cx26 expression in the noncancerous tissue in prostatectomy sections and the risk of development of metastasis (P<0.0002). Kaplan–Meier analysis showed a relation between low Cx26 expression in noncancerous tissues and time to biochemical recurrence (P=0.0002). Conclusion: Measuring Cx26 expression in the adjacent noncancerous tissues (rather than cancer tissues) of prostatectomy sections could help to identify high-risk patients who may benefit from adjuvant therapy to decrease the risk of metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- I V Bijnsdorp
- Department of Urology, VU University Medical Center, De Boelelaan 1117 4F12, Amsterdam 1081 HV, The Netherlands.
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Kar R, Batra N, Riquelme MA, Jiang JX. Biological role of connexin intercellular channels and hemichannels. Arch Biochem Biophys 2012; 524:2-15. [PMID: 22430362 PMCID: PMC3376239 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2012.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 174] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2011] [Revised: 02/16/2012] [Accepted: 03/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Gap junctions (GJ) and hemichannels (HC) formed from the protein subunits called connexins are transmembrane conduits for the exchange of small molecules and ions. Connexins and another group of HC-forming proteins, pannexins comprise the two families of transmembrane proteins ubiquitously distributed in vertebrates. Most cell types express more than one connexin or pannexin. While connexin expression and channel activity may vary as a function of physiological and pathological states of the cell and tissue, only a few studies suggest the involvement of pannexin HC in acquired pathological conditions. Importantly, genetic mutations in connexin appear to interfere with GJ and HC function which results in several diseases. Thus connexins could serve as potential drug target for therapeutic intervention. Growing evidence suggests that diseases resulting from HC dysfunction might open a new direction for development of specific HC reagents. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current studies of GJ and HC formed by connexins and pannexins in various tissue and organ systems including heart, central nervous system, kidney, mammary glands, ovary, testis, lens, retina, inner ear, bone, cartilage, lung and liver. In addition, present knowledge of the role of GJ and HC in cell cycle progression, carcinogenesis and stem cell development is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Manuel A Riquelme
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229-3900
| | - Jean X. Jiang
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229-3900
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Gap junction proteins on the move: connexins, the cytoskeleton and migration. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2012; 1828:94-108. [PMID: 22613178 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2012.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2012] [Revised: 04/25/2012] [Accepted: 05/04/2012] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Connexin43 (Cx43) has roles in cell-cell communication as well as channel independent roles in regulating motility and migration. Loss of function approaches to decrease Cx43 protein levels in neural cells result in reduced migration of neurons during cortical development in mice and impaired glioma tumor cell migration. In other cell types, correlations between Cx43 expression and cell morphology, adhesion, motility and migration have been noted. In this review we will discuss the common themes that have been revealed by a detailed comparison of the published results of neuronal cells with that of other cell types. In brief, these comparisons clearly show differences in the stability and directionality of protrusions, polarity of movement, and migration, depending on whether a) residual Cx43 levels remain after siRNA or shRNA knockdown, b) Cx43 protein levels are not detectable as in cells from Cx43(-/-) knockout mice or in cells that normally have no endogenous Cx43 expression, c) gain-of-function approaches are used to express Cx43 in cells that have no endogenous Cx43 and, d) Cx43 is over-expressed in cells that already have low endogenous Cx43 protein levels. What is clear from our comparisons is that Cx43 expression influences the adhesiveness of cells and the directionality of cellular processes. These observations are discussed in light of the ability of cells to rearrange their cytoskeleton and move in an organized manner. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: The Communicating junctions, roles and dysfunctions.
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Czyż J, Szpak K, Madeja Z. The role of connexins in prostate cancer promotion and progression. Nat Rev Urol 2012; 9:274-82. [PMID: 22349655 DOI: 10.1038/nrurol.2012.14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Prostate cancer is a prevalent disease that is characterized by a presumably long latency period and a moderate propensity to metastasize. Although a range of mechanisms have been implicated in prostate carcinogenesis, the factors determining the initiation of metastasis remain obscure. The synchronized function of prostate cells depends on their metabolic and electrical coupling; disturbance of these functions has long been suggested to be integral to prostate carcinogenesis. However, although connexins form intercellular channels involved in gap-junction-mediated intercellular coupling (GJIC), whether these proteins also have GJIC-independent roles in cancer progression and metastasis remains a matter of debate. Some data indicate a correlation between connexin expression and the invasive potential of prostate cancer cells, which points to stage-specific functions of connexins during prostate cancer development. For example, restoration of connexin expression seems to be crucial for the formation of invasive cell subsets within heterogeneous prostate cancer cell populations that have undergone aberrant differentiation. Consequently, the clinical application of therapeutic and prophylactic approaches focused on the modulation of connexin expression in prostate cancer cells should be reconsidered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarosław Czyż
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, ul. Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland.
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The gap junction protein Cx43 is involved in the bone-targeted metastatic behaviour of human prostate cancer cells. Clin Exp Metastasis 2011; 29:111-22. [PMID: 22080401 DOI: 10.1007/s10585-011-9434-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2011] [Accepted: 11/01/2011] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
For decades, cancer was associated with gap-junction defects. However, more recently it appeared that the gap junction proteins (connexins) could be re-expressed and participate to cancer cell dissemination during the late stages of tumor progression. Since primary tumors of prostate cancer (PCa) are known to be connexin deficient, it was interesting to verify whether their bone-targeted metastatic behaviour could be influenced by the re-expression of the connexin type (connexin43) which is originally present in prostate tissue and highly expressed in bone where it participates to the differentiation of osteoblastic cells. Thus, we investigated the effect of the increased Cx43 expression, by retroviral infection, on the metastatic behaviour of two well-characterized cell lines (PC-3 and LNCaP) representing different stages of PCa progression. It appeared that Cx43 differently behaved in those cell lines and induced different phenotypes. In LNCaP, Cx43 was functional, localized at the plasma membrane and its high expression was correlated with a more aggressive phenotype both in vitro and in vivo. In particular, those Cx43-expressing LNCaP cells exhibited a high incidence of osteolytic metastases generated by bone xenografts in mice. Interestingly, LNCaP cells were also able to decrease the proliferation of cocultured osteoblastic cells. In contrast, the increased expression of Cx43 in PC-3 cells led to an unfunctional, cytoplasmic localization of the protein and was correlated with a reduction of proliferation, adhesion and invasion of the cells. In conclusion, the localization and the functionality of Cx43 may govern the ability of PCa cells to metastasize in bones.
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Focal adhesion kinase modulates radial glia-dependent neuronal migration through connexin-26. J Neurosci 2011; 31:11678-91. [PMID: 21832197 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2678-11.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is an intracellular kinase and scaffold protein that regulates migration in many different cellular contexts but whose function in neuronal migration remains controversial. Here, we have analyzed the function of FAK in two populations of neurons with very distinct migratory behaviors: cortical interneurons, which migrate tangentially and independently of radial glia; and pyramidal cells, which undergo glial-dependent migration. We found that FAK is dispensable for glial-independent migration but is cell-autonomously required for the normal interaction of pyramidal cells with radial glial fibers. Loss of FAK function disrupts the normal morphology of migrating pyramidal cells, delays migration, and increases the tangential dispersion of neurons arising from the same radial unit. FAK mediates this process by regulating the assembly of Connexin-26 contact points in the membrane of migrating pyramidal cells. These results indicate that FAK plays a fundamental role in the dynamic regulation of Gap-mediated adhesions during glial-guided neuronal migration in the mouse.
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Early incorporated endothelial cells as origin of metastatic tumor vasculogenesis. Clin Exp Metastasis 2009; 26:589-98. [PMID: 19330530 DOI: 10.1007/s10585-009-9257-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2008] [Accepted: 03/13/2009] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Vascularization of solid tumors is thought to occur by sprouting or intussusceptive angiogenesis, co-option of existing vessels, and vasculogenic mimicry after the onset of tumor hypoxia, when the tumor radius exceeds the oxygen diffusion distance. In contrast, here we show that individual endothelial cells that are incorporated into pre-hypoxic tumors give rise to tumor blood vessels via vasculogenesis. Small metastatic lung tumor sections obtained after tail-vein injection of a syngeneic breast cancer cell line in the nude mice were labeled with antibodies against endothelial cell markers. Immunofluorescence showed the incorporation and mixed growth of CD31-, Tie-2-, and CD105-positive endothelial cells in tumors with radii less than oxygen diffusion distance and subsequent development of blood vessels from these early-incorporated endothelial cells. This observation lays the foundation of a novel vasculogenic paradigm of tumor vascularization, where incorporation of endothelial cells and their growth among tumor cells occur before the onset of core hypoxia in lung metastatic tumors.
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Inose T, Kato H, Kimura H, Faried A, Tanaka N, Sakai M, Sano A, Sohda M, Nakajima M, Fukai Y, Miyazaki T, Masuda N, Fukuchi M, Kuwano H. Correlation between connexin 26 expression and poor prognosis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Ann Surg Oncol 2009; 16:1704-10. [PMID: 19326169 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-009-0443-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2009] [Revised: 02/25/2009] [Accepted: 02/25/2009] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Failure of gap junction formation affects the development of various types of cancer. We aimed to clarify the clinicopathologic outcome and prognostic significance of connexin (Cx) 26 in human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). METHODS Immunohistochemical staining for Cx26 was performed on surgical specimens obtained from 123 patients with ESCC. RESULTS There was no positive staining for Cx26-specific expression in normal esophageal squamous cells. Primary ESCC with Cx26-positive expression was detected in the cytoplasm of cancer cell nests in 60 cases. Cx26 expression was correlated with N (lymph node metastasis, P = 0.014) and the number of metastatic lymph nodes (P = 0.047). The 5-year survival rates of ESCC patients with Cx26-positive expression were significantly lower than those with Cx26-negative expression (positive, 39.7%; negative, 65.7%; P = 0.007). By multivariate analysis, tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) clinical classification (T, P < 0.001; N, P = 0.002; M, P = 0.046) and Cx26 (P = 0.024) were independent prognosis predictors of ESCC. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that abnormal expression of Cx26 participates in the progress of ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takanori Inose
- Department of General Surgical Science, Gunma University, Maebashi, Japan.
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Cronier L, Crespin S, Strale PO, Defamie N, Mesnil M. Gap junctions and cancer: new functions for an old story. Antioxid Redox Signal 2009; 11:323-38. [PMID: 18834328 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2008.2153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Cancer was one of the first pathologies to be associated with gap-junction defect. Despite the evidence accumulated over the last 40-year period, the molecular involvement of gap junctions and their structural proteins (connexins) in cancer has not been elucidated. The lack of a satisfying explanation may come from the complexity of the disease, evolving through various stages during tumor progression, with cancer cells exhibiting different phenotypes. Here, the question of the involvement of gap junctions has been readdressed by considering the connexin expression/function level at different fundamental stages of carcinogenesis (cell proliferation, cell invasion, and cancer cell dissemination). By performing this analysis, it becomes clear that gap junctions are probably differently involved, depending on the stage of the cancer progression considered. In particular, the most recent data suggest that connexins may act on cell growth by controlling gene expression through a variety of processes (independent of or dependent on the gap-junctional communication capacity). During invasion, connexins have been demonstrated to enhance adherence of cancer cells to the stroma, migration, and probably their dissemination by establishing communication with the endothelial barrier. All these data present a complex picture of connexins in various functions, depending on the cell phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurent Cronier
- Institute of Cellular Physiology and Biology, University of Poitiers/CNRS, Poitiers, France
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Defranco BH, Nickel BM, Baty CJ, Martinez JS, Gay VL, Sandulache VC, Hackam DJ, Murray SA. Migrating cells retain gap junction plaque structure and function. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 15:273-88. [PMID: 18979295 DOI: 10.1080/15419060802198298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Cell migration is an essential process in organ development, differentiation, and wound healing, and it has been hypothesized that gap junctions play a pivotal role in these cell processes. However, the changes in gap junctions and the capacity for cell communication as cells migrate are unclear. To monitor gap junction plaques during cell migration, adrenocortical cells were transfected with cDNA encoding for the connexin 43-green fluorescent protein. Time-lapse imaging was used to analyze cell movements and concurrent gap junction plaque dynamics. Immunocytochemistry was used to analyze gap junction morphology and distribution. Migration was initiated by wounding the cell monolayer and diffusional coupling was demonstrated by monitoring Lucifer yellow dye transfer and fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) in cells at the wound edge and in cells located some distance from the wound edge. Gap junction plaques were retained at sites of contact while cells migrated in a "sheet-like" formation, even when cells dramatically changed their spatial relationship to one another. Consistent with this finding, cells at the leading edge retained their capacity to communicate with contacting cells. When cells detached from one another, gap junction plaques were internalized just prior to cell process detachment. Although gap junction plaque internalization clearly was a method of gap junction removal during cell separation, cells retained gap junction plaques and continued to communicate dye while migrating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bado Hewa Defranco
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, USA
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Elzarrad MK, Haroon A, Willecke K, Dobrowolski R, Gillespie MN, Al-Mehdi AB. Connexin-43 upregulation in micrometastases and tumor vasculature and its role in tumor cell attachment to pulmonary endothelium. BMC Med 2008; 6:20. [PMID: 18647409 PMCID: PMC2492868 DOI: 10.1186/1741-7015-6-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2008] [Accepted: 07/22/2008] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The modulation of gap junctional communication between tumor cells and between tumor and vascular endothelial cells during tumorigenesis and metastasis is complex. The notion of a role for loss of gap junctional intercellular communication in tumorigenesis and metastasis has been controversial. While some of the stages of tumorigenesis and metastasis, such as uncontrolled cell division and cellular detachment, would necessitate the loss of intercellular junctions, other stages, such as intravasation, endothelial attachment, and vascularization, likely require increased cell-cell contact. We hypothesized that, in this multi-stage scheme, connexin-43 is centrally involved as a cell adhesion molecule mediating metastatic tumor attachment to the pulmonary endothelium. METHODS Tumor cell attachment to pulmonary vasculature, tumor growth, and connexin-43 expression was studied in metastatic lung tumor sections obtained after tail-vein injection into nude mice of syngeneic breast cancer cell lines, overexpressing wild type connexin-43 or dominant-negatively mutated connexin-43 proteins. High-resolution immunofluorescence microscopy and Western blot analysis was performed using a connexin-43 monoclonal antibody. Calcein Orange Red AM dye transfer by fluorescence imaging was used to evaluate the gap junction function. RESULTS Adhesion of breast cancer cells to the pulmonary endothelium increased with cancer cells overexpressing connexin-43 and markedly decreased with cells expressing dominant-negative connexin-43. Upregulation of connexin-43 was observed in tumor cell-endothelial cell contact areas in vitro and in vivo, and in areas of intratumor blood vessels and in micrometastatic foci. CONCLUSION Connexin-43 facilitates metastatic 'homing' by increasing adhesion of cancer cells to the lung endothelial cells. The marked upregulation of connexin-43 in tumor cell-endothelial cell contact areas, whether in preexisting 'homing' vessels or in newly formed tumor vessels, suggests that connexin-43 can serve as a potential marker of micrometastases and tumor vasculature and that it may play a role in the early incorporation of endothelial cells into small tumors as seeds for vasculogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Khair Elzarrad
- Department of Pharmacology and Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama, North University Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36688, USA.
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Ezumi K, Yamamoto H, Murata K, Higashiyama M, Damdinsuren B, Nakamura Y, Kyo N, Okami J, Ngan CY, Takemasa I, Ikeda M, Sekimoto M, Matsuura N, Nojima H, Monden M. Aberrant expression of connexin 26 is associated with lung metastasis of colorectal cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2008; 14:677-84. [PMID: 18245526 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-07-1184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Connexin 26 (Cx26) is one of the gap junction-forming family members classically considered to be tumor suppressors. However, recent studies show association of elevated expression of Cx26 with poor prognosis in several human malignancies. Furthermore, Cx26 has been observed to be indispensable to spontaneous metastasis of melanoma cells. Here, we assessed Cx26 expression in primary colorectal cancer (CRC) and the metastatic lesions to elucidate its role in metastasis. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Cx26 expression was assessed in 25 adenomas, 167 CRCs, and normal mucosa, together with the metastatic lesions. RESULTS Normal mucosa and adenomatous tissue expressed Cx26 mainly in the plasma membrane, whereas cancer cells mostly contained Cx26 in the cytoplasm. The incidence of aberrant Cx26 expression varied widely in CRC (mean, 49.5 +/- 35.5%), and the expression levels were confirmed by Western blot and quantitative reverse transcription-PCR. Clinicopathologic survey revealed association of high expression with less differentiated histology and venous invasion (P = 0.0053 and P = 0.0084, respectively). Notably, high Cx26 expression was associated with shorter disease-free survival and shorter lung metastasis-free survival in 154 curatively resected CRC sets (P = 0.041 and P = 0.028, respectively). Survey of metastatic lesions revealed that lung metastasis, but not liver and lymph nodes metastases, expressed higher Cx26 than the CRC series or corresponding primary CRCs (P < 0.0001 and P = 0.0001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that aberrant expression of Cx26 plays an essential role in lung metastasis. Thus, Cx26 is a promising therapeutic target, particularly for CRC patients who develop lung metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koji Ezumi
- Department of Surgery, Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Yamada-oka, Suita City, Osaka, Japan
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Chen W, Yan C, Hou J, Pu J, Ouyang J, Wen D. ATRA enhances bystander effect of suicide gene therapy in the treatment of prostate cancer. Urol Oncol 2008; 26:397-405. [PMID: 18367126 DOI: 10.1016/j.urolonc.2007.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2007] [Revised: 08/11/2007] [Accepted: 08/13/2007] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES All-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) has been shown to inhibit the growth of many malignancies by altering gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) and the expression of connexin (Cx) 43. Here, we report that the alteration of GJIC by ATRA may directly enhance the bystander effect (BE) of suicide gene therapy against prostate cancer in vitro and in vivo. METHODS PC-3 cells were exposed to different concentrations of ATRA for varying lengths of time in culture. Flow cytometry was performed to measure Cx43-positive cells and the GJIC function of the cells was examined with the scrape-loading dye transfer assay. Cells were treated with ATRA in combination with an adenovirus/ganciclovir (Ad-TK/GCV) system encoding herpes simplex virus-thymidine kinase, and the BE was assessed in the treatment of androgen-independent prostate cancer both in vitro and in vivo. Semiquantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and immunohistochemistry were performed to assess the expression of Cx43 mRNA and protein in tumor tissues. RESULTS ATRA significantly increased the amount of Cx43-positive cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner (P < 0.05). GJIC functions were enhanced 3- to 5-fold in the presence of ATRA, although ATRA did not augment GCV toxicity of PC-3 cells. In the mixing assay, ATRA significantly increased cell killing when the ratio of TK-positive cells in the coculture ranged from 30% to 60% compared with ATRA-untreated cell (P < 0.05), and attained 50% cell killing cells when the ratio of TK-positive cell was 30%, but the same result did not appear until the ratio of TK-positive cell was up to 60% in the ATRA-untreated cell. Mice treated with a combination of ATRA and GCV had significantly smaller Ad-TK infected tumors than those treated with GCV or ATRA alone after 3-weeks of therapy (P < 0.05). However, from the fourth-week of therapy, there was no difference in tumor growth inhibition between GCV treatment and GCV + ATRA treatment (P > 0.05), as two tumors in the latter group started to grow more quickly than tumors in the control group. This phenomenon was not found in other groups. CONCLUSIONS ATRA could enhance the efficiency of cell killing in suicide gene therapy against prostate cancer by strengthening the BE in vitro and in vivo. Induction of Cxs and GJIC by ATRA might provide an element of selectivity to suicide gene therapy. Future studies should focus on safety and tailoring this cooperative therapy to the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiguo Chen
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Suzhou University, Jiangsu, China.
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The stage-specific function of gap junctions during tumourigenesis. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2007; 13:92-102. [PMID: 17965973 PMCID: PMC6275873 DOI: 10.2478/s11658-007-0039-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2007] [Accepted: 07/13/2007] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumour development is a process resulting from the disturbance of various cellular functions including cell proliferation, adhesion and motility. While the role of these cell parameters in tumour promotion and progression has been widely recognized, the mechanisms that influence gap junctional coupling during tumorigenesis remain elusive. Neoplastic cells usually display decreased levels of connexin expression and/or gap junctional coupling. Thus, impaired intercellular communication via gap junctions may facilitate the release of a potentially neoplastic cell from the controlling regime of the surrounding tissue, leading to tumour promotion. However, recent data indicates that metastatic tumour cell lines are often characterized by relatively high levels of connexin expression and gap junctional coupling. This review outlines current knowledge on the role of connexins in tumorigenesis and the possible mechanisms of the interference of gap junctional coupling with the processes of tumour invasion and metastasis.
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Challita-Eid PM, Morrison K, Etessami S, An Z, Morrison KJ, Perez-Villar JJ, Raitano AB, Jia XC, Gudas JM, Kanner SB, Jakobovits A. Monoclonal antibodies to six-transmembrane epithelial antigen of the prostate-1 inhibit intercellular communication in vitro and growth of human tumor xenografts in vivo. Cancer Res 2007; 67:5798-805. [PMID: 17575147 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-06-3849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Six-transmembrane epithelial antigen of the prostate-1 (STEAP-1) is a novel cell surface protein highly expressed in primary prostate cancer, with restricted expression in normal tissues. In this report, we show STEAP-1 expression in prostate metastases to lymph node and bone and in the majority of human lung and bladder carcinomas. We identify STEAP-1 function in mediating the transfer of small molecules between adjacent cells in culture, indicating its potential role in tumor cell intercellular communication. The successful generation of two monoclonal antibodies (mAb) that bind to cell surface STEAP-1 epitopes provided the tools to study STEAP-1 susceptibility to naked antibody therapy. Both mAbs inhibited STEAP-1-induced intercellular communication in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, both mAbs significantly inhibited tumor growth in mouse models using patient-derived LAPC-9 prostate cancer xenografts and established UM-UC-3 bladder tumors. These studies validate STEAP-1 as an attractive target for antibody therapy in multiple solid tumors and provide a putative mechanism for mAb-induced tumor growth inhibition.
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43
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Zhang D, Kaneda M, Nakahama KI, Arii S, Morita I. Connexin 43 expression promotes malignancy of HuH7 hepatocellular carcinoma cells via the inhibition of cell-cell communication. Cancer Lett 2007; 252:208-15. [PMID: 17275998 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2006.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2006] [Revised: 12/19/2006] [Accepted: 12/20/2006] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In normal liver, Connexin (Cx) 43 is not detected, but up-regulated in some liver cancers. We herein investigated the role of Cx43 in hepatoma cell carcinogenesis. Cx43-silenced HuH7 cells using shRNA showed lower growth and higher differentiation, and Cx43-overexpressing cells exhibited rapid growth and low differentiation. Unexpectedly, gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) was inversely correlated with Cx43 levels. Furthermore, the expression level and promoter activity of Cx32 was negatively regulated by the expression of Cx43. From these data, Cx43 expression may be in part responsible for the malignancy of hepatoma cells through a decrease in GJIC composed of Cx32.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Zhang
- Department of Cellular Physiological Chemistry, Tokyo Medical and Dental University 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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Ohba Y, Kanao Y, Morita N, Fujii E, Hohrai M, Takatsuji M, Hirose H, Miura D, Watari A, Yutsudo M, Zhao H, Yabuta N, Ito A, Kita Y, Nojima H. Oleamide derivatives suppress the spontaneous metastasis by inhibiting connexin 26. Int J Cancer 2007; 121:47-54. [PMID: 17290388 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.22608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
We previously reported that overexpressing connexin 26 (Cx26) enhances the spontaneous metastasis of mouse BL6 melanoma cells. In contrast, daily intraperitoneal injections of an oleamide derivative named MI-18 potently inhibits the spontaneous metastasis of BL6 cells. In the present study, we chemically synthesized a novel oleamide derivative named MI-22 and found that it also efficiently suppressed the spontaneous metastasis of BL6 cells. Both MI-18 and MI-22 inhibited the gap junction-mediated intercellular communications (GJIC) that are formed between HeLa cells by the ectopic expression of the hCx26 and hCx32 human connexin subtypes; however, they had no effect on GJIC mediated by hCx40, hCx43 or hCx45. Fluorescently labeled MI-18 primarily localized not only at plasma membrane but also at Golgi/endosome. This suggests that this oleamide derivative may also act on the Cx26 molecules that accumulate in the Golgi/endosome because of their overexpression. Notably, neither derivative had a cytotoxic effect on HeLa cells when they were added into the tissue culture medium. Taken together, we propose that the MI-18 and MI-22 oleamide derivatives may serve as prototypes for novel and clinically important anticancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Ohba
- Department of Synthetic Organic Chemistry, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Science, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
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Mol AJM, Geldof AA, Meijer GA, van der Poel HG, van Moorselaar RJA. New experimental markers for early detection of high-risk prostate cancer: role of cell-cell adhesion and cell migration. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2007; 133:687-95. [PMID: 17520286 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-007-0235-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2007] [Accepted: 04/26/2007] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Today's treatment and diagnosis of prostate cancer still exhibit major limitations. The search for new and additional prognostic markers is therefore still an actual field of interest. Potential markers involved in numerous biological processes in the tumor cell have been investigated intensively. For therapeutic interventions it is important to distinguish between harmless and aggressive disease in an early stage. Therefore the subject of this review is limited to markers associated with those functional processes, which discriminate early stage aggressive, metastatic cancer from harmless disease. Important processes in this respect are: altered cell adhesion and cellular migration. E-cadherin, N-cadherin, beta-catenin, integrins, focal adhesion kinase, connexins and matrix metalloproteinases all appear promising biological markers associated with the early stage metastatic process in prostate cancer. Here we discuss their potential to become valid biological markers based on literature data. Thus far, none of these markers proved to be a valid individual marker by itself due to prostate cancer heterogeneity and transient expression. Analyzing a combination of the potential markers discussed in this review is expected to be a better approach toward discriminating high- from low-risk tumors in an early stage of prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- A J M Mol
- Department of Urology, VU University Medical Center, PO Box 7057, 1007, MB, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Miura D, Kida Y, Nojima H. Camellia oil and its distillate fractions effectively inhibit the spontaneous metastasis of mouse melanoma BL6 cells. FEBS Lett 2007; 581:2541-8. [PMID: 17499720 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2007.04.080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2007] [Revised: 04/15/2007] [Accepted: 04/25/2007] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
We previously reported that daily intraperitoneal injections of oleamide weakly inhibits the spontaneous metastasis of BL6 cells by blocking the gap junction-mediated intercellular communications (GJIC) of connexin 26 (Cx26). In the present study, we tested camellia oil, olive oil and cottonseed oil which are rich in oleamide-like oleic acid for their inhibitory potency on Cx26-mediated GJIC and spontaneous metastasis of BL6 cells. We found that camellia oil, olive oil and cottonseed oil, and their distillate fractions inhibited Cx26-mediated GJIC. We also showed that daily intraperitoneal injection of camellia oil and its distillate fractions more potently inhibited spontaneous lung metastasis of BL6 cells than oleamide. Moreover, a daily oral administration of camellia oil distillate fraction effectively inhibited spontaneous metastasis. Notably, even camellia Tempura-oil, a commercially available food, weakly inhibited the spontaneous metastasis of BL6 cells. Since these oils are used as foods and are quite safe, we propose that they could be used as supplements to protect patients from lung metastasis of melanomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisaku Miura
- Biosafety Research Center for Foods, Drugs and Pesticides, Iwata, Shizuoka 437-1213, Japan
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Vanden Abeele F, Bidaux G, Gordienko D, Beck B, Panchin YV, Baranova AV, Ivanov DV, Skryma R, Prevarskaya N. Functional implications of calcium permeability of the channel formed by pannexin 1. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006; 174:535-46. [PMID: 16908669 PMCID: PMC2064259 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.200601115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 185] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Although human pannexins (PanX) are homologous to gap junction molecules, their physiological function in vertebrates remains poorly understood. Our results demonstrate that overexpression of PanX1 results in the formation of Ca2+-permeable gap junction channels between adjacent cells, thus, allowing direct intercellular Ca2+ diffusion and facilitating intercellular Ca2+ wave propagation. More intriguingly, our results strongly suggest that PanX1 may also form Ca2+-permeable channels in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). These channels contribute to the ER Ca2+ leak and thereby affect the ER Ca2+ load. Because leakage remains the most enigmatic of those processes involved in intracellular calcium homeostasis, and the molecular nature of the leak channels is as yet unknown, the results of this work provide new insight into calcium signaling mechanisms. These results imply that for vertebrates, a new protein family, referred to as pannexins, may not simply duplicate the connexin function but may also provide additional pathways for intra- and intercellular calcium signaling and homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabien Vanden Abeele
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U800, Equipe labellisée par la Ligue Contre le Cancer, Universite des Sciences et Technologies de Lille, Villeneuve d'Ascq Cedex, F-59655 France
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