1
|
Pipchuk A, Kelly T, Carew M, Nicol C, Yang X. Development of Novel Bioluminescent Biosensors Monitoring the Conformation and Activity of the Merlin Tumour Suppressor. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1527. [PMID: 38338806 PMCID: PMC10855677 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Solid tumours can universally evade contact inhibition of proliferation (CIP), a mechanism halting cell proliferation when cell-cell contact occurs. Merlin, an ERM-like protein, crucially regulates CIP and is frequently deactivated in various cancers, indicating its significance as a tumour suppressor in cancer biology. Despite extensive investigations into Merlin's role in cancer, its lack of intrinsic catalytic activity and frequent conformation changes have made it notoriously challenging to study. To address this challenge, we harnessed innovative luciferase technologies to create and validate a NanoBiT split-luciferase biosensor system in which Merlin is cloned between two split components (LgBiT and SmBiT) of NanoLuc luciferase. This system enables precise quantification of Merlin's conformation and activity both in vitro and within living cells. This biosensor significantly enhances the study of Merlin's molecular functions, serving as a potent tool for exploring its contributions to CIP and tumorigenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Xiaolong Yang
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada; (A.P.); (T.K.); (M.C.); (C.N.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Koinis F, Chantzara E, Samarinas M, Xagara A, Kratiras Z, Leontopoulou V, Kotsakis A. Emerging Role of YAP and the Hippo Pathway in Prostate Cancer. Biomedicines 2022; 10:2834. [PMID: 36359354 PMCID: PMC9687800 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10112834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The Hippo pathway regulates and contributes to several hallmarks of prostate cancer (PCa). Although the elucidation of YAP function in PCa is in its infancy, emerging studies have shed light on the role of aberrant Hippo pathway signaling in PCa development and progression. YAP overexpression and nuclear localization has been linked to poor prognosis and resistance to treatment, highlighting a therapeutic potential that may suggest innovative strategies to treat cancer. This review aimed to summarize available data on the biological function of the dysregulated Hippo pathway in PCa and identify knowledge gaps that need to be addressed for optimizing the development of YAP-targeted treatment strategies in patients likely to benefit.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Filippos Koinis
- Department of Medical Oncology, University General Hospital of Larissa, 41221 Larissa, Greece
- Laboratory of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41500 Larissa, Greece
| | - Evangelia Chantzara
- Department of Medical Oncology, University General Hospital of Larissa, 41221 Larissa, Greece
| | - Michael Samarinas
- Department of Urology, General Hospital “Koutlibanio”, 41221 Larissa, Greece
| | - Anastasia Xagara
- Laboratory of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41500 Larissa, Greece
| | - Zisis Kratiras
- 3rd Urology Department University of Athens, “Attikon” University General Hospital, 12462 Chaidari, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Leontopoulou
- Department of Medical Oncology, University General Hospital of Larissa, 41221 Larissa, Greece
| | - Athanasios Kotsakis
- Department of Medical Oncology, University General Hospital of Larissa, 41221 Larissa, Greece
- Laboratory of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41500 Larissa, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zapała P, Fus Ł, Lewandowski Z, Garbas K, Zapała Ł, Górnicka B, Radziszewski P. E-Cadherin, Integrin Alpha2 (Cd49b), and Transferrin Receptor-1 (Tfr1) Are Promising Immunohistochemical Markers of Selected Adverse Pathological Features in Patients Treated with Radical Prostatectomy. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10235587. [PMID: 34884287 PMCID: PMC8658679 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10235587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Revised: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In patients treated for prostate cancer (PCa) with radical prostatectomy (RP), determining the risk of extraprostatic extension (EPE) and nodal involvement (NI) remains crucial for planning nerve-sparing and extended lymphadenectomy. The study aimed to determine proteins that could serve as immunohistochemical markers of locally advanced PCa. To select candidate proteins associated with adverse pathologic features (APF) reverse-phase protein array data of 498 patients was retrieved from The Cancer Genome Atlas. The analysis yielded 6 proteins which were then validated as predictors of APF utilizing immunohistochemistry in a randomly selected retrospective cohort of 53 patients. For univariate and multivariate analysis, logistic regression was used. Positive expression of TfR1 (OR 13.74; p = 0.015), reduced expression of CD49b (OR 10.15; p = 0.013), and PSA (OR 1.29; p = 0.013) constituted independent predictors of EPE, whereas reduced expression of e-cadherin (OR 10.22; p = 0.005), reduced expression of CD49b (OR 24.44; p = 0.017), and PSA (OR 1.18; p = 0.002) were independently associated with NI. Both models achieved high discrimination (AUROC 0.879 and 0.888, respectively). Immunohistochemistry constitutes a straightforward tool that might be easily utilized before RP. Expression of TfR1 and CD49b is associated with EPE, whereas expression of e-cadherin and CD49b is associated with NI. Since following immunohistochemical markers predicts respective APFs independently from PSA, in the future they might supplement existing preoperative nomograms or be implemented in novel tools.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Zapała
- Department of General, Oncological and Functional Urology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland; (P.Z.); (K.G.); (Ł.Z.); (P.R.)
| | - Łukasz Fus
- Department of Pathology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-22-57-20-710
| | - Zbigniew Lewandowski
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Karolina Garbas
- Department of General, Oncological and Functional Urology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland; (P.Z.); (K.G.); (Ł.Z.); (P.R.)
| | - Łukasz Zapała
- Department of General, Oncological and Functional Urology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland; (P.Z.); (K.G.); (Ł.Z.); (P.R.)
| | - Barbara Górnicka
- Department of Pathology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Piotr Radziszewski
- Department of General, Oncological and Functional Urology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland; (P.Z.); (K.G.); (Ł.Z.); (P.R.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Mota M, Metge BJ, Hinshaw DC, Alsheikh HA, Chen D, Samant RS, Shevde LA. Merlin deficiency alters the redox management program in breast cancer. Mol Oncol 2021; 15:942-956. [PMID: 33410252 PMCID: PMC8024723 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.12896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The expression of Merlin tumor suppressor protein encoded by Neurofibromin 2 (NF2) gene is remarkably decreased in metastatic breast cancer tissues. In order to recapitulate clinical evidence, we generated a unique, conditional Nf2‐knockout (Nf2−/−) mouse mammary tumor model. Merlin‐deficient breast tumor cells and Nf2−/− mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) displayed a robustly invasive phenotype. Moreover, Nf2−/− MEFs presented with notable alterations in redox management networks, implicating a role for Merlin in redox homeostasis. This programmatic alteration resonated with pathways that emerged from breast tumor cells engineered for Merlin deficiency. Further investigations revealed that NF2‐silenced cells supported reduced activity of the Nuclear factor, erythroid 2 like 2 antioxidant transcription factor, concomitant with elevated expression of NADPH oxidase enzymes. Importantly, mammary‐specific Nf2−/− in an Mouse mammary tumor virus Neu + murine breast cancer model demonstrated accelerated mammary carcinogenesis in vivo. Tumor‐derived primary organoids and cell lines were characteristically invasive with evidence of a dysregulated cellular redox management system. As such, Merlin deficiency programmatically influences redox imbalance that orchestrates malignant attributes of mammary/breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mateus Mota
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Brandon J Metge
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, USA
| | | | - Heba A Alsheikh
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Dongquan Chen
- Division of Preventive Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Rajeev S Samant
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, USA.,O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, USA.,Birmingham VA Medical Center, AL, USA
| | - Lalita A Shevde
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, USA.,O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Szulzewsky F, Holland EC, Vasioukhin V. YAP1 and its fusion proteins in cancer initiation, progression and therapeutic resistance. Dev Biol 2021; 475:205-221. [PMID: 33428889 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2020.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
YAP1 is a transcriptional co-activator whose activity is controlled by the Hippo signaling pathway. In addition to important functions in normal tissue homeostasis and regeneration, YAP1 has also prominent functions in cancer initiation, aggressiveness, metastasis, and therapy resistance. In this review we are discussing the molecular functions of YAP1 and its roles in cancer, with a focus on the different mechanisms of de-regulation of YAP1 activity in human cancers, including inactivation of upstream Hippo pathway tumor suppressors, regulation by intersecting pathways, miRNAs, and viral oncogenes. We are also discussing new findings on the function and biology of the recently identified family of YAP1 gene fusions, that constitute a new type of activating mutation of YAP1 and that are the likely oncogenic drivers in several subtypes of human cancers. Lastly, we also discuss different strategies of therapeutic inhibition of YAP1 functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frank Szulzewsky
- Human Biology Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA.
| | - Eric C Holland
- Human Biology Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA; Seattle Tumor Translational Research Center, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
| | - Valeri Vasioukhin
- Human Biology Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Abstract
Simple Summary Cell migration is an essential process from embryogenesis to cell death. This is tightly regulated by numerous proteins that help in proper functioning of the cell. In diseases like cancer, this process is deregulated and helps in the dissemination of tumor cells from the primary site to secondary sites initiating the process of metastasis. For metastasis to be efficient, cytoskeletal components like actin, myosin, and intermediate filaments and their associated proteins should co-ordinate in an orderly fashion leading to the formation of many cellular protrusions-like lamellipodia and filopodia and invadopodia. Knowledge of this process is the key to control metastasis of cancer cells that leads to death in 90% of the patients. The focus of this review is giving an overall understanding of these process, concentrating on the changes in protein association and regulation and how the tumor cells use it to their advantage. Since the expression of cytoskeletal proteins can be directly related to the degree of malignancy, knowledge about these proteins will provide powerful tools to improve both cancer prognosis and treatment. Abstract Successful metastasis depends on cell invasion, migration, host immune escape, extravasation, and angiogenesis. The process of cell invasion and migration relies on the dynamic changes taking place in the cytoskeletal components; actin, tubulin and intermediate filaments. This is possible due to the plasticity of the cytoskeleton and coordinated action of all the three, is crucial for the process of metastasis from the primary site. Changes in cellular architecture by internal clues will affect the cell functions leading to the formation of different protrusions like lamellipodia, filopodia, and invadopodia that help in cell migration eventually leading to metastasis, which is life threatening than the formation of neoplasms. Understanding the signaling mechanisms involved, will give a better insight of the changes during metastasis, which will eventually help targeting proteins for treatment resulting in reduced mortality and longer survival.
Collapse
|
7
|
Rao HC, Wu ZK, Wei SD, Jiang Y, Guo QX, Wang JW, Chen CX, Yang HY. MiR-25-3p Serves as an Oncogenic MicroRNA by Downregulating the Expression of Merlin in Osteosarcoma. Cancer Manag Res 2020; 12:8989-9001. [PMID: 33061594 PMCID: PMC7522417 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s262245] [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: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Moesin-ezrin-radixin-like protein (Merlin) has been identified as a tumor suppressor in several types of cancers. However, the biological function of Merlin in osteosarcoma remains unclear. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) can influence cancer progression by targeting oncogenes or anti-oncogenes. In this study, we sought to evaluate the regulation of Merlin expression by miR-25-3p and the role of the miR-25-3p/Merlin axis in osteosarcoma progression, with the aim of identifying a potential therapeutic target for osteosarcoma. MATERIALS AND METHODS TCGA (The Cancer Genome Atlas) database was used to analyze the correlation between Merlin expression and prognosis. RT-qPCR and Western blotting analyses were performed to compare Merlin expression between normal and malignant cells. A dual-luciferase reporter assay was performed to evaluate the direct targeting of Merlin by miR-25-3p. We overexpressed miR-25-3p, or/and Merlin, in U-2 OS and 143B cells, and studied their cellular functions in vitro. MTT and colony formation assays were performed to determine the effects on cell growth. EdU and cell cycle assays were performed to analyze the effects in cell replication. We used annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate and propidium iodide to stain apoptotic cells, and analyzed the cells using flow cytometry. The effects on cell metastasis were studied in wound healing and transwell assays. Lastly, the underlying mechanism was determined in RT-qPCR and Western blotting experiments. RESULTS Low Merlin expression was linked to poor prognosis. miR-25-3p was observed to directly target Merlin and downregulate its expression. miR-25-3p promoted cell growth, migration, and invasion, and inhibited apoptosis induced by cisplatin. Moreover, the overexpression of Merlin reversed the abovementioned effects of miR-25-3p. Further, the miR-25-3p/Merlin axis was observed to play an important role in the Hippo pathway, and regulated the expression of genes such as BIRC5, CTGF, and CYR61. CONCLUSION miR-25-3p functions as an oncogenic microRNA in osteosarcoma by targeting Merlin, and may serve as a potential therapeutic target for osteosarcoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hua-Chun Rao
- Quanzhou Orthopedic-Traumatological Hospital, Fengze District, Quanzhou, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhao-Ke Wu
- Quanzhou Orthopedic-Traumatological Hospital, Fengze District, Quanzhou, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Si-da Wei
- Quanzhou Orthopedic-Traumatological Hospital, Fengze District, Quanzhou, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Yun Jiang
- Quanzhou Orthopedic-Traumatological Hospital, Fengze District, Quanzhou, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing-Xin Guo
- Quanzhou Orthopedic-Traumatological Hospital, Fengze District, Quanzhou, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia-Wen Wang
- Quanzhou Orthopedic-Traumatological Hospital, Fengze District, Quanzhou, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Chang-Xian Chen
- Quanzhou Orthopedic-Traumatological Hospital, Fengze District, Quanzhou, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui-Yong Yang
- School of Medicine, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Huaqiao University, Quanzhou, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Kim E, Kim M, So K, Park YS, Woo CG, Hyun SH. Characterization and comparison of genomic profiles between primary cancer cell lines and parent atypical meningioma tumors. Cancer Cell Int 2020; 20:345. [PMID: 32742192 PMCID: PMC7388534 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-020-01438-x] [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: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Meningiomas are the second most common primary tumors of the central nervous system. However, there is a paucity of data on meningioma biology due to the lack of suitable preclinical in vitro and in vivo models. In this study, we report the establishment and characterization of patient-derived, spontaneously immortalized cancer cell lines derived from World Health Organization (WHO) grade I and atypical WHO grade II meningiomas. Methods We evaluated high-resolution 3T MRI neuroimaging findings in meningioma patients which were followed by histological analysis. RT-qPCR and immunostaining analyses were performed to determine the expression levels of meningioma-related factors. Additionally, flow cytometry and sorting assays were conducted to investigate and isolate the CD133 and CD44 positive cells from primary atypical meningioma cells. Further, we compared the gene expression profiles of meningiomas and cell lines derived from them by performing whole-exome sequencing of the blood and tumor samples from the patients, and the primary cancer cell lines established from the meningioma tumor. Results Our results were consistent with earlier studies that reported mutations in NF2, SMO, and AKT1 genes in atypical meningiomas, and we also observed mutations in MYBL2, a gene that was recently discovered. Significantly, the genomic signature was consistent between the atypical meningioma cancer cell lines and the tumor and blood samples from the patient. Conclusion Our results lead us to conclude that established meningioma cell lines with a genomic signature identical to tumors might be a valuable tool for understanding meningioma tumor biology, and for screening therapeutic agents to treat recurrent meningiomas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eunhye Kim
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, 1 Chungdae-ro, Seowon-gu, Cheongju, 28644 Republic of Korea.,Institute for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, 1 Chungdae-ro, Seowon-gu, Cheongju, 28644 Republic of Korea
| | - Mirae Kim
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, 1 Chungdae-ro, Seowon-gu, Cheongju, 28644 Republic of Korea.,Institute for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, 1 Chungdae-ro, Seowon-gu, Cheongju, 28644 Republic of Korea
| | - Kyungha So
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, 1 Chungdae-ro, Seowon-gu, Cheongju, 28644 Republic of Korea.,Institute for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, 1 Chungdae-ro, Seowon-gu, Cheongju, 28644 Republic of Korea
| | - Young Seok Park
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chungbuk National University Hospital, Chungbuk National University, College of Medicine, Cheongju, 28644 Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Gok Woo
- Department of Pathology, Chungbuk National University Hospital, Chungbuk National University, College of Medicine, Cheongju, 28644 Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Hwan Hyun
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, 1 Chungdae-ro, Seowon-gu, Cheongju, 28644 Republic of Korea.,Institute for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, 1 Chungdae-ro, Seowon-gu, Cheongju, 28644 Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Moloudizargari M, Asghari MH, Nabavi SF, Gulei D, Berindan-Neagoe I, Bishayee A, Nabavi SM. Targeting Hippo signaling pathway by phytochemicals in cancer therapy. Semin Cancer Biol 2020; 80:183-194. [PMID: 32428716 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2020.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2019] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The current era of cancer research has been continuously advancing upon identifying novel aspects of tumorigenesis and the principal mechanisms behind the unleashed proliferation, invasion, drug resistance and immortality of cancer cells in hopes of exploiting these findings to achieve a more effective treatment for cancer. In pursuit of this goal, the identification of the first components of an extremely important regulatory pathway in Drosophila melanogaster that largely determines cell fate during the developmental stages, ended up in the discovery of the highly sophisticated Hippo signaling cascade. Soon after, it was revealed that deregulation of the components of this pathway either via mutations or through epigenetic alterations can be observed in a vast variety of tumors and these alterations greatly contribute to the neoplastic transformation of cells, their survival, growth and resistance to therapy. As more hidden aspects of this pathway such as its widespread entanglement with other major cellular signaling pathways are continuously being uncovered, many researchers have sought over the past decade to find ways of therapeutic interventions targeting the major components of the Hippo cascade. To date, various approaches such as the use of exogenous targeting miRNAs and different molecular inhibitors have been recruited herein, among which naturally occurring compounds have shown a great promise. On such a basis, in the present work we review the current understanding of Hippo pathway and the most recent evidence on targeting its components using natural plant-derived phytochemicals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Milad Moloudizargari
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Student Research Committee, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1985717443, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Asghari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol 4717647745, Iran; Immunoregulation Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol 4717647745, Iran.
| | - Seyed Fazel Nabavi
- Applied Biotechnology Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1435916471, Iran
| | - Diana Gulei
- MedFuture - Research Center for Advanced Medicine, Research Center for Functional Genomics and Translational Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca 400337, Romania
| | - Ioana Berindan-Neagoe
- MedFuture - Research Center for Advanced Medicine, Research Center for Functional Genomics and Translational Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca 400337, Romania; Department of Functional Genomics and Experimental Pathology, Ion Chiricuta Clinical Cancer Center, Cluj-Napoca 400337, Romania
| | - Anupam Bishayee
- Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL, 34211, USA
| | - Seyed Mohammad Nabavi
- Applied Biotechnology Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1435916471, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Molecular Targets of Epigallocatechin-Gallate (EGCG): A Special Focus on Signal Transduction and Cancer. Nutrients 2018; 10:nu10121936. [PMID: 30563268 PMCID: PMC6315581 DOI: 10.3390/nu10121936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Revised: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 12/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Green tea is a beverage that is widely consumed worldwide and is believed to exert effects on different diseases, including cancer. The major components of green tea are catechins, a family of polyphenols. Among them, epigallocatechin-gallate (EGCG) is the most abundant and biologically active. EGCG is widely studied for its anti-cancer properties. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms explaining its action have not been completely understood, yet. EGCG is effective in vivo at micromolar concentrations, suggesting that its action is mediated by interaction with specific targets that are involved in the regulation of crucial steps of cell proliferation, survival, and metastatic spread. Recently, several proteins have been identified as EGCG direct interactors. Among them, the trans-membrane receptor 67LR has been identified as a high affinity EGCG receptor. 67LR is a master regulator of many pathways affecting cell proliferation or apoptosis, also regulating cancer stem cells (CSCs) activity. EGCG was also found to be interacting directly with Pin1, TGFR-II, and metalloproteinases (MMPs) (mainly MMP2 and MMP9), which respectively regulate EGCG-dependent inhibition of NF-kB, epithelial-mesenchimal transaction (EMT) and cellular invasion. EGCG interacts with DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) and histone deacetylases (HDACs), which modulates epigenetic changes. The bulk of this novel knowledge provides information about the mechanisms of action of EGCG and may explain its onco-suppressive function. The identification of crucial signalling pathways that are related to cancer onset and progression whose master regulators interacts with EGCG may disclose intriguing pharmacological targets, and eventually lead to novel combined treatments in which EGCG acts synergistically with known drugs.
Collapse
|
11
|
Zhao C, Chen Q, Li C, Yang J, Li C, Zhou Y, Liao J. The association of NF2 (neurofibromin 2) gene polymorphism and the risk of medulloblastomas. Neurol Sci 2018; 39:1175-1183. [PMID: 29637450 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-018-3327-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2017] [Accepted: 03/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
To explore the relationship between NF2 promoter gene mutation and the risk of medulloblastomas (MBs). We collected tissues from 16 MB patients and 7 age-matched non-MB controls. Gene sequencing, qPCR (real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction), IHC (immunohistochemistry), and WB (Western blot) were used to analyze the changes in the NF2 gene sequence and expression between patients and controls. We found that NF2 promoter gene mutations occurred in MB patients. The NF2 mRNA expression was higher in the controls than in patients (p = 0.03 < 0.05); however, the results of IHC and WB demonstrated that the NF2 protein expression was significantly higher in patients than in the controls (IHC: p = 0.0001; WB: p = 0.01). There was no significant difference in the CRL4 mRNA and protein levels. In addition, NF2 protein was mainly expressed in the nucleus in MB patients, while the NF2 protein was mainly expressed in the cytoplasm in the controls. NF2 promoter mutations exist in MB patients. NF2 mRNA expression was higher in controls than patients; whereas NF2 protein level was higher in patients than in controls.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cailei Zhao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, No. 277, Yantaxi Road, Xi'an, 710061, China
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, No. 277, Yantaxi Road, Xi'an, 710061, China
- Department of Radiology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Qian Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, No. 7019, Yitian Road, Shenzhen, 518038, China.
| | - Chunde Li
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Beijing Tianan Hospital, China Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Jian Yang
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, No. 277, Yantaxi Road, Xi'an, 710061, China.
| | - Cong Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, No. 7019, Yitian Road, Shenzhen, 518038, China
| | - Yangyang Zhou
- Department of Radiology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jianxiang Liao
- Department of Neurology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, No. 7019, Yitian Road, Shenzhen, 518038, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Abstract
Meningiomas, derived from arachnoid cap cells, are the most common intracranial tumor. High-grade meningiomas, as well as those located at the skull base or near venous sinuses, frequently recur and are challenging to manage. Next-generation sequencing is identifying novel pharmacologic targets in meningiomas to complement surgery and radiation. However, due to the lack of in vitro models, the importance and implications of these genetic variants in meningioma pathogenesis and therapy remain unclear. We performed whole exome sequencing to assess single nucleotide variants and somatic copy number variants in four human meningioma cell lines, including two benign lines (HBL-52 and Ben-Men-1) and two malignant lines (IOMM-Lee and CH157-MN). The two malignant cell lines harbored an elevated rate of mutations and copy number alterations compared to the benign lines, consistent with the genetic profiles of high-grade meningiomas. In addition, these cell lines also harbored known meningioma driver mutations in neurofibromin 2 (NF2) and TNF receptor-associated factor 7 (TRAF7). These findings demonstrate the relevance of meningioma cell lines as a model system, especially as tools to investigate the signaling pathways of, and subsequent resistance to, therapeutics currently in clinical trials.
Collapse
|
13
|
Morrow KA, Das S, Meng E, Menezes ME, Bailey SK, Metge BJ, Buchsbaum DJ, Samant RS, Shevde LA. Loss of tumor suppressor Merlin results in aberrant activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in cancer. Oncotarget 2017; 7:17991-8005. [PMID: 26908451 PMCID: PMC4951266 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.7494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2015] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The expression of the tumor suppressor Merlin is compromised in nervous system malignancies due to genomic aberrations. We demonstrated for the first time, that in breast cancer, Merlin protein expression is lost due to proteasome-mediated elimination. Immunohistochemical analysis of tumor tissues from patients with metastatic breast cancer revealed characteristically reduced Merlin expression. Importantly, we identified a functional role for Merlin in impeding breast tumor xenograft growth and reducing invasive characteristics. We sought to determine a possible mechanism by which Merlin accomplishes this reduction in malignant activity. We observed that breast and pancreatic cancer cells with loss of Merlin show an aberrant increase in the activity of β-catenin concomitant with nuclear localization of β-catenin. We discovered that Merlin physically interacts with β-catenin, alters the sub-cellular localization of β-catenin, and significantly reduces the protein levels of β-catenin by targeting it for degradation through the upregulation of Axin1. Consequently, restoration of Merlin inhibited β-catenin-mediated transcriptional activity in breast and pancreatic cancer cells. We also present evidence that loss of Merlin sensitizes tumor cells to inhibition by compounds that target β-catenin-mediated activity. Thus, this study provides compelling evidence that Merlin reduces the malignant activity of pancreatic and breast cancer, in part by suppressing the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Given the potent role of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in breast and pancreatic cancer and the flurry of activity to test β-catenin inhibitors in the clinic, our findings are opportune and provide evidence for Merlin in restraining aberrant activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K Adam Morrow
- Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Shamik Das
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Erhong Meng
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | | | - Sarah K Bailey
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Brandon J Metge
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Donald J Buchsbaum
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.,Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Rajeev S Samant
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.,Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Lalita A Shevde
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.,Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Petrilli AM, Fernández-Valle C. Role of Merlin/NF2 inactivation in tumor biology. Oncogene 2016; 35:537-48. [PMID: 25893302 PMCID: PMC4615258 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2015.125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 274] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2014] [Revised: 02/20/2015] [Accepted: 03/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Merlin (Moesin-ezrin-radixin-like protein, also known as schwannomin) is a tumor suppressor protein encoded by the neurofibromatosis type 2 gene NF2. Loss of function mutations or deletions in NF2 cause neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2), a multiple tumor forming disease of the nervous system. NF2 is characterized by the development of bilateral vestibular schwannomas. Patients with NF2 can also develop schwannomas on other cranial and peripheral nerves, as well as meningiomas and ependymomas. The only potential treatment is surgery/radiosurgery, which often results in loss of function of the involved nerve. There is an urgent need for chemotherapies that slow or eliminate tumors and prevent their formation in NF2 patients. Interestingly NF2 mutations and merlin inactivation also occur in spontaneous schwannomas and meningiomas, as well as other types of cancer including mesothelioma, glioma multiforme, breast, colorectal, skin, clear cell renal cell carcinoma, hepatic and prostate cancer. Except for malignant mesotheliomas, the role of NF2 mutation or inactivation has not received much attention in cancer, and NF2 might be relevant for prognosis and future chemotherapeutic approaches. This review discusses the influence of merlin loss of function in NF2-related tumors and common human cancers. We also discuss the NF2 gene status and merlin signaling pathways affected in the different tumor types and the molecular mechanisms that lead to tumorigenesis, progression and pharmacological resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra M. Petrilli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL 32827, USA
| | - Cristina Fernández-Valle
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL 32827, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Frontzek F, Nitzlaff S, Horstmann M, Schwab A, Stock C. Functional interdependence of NHE1 and merlin in human melanoma cells. Biochem Cell Biol 2014; 92:530-40. [PMID: 25275700 DOI: 10.1139/bcb-2014-0041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Upregulation of the Na(+)/H(+) exchanger isoform 1 (NHE1) has been correlated with tumor malignancy. In contrast, moesin-radixin-ezrin-like protein (merlin) is a tumor suppressor that protects from cancerogenesis. Merlin is highly related to the members of the ezrin, radixin, and moesin (ERM) protein family that are directly attached to and functionally linked with NHE1. In addition, merlin inhibits the MAPK cascade and the Rho-GTPases known to activate NHE1 activity. The present study investigates whether NHE1 expression and activity affect merlin or, conversely, whether merlin has an impact on NHE1 in human melanoma (MV3) cells. Indeed, features of merlin-deficient MV3 cells point to a functional link: merlin-deficient cells showed a decreased NHE1 expression and, paradoxically, an increase in NHE1 activity as measured upon cytosolic acidification (NH4Cl prepulse method). Loss of merlin also led to an elevated cell motility that could be further increased by NHE1 overexpression, whereas NHE1 overexpression alone had no effect on migration. In contrast, neither NHE1 expression nor its activity had an impact on merlin expression. These results suggest a novel tumor suppressor function of merlin in melanoma cells: the inhibition of the proto-oncogenic NHE1 activity, possibly including its downstream signaling pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Frontzek
- Institute of Physiology II, University of Münster, Robert-Koch-Str. 27b, D-48149 Münster, Germany
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Malhotra A, Shibata Y, Hall IM, Dutta A. Chromosomal structural variations during progression of a prostate epithelial cell line to a malignant metastatic state inactivate the NF2, NIPSNAP1, UGT2B17, and LPIN2 genes. Cancer Biol Ther 2013; 14:840-52. [PMID: 23792589 PMCID: PMC3909553 DOI: 10.4161/cbt.25329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer is the second highest cause of male cancer deaths in the United States. A significant number of tumors advance to a highly invasive and metastatic stage, which is typically resistant to traditional cancer therapeutics. In order to identify chromosomal structural variants that may contribute to prostate cancer progression we sequenced the genomes of a HPV-18 immortalized nonmalignant human prostate epithelial cell line, RWPE1, and compared it to its malignant, metastatic derivative, WPE1-NB26. There were a total of 34 large (> 1 Mbp) and 38 small copy number variants (<100 kbp) in WPE1-NB26 that were not present in the precursor cell line. We also identified and validated 46 structural variants present in the two cell lines, of which 23 were unique to WPE1-NB26. Structural variants unique to the malignant cell line inactivated: (1) the neurofibromin2 (NF2) gene, a known tumor suppressor; (2) its neighboring gene NIPSNAP1, another putative tumor suppressor that inhibits TRPV6, an anti-apoptotic oncogene implicated in prostate cancer progression; (3) UGT2B17, a gene that inactivates dihydrotestosterone, a known activator of prostate cancer progression; and (4) LPIN2, a phosphatidic acid phosphatase and a co-factor of PGC1a that is important for lipid metabolism and for suppressing autoinflammation. Our results illustrate the value of comparing the genomes of defined related pairs of cell lines to discover chromosomal structural variants that may contribute to cancer progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ankit Malhotra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics; University of Virginia School of Medicine; Charlottesville, VA USA
| | - Yoshiyuki Shibata
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics; University of Virginia School of Medicine; Charlottesville, VA USA
| | - Ira M Hall
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics; University of Virginia School of Medicine; Charlottesville, VA USA
| | - Anindya Dutta
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics; University of Virginia School of Medicine; Charlottesville, VA USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Murray LB, Lau YKI, Yu Q. Merlin is a negative regulator of human melanoma growth. PLoS One 2012; 7:e43295. [PMID: 22912849 PMCID: PMC3422319 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0043295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2012] [Accepted: 07/18/2012] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Merlin is encoded by the neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) gene and is a member of the Band 4.1 protein family. This protein acts as a linker that connects cell surface proteins to the actin cytoskeleton. Defects caused by mutations of the NF2 gene give rise to NF2 disease, which is generally characterized by the formation of bilateral vestibular schwannomas and, to a lesser extent, meningiomas and ependymomas. In addition to these tumor types, NF2 is mutated and/or merlin expression is reduced or lost in numerous non-NF2 associated tumors, including melanoma. However, the role of merlin in human melanoma growth and the mechanism underlying its effect are currently unknown. In the present study, we show that merlin knockdown enhances melanoma cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro and that decreased merlin expression promotes subcutaneous melanoma growth in immunocompromised mice. Concordantly, we find that increased expression of merlin in a metastatic melanoma cell line reduced their in vitro migration and proliferation, and diminished their ability to grow in an anchorage independent manner. Increased merlin expression also inhibits in vivo growth of these melanoma cells. Lastly, we demonstrate that higher merlin levels in human melanoma cells promote the H2O2-induced activation of MST1/2 Ser/Thr kinases, which are known tumor suppressors in the Hippo signaling pathway. Taken together, these results provide for the first time evidence that merlin negatively regulates human melanoma growth, and that loss of merlin, or impaired merlin function, results in an opposite effect. In addition, we show that increased merlin expression leads to enhanced activation of the MTS1/2 kinases, implying the potential roles of MST1/2 in mediating the anti-melanoma effects of merlin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucas B. Murray
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Ying-Ka Ingar Lau
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Qin Yu
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Morrow KA, Shevde LA. Merlin: the wizard requires protein stability to function as a tumor suppressor. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2012; 1826:400-6. [PMID: 22750751 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2012.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2012] [Revised: 06/18/2012] [Accepted: 06/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2), characterized by tumors of the nervous system, is a result of functional loss of the NF2 gene. The NF2 gene encodes Merlin (moesin-ezrin-radixin-like protein), an ERM (Ezrin, Radixin, Moesin) protein family member. Merlin functions as a tumor suppressor through impacting mechanisms related to proliferation, apoptosis, survival, motility, adhesion, and invasion. Several studies have summarized the tumor intrinsic mutations in Merlin. Given the fact that tumor cells are not in isolation, but rather in an intricate, mutually sustaining synergy with their surrounding stroma, the dialog between the tumor cells and the stroma can potentially impact the molecular homeostasis and promote evolution of the malignant phenotype. This review summarizes the epigenetic modifications, transcript stability, and post-translational modifications that impact Merlin. We have reviewed the role of extrinsic factors originating from the tumor milieu that influence the availability of Merlin inside the cell. Information regarding Merlin regulation could lead to novel therapeutics by stabilizing Merlin protein in tumors that have reduced Merlin protein expression without displaying any NF2 genetic alterations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K Adam Morrow
- Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Wowra B, Muacevic A, Fürweger C, Schichor C, Tonn JC. Therapeutic profile of single-fraction radiosurgery of vestibular schwannoma: unrelated malignancy predicts tumor control. Neuro Oncol 2012; 14:902-9. [PMID: 22561798 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/nos085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiosurgery has become an accepted treatment option for vestibular schwannomas. Nevertheless, predictors of tumor control and treatment toxicity in current radiosurgery of vestibular schwannomas are not well understood. To generate new information on predictors of tumor control and cranial nerve toxicity of single-fraction radiosurgery of vestibular schwannomas, we conducted a single-institution long-term observational study of radiosurgery for sporadic vestibular schwannomas. Minimum follow-up was 3 years. Investigated as potential predictors of tumor control and cranial nerve toxicity were treatment technology; tumor resection preceding radiosurgery; tumor size; gender; patient age; history of cancer, vascular disease, or metabolic disease; tumor volume; radiosurgical prescription dose; and isodose line. Three hundred eighty-six patients met inclusion criteria. Treatment failure was observed in 27 patients. History of unrelated cancer (strongest predictor) and prescription dose significantly predicted tumor control. The cumulative incidence of treatment failure was 30% after 6.5 years in patients with unrelated malignancy and 10% after ≥15 years in patients without such cancer (P < .02). Tumor volume was the only predictor of trigeminal neuropathy (observed in 6 patients). No predictor of facial nerve toxicity was found. On the House and Brackmann scale, 1 patient had a permanent one-level drop and 7 a transient drop of 1 to 3 levels. Serviceable hearing was preserved in 75.1%. Tumor hearing before radiosurgery, recurrence, and prescription isodose predicted ototoxicity. Unrelated malignancy is a strong predictor of tumor control. Tumor recurrence predominantly predicts ototoxicity. These findings potentially will aid future clinical decision making in ambiguous cases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Berndt Wowra
- Europa¨ isches CyberKnife Zentrum, Mu¨ nchen, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Affiliation(s)
- W Weder
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Benitez A, Yates TJ, Lopez LE, Cerwinka WH, Bakkar A, Lokeshwar VB. Targeting hyaluronidase for cancer therapy: antitumor activity of sulfated hyaluronic acid in prostate cancer cells. Cancer Res 2011; 71:4085-95. [PMID: 21555367 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-10-4610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The tumor cell-derived hyaluronidase (HAase) HYAL-1 degrades hyaluronic acid (HA) into proangiogenic fragments that support tumor progression. Although HYAL-1 is a critical determinant of tumor progression and a marker for cancer diagnosis and metastasis prediction, it has not been evaluated as a target for cancer therapy. Similarly, sulfated hyaluronic acid (sHA) has not been evaluated for biological activity, although it is an HAase inhibitor. In this study, we show that sHA is a potent inhibitor of prostate cancer. sHA blocked the proliferation, motility, and invasion of LNCaP, LNCaP-AI, DU145, and LAPC-4 prostate cancer cells, and induced caspase-8-dependent apoptosis associated with downregulation of Bcl-2 and phospho-Bad. sHA inhibited Akt signaling including androgen receptor (AR) phosphorylation, AR activity, nuclear factor κB (NFκB) activation, and VEGF expression. These effects were traced to a blockade in complex formation between phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) and HA receptors and to a transcriptional downregulation of HA receptors, CD44, and RHAMM, along with PI3K inhibition. Angiogenic HA fragments or overexpression of myristoylated Akt or HA receptors blunted these effects of sHA, implicating a feedback loop between HA receptors and PI3K/Akt signaling in the mechanism of action. In an animal model, sHA strongly inhibited LNCaP-AI prostate tumor growth without causing weight loss or apparent serum-organ toxicity. Inhibition of tumor growth was accompanied by a significant decrease in tumor angiogenesis and an increase in apoptosis index. Taken together, our findings offer mechanistic insights into the tumor-associated HA-HAase system and a preclinical proof-of-concept of the safety and efficacy of sHA to control prostate cancer growth and progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anaid Benitez
- Department of Urology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida 33101, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Saydam O, Senol O, Würdinger T, Mizrak A, Ozdener GB, Stemmer-Rachamimov AO, Yi M, Stephens RM, Krichevsky AM, Saydam N, Brenner GJ, Breakefield XO. miRNA-7 attenuation in Schwannoma tumors stimulates growth by upregulating three oncogenic signaling pathways. Cancer Res 2011; 71:852-61. [PMID: 21156648 PMCID: PMC3072568 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-10-1219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Micro RNAs (miRNA) negatively regulate protein-coding genes at the posttranscriptional level and are critical in tumorigenesis. Schwannomas develop from proliferation of dedifferentiated Schwann cells, which normally wrap nerve fibers to help support and insulate nerves. In this study, we carried out high-throughput miRNA expression profiling of human vestibular schwannomas by using an array representing 407 known miRNAs to explore the role of miRNAs in tumor growth. Twelve miRNAs were found to be significantly deregulated in tumor samples as compared with control nerve tissue, defining a schwannoma-typical signature. Among these miRNAs, we focused on miR-7, which was one of the most downregulated in these tumors and has several known oncogene targets, including mRNAs for epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and p21-activated kinase 1 (Pak1). We found that overexpression of miR-7 inhibited schwannoma cell growth both in culture and in xenograft tumor models in vivo, which correlated with downregulation of these signaling pathways. Furthermore, we identified a novel direct target of miR-7, the mRNA for associated cdc42 kinase 1 (Ack1), with the expression levels of miR-7 and Ack1 being inversely correlated in human schwannoma samples. These results represent the first miRNA profiling of schwannomas and the first report of a tumor suppressor function for miR-7 in these tumors that is mediated by targeting the EGFR, Pak1, and Ack1 oncogenes. Our findings suggest miR-7 as a potential therapeutic molecule for schwannoma treatment, and they prompt clinical evaluation of drugs that can inhibit the EGFR, Pak1, and Ack1 signaling pathways to treat this tumor type.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Okay Saydam
- Department of Neurology and Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Bartholow TL, Chandran UR, Becich MJ, Parwani AV. Immunohistochemical staining of radixin and moesin in prostatic adenocarcinoma. BMC Clin Pathol 2011; 11:1. [PMID: 21235778 PMCID: PMC3029218 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6890-11-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2010] [Accepted: 01/14/2011] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Some members of the Protein 4.1 superfamily are believed to be involved in cell proliferation and growth, or in the regulation of these processes. While the expression levels of two members of this family, radixin and moesin, have been studied in many tumor types, to our knowledge they have not been investigated in prostate cancer. METHODS Tissue microarrays were immunohistochemically stained for either radixin or moesin, with the staining intensities subsequently quantified and statistically analyzed using One-Way ANOVA or nonparametric equivalent with subsequent Student-Newman-Keuls tests for multiple comparisons. There were 11 cases of normal donor prostates (NDP), 14 cases of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), 23 cases of high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN), 88 cases of prostatic adenocarcinoma (PCa), and 25 cases of normal tissue adjacent to adenocarcinoma (NAC) analyzed in the microarrays. RESULTS NDP, BPH, and HGPIN had higher absolute staining scores for radixin than PCa and NAC, but with a significant difference observed between only HGPIN and PCa (p = < 0.001) and HGPIN and NAC (p = 0.001). In the moesin-stained specimens, PCa, NAC, HGPIN, and BPH all received absolute higher staining scores than NDP, but the differences were not significant. Stage 4 moesin-stained PCa had a significantly reduced staining intensity compared to Stage 2 (p = 0.003). CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, these studies represent the first reports on the expression profiles of radixin and moesin in prostatic adenocarcinoma. The current study has shown that there were statistically significant differences observed between HGPIN and PCa and HGPIN and NAC in terms of radixin expression. The differences in the moesin profiles by tissue type were not statistically significant. Additional larger studies with these markers may further elucidate their potential roles in prostatic neoplasia progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Uma R Chandran
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Michael J Becich
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Anil V Parwani
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Abstract
Mutation of the p53 tumor suppressor is associated with disease progression, therapeutic resistance, and poor prognosis in patients with lymphoid malignancies and can occur in approximately 50% of Burkitt lymphomas. Thus, new therapies are needed to specifically target p53-deficient lymphomas with increased efficacy. In the current study, the specific impact of inhibition of the small GTPase Rac1 on p53-deficient B- and T-lymphoma cells was investigated. p53 deficiency resulted in increased Rac1 activity in both B-cell and T-cell lines, and its suppression was able to abrogate p53 deficiency-mediated lymphoma cell proliferation. Further, Rac targeting resulted in increased apoptosis via a p53-independent mechanism. By probing multiple signaling axes and performing rescue studies, we show that the antiproliferative effect of Rac1 targeting in lymphoma cells may involve the PAK and Akt signaling pathway, but not the mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase pathway. The effects of inhibition of Rac1 were extended in vivo where Rac1 targeting was able to specifically impair p53-deficient lymphoma cell growth in mouse xenografts and postpone lymphomagenesis onset in murine transplantation models. Because the Rac1 signaling axis is a critical determinant of apoptosis and tumorigenesis, it may represent an important basis for therapy in the treatment of p53-deficient lymphomas.
Collapse
|
25
|
Morales FC, Molina JR, Hayashi Y, Georgescu MM. Overexpression of ezrin inactivates NF2 tumor suppressor in glioblastoma. Neuro Oncol 2010; 12:528-39. [PMID: 20156804 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/nop060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma is a frequent brain malignancy with a dismal prognosis. The molecular changes causing its aggressive phenotype are under investigation. We report that the cytoskeletal-related proteins neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) and ezrin have opposite yet interdependent activities in glioblastoma growth. We show that NF2 is absent in approximately one-third of glioblastoma cell lines and tumors, and that it suppresses growth when expressed in cells. Although ezrin overexpression was previously observed in glioblastoma, we show here that ezrin enhanced cell proliferation and anchorage-independent growth but only in cells expressing NF2. Ezrin interacted and delocalized NF2 from the cortical compartment releasing its inhibition on Rac1. By using swap NF2-ezrin molecules, we identified that the opposite effects on cell growth of NF2 and ezrin depend on their amino-terminal FERM domain. The subcellular cortical localization appeared important for NF2 suppressive activity. In contrast, the ability of ezrin to enhance growth or complex NF2 did not depend on the molecular conformation or subcellular localization. In conclusion, these studies show 2 mechanisms for NF2 inactivation in glioblastoma: (i) decreased protein expression and (ii) increasing dosages of ezrin that disable NF2 by intermolecular association and aberrant intracellular recruitment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabiana C Morales
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, 6767 Bertner Avenue, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Yang K, Tang Y, Habermehl GK, Iczkowski KA. Stable alterations of CD44 isoform expression in prostate cancer cells decrease invasion and growth and alter ligand binding and chemosensitivity. BMC Cancer 2010; 10:16. [PMID: 20074368 PMCID: PMC2820461 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-10-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2009] [Accepted: 01/14/2010] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Dysregulated CD44 expression characterizes most human cancers, including prostate cancer (PCa). PCa loses expression of CD44 standard (CD44s) that is present in benign epithelium, and overexpresses the novel splice variant isoform, CD44v7-10. Methods Using retroviral gene delivery to PC-3M PCa cells, we expressed luciferase-only, enforced CD44s re-expression as a fusion protein with luciferase at its C-terminus or as a protein separate from luciferase, or knocked down CD44v7-10 by RNAi. Invasion, migration, proliferation, soft agar colony formation, adhesion, Docetaxel sensitivity, and xenograft growth assays were carried out. Expression responses of merlin, a CD44 binding partner, and growth-permissive phospho-merlin, were assessed by western blot. Results Compared to luciferase-only PC-3M cells, all three treatments reduced invasion and migration. Growth and soft agar colony formation were reduced only by re-expression of CD44s as a separate or fusion protein but not CD44v7-10 RNAi. Hyaluronan and osteopontin binding were greatly strengthened by CD44s expression as a separate protein, but not a fusion protein. CD44v7-10 RNAi in PC-3M cells caused marked sensitization to Docetaxel; the two CD44s re-expression approaches caused minimal sensitization. In limited numbers of mouse subcutaneous xenografts, all three alterations produced only nonsignificant trends toward slower growth compared with luciferase-only controls. The expression of CD44s as a separate protein, but not a fusion protein, caused emergence of a strongly-expressed, hypophosphorylated species of phospho-merlin. Conclusion Stable re-expression of CD44s reduces PCa growth and invasion in vitro, and possibly in vivo, suggesting CD44 alterations have potential as gene therapy. When the C-terminus of CD44s is fused to another protein, most phenotypic effects are lessened, particularly hyaluronan adhesion. Finally, CD44v7-10, although it was not functionally significant for growth, may be a target for chemosensitization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kui Yang
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Denver Health Science Center, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Park ER, Pullikuth AK, Bailey EM, Mercante DE, Catling AD. Differential requirement for MEK Partner 1 in DU145 prostate cancer cell migration. Cell Commun Signal 2009; 7:26. [PMID: 19930650 PMCID: PMC2788567 DOI: 10.1186/1478-811x-7-26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2009] [Accepted: 11/23/2009] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
ERK signaling regulates focal adhesion disassembly during cell movement, and increased ERK signaling frequently contributes to enhanced motility of human tumor cells. We previously found that the ERK scaffold MEK Partner 1 (MP1) is required for focal adhesion disassembly in fibroblasts. Here we test the hypothesis that MP1-dependent ERK signaling regulates motility of DU145 prostate cancer cells. We find that MP1 is required for motility on fibronectin, but not for motility stimulated by serum or EGF. Surprisingly, MP1 appears not to function through its known binding partners MEK1 or PAK1, suggesting the existence of a novel pathway by which MP1 can regulate motility on fibronectin. MP1 may function by regulating the stability or expression of paxillin, a key regulator of motility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Electa R Park
- Department of Pharmacology, LSU Health Sciences Center-New Orleans, LA, USA.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|