1
|
Evans ET, Page EF, Choi AS, Shonibare Z, Kahn AG, Arend RC, Mythreye K. Activin levels correlate with lymphocytic infiltration in epithelial ovarian cancer. Cancer Med 2024; 13:e7368. [PMID: 39248018 PMCID: PMC11381957 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.7368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The TGF-β superfamily member activin, a dimer of the gene products of INHBA and/or INHBB, has been implicated in immune cell maturation and recruitment, but its immune impact within epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is not well characterized. We sought to explore differences in activin (INHBA/ Inhibin-βA and INHBB/ Inhibin-βB) between malignant and ovarian tissues at the RNA and protein level and assess the relationship between activin and immune cells in EOC. METHODS Publicly available RNA sequencing data were accessed from GEO (#GSE143897) with normalization and quantification performed via DESeq2. Immune gene expression profile was further explored within the TCGA-OV cohort derived from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Immunohistochemical analysis was performed to evaluate activin A and T-cell markers CD8 and FoxP3 at the protein level. ELISA to activin-A was used to assess levels in the ascites of advanced EOC patients. Kaplan-Meier curves were generated to visualize survival outcomes. RESULTS Gene expression levels of components of the activin signaling pathway were elevated within EOC when compared to a benign cohort, with differences in activin type I/II receptor gene profiles identified. Additionally, INHBA gene expression was linked to lymphocytic immune markers in EOC samples. Immunohistochemistry analysis revealed a positive correlation of CD8 and FOXP3 staining with activin A at the protein level in both primary and metastatic epithelial ovarian cancer samples. Furthermore, Activin-A (inhibin-βA) is significantly elevated in EOC patient ascites. CONCLUSION INHBA expression is elevated within EOC, correlating with worse survival, with activin protein levels correlating with specific immune infiltration. Our findings suggest that activin-A may play a role in suppressing anti-tumor immunity in EOC, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Humans
- Female
- Carcinoma, Ovarian Epithelial/pathology
- Carcinoma, Ovarian Epithelial/immunology
- Carcinoma, Ovarian Epithelial/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Ovarian Epithelial/genetics
- Carcinoma, Ovarian Epithelial/mortality
- Ovarian Neoplasms/pathology
- Ovarian Neoplasms/immunology
- Ovarian Neoplasms/metabolism
- Ovarian Neoplasms/mortality
- Ovarian Neoplasms/genetics
- Inhibin-beta Subunits/genetics
- Inhibin-beta Subunits/metabolism
- Activins/metabolism
- Activins/genetics
- Lymphocytes, Tumor-Infiltrating/immunology
- Lymphocytes, Tumor-Infiltrating/metabolism
- Middle Aged
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Biomarkers, Tumor/metabolism
- Biomarkers, Tumor/genetics
- Forkhead Transcription Factors/metabolism
- Forkhead Transcription Factors/genetics
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth T Evans
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Emily F Page
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Alex Seok Choi
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Zainab Shonibare
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Andrea G Kahn
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Rebecca C Arend
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Karthikeyan Mythreye
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Du R, Wen L, Niu M, Zhao L, Guan X, Yang J, Zhang C, Liu H. Activin receptors in human cancer: Functions, mechanisms, and potential clinical applications. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 222:116061. [PMID: 38369212 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116061] [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: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Activins are members of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily and act as key regulators in various physiological processes, such as follicle and embryonic development, as well as in multiple human diseases, including cancer. They have been established to signal through three type I and two type II serine/threonine kinase receptors, which, upon ligand binding, form a final signal-transducing receptor complex that activates downstream signaling and governs gene expression. Recent research highlighted the dysregulation of the expression or activity of activin receptors in multiple human cancers and their critical involvement in cancer progression. Furthermore, expression levels of activin receptors have been associated with clinicopathological features and patient outcomes across different cancers. However, there is currently a paucity of comprehensive systematic reviews of activin receptors in cancer. Thus, this review aimed to consolidate existing knowledge concerning activin receptors, with a primary emphasis on their signaling cascade and emerging biological functions, regulatory mechanisms, and potential clinical applications in human cancers in order to provide novel perspectives on cancer prognosis and targeted therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruochen Du
- First Clinical Medical College of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, PR China; Department of Laboratory Animal Center, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, PR China
| | - Liqi Wen
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Cancer, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, PR China; Shanxi Province Clinical Medical Research Center for Precision Medicine of Head and Neck Cancer, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, PR China
| | - Min Niu
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Cancer, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, PR China; Shanxi Province Clinical Medical Research Center for Precision Medicine of Head and Neck Cancer, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, PR China
| | - Liting Zhao
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Cancer, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, PR China; Shanxi Province Clinical Medical Research Center for Precision Medicine of Head and Neck Cancer, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, PR China
| | - Xiaoya Guan
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Cancer, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, PR China; Shanxi Province Clinical Medical Research Center for Precision Medicine of Head and Neck Cancer, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, PR China
| | - Jiao Yang
- Department of Anatomy, the Basic Medical School of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, PR China
| | - Chunming Zhang
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Cancer, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, PR China; Shanxi Province Clinical Medical Research Center for Precision Medicine of Head and Neck Cancer, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, PR China; Department of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, PR China.
| | - Hongliang Liu
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Cancer, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, PR China; Shanxi Province Clinical Medical Research Center for Precision Medicine of Head and Neck Cancer, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, PR China; First Clinical Medical College of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, PR China; Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, the Basic Medical School of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, Shanxi, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gupta J, Tayyib NA, Jalil AT, Hlail SH, Zabibah RS, Vokhidov UN, Alsaikhan F, Ramaiah P, Chinnasamy L, Kadhim MM. Angiogenesis and prostate cancer: MicroRNAs comes into view. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 248:154591. [PMID: 37343381 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, is an important stage in the growth of cancer. Extracellular matrix, endothelial cells, and soluble substances must be carefully coordinated during the multistep procedure of angiogenesis. Inducers and inhibitors have been found to control pretty much every phase. In addition to benign prostatic hyperplasia, prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia, and angiogenesis have a critical role in the initiation and progression of prostate cancer. MicroRNA (miRNA) is endogenous, short, non-coding RNA molecules of almost 22 nucleotides play a role in regulating cellular processes and regulating several genes' expression. Through controlling endothelial migration, differentiation, death, and cell proliferation, miRNAs have a significant function in angiogenesis. A number of pathological and physiological processes, particularly prostate cancer's emergence, depend on the regulation of angiogenesis. Investigating the functions played with miRNAs in angiogenesis is crucial because it might result in the creation of novel prostate cancer therapies that entail regulating angiogenesis. The function of several miRNAs and its targeting genes engaged in cancer of the prostate angiogenesis will be reviewed in this review in light of the most recent developments. The potential clinical utility of miRNAs potentially a novel therapeutic targets will also be explored, as well as their capacity to control prostate cancer angiogenesis and the underlying mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jitendra Gupta
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, GLA University, Mathura 281406, U.P., India.
| | - Nahla A Tayyib
- Faculty of Nursing, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abduladheem Turki Jalil
- Medical Laboratories Techniques Department, Al-Mustaqbal University College, Hilla 51001, Babylon, Iraq.
| | | | - Rahman S Zabibah
- Medical Laboratory Technology Department, College of Medical Technology, The Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq
| | - Ulug'bek N Vokhidov
- Department of ENT Diseases, Head of the Department of Quality Education, Tashkent State Dental Institute, Tashkent, Uzbekistan; Research scholar, Department of Scientific affairs, Samarkand State Medical Institute, Amir Temur Street 18, Samarkand, Uzbekistan
| | - Fahad Alsaikhan
- College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj, Saudi Arabia.
| | | | | | - Mustafa M Kadhim
- Department of Dentistry, Kut University College, Kut, Wasit 52001, Iraq; Medical Laboratory Techniques Department, Al-Farahidi University, Baghdad 10022 Iraq
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Gilloteaux DJ, Jamison JM, Summers JL, Taper HS. Xenografts on nude mouse diaphragm of human DU145 prostate carcinoma cells: mesothelium removal by outgrowths and angiogenesis. Ultrastruct Pathol 2022; 46:413-438. [PMID: 36165802 DOI: 10.1080/01913123.2022.2115596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Human prostate carcinoma DU145 cells, androgen-independent malignant cells, implanted in the athymic nu/nu male mouse, developed numerous tumors on peritoneal and retro-peritoneal organs whose growth aspects and vascular supply have yet to be investigated with fine structure techniques. A series of necropsies from moribund implanted mice diaphragms were examined with light, scanning, and transmission electron microscopy. DU145 xenografts installations, far away from the implanted site, were described as the smallest installation to large diaphragm outgrowths in moribund mice. Carcinomas did not show extracellular matrix and, reaching more than 0.15 mm in thickness, they revealed new structures in these outgrowths. Voids to be gland-like structures with mediocre secretion and, unexpectedly, intercellular spaces connected with fascicles of elongated DU145 cells that merged with a vascular supply originated from either the tumor cells and/or some perimysium vessels. In the largest carcinomas, most important vascular invasions coincidently accompanied the mouse lethality, similarly to human cancers. This androgen-independent model would be useful to study tumor outgrowth's changes related to testing anticancer strategy, including anti-angiogenic therapies involving toxicity, simultaneously with those of other vital organs with combined biomolecular and fine structure techniques.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dr Jacques Gilloteaux
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, St Georges' University International School of Medicine, KB Taylor Global Scholar's Program, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK, NE1 8JG.,Unit of Research in Molecular Physiology (URPhyM), NARILIS, Université de Namur, Namur, Belgium, 5000.,Department of Anatomical Sciences, Ohio Medical University (NEOMed/Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine, Rootstown, OH, USA, 44272
| | - James M Jamison
- Department of Urology, Ohio Medical University (NEOMed/Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine, Rootstown, OH, USA, 44272.,St Thomas Hospital, The Apatone Development Center, Summa Research Foundation, Akron, OH, USA, 44310
| | - Jack L Summers
- Department of Urology, Ohio Medical University (NEOMed/Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine, Rootstown, OH, USA, 44272.,St Thomas Hospital, The Apatone Development Center, Summa Research Foundation, Akron, OH, USA, 44310
| | - Henryk S Taper
- Laboratoire de Pharmacologie Toxicologique et Cancérologique, School of Pharmacy, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium, 1200
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Boustan A, Mosaffa F, Jahangiri R, Heidarian-Miri H, Dahmardeh-Ghalehno A, Jamialahmadi K. Role of SALL4 and Nodal in the prognosis and tamoxifen resistance of estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. MOLECULAR BIOLOGY RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2021; 10:109-119. [PMID: 34476264 PMCID: PMC8340312 DOI: 10.22099/mbrc.2021.39878.1597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Despite the discovery of a number of different mechanisms underlying tamoxifen resistance, its molecular pathway is not completely clear. The upregulation of SALL4 and Nodal has been reported in breast cancer. Nevertheless, their role in tamoxifen resistance has not been investigated. In the present study, we compared Nodal and SALL4 expression in 72 tamoxifen sensitive (TAMS) and tamoxifen-resistant (TAMR) patients. Afterward, the correlation of expression data with clinicopathological features and survival of patients was studied. Results showed that both SALL4 and Nodal were significantly upregulated in TAMR compared to TAMS patients. Besides, there was a positive association between Nodal and SALL4 expression. Furthermore, we evaluated their correlation with the expression of Oct4, Nanog and Sox2 stemness markers. The results demonstrated that in most tissue samples there was a positive correlation between Nodal and SALL4 expression with these stemness markers. Besides, the overexpression of SALL4 and Nodal significantly correlated with the N stage. Moreover, the overexpression of SALL4 was associated with extracapsular invasion and lymphatic invasion. High level expressions of SALL4 and Nodal had a significant association with worse disease-free survival (DFS) rates. In addition, increased level of Nodal expression provides a superior predictor factor for DFS. The multivariate Cox regression analysis also revealed that for DFS, perineural invasion (PNI) was independently an unfavorable prognostic value. These findings suggest that the high expression of SALL4 and Nodal could contribute to tamoxifen resistance and worse survival rates in tamoxifen-treated ER+ breast cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arad Boustan
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Nanotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Mosaffa
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Rosa Jahangiri
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Nanotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hamid Heidarian-Miri
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Health, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Asefeh Dahmardeh-Ghalehno
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Khadijeh Jamialahmadi
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Caggia S, Tapadar S, Wu B, Venugopal SV, Garrett AS, Kumar A, Stiffend JS, Davis JS, Oyelere AK, Khan SA. Small Molecule Inhibitors Targeting Gα i2 Protein Attenuate Migration of Cancer Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E1631. [PMID: 32575572 PMCID: PMC7353059 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12061631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Heterotrimeric G-proteins are ubiquitously expressed in several cancers, and they transduce signals from activated G-protein coupled receptors. These proteins have numerous biological functions, and they are becoming interesting target molecules in cancer therapy. Previously, we have shown that heterotrimeric G-protein subunit alphai2 (Gαi2) has an essential role in the migration and invasion of prostate cancer cells. Using a structure-based approach, we have synthesized optimized small molecule inhibitors that are able to prevent specifically the activation of the Gαi2 subunit, keeping the protein in its inactive GDP-bound state. We observed that two of the compounds (13 and 14) at 10 μΜ significantly inhibited the migratory behavior of the PC3 and DU145 prostate cancer cell lines. Additionally, compound 14 at 10 μΜ blocked the activation of Gαi2 in oxytocin-stimulated prostate cancer PC3 cells, and inhibited the migratory capability of DU145 cells overexpressing the constitutively active form of Gαi2, under basal and EGF-stimulated conditions. We also observed that the knockdown or inhibition of Gαi2 negatively regulated migration of renal and ovarian cancer cell lines. Our results suggest that small molecule inhibitors of Gαi2 have potential as leads for discovering novel anti-metastatic agents for attenuating the capability of cancer cells to spread and invade to distant sites.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Caggia
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, GA 30314, USA; (S.C.); (S.V.V.); (A.S.G.); (A.K.); (J.S.S.)
| | - Subhasish Tapadar
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30318, USA; (S.T.); (B.W.)
| | - Bocheng Wu
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30318, USA; (S.T.); (B.W.)
| | - Smrruthi V. Venugopal
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, GA 30314, USA; (S.C.); (S.V.V.); (A.S.G.); (A.K.); (J.S.S.)
| | - Autumn S. Garrett
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, GA 30314, USA; (S.C.); (S.V.V.); (A.S.G.); (A.K.); (J.S.S.)
| | - Aditi Kumar
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, GA 30314, USA; (S.C.); (S.V.V.); (A.S.G.); (A.K.); (J.S.S.)
| | - Janae S. Stiffend
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, GA 30314, USA; (S.C.); (S.V.V.); (A.S.G.); (A.K.); (J.S.S.)
| | - John S. Davis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center and VA Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA;
| | - Adegboyega K. Oyelere
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30318, USA; (S.T.); (B.W.)
- Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30318, USA
| | - Shafiq A. Khan
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, GA 30314, USA; (S.C.); (S.V.V.); (A.S.G.); (A.K.); (J.S.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Li Y, Zhong W, Zhu M, Li M, Yang Z. miR-185 inhibits prostate cancer angiogenesis induced by the nodal/ALK4 pathway. BMC Urol 2020; 20:49. [PMID: 32366240 PMCID: PMC7197131 DOI: 10.1186/s12894-020-00617-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Inhibition of angiogenesis in prostatic cancer could be a brand-new method to suppress tumour progression. Nodal/ALK4 has been associated with vascularization in many cancers. However, the relationship between and role of Nodal/ALK4 and miR-185 in human prostatic cancer is still unknown. Methods Prostatic cancer DU145 cells and LNCaP cells were used to investigate the angiogenic effect induced by Nodal and the anti-angiogenic roles of miR-185. Colony formation assay, MTT assay, transwell assay and tube formation assay were used to explore cell proliferation, migration and tube-forming ability, respectively. A luciferase reporter assay confirmed the binding relationship between miR-185 and ALK4. The expression levels of miR-185, ALK4 and VEGF were detected by qRT-PCR and Western blotting. The effects of miR-185 and Nodal in prostate cancer were also investigated in animal experiments. Results VEGF expression was increased in DU145 cells and LNCaP cells after Nodal incubation, and Nodal activated the proliferation ability of prostatic cancer cells and the migration and tube-forming ability of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), which were all inhibited by treatment with the Nodal inhibitor SB431524. Bioinformatics analysis and luciferase assay were used to verify miR-185 as a target of ALK4. Prostatic cancer cell proliferation was inhibited by overexpression of miR-185, which was shown to regulate the migration and angiogenesis of HUVECs by targeting ALK4 for suppression. miR-185 also showed a significant inverse correlation with Nodal treatment and reversed the angiogenic effects induced by Nodal. More importantly, for the first time, xenograft experiments indicated that overexpression of miR-185 suppressed tumour development. Conclusion The Nodal/ALK4 pathway is important in the angiogenesis of prostate cancer and can be inhibited by targeting miR-185 to downregulate ALK4. These findings provide a new perspective on the mechanism of prostate cancer formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Youkong Li
- Department of Urology, Jingzhou Central Hospital and The Second Clinical Medical College, Yangtze University, No.60 Jingzhong Road, Jingzhou District, Jingzhou, 434020, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China.
| | - Wen Zhong
- Department of Endocrine, Jingzhou Central Hospital and The Second Clinical Medical College, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, 434020, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Zhu
- Department of Urology, Jingzhou Central Hospital and The Second Clinical Medical College, Yangtze University, No.60 Jingzhong Road, Jingzhou District, Jingzhou, 434020, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengbo Li
- Department of Urology, Jingzhou Central Hospital and The Second Clinical Medical College, Yangtze University, No.60 Jingzhong Road, Jingzhou District, Jingzhou, 434020, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenwei Yang
- Department of Urology, Jingzhou Central Hospital and The Second Clinical Medical College, Yangtze University, No.60 Jingzhong Road, Jingzhou District, Jingzhou, 434020, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Venugopal SV, Caggia S, Gambrell-Sanders D, Khan SA. Differential roles and activation of mammalian target of rapamycin complexes 1 and 2 during cell migration in prostate cancer cells. Prostate 2020; 80:412-423. [PMID: 31995655 PMCID: PMC7232714 DOI: 10.1002/pros.23956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a downstream substrate activated by PI3K/AKT pathway and it is essential for cell migration. It exists as two complexes: mTORC1 and mTORC2. mTORC1 is known to be regulated by active AKT, but the activation of mTORC2 is poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the roles and differential activation of the two mTOR complexes during cell migration in prostate cancer cells. METHODS We used small interfering RNA to silence the expression of Rac1 and the main components of mTOR complexes (regulatory associated protein of mTOR [RAPTOR] and rapamycin-insensitive companion of mTOR [RICTOR]) in LNCaP, DU145, and PC3 prostate cancer cell lines. We performed transwell migration assay to evaluate the migratory capability of the cells, and Western blot analysis to study the activation levels of mTOR complexes. RESULTS Specific knockdown of RAPTOR and RICTOR caused a decrease of cell migration, suggesting their essential role in prostate cancer cell movement. Furthermore, epidermal growth factor (EGF) treatments induced the activation of both the mTOR complexes. Lack of Rac1 activity in prostate cancer cells blocked EGF-induced activation of mTORC2, but had no effect on mTORC1 activation. Furthermore, the overexpression of constitutively active Rac1 resulted in significant increase in cell migration and activation of mTORC2 in PC3 cells, but had no effect on mTORC1 activation. Active Rac1 was localized in the plasma membrane and was found to be in a protein complex, with RICTOR, but not RAPTOR. CONCLUSION We suggest that EGF-induced activation of Rac1 causes the activation of mTORC2 via RICTOR. This mechanism plays a critical role in prostate cancer cell migration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Smrruthi Vaidegi Venugopal
- Department of biological sciences, Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Silvia Caggia
- Department of biological sciences, Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - DaJhnae Gambrell-Sanders
- Department of biological sciences, Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Shafiq A Khan
- Department of biological sciences, Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, Georgia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sandomenico A, Ruvo M. Targeting Nodal and Cripto-1: Perspectives Inside Dual Potential Theranostic Cancer Biomarkers. Curr Med Chem 2019; 26:1994-2050. [PMID: 30207211 DOI: 10.2174/0929867325666180912104707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Revised: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 07/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Elucidating the mechanisms of recurrence of embryonic signaling pathways in tumorigenesis has led to the discovery of onco-fetal players which have physiological roles during normal development but result aberrantly re-activated in tumors. In this context, Nodal and Cripto-1 are recognized as onco-developmental factors, which are absent in normal tissues but are overexpressed in several solid tumors where they can serve as theranostic agents. OBJECTIVE To collect, review and discuss the most relevant papers related to the involvement of Nodal and Cripto-1 in the development, progression, recurrence and metastasis of several tumors where they are over-expressed, with a particular attention to their occurrence on the surface of the corresponding sub-populations of cancer stem cells (CSC). RESULTS We have gathered, rationalized and discussed the most interesting findings extracted from some 370 papers related to the involvement of Cripto-1 and Nodal in all tumor types where they have been detected. Data demonstrate the clear connection between Nodal and Cripto-1 presence and their multiple oncogenic activities across different tumors. We have also reviewed and highlighted the potential of targeting Nodal, Cripto-1 and the complexes that they form on the surface of tumor cells, especially of CSC, as an innovative approach to detect and suppress tumors with molecules that block one or more mechanisms that they regulate. CONCLUSION Overall, Nodal and Cripto-1 represent two innovative and effective biomarkers for developing potential theranostic anti-tumor agents that target normal as well as CSC subpopulations and overcome both pharmacological resistance and tumor relapse.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annamaria Sandomenico
- Istituto di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (IBB-CNR), via Mezzocannone, 16, 80134, Napoli, Italy
| | - Menotti Ruvo
- Istituto di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (IBB-CNR), via Mezzocannone, 16, 80134, Napoli, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Alwhaibi A, Verma A, Artham S, Adil MS, Somanath PR. Nodal pathway activation due to Akt1 suppression is a molecular switch for prostate cancer cell epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and metastasis. Biochem Pharmacol 2019; 168:1-13. [PMID: 31202735 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2019.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Several studies have unraveled the negative role of Akt1 in advanced cancers, including metastatic prostate cancer (mPCa). Hence, understanding the consequences of targeting Akt1 in the mPCa and identifying its downstream novel targets is essential. We studied how Akt1 deletion in PC3 and DU145 cells activates the Nodal pathway and promotes PCa epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and metastasis. Here we show that Akt1 loss increases Nodal expression in PCa cells accompanied by activation of FoxO1/3a, and EMT markers Snail and N-cadherin as well as loss of epithelial marker E-cadherin. Treatment with FoxO inhibitor AS1842856 abrogated the Nodal expression in Akt1 deleted PCa cells. Akt1 deficient PCa cells exhibited enhanced cell migration and invasion in vitro and lung metastasis in vivo, which were attenuated by treatment with Nodal pathway inhibitor SB505124. Interestingly, Nodal mRNA analysis from two genomic studies in cBioportal showed a positive correlation between Nodal expression and Gleason score indicating the positive role of Nodal in human mPCa. Collectively, our data demonstrate Akt1-FoxO3a-Nodal pathway as an important mediator of PCa metastasis and present Nodal as a potential target to treat mPCa patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdulrahman Alwhaibi
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia and Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30912, United States
| | - Arti Verma
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia and Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30912, United States
| | - Sandeep Artham
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia and Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30912, United States
| | - Mir S Adil
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia and Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30912, United States
| | - Payaningal R Somanath
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia and Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30912, United States; Department of Medicine, Vascular Biology Center and Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Elliott B, Millena AC, Matyunina L, Zhang M, Zou J, Wang G, Zhang Q, Bowen N, Eaton V, Webb G, Thompson S, McDonald J, Khan S. Essential role of JunD in cell proliferation is mediated via MYC signaling in prostate cancer cells. Cancer Lett 2019; 448:155-167. [PMID: 30763715 PMCID: PMC6414252 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2019.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2018] [Revised: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
JunD, a member of the AP-1 family, is essential for cell proliferation in prostate cancer (PCa) cells. We recently demonstrated that JunD knock-down (KD) in PCa cells results in cell cycle arrest in G1-phase concomitant with a decrease in cyclin D1, Ki67, and c-MYC, but an increase in p21 levels. Furthermore, the over-expression of JunD significantly increased proliferation suggesting JunD regulation of genes required for cell cycle progression. Here, employing gene expression profiling, quantitative proteomics, and validation approaches, we demonstrate that JunD KD is associated with distinct gene and protein expression patterns. Comparative integrative analysis by Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) identified 1) cell cycle control/regulation as the top canonical pathway whose members exhibited a significant decrease in their expression following JunD KD including PRDX3, PEA15, KIF2C, and CDK2, and 2) JunD dependent genes are associated with cell proliferation, with MYC as the critical downstream regulator. Conversely, JunD over-expression induced the expression of the above genes including c-MYC. We conclude that JunD is a crucial regulator of cell cycle progression and inhibiting its target genes may be an effective approach to block prostate carcinogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bethtrice Elliott
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, 223 James P. Brawley Dr. SW, Atlanta, GA, 30314, USA
| | - Ana Cecilia Millena
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, 223 James P. Brawley Dr. SW, Atlanta, GA, 30314, USA
| | - Lilya Matyunina
- Integrated Cancer Research Center, School of Biological Sciences, Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, 315 Ferst Drive, Atlanta, GA, 30309, USA
| | - Mengnan Zhang
- Integrated Cancer Research Center, School of Biological Sciences, Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, 315 Ferst Drive, Atlanta, GA, 30309, USA
| | - Jin Zou
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, 223 James P. Brawley Dr. SW, Atlanta, GA, 30314, USA
| | - Guangdi Wang
- Department of Chemistry, RCMI Cancer Research Center, Xavier University, 1 Drexel Drive, New Orleans, LA, 70125, USA
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, RCMI Cancer Research Center, Xavier University, 1 Drexel Drive, New Orleans, LA, 70125, USA
| | - Nathan Bowen
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, 223 James P. Brawley Dr. SW, Atlanta, GA, 30314, USA
| | - Vanessa Eaton
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, 223 James P. Brawley Dr. SW, Atlanta, GA, 30314, USA
| | - Gabrielle Webb
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, 223 James P. Brawley Dr. SW, Atlanta, GA, 30314, USA
| | - Shadyra Thompson
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, 223 James P. Brawley Dr. SW, Atlanta, GA, 30314, USA
| | - John McDonald
- Integrated Cancer Research Center, School of Biological Sciences, Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, 315 Ferst Drive, Atlanta, GA, 30309, USA
| | - Shafiq Khan
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, 223 James P. Brawley Dr. SW, Atlanta, GA, 30314, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Caggia S, Chunduri H, Millena AC, Perkins JN, Venugopal SV, Vo BT, Li C, Tu Y, Khan SA. Novel role of Giα2 in cell migration: Downstream of PI3-kinase-AKT and Rac1 in prostate cancer cells. J Cell Physiol 2018; 234:802-815. [PMID: 30078221 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.26894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Tumor cell motility is the essential step in cancer metastasis. Previously, we showed that oxytocin and epidermal growth factor (EGF) effects on cell migration in prostate cancer cells require Giα2 protein. In the current study, we investigated the interactions among G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR), Giα2, PI3-kinase, and Rac1 activation in the induction of migratory and invasive behavior by diverse stimuli. Knockdown and knockout of endogenous Giα2 in PC3 cells resulted in attenuation of transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1), oxytocin, SDF-1α, and EGF effects on cell migration and invasion. In addition, knockdown of Giα2 in E006AA cells attenuated cell migration and overexpression of Giα2 in LNCaP cells caused significant increase in basal and EGF-stimulated cell migration. Pretreatment of PC3 cells with Pertussis toxin resulted in attenuation of TGFβ1- and oxytocin-induced migratory behavior and PI3-kinase activation without affecting EGF-induced PI3-kinase activation and cell migration. Basal- and EGF-induced activation of Rac1 in PC3 and DU145 cells were not affected in cells after Giα2 knockdown. On the other hand, Giα2 knockdown abolished the migratory capability of PC3 cells overexpressing constitutively active Rac1. The knockdown or knockout of Giα2 resulted in impaired formation of lamellipodia at the leading edge of the migrating cells. We conclude that Giα2 protein acts at two different levels which are both dependent and independent of GPCR signaling to induce cell migration and invasion in prostate cancer cells and its action is downstream of PI3-kinase-AKT-Rac1 axis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Caggia
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - HimaBindu Chunduri
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Ana C Millena
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Jonathan N Perkins
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Smrruthi V Venugopal
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - BaoHan T Vo
- Department of Tumor Cell Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Chunliang Li
- Department of Tumor Cell Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Yaping Tu
- Department of Pharmacology, Creighton University School of Medicine, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Shafiq A Khan
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, Georgia
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Kimbrough-Allah MN, Millena AC, Khan SA. Differential role of PTEN in transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) effects on proliferation and migration in prostate cancer cells. Prostate 2018; 78:377-389. [PMID: 29341212 PMCID: PMC5820153 DOI: 10.1002/pros.23482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) acts as a tumor suppressor in normal epithelial cells but as a tumor promoter in advanced prostate cancer cells. PI3-kinase pathway mediates TGF-β effects on prostate cancer cell migration and invasion. PTEN inhibits PI3-kinase pathway and is frequently mutated in prostate cancers. We investigated possible role(s) of PTEN in TGF-β effects on proliferation and migration in prostate cancer cells. METHODS Expression of PTEN mRNA and proteins were determined using RT-PCR and Western blotting in RWPE1 and DU145 cells. We also studied the role of PTEN in TGF-β effects on cell proliferation and migration in DU145 cells after transient silencing of endogenous PTEN. Conversely, we determined the role of PTEN in cell proliferation and migration after over-expression of PTEN in PC3 cells which lack endogenous PTEN. RESULTS TGF-β1 and TGF-β3 had no effect on PTEN mRNA levels but both isoforms increased PTEN protein levels in DU145 and RWPE1 cells indicating that PTEN may mediate TGF-β effects on cell proliferation. Knockdown of PTEN in DU145 cells resulted in significant increase in cell proliferation which was not affected by TGF-β isoforms. PTEN overexpression in PC3 cells inhibited cell proliferation. Knockdown of endogenous PTEN enhanced cell migration in DU145 cells, whereas PTEN overexpression reduced migration in PC3 cells and reduced phosphorylation of AKT in response to TGF-β. CONCLUSION We conclude that PTEN plays a role in inhibitory effects of TGF-β on cell proliferation whereas its absence may enhance TGF-β effects on activation of PI3-kinase pathway and cell migration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ana C Millena
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Shafiq A Khan
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, Georgia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Gong W, Sun B, Zhao X, Zhang D, Sun J, Liu T, Gu Q, Dong X, Liu F, Wang Y, Lin X, Li Y. Nodal signaling promotes vasculogenic mimicry formation in breast cancer via the Smad2/3 pathway. Oncotarget 2018; 7:70152-70167. [PMID: 27659524 PMCID: PMC5342542 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.12161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2016] [Accepted: 09/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Vasculogenic mimicry (VM) is a nonangiogenesis-dependent pathway that promotes tumor growth and disease progression. Nodal signaling has several vital roles in both embryo development and cancer progression. However, the effects of Nodal signaling on VM formation in breast cancer and its underlying mechanisms are ill-defined. We analyzed the relationship between Nodal signaling and VM formation in one hundred human breast cancer cases and the results showed that the expression of Nodal was significantly correlated with VM formation, tumor metastasis, differentiation grade, TNM stage and poor prognosis. Furthermore, up-regulation of Nodal expression promoted VM formation of breast cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Knockdown of Nodal expression restrained VM formation. In addition, Nodal induced EMT and up-regulated the expression of Slug, Snail and c-Myc. We found that blocking the Smad2/3 pathway by administering SB431542 inhibited VM formation in breast cancer cell lines and xenografts. Taken together, Nodal signaling through the Smad2/3 pathway up-regulated Slug, Snail and c-Myc to induce EMT, thereby promoting VM formation. Our study suggests that the Nodal signaling pathway may serve as a therapeutic target to inhibit VM formation and improve prognosis in breast cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenchen Gong
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Baocun Sun
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China.,Department of Pathology, Tianjin General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300052, China.,Department of Pathology, Tianjin Cancer Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Xiulan Zhao
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China.,Department of Pathology, Tianjin General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Danfang Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China.,Department of Pathology, Tianjin General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Junying Sun
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Tieju Liu
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China.,Department of Pathology, Tianjin General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Qiang Gu
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China.,Department of Pathology, Tianjin General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Xueyi Dong
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Fang Liu
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Yong Wang
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Xian Lin
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Yanlei Li
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Xiang Z, Liang Z, Yanfeng H, Leitao K. Persistence of RSV promotes proliferation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition of bronchial epithelial cells through Nodal signaling. J Med Microbiol 2017; 66:1499-1505. [PMID: 28901900 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.000581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Xiang
- Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, 44 Xiaoheyan Road, Dadong Region, Shengyang 110042, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Zhang Liang
- Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, 44 Xiaoheyan Road, Dadong Region, Shengyang 110042, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Huang Yanfeng
- Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, 44 Xiaoheyan Road, Dadong Region, Shengyang 110042, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Kang Leitao
- Department of Microbiology, Central South University, Changsha 410000, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Barrett CS, Millena AC, Khan SA. TGF-β Effects on Prostate Cancer Cell Migration and Invasion Require FosB. Prostate 2017; 77:72-81. [PMID: 27604827 PMCID: PMC5286811 DOI: 10.1002/pros.23250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2016] [Accepted: 08/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Activator Protein-1 (AP-1) family (cJun, JunB, JunD, cFos, FosB, Fra1, and Fra2) plays a central role in the transcriptional regulation of many genes that are associated with cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, metastasis, and survival. Many oncogenic signaling pathways converge at the AP-1 transcription complex. Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) is a multifunctional regulatory cytokine that regulates many aspects of cellular function, including cellular proliferation, differentiation, migration, apoptosis, adhesion, angiogenesis, immune surveillance, and survival. METHODS This study investigated, the role of FOS proteins in TGF-β signaling in prostate cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Steady state expression levels of FOS mRNA and proteins were determined using RT-PCR and western blotting analyses. DU145 and PC3 prostate cancer cells were exposed to TGF-β1 at varying time and dosage, RT-PCR, western blot, and immunofluorescence analyses were used to determine TGF-β1 effect on FOS mRNA and protein expression levels as well as FosB subcellular localization. Transient silencing of FosB protein was used to determine its role in cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. RESULTS Our data show that FOS mRNA and proteins were differentially expressed in human prostate epithelial (RWPE-1) and prostate cancer cell lines (LNCaP, DU145, and PC3). TGF-β1 induced the expression of FosB at both the mRNA and protein levels in DU145 and PC3 cells, whereas cFos and Fra1 were unaffected. Immunofluorescence analysis showed an increase in the accumulation of FosB protein in the nucleus of PC3 cells after treatment with exogenous TGF-β1. Selective knockdown of endogenous FosB by specific siRNA did not have any effect on cell proliferation in PC3 and DU145 cells. However, basal and TGF-β1- and EGF-induced cell migration was significantly reduced in DU145 and PC3 cells lacking endogenous FosB. TGF-β1- and EGF-induced cell invasion were also significantly decreased after FosB knockdown in PC3 cells. CONCLUSION Our data suggest that FosB is required for migration and invasion in prostate cancer cells. We also conclude that TGF-β1 effect on prostate cancer cell migration and invasion may be mediated through the induction of FosB. Prostate 77:72-81, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Shafiq A. Khan
- Correspondence to: Shafiq A. Khan, PhD, Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, 223 James P. Brawley Dr. S.W., Atlanta, GA 30314.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
P. Croxford K, L. Reader K, D. Nicholson H. The potential role of transforming growth factor beta family ligand interactions in prostate cancer. AIMS MOLECULAR SCIENCE 2017. [DOI: 10.3934/molsci.2017.1.41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
|
18
|
Loomans HA, Andl CD. Activin receptor-like kinases: a diverse family playing an important role in cancer. Am J Cancer Res 2016; 6:2431-2447. [PMID: 27904762 PMCID: PMC5126264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Accepted: 10/12/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The role and function of the members of the TGFβ superfamily has been a substantial area of research focus for the last several decades. During that time, it has become apparent that aberrations in TGFβ family signaling, whether through the BMP, Activin, or TGFβ arms of the pathway, can result in tumorigenesis or contribute to its progression. Downstream signaling regulates cellular growth under normal physiological conditions yet induces diverse processes during carcinogenesis, ranging from epithelial- to-mesenchymal transition to cell migration and invasion to angiogenesis. Due to these observations, the question has been raised how to utilize and target components of these signaling pathways in cancer therapy. Given that these cascades include both ligands and receptors, there are multiple levels at which to interfere. Activin receptor-like kinases (ALKs) are a group of seven type I receptors responsible for TGFβ family signal transduction and are utilized by many ligands within the superfamily. The challenge lies in specifically targeting the often-overlapping functional effects of BMP, Activin, or TGFβ signaling during cancer progression. This review focuses on the characteristic function of the individual receptors within each subfamily and their recognized roles in cancer. We next explore the clinical utility of therapeutically targeting ALKs as some have shown partial responses in Phase I clinical trials but disappointing outcomes when used in Phase II studies. Finally, we discuss the challenges and future directions of this body of work.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Holli A Loomans
- Department of Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt UniversityNashville, TN, USA
| | - Claudia D Andl
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central FloridaOrlando, FL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Tian RH, Yang S, Zhu ZJ, Wang JL, Liu Y, Yao C, Ma M, Guo Y, Yuan Q, Hai Y, Huang YR, He Z, Li Z. NODAL secreted by male germ cells regulates the proliferation and function of human Sertoli cells from obstructive azoospermia and nonobstructive azoospermia patients. Asian J Androl 2016; 17:996-1005. [PMID: 26289399 PMCID: PMC4814958 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.159722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
This study was designed to explore the regulatory effects of male germ cell secreting factor NODAL on Sertoli cell fate decisions from obstructive azoospermia (OA) and nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) patients. Human Sertoli cells and male germ cells were isolated using two-step enzymatic digestion and SATPUT from testes of azoospermia patients. Expression of NODAL and its multiple receptors in human Sertoli cells and male germ cells were characterized by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and immunochemistry. Human recombinant NODAL and its receptor inhibitor SB431542 were employed to probe their effect on the proliferation of Sertoli cells using the CCK-8 assay. Quantitative PCR and Western blots were utilized to assess the expression of Sertoli cell functional genes and proteins. NODAL was found to be expressed in male germ cells but not in Sertoli cells, whereas its receptors ALK4, ALK7, and ACTR-IIB were detected in Sertoli cells and germ cells, suggesting that NODAL plays a regulatory role in Sertoli cells and germ cells via a paracrine and autocrine pathway, respectively. Human recombinant NODAL could promote the proliferation of human Sertoli cells. The expression of cell cycle regulators, including CYCLIN A, CYCLIN D1 and CYCLIN E, was not remarkably affected by NODAL signaling. NODAL enhanced the expression of essential growth factors, including GDNF, SCF, and BMP4, whereas SB431542 decreased their levels. There was not homogeneity of genes changes by NODAL treatment in Sertoli cells from OA and Sertoli cell-only syndrome (SCO) patients. Collectively, this study demonstrates that NODAL produced by human male germ cells regulates proliferation and numerous gene expression of Sertoli cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Zuping He
- Department of Urology, Institute of Andrology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University; State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Renji Med-X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Cancer, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Urology, Institute of Andrology, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Millena AC, Vo BT, Khan SA. JunD Is Required for Proliferation of Prostate Cancer Cells and Plays a Role in Transforming Growth Factor-β (TGF-β)-induced Inhibition of Cell Proliferation. J Biol Chem 2016; 291:17964-76. [PMID: 27358408 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m116.714899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
TGF-β inhibits proliferation of prostate epithelial cells. However, prostate cancer cells in advanced stages become resistant to inhibitory effects of TGF-β. The intracellular signaling mechanisms involved in differential effects of TGF-β during different stages are largely unknown. Using cell line models, we have shown that TGF-β inhibits proliferation in normal (RWPE-1) and prostate cancer (DU145) cells but does not have any effect on proliferation of prostate cancer (PC3) cells. We have investigated the role of Jun family proteins (c-Jun, JunB, and JunD) in TGF-β effects on cell proliferation. Jun family members were expressed at different levels and responded differentially to TGF-β treatment. TGF-β effects on JunD protein levels, but not mRNA levels, correlated with its effects on cell proliferation. TGF-β induced significant reduction in JunD protein in RWPE-1 and DU145 cells but not in PC3 cells. Selective knockdown of JunD expression using siRNA in DU145 and PC3 cells resulted in significant reduction in cell proliferation, and forced overexpression of JunD increased the proliferation rate. On the other hand, knockdown of c-Jun or JunB had little, if any, effect on cell proliferation; overexpression of c-Jun and JunB decreased the proliferation rate in DU145 cells. Further studies showed that down-regulation of JunD in response to TGF-β treatment is mediated via the proteasomal degradation pathway. In conclusion, we show that specific Jun family members exert differential effects on proliferation in prostate cancer cells in response to TGF-β, and inhibition of cell proliferation by TGF-β requires degradation of JunD protein.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Cecilia Millena
- From the Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, Georgia 30314
| | - BaoHan T Vo
- From the Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, Georgia 30314
| | - Shafiq A Khan
- From the Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, Georgia 30314
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Oliveira-Nunes MC, Assad Kahn S, de Oliveira Barbeitas AL, E Spohr TCLDS, Dubois LGF, Ventura Matioszek GM, Querido W, Campanati L, de Brito Neto JM, Lima FRS, Moura-Neto V, Carneiro K. The availability of the embryonic TGF-β protein Nodal is dynamically regulated during glioblastoma multiforme tumorigenesis. Cancer Cell Int 2016; 16:46. [PMID: 27330409 PMCID: PMC4912793 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-016-0324-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2016] [Accepted: 06/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common primary brain tumor presenting self-renewing cancer stem cells. The role of these cells on the development of the tumors has been proposed to recapitulate programs from embryogenesis. Recently, the embryonic transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) protein Nodal has been shown to be reactivated upon tumor development; however, its availability in GBM cells has not been addressed so far. In this study, we investigated by an original approach the mechanisms that dynamically control both intra and extracellular Nodal availability during GBM tumorigenesis. Methods We characterized the dynamics of Nodal availability in both stem and more differentiated GBM cells through morphological analysis, immunofluorescence of Nodal protein and of early (EEA1 and Rab5) and late (Rab7 and Rab11) endocytic markers and Western Blot. Tukey’s test was used to analyze the prevalent correlation of Nodal with different endocytic markers inside specific differentiation states, and Sidak’s multiple comparisons test was used to compare the prevalence of Nodal/endocytic markers co-localization between two differentiation states of GBM cells. Paired t test was used to analyze the abundance of Nodal protein, in extra and intracellular media. Results The cytoplasmic distribution of Nodal was dynamically regulated and strongly correlated with the differentiation status of GBM cells. While Nodal-positive vesicle-like particles were symmetrically distributed in GBM stem cells (GBMsc), they presented asymmetric perinuclear localization in more differentiated GBM cells (mdGBM). Strikingly, when subjected to dedifferentiation, the distribution of Nodal in mdGBM shifted to a symmetric pattern. Moreover, the availability of both intracellular and secreted Nodal were downregulated upon GBMsc differentiation, with cells becoming elongated, negative for Nodal and positive for Nestin. Interestingly, the co-localization of Nodal with endosomal vesicles also depended on the differentiation status of the cells, with Nodal seen more packed in EEA1/Rab5 + vesicles in GBMsc and more in Rab7/11 + vesicles in mdGBM. Conclusions Our results show for the first time that Nodal availability relates to GBM cell differentiation status and that it is dynamically regulated by an endocytic pathway during GBM tumorigenesis, shedding new light on molecular pathways that might emerge as putative targets for Nodal signaling in GBM therapy. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12935-016-0324-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Cecília Oliveira-Nunes
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho 373, F2-01, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902 Brazil
| | - Suzana Assad Kahn
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University, 265 Campus Drive, Stanford, California 94305 USA ; Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho 373, F1-20, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902 Brazil
| | - Ana Luiza de Oliveira Barbeitas
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho 373, F2-01, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902 Brazil
| | - Tania Cristina Leite de Sampaio E Spohr
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho 373, F1-20, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902 Brazil ; Instituto Estadual do Cérebro Paulo Niemeyer (IECPN), Rua do Rezende, 156, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 20231-092 Brazil
| | - Luiz Gustavo Feijó Dubois
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho 373, F1-20, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902 Brazil ; Instituto Estadual do Cérebro Paulo Niemeyer (IECPN), Rua do Rezende, 156, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 20231-092 Brazil
| | - Grasiella Maria Ventura Matioszek
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho 373, B1-29, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902 Brazil
| | - William Querido
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho 373, F2-30, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902 Brazil
| | - Loraine Campanati
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho 373, F1-20, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902 Brazil
| | - José Marques de Brito Neto
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho 373, F2-01, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902 Brazil
| | - Flavia Regina Souza Lima
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho 373, F1-20, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902 Brazil
| | - Vivaldo Moura-Neto
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho 373, F1-20, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902 Brazil ; Instituto Estadual do Cérebro Paulo Niemeyer (IECPN), Rua do Rezende, 156, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 20231-092 Brazil
| | - Katia Carneiro
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho 373, F2-01, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902 Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Kjartansdóttir KR, Reda A, Panula S, Day K, Hultenby K, Söder O, Hovatta O, Stukenborg JB. A Combination of Culture Conditions and Gene Expression Analysis Can Be Used to Investigate and Predict hES Cell Differentiation Potential towards Male Gonadal Cells. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0144029. [PMID: 26630562 PMCID: PMC4667967 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0144029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2015] [Accepted: 11/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Human embryonic stem cell differentiation towards various cell types belonging to ecto-, endo- and mesodermal cell lineages has been demonstrated, with high efficiency rates using standardized differentiation protocols. However, germ cell differentiation from human embryonic stem cells has been very inefficient so far. Even though the influence of various growth factors has been evaluated, the gene expression of different cell lines in relation to their differentiation potential has not yet been extensively examined. In this study, the potential of three male human embryonic stem cell lines to differentiate towards male gonadal cells was explored by analysing their gene expression profiles. The human embryonic stem cell lines were cultured for 14 days as monolayers on supporting human foreskin fibroblasts or as spheres in suspension, and were differentiated using BMP7, or spontaneous differentiation by omitting exogenous FGF2. TLDA analysis revealed that in the undifferentiated state, these cell lines have diverse mRNA profiles and exhibit significantly different potentials for differentiation towards the cell types present in the male gonads. This potential was associated with important factors directing the fate of the male primordial germ cells in vivo to form gonocytes, such as SOX17 or genes involved in the NODAL/ACTIVIN pathway, for example. Stimulation with BMP7 in suspension culture resulted in up-regulation of cytoplasmic SOX9 protein expression in all three lines. The observation that human embryonic stem cells differentiate towards germ and somatic cells after spontaneous and BMP7-induced stimulation in suspension emphasizes the important role of somatic cells in germ cell differentiation in vitro.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristín Rós Kjartansdóttir
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Q2:08, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, SE-171 76, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Institutet, SE-141 86, Huddinge, Sweden
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Scientific Unit, Horsens Hospital, DK-8700, Horsens, Denmark
| | - Ahmed Reda
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Q2:08, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, SE-171 76, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sarita Panula
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Institutet, SE-141 86, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Kelly Day
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Institutet, SE-141 86, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Kjell Hultenby
- Division of Clinical Research Centre, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, SE-141 86, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Olle Söder
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Q2:08, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, SE-171 76, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Outi Hovatta
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Institutet, SE-141 86, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Jan-Bernd Stukenborg
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Q2:08, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, SE-171 76, Stockholm, Sweden
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
A microRNA code for prostate cancer metastasis. Oncogene 2015; 35:1180-92. [PMID: 26073083 PMCID: PMC4803473 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2015.176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2015] [Revised: 03/24/2015] [Accepted: 03/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Although the development of bone metastasis is a major detrimental event in prostate cancer, the molecular mechanisms responsible for bone homing and destruction remain largely unknown. Here we show that loss of miR-15 and miR-16 in cooperation with increased miR-21 expression promote prostate cancer spreading and bone lesions. This combination of microRNA endows bone-metastatic potential to prostate cancer cells. Concomitant loss of miR-15/miR-16 and gain of miR-21 aberrantly activate TGF-β and Hedgehog signaling, that mediate local invasion, distant bone marrow colonization and osteolysis by prostate cancer cells. These findings establish a new molecular circuitry for prostate cancer metastasis that was validated in patients' cohorts. Our data indicate a network of biomarkers and druggable pathways to improve patient treatment.
Collapse
|
24
|
Guo Q, Ning F, Fang R, Wang HS, Zhang G, Quan MY, Cai SH, Du J. Endogenous Nodal promotes melanoma undergoing epithelial-mesenchymal transition via Snail and Slug in vitro and in vivo. Am J Cancer Res 2015; 5:2098-2112. [PMID: 26269769 PMCID: PMC4529629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2015] [Accepted: 05/10/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Nodal, an important embryonic morphogen, has been reported to modulate tumorigenesis. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays an important role in cancer metastasis. We have previously reported that recombinant Nodal treatment can promote melanoma undergoing EMT, but the effects of endogenous Nodal on EMT are still unknown. Here we generated both Nodal-overexpression and -knockdown stable cell lines to investigate the in vitro and in vivo characteristics of Nodal-induced EMT in murine melanoma cells. Nodal-overexpression cells displayed increased migration ability, accompanied by typical phenotype changes of EMT. In contrast, Nodal-knockdown stable cells repressed the EMT phenotype as well as reduced cell motility. Results of animal experiments confirmed that overexpression of Nodal can promote the metastasis of melanoma tumor in vivo. Mechanistically, we found that Nodal-induced expression of Snail and Slug involves its activation of ALK/Smads and PI3k/AKT pathways, which is an important process in the Nodal-induced EMT. However, we also found that the EMT phenotype was not completely inhibited by blocking the paracrine activity of Nodal in Nodal overexpression cell line suggesting the presence of additional mechanism(s) in the Nodal-induced EMT. This study provides a better understanding of Nodal function in melanoma, and suggests targeting Nodal as a potential strategy for melanoma therapey.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Guo
- Department of Microbial and Biochemical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen UniversityGuangzhou 510006, Guangdong, China
| | - Fen Ning
- Department of Microbial and Biochemical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen UniversityGuangzhou 510006, Guangdong, China
| | - Rui Fang
- Department of Pharmacy, Guangdong Women and Children HospitalGuangzhou 511400, Guangdong, China
| | - Hong-Sheng Wang
- Department of Microbial and Biochemical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen UniversityGuangzhou 510006, Guangdong, China
| | - Ge Zhang
- Department of Microbial and Biochemical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen UniversityGuangzhou 510006, Guangdong, China
| | - Mei-Yu Quan
- Department of Microbial and Biochemical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen UniversityGuangzhou 510006, Guangdong, China
| | - Shao-Hui Cai
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Jinan UniversityGuangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Jun Du
- Department of Microbial and Biochemical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen UniversityGuangzhou 510006, Guangdong, China
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Felgueiras J, Silva JV, Fardilha M. Prostate cancer: the need for biomarkers and new therapeutic targets. J Zhejiang Univ Sci B 2014; 15:16-42. [PMID: 24390742 PMCID: PMC3891116 DOI: 10.1631/jzus.b1300106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2013] [Accepted: 06/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) incidence and mortality have decreased in recent years. Nonetheless, it remains one of the most prevalent cancers in men, being a disquieting cause of men's death worldwide. Changes in many cell signaling pathways have a predominant role in the onset, development, and progression of the disease. These include prominent pathways involved in the growth, apoptosis, and angiogenesis of the normal prostate gland, such as androgen and estrogen signaling, and other growth factor signaling pathways. Understanding the foundations of PCa is leading to the discovery of key molecules that could be used to improve patient management. The ideal scenario would be to have a panel of molecules, preferably detectable in body fluids, that are specific and sensitive biomarkers for PCa. In the early stages, androgen deprivation is the gold standard therapy. However, as the cancer progresses, it eventually becomes independent of androgens, and hormonal therapy fails. For this reason, androgen-independent PCa is still a major therapeutic challenge. By disrupting specific protein interactions or manipulating the expression of some key molecules, it might be possible to regulate tumor growth and metastasis formation, avoiding the systemic side effects of current therapies. Clinical trials are already underway to assess the efficacy of molecules specially designed to target key proteins or protein interactions. In this review, we address that recent progress made towards understanding PCa development and the molecular pathways underlying this pathology. We also discuss relevant molecular markers for the management of PCa and new therapeutic challenges.
Collapse
|
26
|
Boerner BP, George NM, Targy NM, Sarvetnick NE. TGF-β superfamily member Nodal stimulates human β-cell proliferation while maintaining cellular viability. Endocrinology 2013; 154:4099-112. [PMID: 23970788 PMCID: PMC3800770 DOI: 10.1210/en.2013-1197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
In an effort to expand human islets and enhance allogeneic islet transplant for the treatment of type 1 diabetes, identifying signaling pathways that stimulate human β-cell proliferation is paramount. TGF-β superfamily members, in particular activin-A, are likely involved in islet development and may contribute to β-cell proliferation. Nodal, another TGF-β member, is present in both embryonic and adult rodent islets. Nodal, along with its coreceptor, Cripto, are pro-proliferative factors in certain cell types. Although Nodal stimulates apoptosis of rat insulinoma cells (INS-1), Nodal and Cripto signaling have not been studied in the context of human islets. The current study investigated the effects of Nodal and Cripto on human β-cell proliferation, differentiation, and viability. In the human pancreas and isolated human islets, we observed Nodal mRNA and protein expression, with protein expression observed in β and α-cells. Cripto expression was absent from human islets. Furthermore, in cultured human islets, exogenous Nodal stimulated modest β-cell proliferation and inhibited α-cell proliferation with no effect on cellular viability, apoptosis, or differentiation. Nodal stimulated the phosphorylation of mothers against decapentaplegic (SMAD)-2, with no effect on AKT or MAPK signaling, suggesting phosphorylated SMAD signaling was involved in β-cell proliferation. Cripto had no effect on human islet cell proliferation, differentiation, or viability. In conclusion, Nodal stimulates human β-cell proliferation while maintaining cellular viability. Nodal signaling warrants further exploration to better understand and enhance human β-cell proliferative capacity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brian P Boerner
- MD, and Nora E. Sarvetnick, PhD, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 985965 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198-5965. ; or
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Vo BT, Morton D, Komaragiri S, Millena AC, Leath C, Khan SA. TGF-β effects on prostate cancer cell migration and invasion are mediated by PGE2 through activation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. Endocrinology 2013; 154:1768-79. [PMID: 23515290 PMCID: PMC3628025 DOI: 10.1210/en.2012-2074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
TGF-β plays an important role in the progression of prostate cancer. It exhibits both tumor suppressor and tumor-promoting activities. Correlations between cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 overexpression and enhanced production of prostaglandin (PG)E2 have been implicated in cancer progression; however, there are no studies indicating that TGF-β effects in prostate cancer cells involve PGE2 synthesis. In this study, we investigated TGF-β regulation of COX-1 and COX-2 expression in prostate cancer cells and whether the effects of TGF-β on cell proliferation and migration are mediated by PGE2. COX-1 protein was ubiquitously expressed in prostate cells; however, COX-2 protein levels were detected only in prostate cancer cells. TGF-β treatment increased COX-2 protein levels and PGE2 secretion in PC3 cells. Exogenous PGE2 and PGF2α had no effects on cell proliferation in LNCaP, DU145, and PC3 cells whereas PGE2 and TGF-β induced migration and invasive behavior in PC3 cells. Only EP2 and EP4 receptors were detected at mRNA levels in prostate cells. The EP4-targeting small interfering RNA inhibited PGE2 and TGF-β-induced migration of PC3 cells. TGF-β and PGE2 induce activation of PI3K/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin pathway as indicated by increased AKT, p70S6K, and S6 phosphorylation. Rapamycin completely blocked the effects of TGF-β and PGE2 on phosphorylation of p70S6K and S6 but not on AKT phosphorylation. PGE2 and TGF-β induced phosphorylation of AKT, which was blocked by antagonists of PGE2 (EP4) receptors (L161982, AH23848) and PI3K inhibitor (LY294002) in PC3 cells. Pretreatment with L161982 or AH23848 blocked the stimulatory effects of PGE2 and TGF-β on cell migration, whereas LY294002 or rapamycin completely eliminated PGE2, TGF-β, and epidermal growth factor-induced migration in PC3 cells. We conclude that TGF-β increases COX-2 levels and PGE2 secretion in prostate cancer cells which, in turn, mediate TGF-β effects on cell migration and invasion through the activation of PI3K/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Baohan T Vo
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, 223 James P. Brawley Drive, SW, Atlanta, Georgia 30314, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Strong N, Millena AC, Walker L, Chaudhary J, Khan SA. Inhibitor of differentiation 1 (Id1) and Id3 proteins play different roles in TGFβ effects on cell proliferation and migration in prostate cancer cells. Prostate 2013; 73:624-33. [PMID: 23060149 PMCID: PMC4018743 DOI: 10.1002/pros.22603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2012] [Accepted: 09/17/2012] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In prostate cancer cells, transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) inhibits proliferation in earlier stages of the disease; however, the cancer cells become refractory to growth inhibitory effects in advanced stages where TGFβ promotes cancer progression and metastasis. Inhibitor of differentiation (Id) family of closely related proteins (Id1-Id4) are dominant negative regulators and basic helix loop helix (bHLH) transcription factors and in general promote proliferation, and inhibit differentiation. In the present study, we have investigated the role of Id1 and Id3 proteins in the growth inhibitory effects of TGFβ on prostate cancer cells. METHODS The effect of TGF β on proliferation and Id1 and Id3 expression were investigated in PZ-HPV7, DU145, and PC3 cells. Id1 silencing through siRNA was also used in DU145 and PC3 cells to examine its role in anti-proliferative and migratory effects of TGFβ. RESULTS TGFβ increased expression of Id1 and Id3 in all cell lines followed by a later down regulation of Id1 in PZ-HPV7 expression and DU145 cells but not in PC3 cells. Id3 expression remained elevated in all three cell lines. This loss of Id1 protein correlated with an increase of CDKNI p21. Id1 knockdown in both DU145 and PC3 cells resulted in decreased proliferation. However, while TGFβ caused a further decrease in proliferation of DU145, but had no further effects in PC3 cells. Knockdown of Id1 or Id3 inhibited TGFβ1induced migration in PC3 cells. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest an essential role of Id1 and Id3 in TGFβ1 effects on proliferation and migration in prostate cancer cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Shafiq A. Khan
- Correspondence to: Shafiq A. Khan, PhD, Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, 223 James P. Brawley Dr, SW, Atlanta, GA 30314.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Dissecting Major Signaling Pathways throughout the Development of Prostate Cancer. Prostate Cancer 2013; 2013:920612. [PMID: 23738079 PMCID: PMC3657461 DOI: 10.1155/2013/920612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2012] [Revised: 03/25/2013] [Accepted: 03/28/2013] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common malignancies found in males. The development of PCa involves several mutations in prostate epithelial cells, usually linked to developmental changes, such as enhanced resistance to apoptotic death, constitutive proliferation, and, in some cases, to differentiation into an androgen deprivation-resistant phenotype, leading to the appearance of castration-resistant PCa (CRPCa), which leads to a poor prognosis in patients. In this review, we summarize recent findings concerning the main deregulations into signaling pathways that will lead to the development of PCa and/or CRPCa. Key mutations in some pathway molecules are often linked to a higher prevalence of PCa, by directly affecting the respective cascade and, in some cases, by deregulating a cross-talk node or junction along the pathways. We also discuss the possible environmental and nonenvironmental inducers for these mutations, as well as the potential therapeutic strategies targeting these signaling pathways. A better understanding of how some risk factors induce deregulation of these signaling pathways, as well as how these deregulated pathways affect the development of PCa and CRPCa, will further help in the development of new treatments and prevention strategies for this disease.
Collapse
|
30
|
Quail DF, Siegers GM, Jewer M, Postovit LM. Nodal signalling in embryogenesis and tumourigenesis. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2013; 45:885-98. [PMID: 23291354 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2012.12.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2012] [Revised: 12/19/2012] [Accepted: 12/24/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
With few exceptions, most cells in adult organisms have lost the expression of stem cell-associated proteins and are instead characterized by tissue-specific gene expression and function. This cell fate specification is dictated spatially and temporally during embryogenesis. It has become increasingly apparent that the elegant and complicated process of cell specification is "undone" in cancer. This may be because cancer cells respond to their microenvironment and mutations by acquiring a more permissive, plastic epigenome, or because cancer cells arise from mutated stem cells. Regardless, these advanced cancer cells must use stem cell-associated proteins to sustain their phenotype. One such protein is Nodal, an embryonic morphogen belonging to the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily. First described in early developmental models, Nodal orchestrates embryogenesis by regulating a myriad of processes, including mesendoderm induction, left-right asymmetry and embryo implantation. Nodal is relatively restricted to embryonic and reproductive cell types and is thus absent from most normal adult tissues. However, recent studies focusing on a variety of malignancies have demonstrated that Nodal expression re-emerges during cancer progression. Moreover, in almost every cancer studied thus far, the acquisition of Nodal expression is associated with increased tumourigenesis, invasion and metastasis. As the list of cancers that express Nodal grows, it is essential that the scientific and medical communities fully understand how this morphogen is regulated in both normal and neoplastic conditions. Herein, we review the literature relating to normal and pathological Nodal signalling. In particular, we emphasize the role that this secreted protein plays during morphogenic events and how it signals to support stem cell maintenance and tumour progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela F Quail
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario and Robarts Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Activin type IB receptor signaling in prostate cancer cells promotes lymph node metastasis in a xenograft model. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2013; 430:340-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2012.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2012] [Accepted: 11/02/2012] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
|
32
|
Quail DF, Zhang G, Walsh LA, Siegers GM, Dieters-Castator DZ, Findlay SD, Broughton H, Putman DM, Hess DA, Postovit LM. Embryonic morphogen nodal promotes breast cancer growth and progression. PLoS One 2012; 7:e48237. [PMID: 23144858 PMCID: PMC3492336 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0048237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2012] [Accepted: 09/26/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancers expressing human embryonic stem cell (hESC)-associated genes are more likely to progress than well-differentiated cancers and are thus associated with poor patient prognosis. Elevated proliferation and evasion of growth control are similarly associated with disease progression, and are classical hallmarks of cancer. In the current study we demonstrate that the hESC-associated factor Nodal promotes breast cancer growth. Specifically, we show that Nodal is elevated in aggressive MDA-MB-231, MDA-MB-468 and Hs578t human breast cancer cell lines, compared to poorly aggressive MCF-7 and T47D breast cancer cell lines. Nodal knockdown in aggressive breast cancer cells via shRNA reduces tumour incidence and significantly blunts tumour growth at primary sites. In vitro, using Trypan Blue exclusion assays, Western blot analysis of phosphorylated histone H3 and cleaved caspase-9, and real time RT-PCR analysis of BAX and BCL2 gene expression, we demonstrate that Nodal promotes expansion of breast cancer cells, likely via a combinatorial mechanism involving increased proliferation and decreased apopotosis. In an experimental model of metastasis using beta-glucuronidase (GUSB)-deficient NOD/SCID/mucopolysaccharidosis type VII (MPSVII) mice, we show that although Nodal is not required for the formation of small (<100 cells) micrometastases at secondary sites, it supports an elevated proliferation:apoptosis ratio (Ki67:TUNEL) in micrometastatic lesions. Indeed, at longer time points (8 weeks), we determined that Nodal is necessary for the subsequent development of macrometastatic lesions. Our findings demonstrate that Nodal supports tumour growth at primary and secondary sites by increasing the ratio of proliferation:apoptosis in breast cancer cells. As Nodal expression is relatively limited to embryonic systems and cancer, this study establishes Nodal as a potential tumour-specific target for the treatment of breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela F. Quail
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Guihua Zhang
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Logan A. Walsh
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Gabrielle M. Siegers
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Scott D. Findlay
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Heather Broughton
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Robarts Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - David M. Putman
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Robarts Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - David A. Hess
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Robarts Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lynne-Marie Postovit
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Gilloteaux J, Jamison JM, Neal D, Arnold D, Taper HS, Summers JL. Human Prostate DU145 Carcinoma Cells Implanted in Nude Mice Remove the Peritoneal Mesothelium to Invade and Grow as Carcinomas. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2012; 296:40-55. [DOI: 10.1002/ar.22607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2012] [Revised: 06/25/2012] [Accepted: 07/23/2012] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
|
34
|
Gilloteaux J, Jamison JM, Neal DR, Summers JL, Taper HS. Xenotransplanted Human Prostate Carcinoma (DU145) Cells Develop into Carcinomas and Cribriform Carcinomas: Ultrastructural Aspects. Ultrastruct Pathol 2012; 36:294-311. [DOI: 10.3109/01913123.2012.708472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
|
35
|
Vo BT, Cody B, Cao Y, Khan SA. Differential role of Sloan-Kettering Institute (Ski) protein in Nodal and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β)-induced Smad signaling in prostate cancer cells. Carcinogenesis 2012; 33:2054-64. [PMID: 22843506 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgs252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling pathways contain both tumor suppressor and tumor promoting activities. We have demonstrated that Nodal, another member of the TGF-β superfamily, and its receptors are expressed in prostate cancer cells. Nodal and TGF-β exerted similar biological effects on prostate cells; both inhibited proliferation in WPE, RWPE1 and DU145 cells, whereas neither had any effect on the proliferation of LNCaP or PC3 cells. Interestingly, Nodal and TGF-β induced migration in PC3 cells, but not in DU145 cells. TGF-β induced predominantly phosphorylation of Smad3, whereas Nodal induced phosphorylation of only Smad2. We also determined the expression and differential role of Ski, a corepressor of Smad2/3, in Nodal and TGF-β signaling in prostate cancer cells. Similar levels of Ski mRNA were found in several established prostate cell lines; however, high levels of Ski protein were only detected in prostate cancer cells and prostate cancer tissue samples. Exogenous Nodal and TGF-β had no effects on Ski mRNA levels. On the other hand, TGF-β induced a rapid degradation of Ski protein mediated by the proteasomal pathway, whereas Nodal had no effect on Ski protein. Reduced Ski levels correlated with increased basal and TGF-β-induced Smad2/3 phosphorylation. Knockdown of endogenous Ski reduced proliferation in DU145 cells and enhanced migration of PC3 cells. We conclude that high levels of Ski expression in prostate cancer cells may be responsible for repression of TGF-β and Smad3 signaling, but Ski protein levels do not influence Nodal and Smad2 signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- BaoHan T Vo
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, GA 30314, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Expression of TGFβ3 and its effects on migratory and invasive behavior of prostate cancer cells: involvement of PI3-kinase/AKT signaling pathway. Clin Exp Metastasis 2012; 30:13-23. [PMID: 22678424 DOI: 10.1007/s10585-012-9494-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2011] [Accepted: 05/27/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) is a secreted cytokine implicated as a factor in cancer cell migration and invasion. Previous studies have indicated that TGFβ isoforms may exert differential effects on cancer cells during different stages of the disease, however very little is known about the expression patterns and activity of the three isoforms in prostate cancer. Non-traditional signaling pathways including the PI3-Kinase have been associated with TGFβ-mediated effects on cancer cell invasion. In the present study, we have carried out expression analysis of TGFβ isoforms and signaling components in cell line models representing different stages of prostate cancer and studied the differential effects of specific isoforms on migratory and invasive behavior and induction of the PI3-kinase pathway. TGFβ1 and TGFβ3 were expressed in all cell lines, with TGFβ3 expression increasing in metastatic cell lines. Both TGFβ1 and TGFβ3 induced motility and invasive behavior in PC3 cells, however, TGFβ3 was significantly more potent than TGFβ1. TGFβRI and Smad3 inhibitors blocked TGFβ1 and TGFβ3 induced motility and invasion. TGFβ3 caused a significant increase in pAKT(ser473) in PC3 cells and PI3-kinase inhibitor LY294002 blocked TGFβ3 induced migration, invasion and phosphorylation of AKT. Both TGFβRI and Smad3 inhibitors blocked TGFβ3 induced pAKT(ser473). Based on these results, we conclude that TGFβ3 is expressed in metastatic prostate cancer cell lines and is involved in induction of invasive behavior in these cells. Furthermore, these effects of TGFβ3 are TGFβRI and Smad3 dependent and mediated via the PI3-kinase pathway.
Collapse
|
37
|
De Silva T, Ye G, Liang YY, Fu G, Xu G, Peng C. Nodal promotes glioblastoma cell growth. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2012; 3:59. [PMID: 22645523 PMCID: PMC3355829 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2012.00059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2011] [Accepted: 04/11/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Nodal is a member of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily that plays critical roles during embryogenesis. Recent studies in ovarian, breast, prostate, and skin cancer cells suggest that Nodal also regulates cell proliferation, apoptosis, and invasion in cancer cells. However, it appears to exert both tumor-suppressing and tumor-promoting effects, depending on the cell type. To further understand the role of Nodal in tumorigenesis, we examined the effect of Nodal in glioblastoma cell growth and spheroid formation using U87 cell line. Treatment of U87 with recombinant Nodal significantly increased U87 cell growth. In U87 cells stably transfected with the plasmid encoding Nodal, Smad2 phosphorylation was strongly induced and cell growth was significantly enhanced. Overexpression of Nodal also resulted in tight spheroid formation. On the other hand, the cells stably transfected with Nodal siRNA formed loose spheroids. Nodal is known to signal through activin receptor-like kinase 4 (ALK4) and ALK7 and the Smad2/3 pathway. To determine which receptor and Smad mediate the growth promoting effect of Nodal, we transfected siRNAs targeting ALK4, ALK7, Smad2, or Smad3 into Nodal-overexpressing cells and observed that cell growth was significantly inhibited by ALK4, ALK7, and Smad3 siRNAs. Taken together, these findings suggest that Nodal may have tumor-promoting effects on glioblastoma cells and these effects are mediated by ALK4, ALK7, and Smad3.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tanya De Silva
- Department of Biology, York UniversityToronto, ON, Canada
| | - Gang Ye
- Department of Biology, York UniversityToronto, ON, Canada
| | - Yao-Yun Liang
- Department of Biology, York UniversityToronto, ON, Canada
| | - Guodong Fu
- Department of Biology, York UniversityToronto, ON, Canada
| | - Guoxiong Xu
- Department of Biology, York UniversityToronto, ON, Canada
| | - Chun Peng
- Department of Biology, York UniversityToronto, ON, Canada
- *Correspondence: Chun Peng, Department of Biology, York University, 4700 Keele Street, Toronto, ON, Canada M3J 1P3. e-mail:
| |
Collapse
|