Vimentin in cancer and its potential as a molecular target for cancer therapy

Deguelin inhibits the glioblastoma progression through suppressing CCL2/NFκB signaling pathway

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common primary intracranial tumor with characteristics of high aggressiveness and poor prognosis. Deguelin, a component from the bark of Leguminosae Mundulea sericea (African plant), displays antiproliferative effects in some tumors, however, the inhibitory effect and mechanism of deguelin on GBM were still poorly understood. At first, we found that deguelin reduced the viability of GBM cells by causing cell cycle arrest in G2/M phase and inducing their apoptosis. Secondly, deguelin inhibited the migration of GBM cells. Next, RNA-seq analysis identified that CCL2 (encoding chemokine CCL2) was downregulated significantly in deguelin-treated GBM cells. As reported, CCL2 promoted the cell growth, and CCL2 was associated with regulating NFκB signaling pathway, as well as involved in modulating tumor microenvironment (TME). Furthermore, we found that deguelin inactivated CCL2/NFκB signaling pathway, and exougous CCL2 could rescue the anti-inhibitory effect of deguelin on GBM cells via upregulating NFκB. Finally, we established a syngeneic intracranial orthotopic GBM model and found that deguelin regressed the tumor growth, contributed to an anti-tumorigenic TME and inhibited angiogenesis of GBM by suppressing CCL2/NFκB in vivo. Taken together, these results suggest the anti-GBM effect of deguelin via inhibiting CCL2/NFκB pathway, which may provide a new strategy for the treatment of GBM.

Casting Light on the Janus-Faced HMG-CoA Reductase Degradation Protein 1: A Comprehensive Review of Its Dualistic Impact on Apoptosis in Various Diseases

Nowadays, it is well recognized that apoptosis, as a highly regulated cellular process, plays a crucial role in various biological processes, such as cell differentiation. Dysregulation of apoptosis is strongly implicated in the pathophysiology of numerous disorders, making it essential to comprehend its underlying mechanisms. One key factor that has garnered significant attention in the regulation of apoptotic pathways is HMG-CoA reductase degradation protein 1, also known as HRD1. HRD1 is an E3 ubiquitin ligase located in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane. Its primary role involves maintaining the quality control of ER proteins by facilitating the ER-associated degradation (ERAD) pathway. During ER stress, HRD1 aids in the elimination of misfolded proteins that accumulate within the ER. Therefore, HRD1 plays a pivotal role in the regulation of apoptotic pathways and maintenance of ER protein quality control. By targeting specific protein substrates and affecting apoptosis-related pathways, HRD1 could be an exclusive therapeutic target in different disorders. Dysregulation of HRD1-mediated processes contributes significantly to the pathophysiology of various diseases. The purpose of this review is to assess the effect of HRD1 on the pathways related to apoptosis in various diseases from a therapeutic perspective.

ARHGAP4 promotes colon cancer metastasis through the TGF-β signaling pathway and may be associated with T cell exhaustion

BACKGROUND

Colon cancer is a prevalent invasive neoplasm in the gastrointestinal system with a high degree of malignancy. Despite extensive research, the underlying mechanisms of its recurrence and metastasis remain elusive.Rho GTPase activating protein 4 (ARHGAP4), a member of the small GTPases protein family, may be closely related to tumor metastasis, and its expression is increased in colon cancer. However, the role of ARHGAP4 in colon cancer metastasis is uncertain. This study investigates the impact of ARHGAP4 on the metastasis of colon cancer cells. Our objective is to determine the role of ARHGAP4 in regulating the invasive behavior of colon cancer cells.

METHODS

We downloaded colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), and performed differential analysis and survival analysis. By using the CIBERSORT algorithm, we evaluated the proportion of infiltrating immune cells in colon cancer. We further analyzed whether ARHGAP4 is associated with T cell exhaustion. Finally, we investigated the impact of ARHGAP4 knockdown on the migration and invasion of colon cancer cells through in vitro cell experiments. Additionally, we utilized western blotting to assess the expression of protein related to the TGF-β signaling pathway and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT).

RESULTS

We found that ARHGAP4 is upregulated in colon cancer. Subsequent survival analysis revealed that the high-expression group had significantly lower survival rates compared to the low-expression group. Immune infiltration analysis showed that ARHGAP4 was not only positively correlated with CD8+ T cells, but also positively correlated with T cell exhaustion markers programmed cell death 1 (PDCD-1), cytotoxic T-lymphocyte associated protein 4 (CTLA-4), and lymphocyte activating 3 (LAG-3). In vitro cell experiments, the knockdown of ARHGAP4 inhibited the migration and invasion of colon cancer cells. Among EMT-related proteins, when ARHGAP4 was knocked down, the expression of E-cadherin was increased, while the expression of N-cadherin and Vimentin was decreased. Meanwhile, the expression of TGF-β1, p-Smad2, and p-Smad3, which are associated with the TGF-β/Smad pathway, all decreased.

CONCLUSION

ARHGAP4 promotes colon cancer metastasis through the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway and may be associated with T cell exhaustion. It plays an important role in the progression of colon cancer and may serve as a potential target for diagnosis and treatment of colon cancer.

Identification of autoantibodies as potential non-invasive biomarkers for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) presents a challenging diagnosis due to its nonspecific early clinical manifestations, often resulting in late-stage detection and high mortality. Diagnosing iCCA is further complicated by its limited accuracy, often necessitating multiple invasive procedures for precise identification. Despite carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) having been investigated and employed for iCCA diagnosis, it demonstrates modest diagnostic performance. Consequently, the identification of novel biomarkers with improved sensitivity and specificity remains an imperative yet formidable task. Autoantibodies, as early indicators of the immune response against cancer, offer a promising avenue for enhancing diagnostic accuracy. Our study aimed to identify non-invasive blood-based autoantibody biomarkers capable of distinguishing iCCA patients from healthy individuals (CTRs). We profiled autoantibodies in 26 serum samples (16 iCCAs and 10 CTRs) using protein microarrays containing 1622 functional proteins. Leveraging machine learning techniques, we identified a signature composed of three autoantibody biomarkers (NDE1, PYCR1, and VIM) in conjunction with CA19-9 for iCCA detection. This combined signature demonstrated superior diagnostic performance with an AUC of 96.9%, outperforming CA19-9 alone (AUC: 83.8%). These results suggest the potential of autoantibody biomarkers to develop a complementary non-invasive diagnostic utility for routine iCCA screening.

Novel secreted regulators of glucose and lipid metabolism in the development of metabolic diseases

The tight regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism is crucial for maintaining metabolic health. Dysregulation of these processes can lead to the development of metabolic diseases. Secreted factors, or hormones, play an essential role in the regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism, thus also playing an important role in the development of metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and obesity. Given the important roles of secreted factors, there has been significant interest in identifying new secreted factors and new functions for existing secreted factors that control glucose and lipid metabolism. In this review, we evaluate novel secreted factors or novel functions of existing factors that regulate glucose and lipid metabolism discovered in the last decade, including secreted isoform of endoplasmic reticulum membrane complex subunit 10, vimentin, cartilage intermediate layer protein 2, isthmin-1, lipocalin-2, neuregulin-1 and neuregulin-4. We discuss their discovery, tissues of origin, mechanisms of action and sex differences, emphasising their potential to regulate metabolic processes central to diabetes. Additionally, we discuss the translational barriers, particularly the absence of identified receptors, that hamper their functional characterisation and further therapeutic development. Ultimately, the identification of new secreted factors may give insights into previously unidentified pathways of disease progression and mechanisms of glucose and lipid homeostasis.

BP1003 Decreases STAT3 Expression and Its Pro-Tumorigenic Functions in Solid Tumors and the Tumor Microenvironment

Overexpression and aberrant activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) contribute to tumorigenesis, drug resistance, and tumor-immune evasion, making it a potential cancer therapeutic target. BP1003 is a neutral liposome incorporated with a nuclease-resistant P-ethoxy antisense oligodeoxynucleotide (ASO) targeting the STAT3 mRNA. Its unique design enhances BP1003 stability, cellular uptake, and target affinity. BP1003 efficiently reduces STAT3 expression and enhances the sensitivity of breast cancer cells (HER2+, triple negative) and ovarian cancer cells (late stage, invasive ovarian cancer) to paclitaxel and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in both 2D and 3D cell cultures. Similarly, ex vivo and in vivo patient-derived models of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) show reduced tissue viability and tumor volume with BP1003 and gemcitabine combination treatments. In addition to directly affecting tumor cells, BP1003 can modulate the tumor microenvironment. Unlike M1 differentiation, monocyte differentiation into anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages is suppressed by BP1003, indicating its potential contribution to immunotherapy. The broad anti-tumor effect of BP1003 in numerous preclinical solid tumor models, such as breast, ovarian, and pancreatic cancer models shown in this work, makes it a promising cancer therapeutic.

Characterization of non-epithelial cells embedded within the vocal fold epithelial barrier

The vocal folds vibrate to produce voice, undergoing significant stress due to contact and shearing force. The epithelium operates as the primary protective layer of the tissue against stress and vibratory damage, as well as to provide a barrier against foreign organisms and toxins. Within the vocal fold epithelium, non-epithelial cells were identified that may interrupt the epithelium and compromise the epithelial barrier's protective function. Human vocal fold samples with a variety of pathologies were compared to normal vocal folds. Analysis included the number of cells in the epithelium and epithelial thickness. Vocal fold sections from 10 human tissue samples were assessed via H&E staining and immunofluorescent co-labeling. Three cell populations (vimentin expressing, CD-45 expressing, and cells expressing both) were identified within the epithelium. Statistical analysis revealed that the abnormal samples had a significantly greater number of vimentin-positive cells/area within the epithelium compared to the normal samples. Additionally, normal tissue samples had a significantly greater epithelial depth, suggesting a more robust epithelial barrier compared to tissue with pathology. Knowledge of the function of these cells could lead to a better understanding of how the local immune environment near and within vocal fold epithelium changes in the presence of different pathologies.

Laminin I mediates resistance to lapatinib in HER2-positive brain metastatic breast cancer cells in vitro

The role of extracellular matrix (ECM) prevalent in the brain metastatic breast cancer (BMBC) niche in mediating cancer cell growth, survival, and response to therapeutic agents is not well understood. Emerging evidence suggests a vital role of ECM of the primary breast tumor microenvironment (TME) in tumor progression and survival. Possibly, the BMBC cells are also similarly influenced by the ECM of the metastatic niche; therefore, understanding the effect of the metastatic ECM on BMBC cells is imperative. Herein, we assessed the impact of various ECM components (i.e., Tenascin C, Laminin I, Collagen I, Collagen IV, and Fibronectin) on brain metastatic human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive and triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell lines in vitro. The highly aggressive TNBC cell line was minimally affected by ECM components exhibiting no remarkable changes in viability and morphology. On the contrary, amongst various ECM components tested, the HER2-positive cell line was significantly affected by Laminin I with higher viability and demonstrated a distinct spread morphology. In addition, HER2-positive BMBC cells exhibited resistance to Lapatinib in presence of Laminin I. Mechanistically, Laminin I-induced resistance to Lapatinib was mediated in part by phosphorylation of Erk 1/2 and elevated levels of Vimentin. Laminin I also significantly enhanced the migratory potential and replicative viability of HER2-positive BMBC cells. In sum, our findings show that presence of Laminin I in the TME of BMBC cells imparts resistance to targeted therapeutic agent Lapatinib, while increasing the possibility of its dispersal and clonogenic survival.

Biological effect of ETV4 and the underlying mechanism of its regulatory effect on epithelial‑mesenchymal transition in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma cells

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) is a highly invasive malignant tumor. The prognosis of patients with ICC after radical surgical resection remains poor, due to local infiltration, distant metastasis, a high recurrence rate and lack of effective treatment strategies. E26 transformation-specific sequence variant 4 (ETV4) is a pro-carcinogenic factor that is upregulated in several tumors; however, the role of ETV4 in ICC is relatively unknown. The present study aimed to determine the role of ETV4 in the Hccc9810 ICC cell line and to assess how it contributes to epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in ICC. Hccc9810 cells were infected with lentiviruses to construct stable ETV4-overexpressing cells, stable ETV4 knockdown cells and corresponding control groups. The Cell Counting Kit-8 and Transwell assays were used to quantify cell proliferation, invasion and migration, and the effects on cell cycle progression and apoptosis were detected by flow cytometry. ETV4 was identified as a driver of cell growth, invasion, migration and cell cycle progression, while restraining apoptosis in Hccc9810 cells. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and western blotting revealed that increased ETV4 levels may drive EMT by triggering the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway. This cascade, in turn, may foster tumor cell proliferation, migration, invasion and cell cycle advancement, and hinder apoptosis.

XRCC2 driven homologous recombination subtypes and therapeutic targeting in lung adenocarcinoma metastasis

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is a leading cause of cancer mortality, with many patients facing poor prognosis, particularly those with metastatic or drug-resistant tumors. Homologous recombination genes (HRGs) are crucial in tumor progression and therapy resistance, but their clinical significance in LUAD is not well understood. In this study, we systematically characterize key HRGs in LUAD patients, identifying two distinct HR subtypes associated with different outcomes and biological functions. We establish a 5-gene scoring system (XRCC2, RAD51, BRCA1, FANCA, and CHEK1) that reliably predicts patient outcomes and immunotherapy responses in LUAD. Bioinformatics analysis and clinical validation highlight XRCC2 as a crucial biomarker in LUAD. Functional investigations through in vivo and in vitro experiments reveal the role of XRCC2 in promoting lung cancer migration and invasion. Mechanistically, XRCC2 stabilizes vimentin (VIM) protein expression through deubiquitylation. We predict c-MYC as a potential regulator of XRCC2 and demonstrate that inhibiting c-MYC with compound 10058-F4 reduces XRCC2 and VIM expression. Preclinical studies show the synergistic inhibition of metastasis in vivo when combining 10058-F4 with doxorubicin (Dox). Our findings present a potential personalized predictive tool for LUAD prognosis, identifying XRCC2 as a critical biomarker. The c-Myc-XRCC2-VIM axis emerges as a promising therapeutic target for overcoming lung metastasis. This study provides valuable insights into LUAD, proposing a prognostic tool for further clinical validation and unveiling a potential therapeutic strategy for combating lung metastasis by targeting c-Myc-XRCC2-VIM.

Demethylzeylasteral exerts potent efficacy against non-small-cell lung cancer via the P53 signaling pathway

Lung cancer has one of the highest mortality rates worldwide, with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) constituting approximately 85% of all cases. Demethylzeylasteral (DEM), extracted from Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F, exhibits notable anti-tumor properties. In this study, we revealed that DEM could effectively induce NSCLC cell apoptosis. Specifically, DEM can dose-dependently suppress the viability and migration of human NSCLC cells. RNA-seq analysis revealed that DEM regulates the P53-signaling pathway, which was further validated by assessing crucial proteins involved in this pathway. Biacore analysis indicated that DEM has high affinity with the P53 protein. The CDX model demonstrated DEM's anti-tumor actions. This work provided evidence that DEM-P53 interaction stabilizes P53 protein and triggers downstream anti-tumor activities. These findings indicate that DEM treatment holds promise as a potential therapeutic approach for NSCLC, which warrants further clinical assessment in patients with NSCLC.

H-1 Parvovirus-Induced Oncolysis and Tumor Microenvironment Immune Modulation in a Novel Heterotypic Spheroid Model of Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma

The rat protoparvovirus H-1 (H-1PV) is an oncolytic virus known for its anticancer properties in laboratory models of various human tumors, including non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL) of B-cell origin. However, H-1PV therapeutic potential against hematological malignancies of T-cell origin remains underexplored. The aim of the present study was to conduct a pilot preclinical investigation of H-1PV-mediated oncolytic effects in cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL), a type of NHL that is urgently calling for innovative therapies. We demonstrated H-1PV productive infection and induction of oncolysis in both classically grown CTCL suspension cultures and in a novel, in vivo-relevant, heterotypic spheroid model, but not in healthy donor controls, including peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). H-1PV-mediated oncolysis of CTCL cells was not prevented by Bcl-2 overexpression and was accompanied by increased extracellular ATP release. In CTCL spheroid co-cultures with PBMCs, increased spheroid infiltration with immune cells was detected upon co-culture treatment with the virus. In conclusion, our preclinical data show that H-1PV may hold significant potential as an ingenious viroimmunotherapeutic drug candidate against CTCL.

Epigenetic silencing of KCTD8 promotes hepatocellular carcinoma growth by activating PI3K/AKT signaling

Aim: The aim of current study is to explore the epigenetic changes and function of KCTD8 in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Materials & methods: HCC cell lines and tissue samples were employed. Methylation specific PCR, flow cytometry, immunoprecipitation and xenograft mouse models were used. Results: KCTD8 was methylated in 44.83% (104/232) of HCC and its methylation may act as an independent poor prognostic marker. KCTD8 expression was regulated by DNA methylation. KCTD8 suppressed HCC cell growth both in vitro and in vivo via inhibiting PI3K/AKT pathway. Conclusion: Methylation of KCTD8 is an independent poor prognostic marker, and epigenetic silencing of KCTD8 increases the malignant tendency in HCC.

Markers of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Mucinous Histology Are Significant Predictors of Disease Severity and Tumor Characteristics in Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer

Approximately 20% of patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) are diagnosed with a mucinous subtype of this tumor, have a worse prognosis, and often show resistance to available therapies. Molecules from the mucin family are involved in the regulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which significantly determines the cancer aggressiveness. This study aimed to examine the diagnostic and prognostic significance of mucinous histology and EMT markers in patients with early-onset CRC and their association with disease severity and tumor characteristics. This study included tumor tissue samples from 106 patients diagnosed with CRC before the age of 45, 53 with mucinous and 53 with non-mucinous tumors. The EMT status was determined by immunohistochemical analysis of E-cadherin and Vimentin in tissue sections. Mucinous tumors had significantly higher Mucin-1 (p < 0.001) and cytoplasmic E-cadherin (p = 0.043) scores; they were significantly less differentiated (p = 0.007), more advanced (p = 0.027), and predominately affected right the colon (p = 0.039) compared to non-mucinous tumors. Epithelial tumors were significantly better differentiated (p = 0.034) and with less prominent tumor budding (p < 0.001) than mesenchymal tumors. Mucin-1 and Vimentin were independent predictors of tumor differentiation (p = 0.006) and budding (p = 0.001), respectively. Mucinous histology and EMT markers are significant predictors of disease severity and tumor characteristics in early-onset colorectal cancer.

Anti-Inflammatory and Cancer-Preventive Potential of Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.): A Comprehensive In Silico and In Vitro Study

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Chamomile tea, renowned for its exquisite taste, has been appreciated for centuries not only for its flavor but also for its myriad health benefits. In this study, we investigated the preventive potential of chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) towards cancer by focusing on its anti-inflammatory activity.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A virtual drug screening of 212 phytochemicals from chamomile revealed β-amyrin, β-eudesmol, β-sitosterol, apigenin, daucosterol, and myricetin as potent NF-κB inhibitors. The in silico results were verified through microscale thermophoresis, reporter cell line experiments, and flow cytometric determination of reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial membrane potential. An oncobiogram generated through comparison of 91 anticancer agents with known modes of action using the NCI tumor cell line panel revealed significant relationships of cytotoxic chamomile compounds, lupeol, and quercetin to microtubule inhibitors. This hypothesis was verified by confocal microscopy using α-tubulin-GFP-transfected U2OS cells and molecular docking of lupeol and quercetin to tubulins. Both compounds induced G2/M cell cycle arrest and necrosis rather than apoptosis. Interestingly, lupeol and quercetin were not involved in major mechanisms of resistance to established anticancer drugs (ABC transporters, TP53, or EGFR). Performing hierarchical cluster analyses of proteomic expression data of the NCI cell line panel identified two sets of 40 proteins determining sensitivity and resistance to lupeol and quercetin, further pointing to the multi-specific nature of chamomile compounds. Furthermore, lupeol, quercetin, and β-amyrin inhibited the mRNA expression of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL6 in NF-κB reporter cells (HEK-Blue Null1). Moreover, Kaplan-Meier-based survival analyses with NF-κB as the target protein of these compounds were performed by mining the TCGA-based KM-Plotter repository with 7489 cancer patients. Renal clear cell carcinomas (grade 3, low mutational rate, low neoantigen load) were significantly associated with shorter survival of patients, indicating that these subgroups of tumors might benefit from NF-κB inhibition by chamomile compounds.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed the potential of chamomile, positioning it as a promising preventive agent against inflammation and cancer. Further research and clinical studies are recommended.

Caspase-9 suppresses metastatic behavior of MDA-MB-231 cells in an adaptive organoid model

Caspase-9, a cysteine-aspartate protease traditionally associated with intrinsic apoptosis, has recently emerged as having non-apoptotic roles, including influencing cell migration-an aspect that has received limited attention in existing studies. In our investigation, we aimed to explore the impact of caspase-9 on the migration and invasion behaviors of MDA-MB-231, a triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell line known for its metastatic properties. We established a stable cell line expressing an inducible caspase-9 (iC9) in MDA-MB-231 and assessed their metastatic behavior using both monolayer and the 3D organotypic model in co-culture with human Foreskin fibroblasts (HFF). Our findings revealed that caspase-9 had an inhibitory effect on migration and invasion in both models. In monolayer culture, caspase-9 effectively suppressed the migration and invasion of MDA-MB-231 cells, comparable to the anti-metastatic agent panitumumab (Pan). Notably, the combination of caspase-9 and Pan exhibited a significant additional effect in reducing metastatic behavior. Interestingly, caspase-9 demonstrated superior efficacy compared to Pan in the organotypic model. Molecular analysis showed down regulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition and migratory markers, in caspase-9 activated cells. Additionally, flow cytometry analysis indicated a cell cycle arrest. Moreover, pre-treatment with activated caspase-9 sensitized cells to the chemotherapy of doxorubicin, thereby enhancing its effectiveness. In conclusion, the anti-metastatic potential of caspase-9 presents avenues for the development of novel therapeutic approaches for TNBC/metastatic breast cancer. Although more studies need to figure out the exact involving mechanisms behind this behavior.

Polyploidy of MDA-MB-231 cells drives increased extravasation with enhanced cell-matrix adhesion

Metastasis, the leading cause of cancer-related deaths, involves a complex cascade of events, including extravasation. Despite extensive research into metastasis, the mechanisms underlying extravasation remain unclear. Molecular targeted therapies have advanced cancer treatment, yet their efficacy is limited, prompting exploration into novel therapeutic targets. Here, we showed the association of polyploidy in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells and their extravasation, using microfluidic systems to reproduce the in vivo microvascular environment. We observed enhanced extravasation in polyploid cells alongside upregulated expression of genes involved in cell-substrate adhesion and cell mechanical dynamics. These findings offer insights into the relationship between polyploidy and extravasation, highlighting potential targets for cancer therapy.

Canine follicular cell and medullary thyroid carcinomas: Immunohistochemical characterization

Research on modulation of iodine uptake by thyroid cells could help improve radioiodine treatment of dogs with thyroid tumors. The aim of this study was to characterize the immunohistochemical expression of thyroid transcription factor-1 (TTF-1), thyroglobulin, thyrotropin receptor (TSHR), sodium iodide symporter (NIS), pendrin, thyroid peroxidase (TPO), vimentin, and Ki-67 in follicular cell thyroid carcinomas (FTCs) and medullary thyroid carcinomas (MTCs), and to compare protein expression between FTC causing hyperthyroidism and FTC of euthyroid dogs. Immunohistochemistry was performed in 25 FTCs (9 follicular, 8 follicular-compact, and 8 compact) and 8 MTCs. FTCs and MTCs were positive for TTF-1, and expression was higher in FTCs of euthyroid dogs compared with FTCs of hyperthyroid dogs (P= .041). Immunolabeling for thyroglobulin was higher in follicular and follicular-compact FTCs compared with compact FTCs (P = .001), while vimentin expression was higher in follicular-compact FTCs compared with follicular FTCs (P = .011). The expression of TSHR, NIS, pendrin, and TPO was not significantly different among the different subtypes of FTCs or between FTCs causing hyperthyroidism and FTCs in euthyroid dogs. TSHR, NIS, pendrin, and TPO were also expressed in MTCs. Ki-67 labeling index was comparable between FTCs and MTCs, and between FTCs causing hyperthyroidism and FTCs in euthyroid dogs. Proteins of iodine transport were also expressed in canine MTCs, which could have implications for diagnosis and treatment. The different expression of thyroglobulin and vimentin between FTC histological subtypes could reflect variations in tumor differentiation.

Vimentin-mediated buffering of internal integrin β1 pool increases survival of cells from anoikis

BACKGROUND

The intermediate filament protein vimentin is widely recognized as a molecular marker of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Although vimentin expression is strongly associated with cancer metastatic potential, the exact role of vimentin in cancer metastasis and the underlying mechanism of its pro-metastatic functions remain unclear.

RESULTS

This study revealed that vimentin can enhance integrin β1 surface expression and induce integrin-dependent clustering of cells, shielding them against anoikis cell death. The increased integrin β1 surface expression in suspended cells was caused by vimentin-mediated protection of the internal integrin β1 pool against lysosomal degradation. Additionally, cell detachment was found to induce vimentin Ser38 phosphorylation, allowing the translocation of internal integrin β1 to the plasma membrane. Furthermore, the use of an inhibitor of p21-activated kinase PAK1, one of the kinases responsible for vimentin Ser38 phosphorylation, significantly reduced cancer metastasis in animal models.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that vimentin can act as an integrin buffer, storing internalized integrin β1 and releasing it when needed. Overall, this study provides insights regarding the strong correlation between vimentin expression and cancer metastasis and a basis for blocking metastasis using this novel therapeutic mechanism.

Spheroid Model of Mammary Tumor Cells: Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Doxorubicin Response

Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women worldwide. Therapeutic strategies to control tumors and metastasis are still challenging. Three-dimensional (3D) spheroid-type systems more accurately replicate the features of tumors in vivo, working as a better platform for performing therapeutic response analysis. This work aimed to characterize the epithelial-mesenchymal transition and doxorubicin (dox) response in a mammary tumor spheroid (MTS) model. We evaluated the doxorubicin treatment effect on MCF-7 spheroid diameter, cell viability, death, migration and proteins involved in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. Spheroids were also produced from tumors formed from 4T1 and 67NR cell lines. MTSs mimicked avascular tumor characteristics, exhibited adherens junction proteins and independently produced their own extracellular matrix. Our spheroid model supports the 3D culturing of cells isolated from mice mammary tumors. Through the migration assay, we verified a reduction in E-cadherin expression and an increase in vimentin expression as the cells became more distant from spheroids. Dox promoted cytotoxicity in MTSs and inhibited cell migration and the EMT process. These results suggest, for the first time, that this model reproduces aspects of the EMT process and describes the potential of dox in inhibiting the metastatic process, which can be further explored.

Multiaction Pt(IV) Prodrugs Releasing Cisplatin and Dasatinib Are Potent Anticancer and Anti-Invasive Agents Displaying Synergism between the Two Drugs

Herein, we describe the general design, synthesis, characterization, and biological activity of new multitargeting Pt(IV) prodrugs that combine antitumor cisplatin and dasatinib, a potent inhibitor of Src kinase. These prodrugs exhibit impressive antiproliferative and anti-invasive activities in tumor cell lines in both two-dimensional (2D) monolayers of cell cultures and three-dimensional (3D) spheroids. We show that the cisplatin moiety and dasatinib in the investigated Pt(IV) complexes are both involved in the mechanism of action in MCF7 breast cancer cells and act synergistically. Thus, combining dasatinib and cisplatin into one molecule, compared to using individual components in a mix, may bring several advantages, such as significantly higher activity in cancer cell lines and higher selectivity for tumor cells. Most importantly, Pt(IV)-dasatinib complexes hold significant promise for potential anticancer therapies by targeting epithelial-mesenchymal transition, thus preventing the spread and metastasis of tumors, a value unachievable by a simple combination of both individual components.

Chlorogenic Acid and Cinnamaldehyde in Combination Inhibit Metastatic Traits and Induce Apoptosis via Akt Downregulation in Breast Cancer Cells

Most reported breast cancer-associated deaths are directly correlated with metastatic disease. Additionally, the primary goal of treating metastatic breast cancer is to prolong life. Thus, there remains the need for more effective and safer strategies to treat metastatic breast cancer. Recently, more attention has been given to natural products (or phytochemicals) as potential anticancer treatments. This study aimed to investigate the synergistic effects of the combination of the phytochemicals chlorogenic acid and cinnamaldehyde (CGA and CA) toward inhibiting metastasis. The hypothesis was that CGA and CA in combination decrease the metastatic potential of breast cancer cells by inhibiting their invasive and migratory abilities as well as the induction of apoptosis via the downregulation of the Akt, disrupting its signal transduction pathway. To test this, wound-healing and Transwell™ Matrigel™ assays were conducted to assess changes in the migration and invasion properties of the cells; apoptosis was analyzed by fluorescence microscopy for Annexin V/propidium iodide; and immunoblotting and FACSort were performed on markers for the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition status. The results show that CGA and CA significantly downregulated Akt activation by inhibiting phosphorylation. Consequently, increased caspase 3 and decreased Bcl2-α levels were observed, and apoptosis was confirmed. The inhibition of metastatic behavior was demonstrated by the attenuation of N-cadherin, fibronectin, vimentin, and MMP-9 expressions with concomitant increased expressions of E-cadherin and EpCAM. In summary, the present study demonstrated that CGA and CA in combination downregulated Akt activation, inhibited the metastatic potential, and induced apoptosis in different breast cancer cell lines.

Vimentin filaments integrate low-complexity domains in a complex helical structure

Intermediate filaments (IFs) are integral components of the cytoskeleton. They provide cells with tissue-specific mechanical properties and are involved in numerous cellular processes. Due to their intricate architecture, a 3D structure of IFs has remained elusive. Here we use cryo-focused ion-beam milling, cryo-electron microscopy and tomography to obtain a 3D structure of vimentin IFs (VIFs). VIFs assemble into a modular, intertwined and flexible helical structure of 40 α-helices in cross-section, organized into five protofibrils. Surprisingly, the intrinsically disordered head domains form a fiber in the lumen of VIFs, while the intrinsically disordered tails form lateral connections between the protofibrils. Our findings demonstrate how protein domains of low sequence complexity can complement well-folded protein domains to construct a biopolymer with striking mechanical strength and stretchability.

Differential tempol effects in prostatic cancer: angiogenesis and short- and long-term treatments

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second cause of cancer death among men worldwide. Several processes are involved in the development and progression of PCa such as angiogenesis, inflammation and oxidative stress. The present study investigated the effect of short- or long-term Tempol treatment at different stages of prostate adenocarcinoma progression, focusing on angiogenic, proliferative, and stromal remodeling processes in TRAMP mice. The dorsolateral lobe of the prostate of TRAMP mice were evaluated at two different stages of PCa progression; early and late stages. Early stage was again divided into, short- or long-term. 50 mg/kg Tempol dose was administered orally. The results demonstrated that Tempol mitigated the prostate histopathological lesion progressions in the TRAMP mice in all treated groups. However, Tempol increased molecules involved in the angiogenic process such as CD31 and VEGFR2 relative frequencies, particularly in long-term treatment. In addition, Tempol upregulated molecule levels involved in angiogenesis and stromal remodeling process VEGF, TGF-β1, VE-cadherin and vimentin, particularly, in T8-16 group. Thus, it was concluded that Tempol treatment delayed prostatic lesion progression in the dorsolateral lobe of the TRAMP mice. However, Tempol also led to pro-angiogenic effects and glandular stromal microenvironment imbalance, especially, in the long-term treatment.

Vimentin supports cell polarization by enhancing centrosome function and microtubule acetylation

Cell polarity is important for controlling cell shape, motility and cell division processes. Vimentin intermediate filaments are important for cell migration and cell polarization in mesenchymal cells and assembly of vimentin and microtubule networks is dynamically coordinated, but the precise details of how vimentin mediates cell polarity remain unclear. Here, we characterize the effects of vimentin on the structure and function of the centrosome and the stability of microtubule filaments in wild-type and vimentin-null mouse embryonic fibroblasts. We find that vimentin mediates the structure of the pericentriolar material, promotes centrosome-mediated microtubule regrowth and increases the level of stable acetylated microtubules in the cell. Loss of vimentin also impairs centrosome repositioning during cell polarization and migration processes that occur during wound closure. Our results suggest that vimentin modulates centrosome structure and function as well as microtubule network stability, which has important implications for how cells establish proper cell polarization and persistent migration.

FK228 suppress the growth of human malignant pleural mesothelioma tumor independent to epithelioid or non-epithelioid histology

Human malignant pleural mesothelioma (hMPM) is an aggressive, rare disease with a poor prognosis. Histologically, MPM is categorized into epithelioid, biphasic, and sarcomatoid subtypes, with the epithelioid subtype generally displaying a better response to treatment. Conversely, effective therapies for the non-epithelioid subtypes are limited. This study aimed to investigate the potential role of FK228, a histone deacetylase inhibitor, in the suppression of hMPM tumor growth. We conducted a comprehensive analysis of the histological and molecular characteristics of two MPM cell lines, CRL-5820 (epithelioid) and CRL-5946 (non-epithelioid). CRL-5946 cells and non-epithelioid patient-derived xenografted mice exhibited heightened growth rates compared to those with epithelioid MPM. Both CRL-5946 cells and non-epithelioid mice displayed a poor response to cisplatin. However, FK228 markedly inhibited the growth of both epithelioid and non-epithelioid tumor cells in vitro and in vivo. Cell cycle analysis revealed FK228-induced G1/S and mitotic arrest in MPM cells. Caspase inhibitor experiments demonstrated that FK228-triggered apoptosis occurred via a caspase-dependent pathway in CRL-5946 but not in CRL-5820 cells. Additionally, a cytokine array analysis showed that FK228 reduced the release of growth factors, including platelet-derived and vascular endothelial growth factors, specifically in CRL-5946 cells. These results indicate that FK228 exhibits therapeutic potential in MPM by inducing cytotoxicity and modulating the tumor microenvironment, potentially benefiting both epithelioid and non-epithelioid subtypes.

AM-DMF-SCP: Integrated Single-Cell Proteomics Analysis on an Active Matrix Digital Microfluidic Chip

Single-cell proteomics offers unparalleled insights into cellular diversity and molecular mechanisms, enabling a deeper understanding of complex biological processes at the individual cell level. Here, we develop an integrated sample processing on an active-matrix digital microfluidic chip for single-cell proteomics (AM-DMF-SCP). Employing the AM-DMF-SCP approach and data-independent acquisition (DIA), we identify an average of 2258 protein groups in single HeLa cells within 15 min of the liquid chromatography gradient. We performed comparative analyses of three tumor cell lines: HeLa, A549, and HepG2, and machine learning was utilized to identify the unique features of these cell lines. Applying the AM-DMF-SCP to characterize the proteomes of a third-generation EGFR inhibitor, ASK120067-resistant cells (67R) and their parental NCI-H1975 cells, we observed a potential correlation between elevated VIM expression and 67R resistance, which is consistent with the findings from bulk sample analyses. These results suggest that AM-DMF-SCP is an automated, robust, and sensitive platform for single-cell proteomics and demonstrate the potential for providing valuable insights into cellular mechanisms.

The nanobody targeting PD-L1 and CXCR4 counteracts pancreatic stellate cell-mediated tumour progression by disrupting tumour microenvironment

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most lethal malignancy worldwide owing to its complex tumour microenvironment and dense physical barriers. Stromal-derived factor-1 (SDF-1), which is abundantly secreted by tumour stromal cells, plays a pivotal role in promoting PDAC growth and metastasis. In this study, we investigated the impact and molecular mechanisms of the anti-PD-L1&CXCR4 bispecific nanobody on the TME and their consequent interference with PDAC progression. We found that blocking the SDF-1/CXCR4 signalling pathway delayed the epithelial-mesenchymal transition in pancreatic cancer cells. Anti-PD-L1&CXCR4 bispecific nanobody effectively suppress the secretion of SDF-1 by pancreatic stellate cells and downregulate the expression of smooth muscle actin alpha(α-SMA), thereby preventing the activation of cancer-associated fibroblasts by downregulating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. This improves the pancreatic tumour microenvironment, favouring the infiltration of T cells into the tumour tissue. In conclusion, our results suggest that the anti-PD-L1&CXCR4 bispecific nanobody exerts an antitumor immune response by changing the pancreatic tumour microenvironment. Hence, the anti-PD-L1&CXCR4 bispecific nanobody is a potential candidate for pancreatic cancer treatment.

Regulation of cellular and molecular markers of epithelial-mesenchymal transition by Brazilin in breast cancer cells

Breast cancer is the most common invasive neoplasm and the leading cause of cancer death in women worldwide. The main cause of mortality in cancer patients is invasion and metastasis, where the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a crucial player in these processes. Pharmacological therapy has plants as its primary source, including isoflavonoids. Brazilin is an isoflavonoid isolated from Haematoxilum brasiletto that has shown antiproliferative activity in several cancer cell lines. In this study, we evaluated the effect of Brazilin on canonical markers of EMT such as E-cadherin, vimentin, Twist, and matrix metalloproteases (MMPs). By Western blot, we evaluated E-cadherin, vimentin, and Twist expression and the subcellular localization by immunofluorescence. Using gelatin zymography, we determined the levels of secretion of MMPs. We used Transwell chambers coated with matrigel to determine the in vitro invasion of breast cancer cells treated with Brazilin. Interestingly, our results show that Brazilin increases 50% in E-cadherin expression and decreases 50% in vimentin and Twist expression, MMPs, and cell invasion in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) MDA-MB-231 and to a lesser extend in MCF7 ER+ breast cancer cells. Together, these findings position Brazilin as a new molecule with great potential for use as complementary or alternative treatment in breast cancer therapy in the future.

Thiazolyl-isatin derivatives: Synthesis, in silico studies, in vitro biological profile against breast cancer cells, mRNA expression, P-gp modulation, and interactions of Akt2 and VIM proteins

The literature reports that thiazole and isatin nuclei present a range of biological activities, with an emphasis on anticancer activity. Therefore, our proposal was to make a series of compounds using the molecular hybridization strategy, which has been used by our research group, producing hybrid molecules containing the thiazole and isatin nuclei. After structural planning and synthesis, the compounds were characterized and evaluated in vitro against breast cancer cell lines (T-47D, MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231) and against normal cells (PBMC). The activity profile on membrane proteins involved in chemoresistance and tumorigenic signaling proteins was also evaluated. Among the compounds tested, the compounds 4c and 4a stood out with IC50 values of 1.23 and 1.39 μM, respectively, against the MDA-MB-231 cell line. Both compounds exhibited IC50 values of 0.45 μM for the MCF-7 cell line. Compounds 4a and 4c significantly decreased P-gp mRNA expression levels in MCF-7, 4 and 2 folds respectively. Regarding the impact on tumorigenic signaling proteins, compound 4a inhibited Akt2 in MDA-MB-231 and compound 4c inhibited the mRNA expression of VIM in MCF-7.

Canonical DDR activation by EMT inducing agent 5-Fluorouracil is modulated by a cannabinoid based combinatorial approach via inducing autophagy and suppression of vimentin expression

Anastasis cascade including induction of Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition (EMT), DNA repair, and stimulation of pro-survival mediators collectively exaggerate therapy resistance in cancer prognosis. The extensive implications of DNA-damaging agents are clinically proven futile for the rapid development of disease recurrence during treatment regime. Herein we report a glycosidic derivative of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC-9-OG) abrogates sub-toxic doses of 5-Fluorouracil (5FU) induced EMT in colon cancer cells nullifying DNA repairing mechanism. Our in vitro and in vivo data strongly proclaims that THC-9-OG could not only abrogate 5FU mediated background EMT activation through stalling matrix degradation as well as murine 4T1 lung metastasis but also vigorously diminished Rad-51 repairing mediator along with stimulation of γ-H2AX foci formation. The combinatorial treatment (5FU + THC-9-OG) in Apc knockout colorectal carcinoma model conferred remission of the crypt progenitor phenotype which was prominently identified in 5FU treatment. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that 5FU plus THC-9-OG significantly attenuated major EMT inducer Vimentin via extensive ROS generation along with autophagy induction via LC3B I-II conversion and p62 degradation in a p-ATM dependent manner. Additionally, Cannabinoid receptor CB1 was responsible for abrogation of Vimentin since we found increase in the expression of γH2AX and decrease in vimentin expression in CB1 agonist (ACEA) plus 5FU treated cells. Nutshell, our results unveil a new direction of Cannabinoid based combinatorial approach to control background EMT along with robust enhancing of DNA damage potential of sub-toxic concentration of 5FU resulting immense inhibition of distant metastasis coupled with triggering cell death in vitro and in vivo.

E2F1 induced neuroblastoma cell migration and invasion via activation of CENPE/FOXM1 signaling pathway

Background: Neuroblastoma (NB) is a common malignancy occurring in infants and young children. Centrosome-associated protein E (CENPE) is a kinetochore-related motor protein highly expressed in NB, with the mechanism largely unknown. This study is committed to investigating the role and mechanism of CENPE in NB.Method: Short hairpin RNAs targeting CENPE and E2F transcription factor 1 (shCENPE and shE2F1) and CENPE overexpression plasmid were transfected into IMR-32 and SK-N-SH cells. The mRNA expressions of CENPE, N-Cadherin, Vimentin, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) in NB cells were detected by qRT-PCR. The viability, migration, and invasion of cells were tested through cell function experiments. Western blot was applied to detect the protein levels of N-Cadherin, Vimentin, PCNA, CENPE and Forkhead box M1 (FOXM1). The relationship between CENPE and E2F1 was verified by dual-luciferase reporter assay, while the interaction between FOXM1 and CENPE in NB cells was analyzed by rescue experiments.Results: CENPE expression was upregulated in NB cells from metastatic sites. Silencing of CENPE suppressed the NB cell viability, migration, and invasion; and decreased N-Cadherin, Vimentin and PCNA expressions, while overexpressed CENPE did oppositely. E2F1 positively targeted CENPE and CENPE partly reversed the effects of shE2F1 on repressing NB cell viability, migration, invasion and the activation of CENPE/FOXM1 signaling pathway. In addition, silenced FOXM1 partly offset the effects of CENPE on promoting NB cell migration and invasion.Conclusion: E2F1 induces NB cell migration and invasion via activating CENPE/FOXM1 pathway.

CircUBE3A(2,3,4,5) promotes adenylate-uridylate-rich binding factor 1 nuclear translocation to suppress prostate cancer metastasis

Metastatic progression is the primary cause of mortality in prostate cancer (PCa) patients. Although circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been implicated in cancer progression and metastasis, our current understanding of their role in PCa metastasis remains limited. In this study, we identified that circUBE3A(2,3,4,5), which originated from exons 2, 3, 4 and 5 of the human ubiquitin-protein ligase E3A (UBE3A) gene, was specifically downregulated in PCa tissues and correlated with the Gleason score, bone metastasis, and D'Amico risk classification. Through the in vitro and in vivo experiments, we demonstrated that overexpression of circUBE3A(2,3,4,5) inhibited PCa cell migration, invasion, metastasis, and proliferation. Mechanistically, circUBE3A(2,3,4,5) was found to bind to adenylate-uridylate-rich binding factor 1 (AUF1), promoting the translocation of AUF1 into the nucleus. This led to decreased AUF1 in the cytoplasm, resulting in methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase 2 (MTHFD2) mRNA instability and a subsequent reduction at the protein level. The downregulation of MTHFD2 further inhibited vimentin expression, thereby suppressing PCa cell epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Additionally, two pairs of the short-inverted repeats (TSIRs) in flanking introns were identified to synergistically facilitate the generation of circUBE3A(2,3,4,5) and other circRNAs. In summary, TSIRs-induced circUBE3A(2,3,4,5) acts as a suppressor of PCa metastasis by enhancing AUF1 nuclear translocation, reducing MTHFD2, and subsequently inhibiting vimentin expression. This study characterizes circUBE3A(2,3,4,5) as a functional circRNA and proposes it as a highly promising target for preventing PCa metastasis.

Elevated DNA Damage without signs of aging in the short-sleeping Mexican Cavefish

Dysregulation of sleep has widespread health consequences and represents an enormous health burden. Short-sleeping individuals are predisposed to the effects of neurodegeneration, suggesting a critical role for sleep in the maintenance of neuronal health. While the effects of sleep on cellular function are not completely understood, growing evidence has identified an association between sleep loss and DNA damage, raising the possibility that sleep facilitates efficient DNA repair. The Mexican tetra fish, Astyanax mexicanus provides a model to investigate the evolutionary basis for changes in sleep and the consequences of sleep loss. Multiple cave-adapted populations of these fish have evolved to sleep for substantially less time compared to surface populations of the same species without identifiable impacts on healthspan or longevity. To investigate whether the evolved sleep loss is associated with DNA damage and cellular stress, we compared the DNA Damage Response (DDR) and oxidative stress levels between A. mexicanus populations. We measured markers of chronic sleep loss and discovered elevated levels of the DNA damage marker γH2AX in the brain, and increased oxidative stress in the gut of cavefish, consistent with chronic sleep deprivation. Notably, we found that acute UV-induced DNA damage elicited an increase in sleep in surface fish but not in cavefish. On a transcriptional level, only the surface fish activated the photoreactivation repair pathway following UV damage. These findings suggest a reduction of the DDR in cavefish compared to surface fish that coincides with elevated DNA damage in cavefish. To examine DDR pathways at a cellular level, we created an embryonic fibroblast cell line from the two populations of A. mexicanus. We observed that both the DDR and DNA repair were diminished in the cavefish cells, corroborating the in vivo findings and suggesting that the acute response to DNA damage is lost in cavefish. To investigate the long-term impact of these changes, we compared the transcriptome in the brain and gut of aged surface fish and cavefish. Strikingly, many genes that are differentially expressed between young and old surface fish do not transcriptionally vary by age in cavefish. Taken together, these findings suggest that have developed resilience to sleep loss, despite possessing cellular hallmarks of chronic sleep deprivation.

Differential Protein Expression in Response to Varlitinib Treatment in Oral Cancer Cell Line: an In Vitro Therapeutic Approach

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is the most frequently overexpressed receptor histologically exhibited by oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) patients. Aberrated EGFR signaling may lead to recurrence and metastasis, thus laying the foundation of targeted therapy. Deactivating EGFR is likely to prevent downstream signaling thus resulting in apoptosis. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have come into play to revert aggressiveness of OSCC. We exploited comparative proteomic analyses based on anti-EGFR potential of varlitinib, using cellular proteomes from treated and untreated groups of oral cancer cells to identify protein players functional during oral carcinogenesis. Following separation by two-dimensional electrophoresis, differentially expressed cellular proteins (varlitinib-treated and untreated cells) were analyzed and later identified using QTOF mass spectrometer. In silico analysis for protein-protein interaction was carried out using STRING. Six differentially expressed proteins were identified as binding immunoglobulin protein (BiP), heat shock protein 7 C (HSP7C), protein disulfide isomerase 1 A (PDIA1), vimentin (VIME), keratin type I cytoskeletal 14 (K1C14), and β-Actin (ACTB). Relative expression of five proteins was found to be downregulated upon varlitinib treatment, whereas only K1C14 was upregulated in treated cells compared to control. Protein network analysis depicts the interaction between BiP, PDIA1, VIME, etc. indicating their role in oral carcinogenesis. Oral cancer cells show proteome shift based on varlitinib treatment compared to corresponding controls. Our data suggest candidature of varlitinib as a potent therapeutic agent and BiP, PDIA1, HSP7C, VIME, and β-Actin as complementary/prognostic markers of OSCC.

Transcription Factors and Markers Related to Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Their Role in Resistance to Therapies in Head and Neck Cancers

Head and neck cancers (HNCs) are heterogeneous and aggressive tumors of the upper aerodigestive tract. Although various histological types exist, the most common is squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). The incidence of HNSCC is increasing, making it an important public health concern. Tumor resistance to contemporary treatments, namely, chemo- and radiotherapy, and the recurrence of the primary tumor after its surgical removal cause huge problems for patients. Despite recent improvements in these treatments, the 5-year survival rate is still relatively low. HNSCCs may develop local lymph node metastases and, in the most advanced cases, also distant metastases. A key process associated with tumor progression and metastasis is epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), when poorly motile epithelial tumor cells acquire motile mesenchymal characteristics. These transition cells can invade different adjacent tissues and finally form metastases. EMT is governed by various transcription factors, including the best-characterized TWIST1 and TWIST2, SNAIL, SLUG, ZEB1, and ZEB2. Here, we highlight the current knowledge of the process of EMT in HNSCC and present the main protein markers associated with it. This review focuses on the transcription factors related to EMT and emphasizes their role in the resistance of HNSCC to current chemo- and radiotherapies. Understanding the role of EMT and the precise molecular mechanisms involved in this process may help with the development of novel anti-cancer therapies for this type of tumor.

Ultra high content analyses of circulating and tumor associated hybrid cells reveal phenotypic heterogeneity

Persistently high, worldwide mortality from cancer highlights the unresolved challenges of disease surveillance and detection that impact survival. Development of a non-invasive, blood-based biomarker would transform survival from cancer. We demonstrate the functionality of ultra-high content analyses of a newly identified population of tumor cells that are hybrids between neoplastic and immune cells in patient matched tumor and peripheral blood specimens. Using oligonucleotide conjugated antibodies (Ab-oligo) permitting cyclic immunofluorescence (cyCIF), we present analyses of phenotypes among tumor and peripheral blood hybrid cells. Interestingly, the majority of circulating hybrid cell (CHC) subpopulations were not identified in tumor-associated hybrids. These results highlight the efficacy of ultra-high content phenotypic analyses using Ab-oligo based cyCIF applied to both tumor and peripheral blood specimens. The combination of a multiplex phenotypic profiling platform that is gentle enough to analyze blood to detect and evaluate disseminated tumor cells represents a novel approach to exploring novel tumor biology and potential utility for developing the population as a blood-based biomarker in cancer.

Pulmonary Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis in an African Lion: A Rare Case Report

BACKGROUND

Feline pulmonary Langerhans cells histiocytosis (PLCH) is a rare disorder that results in progressive respiratory failure secondary to pulmonary parenchymal infiltration with Langerhans cells (LCs). A diagnosis of PLCH is proposed based on the clinical features and pathological findings and confirmed based on the infiltrating histiocytic cells. There are few documented cases of feline PLCH, and this case report of PLCH in an African Lion could present new information and aspects of this feline histiocytic disease.

CASE PRESENTATION

An African lion at Hohhot Zoo showing severe hyporexia and dyspnea with subsequent mental depression and emaciation died of exhaustion after a 35-day course of illness. Empirical treatment did not have a significant effect. An autopsy revealed that the lungs were enlarged and hardened due to infiltrative lesions, with many yellowish-white foci in all the lobes and sections. Furthermore, the kidneys were atrophied and had scattered grayish-white lesions on the surface. At the same time, congestion was widely distributed in various locations, including the liver, subcutaneous loose connective tissues, serosal surface and other tissues and organs. Histologically, proliferative histiocytic cells (PHCs) were scattered in the alveolar cavities, bronchioles and submucosa of bronchioles, with evident cellular and nuclear pleomorphism, and thus the alveolar septa were obliterated. The histopathological changes in other organs included chronic sclerosing glomerulonephritis, proliferated Kupffer cells in the liver, adrenal edema and interstitial connective tissue hyperplasia, as well as atrophy of the small intestines and spleen. Furthermore, immunohistochemical analysis results were strongly positive for CD1a, vimentin, S100 and E-cadherin in the membrane or cytoplasm of PHCs, supporting an LC phenotype.

CONCLUSIONS

Here, we present a rare pulmonary Langerhans cell histiocytosis case in an African lion.

A correlated light and electron microscopy approach to study the subcellular localization of phosphorylated vimentin in human lung tissue

Correlative microscopy is an important approach for bridging the resolution gap between fluorescence light and electron microscopy. Here, we describe a fast and simple method for correlative immunofluorescence and immunogold labeling on the same section to elucidate the localization of phosphorylated vimentin (P-Vim), a robust feature of pulmonary vascular remodeling in cells of human lung small arteries. The lung is a complex, soft and difficult tissue to prepare for transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Detailing the molecular composition of small pulmonary arteries (<500μm) would be of great significance for research and diagnostics. Using the classical methods of immunochemistry (either hydrophilic resin or thin cryosections), is difficult to locate small arteries for analysis by TEM. To address this problem and to observe the same structures by both light and electron microscopy, correlative microscopy is a reliable approach. Immunofluorescence enables us to know the distribution of P-Vim in cells but does not provide ultrastructural detail on its localization. Labeled structures selected by fluorescence microscope can be identified and further analyzed by TEM at high resolution. With our method, the morphology of the arteries is well preserved, enabling the localization of P-Vim inside pulmonary endothelial cells. By applying this approach, fluorescent signals can be directly correlated to the corresponding subcellular structures in areas of interest.

Novel chromium (III)-based compound for inhibition of oxaliplatin-resistant colorectal cancer progression

Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks as the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. The current standard of care includes systemic chemotherapy with cytotoxic agents, offering palliative relief for severe CRC cases and serving as the primary therapy for metastatic recurrence. However, the development of chemoresistance poses a substantial obstacle in the realm of chemotherapy. This study delved into the potential of a novel chromium (III)-based compound, hexaacetotetraaquadihydroxochromium (III) diiron (III) nitrate, for CRC treatment. The therapeutic promise of this innovative chromium (III)-based compound was explored by utilizing LoVo colon cancer cells and an in-vivo mouse model of CRC. Various dosages of the compound were administered to LoVo parental cells and LoVo oxaliplatin-resistant cells. Findings unveiled that a concentration of 2000 μg/mL of the chromium (III) compound significantly inhibited mesenchymal transition and the migratory and invasive properties of LoVo oxaliplatin-resistant cells. This novel chromium (III)-based compound also demonstrated similar efficacy in other different CRC cell lines. The tumor growth was in the in-vivo mouse model was reduced by this compound. Moreover, the chromium (III)-based compound induced apoptosis by triggering the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress pathway in LoVo oxaliplatin-resistant cells. This study illuminates the capacity of the novel chromium (III)-based compound to impede the progression and growth of chemotherapy-resistant CRC. This discovery instills confidence in the potential of this compound as a therapeutic agent for CRC, even in the face of drug resistance. It holds the promise of serving as a valuable asset in the future treatment of chemotherapy-resistant CRC.

Targeting HER2-positive breast cancer cells by a combination of dasatinib and BMS-202: Insight into the molecular pathways

BACKGROUND

Recent investigations have reported the benefits of using a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, dasatinib (DA), as well as programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitors in the management of several solid tumors, including breast cancer. Nevertheless, the outcome of the combination of these inhibitors on HER2-positive breast cancer is not explored yet.

METHODS

Herein, we investigated the impact of DA and PD-L1 inhibitor (BMS-202) combination on HER2-positive breast cancer cell lines, SKBR3 and ZR75.

RESULTS

Our data reveal that the combination significantly inhibits cell viability of both cancer cell lines as compared to monotreatment. Moreover, the combination inhibits epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) progression and reduces cancer cell invasion by restoring E-cadherin and β-catenin expressions and loss of vimentin, major biomarkers of EMT. Additionally, the combination reduces the colony formation of both cell lines in comparison with their matched control. Also, the combination considerably inhibits the angiogenesis of the chorioallantoic membrane model compared with monotreatment. Molecular pathway analysis of treated cells shows that this combination blocks HER2, AKT, β-catenin, and JNK1/2/3 activities.

CONCLUSION

Our findings implicate that a combination of DA and BMS-202 could have a significant impact on the management of HER2-positive breast cancer.

Predictive Panel for Immunotherapy in Low-Grade Glioma

BACKGROUND

The main treatment of low-grade glioma (LGG) is still surgical resection followed by radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy, which has certain limitations, including side effects and drug resistance. Immunotherapy is a promising treatment for LGG, but it is generally hindered by the tumor microenvironment with the limited expression of tumor antigens.

METHODS

We integrated RNA sequencing data sets and clinical information and conducted consistent cluster analysis to explore the most suitable patients for immune checkpoint therapy. Gene set enrichment analysis, UMAP analysis, mutation correlation analysis, TIMER analysis, and TIDE analysis were used to identify the immune characteristics of 3 immune subtypes and the feasibility of 5 antigens as immune checkpoint markers.

RESULTS

We analyzed the isolation and mutation of homologous recombination repair genes (HRR) of the 3 immune subtypes, and the HRR genes of the 3 subtypes were obviously segregated. Among them, the IS2 subtype has a large number of HRR gene mutations, which increases the immunogenicity of tumors-this is consistent with the results of tumor mutation load analysis of 3 immune subtypes. Then we evaluated the immune cell infiltration of immune subtypes and found that IS2 and IS3 subtypes were rich in immune cells. It is worth noting that there are many Treg cells and NK cells in the IS1 subtype. In addition, when analyzing the immune checkpoint gene expression of the 3 subtypes, we found that they were upregulated most in IS2 subtypes compared with other subtypes. Then when we further confirmed the role of immune-related genes in LGG; through TIDE analysis and TISIDB analysis, we obtained 5 markers that can predict the efficacy of ICB in patients with LGG. In addition, we confirmed that they were associated with poor prognosis through survival analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

We obtained 3 reliable immune subtypes, and patients with the IS2 subtype are suitable for immunotherapy, in which NAMPT, SLC11A1, TNC, VIM, and SPP1 are predictive panel markers for ICB in the LGG group. Our findings provide a rationale for immunotherapy selection and prediction of patient prognosis in LGG patients.

CircUSP1 as a novel marker promotes gastric cancer progression via stabilizing HuR to upregulate USP1 and Vimentin

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play a crucial role in regulating various tumors. However, their biological functions and mechanisms in gastric cancer (GC) have not been well understood. Here, we discovered a stable cytoplasmic circRNA named circUSP1 (hsa_circ_000613) in GC. CircUSP1 upregulation in GC tissues was correlated with tumor size and differentiation. We observed that circUSP1 promoted GC growth and metastasis. Mechanistically, circUSP1 mainly interacted with the RRM1 domain of an RNA-binding protein (RBP) called HuR, stabilizing its protein level by inhibiting β-TrCP-mediated ubiquitination degradation. The oncogenic properties of HuR mediated promotive effects of circUSP1 in GC progression. Moreover, we identified USP1 and Vimentin as downstream targets of HuR in post-transcriptional regulation, mediating the effects of circUSP1. The parent gene USP1 also enhanced the viability and mobility of GC cells. Additionally, tissue-derived circUSP1 could serve as an independent prognostic factor for GC, while plasma-derived circUSP1 showed promise as a diagnostic biomarker, outperforming conventional markers including serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and carbohydrate antigen 199 (CA19-9). Our study highlights that circUSP1 promotes GC progression by binding to and stabilizing oncogenic HuR, thereby facilitating the upregulation of USP1 and Vimentin at the post-transcriptional level. These findings suggest that circUSP1 could be a potential therapeutic target and a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for GC.

Glucocorticoid receptor: a harmonizer of cellular plasticity in breast cancer-directs the road towards therapy resistance, metastatic progression and recurrence

Recent therapeutic advances have significantly uplifted the quality of life in breast cancer patients, yet several impediments block the road to disease-free survival. This involves unresponsiveness towards administered therapy, epithelial to mesenchymal transition, and metastatic progression with the eventual appearance of recurrent disease. Attainment of such characteristics is a huge adaptive challenge to which tumour cells respond by acquiring diverse phenotypically plastic states. Several signalling networks and mediators are involved in such a process. Glucocorticoid receptor being a mediator of stress response imparts prognostic significance in the context of breast carcinoma. Involvement of the glucocorticoid receptor in the signalling cascade of breast cancer phenotypic plasticity needs further elucidation. This review attempted to shed light on the inter-regulatory interactions of the glucocorticoid receptor with the mediators of the plasticity program in breast cancer; which may provide a hint for strategizing therapeutics against the glucocorticoid/glucocorticoid receptor axis so as to modulate phenotypic plasticity in breast carcinoma.

A Recipe for Successful Metastasis: Transition and Migratory Modes of Ovarian Cancer Cells

One of the characteristic features of ovarian cancer is its early dissemination. Metastasis and the invasiveness of ovarian cancer are strongly dependent on the phenotypical and molecular determinants of cancer cells. Invasive cancer cells, circulating tumor cells, and cancer stem cells, which are responsible for the metastatic process, may all undergo different modes of transition, giving rise to mesenchymal, amoeboid, and redifferentiated epithelial cells. Such variability is the result of the changing needs of cancer cells, which strive to survive and colonize new organs. This would not be possible if not for the variety of migration modes adopted by the transformed cells. The most common type of metastasis in ovarian cancer is dissemination through the transcoelomic route, but transitions in ovarian cancer cells contribute greatly to hematogenous and lymphatic dissemination. This review aims to outline the transition modes of ovarian cancer cells and discuss the migratory capabilities of those cells in light of the known ovarian cancer metastasis routes.

Endometrial mesenchymal stromal/stem cells improve regeneration of injured endometrium in mice

BACKGROUND

The monthly regeneration of human endometrial tissue is maintained by the presence of human endometrial mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (eMSC), a cell population co-expressing the perivascular markers CD140b and CD146. Endometrial regeneration is impaired in the presence of intrauterine adhesions, leading to infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss and placental abnormalities. Several types of somatic stem cells have been used to repair the damaged endometrium in animal models, reporting successful pregnancy. However, the ability of endometrial stem cells to repair the damaged endometrium remains unknown.

METHODS

Electrocoagulation was applied to the left uterine horn of NOD/SCID mice causing endometrial injury. Human eMSC or PBS was then injected into the left injured horn while the right normal horn served as controls. Mice were sacrificed at different timepoints (Day 3, 7 and 14) and the endometrial morphological changes as well as the degree of endometrial injury and repair were observed by histological staining. Gene expression of various inflammatory markers was assessed using qPCR. The functionality of the repaired endometrium was evaluated by fertility test.

RESULTS

Human eMSC successfully incorporated into the injured uterine horn, which displayed significant morphological restoration. Also, endometrium in the eMSC group showed better cell proliferation and glands formation than the PBS group. Although the number of blood vessels were similar between the two groups, gene expression of VEGF-α significantly increased in the eMSC group. Moreover, eMSC had a positive impact on the regeneration of both stromal and epithelial components of the mouse endometrium, indicated by significantly higher vimentin and CK19 protein expression. Reduced endometrial fibrosis and down-regulation of fibrosis markers were also observed in the eMSC group. The eMSC group had a significantly higher gene expression of anti-inflammatory factor Il-10 and lower mRNA level of pro-inflammatory factors Ifng and Il-2, indicating the role of eMSC in regulation of inflammatory reactions. The eMSC group showed higher implantation sites than the PBS group, suggesting better endometrial receptivity with the presence of newly emerged endometrial lining.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest eMSC improves regeneration of injured endometrium in mice.

OLFM2 promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition, migration, and invasion in colorectal cancer through the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is an aggressive tumor of the gastrointestinal tract, which is a major public health concern worldwide. Despite numerous studies, the precise mechanism of metastasis behind its progression remains elusive. As a member of the containing olfactomedin domains protein family, olfactomedin 2 (OLFM2) may play a role in tumor metastasis. It is highly expressed in colorectal cancer, and its role in the metastasis of CRC is still unclear. As such, this study seeks to explore the function of OLFM2 on CRC metastasis and its potential mechanisms.

METHODS

Real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR and western blotting were used to study the expression of OLFM2 in human CRC and adjacent normal tissues. Knockdown and overexpression OLFM2 cell lines were constructed using siRNA and overexpression plasmids to explore the role of OLFM2 in the migration and invasion of CRC through transwell, and wound healing experiments. Finally, the expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) -related proteins and TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway-related proteins was investigated using western blotting.

RESULTS

In this study, we observed an elevation of OLFM2 expression levels in CRC tissues. To investigate the function of OLFM2, we overexpressed and knocked down OLFM2. We discovered that OLFM2 knockdown inhibited migration and invasion of colon cancer cells. Furthermore, E-cadherin expression increased while N-cadherin and Vimentin expression were opposite. It is no surprise that overexpressing OLFM2 had the opposite effects. We also identified that OLFM2 knockdown resulted in reduced TGF-βR1 and downstream molecules p-Smad2 and p-Smad3, which are related to the TGF-β / Smad pathway. In contrast, overexpressing OLFM2 significantly boosted their expression levels.

CONCLUSION

The protein OLFM2 has been identified as a crucial determinant in the progression of CRC. Its mechanism of action involves the facilitation of EMT through the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway. Given its pivotal role in CRC, OLFM2 has emerged as a promising diagnostic and therapeutic target for the disease. These results indicate the potential of OLFM2 as a valuable biomarker for CRC diagnosis and treatment and highlight the need for further research exploring its clinical significance.

Aberrant Upregulation of RUNX3 Activates Developmental Genes to Drive Metastasis in Gastric Cancer

Gastric cancer metastasis is a major cause of mortality worldwide. Inhibition of RUNX3 in gastric cancer cell lines reduced migration, invasion, and anchorage-independent growth in vitro. Following splenic inoculation, CRISPR-mediated RUNX3-knockout HGC-27 cells show suppression of xenograft growth and liver metastasis. We interrogated the potential of RUNX3 as a metastasis driver in gastric cancer by profiling its target genes. Transcriptomic analysis revealed strong involvement of RUNX3 in the regulation of multiple developmental pathways, consistent with the notion that Runt domain transcription factor (RUNX) family genes are master regulators of development. RUNX3 promoted "cell migration" and "extracellular matrix" programs, which are necessary for metastasis. Of note, we found pro-metastatic genes WNT5A, CD44, and VIM among the top differentially expressed genes in RUNX3 knockout versus control cells. Chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing and HiChIP analyses revealed that RUNX3 bound to the enhancers and promoters of these genes, suggesting that they are under direct transcriptional control by RUNX3. We show that RUNX3 promoted metastasis in part through its upregulation of WNT5A to promote migration, invasion, and anchorage-independent growth in various malignancies. Our study therefore reveals the RUNX3-WNT5A axis as a key targetable mechanism for gastric cancer metastasis.

SIGNIFICANCE

Subversion of RUNX3 developmental gene targets to metastasis program indicates the oncogenic nature of inappropriate RUNX3 regulation in gastric cancer.

Molecular biomarkers in prostate cancer tumorigenesis and clinical relevance

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most frequent type of cancer in men and assessing circulating tumor cells (CTCs) by liquid biopsy is a promising tool to help in cancer early detection, staging, risk of recurrence evaluation, treatment prediction and monitoring. Blood-based liquid biopsy approaches enable the enrichment, detection and characterization of CTCs by biomarker analysis. Hence, comprehending the molecular markers, their role on each stage of cancer development and progression is essential to provide information that can help in future implementation of these biomarkers in clinical assistance. In this review, we studied the molecular markers most associated with PCa CTCs to better understand their function on tumorigenesis and metastatic cascade, the methodologies utilized to analyze these biomarkers and their clinical significance, in order to summarize the available information to guide researchers in their investigations, new hypothesis formulation and target choice for the development of new diagnostic and treatment tools.

How important is EMT for cancer metastasis?

Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a biological phenomenon of cellular plasticity initially reported in embryonic development, has been increasingly recognized for its importance in cancer progression and metastasis. Despite tremendous progress being made in the past 2 decades in our understanding of the molecular mechanism and functional importance of EMT in cancer, there are several mysteries around EMT that remain unresolved. In this Unsolved Mystery, we focus on the variety of EMT types in metastasis, cooperative and collective EMT behaviors, spatiotemporal characterization of EMT, and strategies of therapeutically targeting EMT. We also highlight new technical advances that will facilitate the efforts to elucidate the unsolved mysteries of EMT in metastasis.