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Iachettini S, Biroccio A, Zizza P. Therapeutic Use of G4-Ligands in Cancer: State-of-the-Art and Future Perspectives. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:771. [PMID: 38931438 PMCID: PMC11206494 DOI: 10.3390/ph17060771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
G-quadruplexes (G4s) are guanine-rich non-canonical secondary structures of nucleic acids that were identified in vitro almost half a century ago. Starting from the early 1980s, these structures were also observed in eukaryotic cells, first at the telomeric level and later in regulatory regions of cancer-related genes, in regulatory RNAs and within specific cell compartments such as lysosomes, mitochondria, and ribosomes. Because of the involvement of these structures in a large number of biological processes and in the pathogenesis of several diseases, including cancer, the interest in G4 targeting has exponentially increased in the last few years, and a great number of novel G4 ligands have been developed. Notably, G4 ligands represent a large family of heterogeneous molecules that can exert their functions by recognizing, binding, and stabilizing G4 structures in multiple ways. Regarding anti-cancer activity, the efficacy of G4 ligands was originally attributed to the capability of these molecules to inhibit the activity of telomerase, an enzyme that elongates telomeres and promotes endless replication in cancer cells. Thereafter, novel mechanisms through which G4 ligands exert their antitumoral activities have been defined, including the induction of DNA damage, control of gene expression, and regulation of metabolic pathways, among others. Here, we provided a perspective on the structure and function of G4 ligands with particular emphasis on their potential role as antitumoral agents. In particular, we critically examined the problems associated with the clinical translation of these molecules, trying to highlight the main aspects that should be taken into account during the phases of drug design and development. Indeed, taking advantage of the successes and failures, and the more recent technological progresses in the field, it would be possible to hypothesize the development of these molecules in the future that would represent a valid option for those cancers still missing effective therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Pasquale Zizza
- Translational Oncology Research Unit, IRCCS—Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via Elio Chianesi, 53, 00144 Roma, Italy; (S.I.); (A.B.)
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Tang X, Zhao S, Luo J, Wang B, Wu X, Deng R, Chang K, Chen M. Smart Stimuli-Responsive Spherical Nucleic Acids: Cutting-Edge Platforms for Biosensing, Bioimaging, and Therapeutics. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2310732. [PMID: 38299771 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202310732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
Spherical nucleic acids (SNAs) with exceptional colloidal stability, multiple modularity, and programmability are excellent candidates to address common molecular delivery-related issues. Based on this, the higher targeting accuracy and enhanced controllability of stimuli-responsive SNAs render them precise nanoplatforms with inestimable prospects for diverse biomedical applications. Therefore, tailored diagnosis and treatment with stimuli-responsive SNAs may be a robust strategy to break through the bottlenecks associated with traditional nanocarriers. Various stimuli-responsive SNAs are engineered through the incorporation of multifunctional modifications to meet biomedical demands with the development of nucleic acid functionalization. This review provides a comprehensive overview of prominent research in this area and recent advancements in the utilization of stimuli-responsive SNAs in biosensing, bioimaging, and therapeutics. For each aspect, SNA nanoplatforms that exhibit responsive behavior to both internal stimuli (including sequence, enzyme, redox reactions, and pH) and external stimuli (such as light and temperature) are highlighted. This review is expected to offer inspiration and guidance strategies for the rational design and development of stimuli-responsive SNAs in the field of biomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqi Tang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), 30 Gaotanyan, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Shuang Zhao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), 30 Gaotanyan, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Jie Luo
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), 30 Gaotanyan, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Binpan Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), 30 Gaotanyan, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Xianlan Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), 30 Gaotanyan, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Ruijia Deng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), 30 Gaotanyan, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Kai Chang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), 30 Gaotanyan, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Ming Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), 30 Gaotanyan, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400038, China
- College of Pharmacy and Laboratory Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), 30 Gaotanyan, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400038, China
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Ng YB, Akincilar SC. Shaping DNA damage responses: Therapeutic potential of targeting telomeric proteins and DNA repair factors in cancer. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2024; 76:102460. [PMID: 38776747 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2024.102460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Shelterin proteins regulate genomic stability by preventing inappropriate DNA damage responses (DDRs) at telomeres. Unprotected telomeres lead to persistent DDR causing cell cycle inhibition, growth arrest, and apoptosis. Cancer cells rely on DDR to protect themselves from DNA lesions and exogenous DNA-damaging agents such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Therefore, targeting DDR machinery is a promising strategy to increase the sensitivity of cancer cells to existing cancer therapies. However, the success of these DDR inhibitors depends on other mutations, and over time, patients develop resistance to these therapies. This suggests the need for alternative approaches. One promising strategy is co-inhibiting shelterin proteins with DDR molecules, which would offset cellular fitness in DNA repair in a mutation-independent manner. This review highlights the associations and dependencies of the shelterin complex with the DDR proteins and discusses potential co-inhibition strategies that might improve the therapeutic potential of current inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Bin Ng
- Laboratory of NFκB Signalling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Republic of Singapore
| | - Semih Can Akincilar
- Laboratory of NFκB Signalling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Republic of Singapore.
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Karadağ A, Dirican E, Özmerdiven ÇG, Özen A, Ayan S, Kabadere S. Evaluation of miR-130b-3p and miR-375 levels and telomere length with telomerase activity in prostate cancer. NUCLEOSIDES, NUCLEOTIDES & NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024:1-12. [PMID: 38593055 DOI: 10.1080/15257770.2024.2334896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PC) is the most frequent cancer in males, as well as the second highest cause of cancer-related deaths in men. Differences in expression levels of miRNAs were linked with prostat cancer pathogenesis. qPCR was used to evaluate the expression of miR-130b-3p and miR-375 in Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH (n = 20) and PC (n = 22, pre- and post-operative) patients plasma. Relative telomere lengths (RLTs) in genomic DNA isolated from plasma were measured with qPCR, and telomerase activity analyzed by the ELISA method. PSA levels of PC patients were greater than of BPH patients (p = 0.0473). miR-130b-3p and miR-375 levels were significantly lower in pre-operative specimens of PC patients according to BPH (p = 0,0362, p = 0.0168, respectively). Similarly, post-operative miR-375 levels were lower in PC patients than in BPH patients (p = 0.1866). BPH patients had shorter RTLs than PC patients in both pre- (p=0.0438) and post-operative (p=0.0297) specimens. Telomerase activity was higher in PC patients than BPH(p = 0.0129). Interestingly, telomerase activity was further increased after surgery (p = 0.0003). We aim to identify the levels of miR-130b-3p and miR-375 expression and their relationship with telomerase activity in PC patients. Our data suggest that miRNAs and telomere length (TL) with telomerase activity may play a role in regulating prostate tumorgenesis and may be used as biomarkers for PC diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Karadağ
- Department of Physiology, Adiyaman University Faculty of Medicine, Adiyaman, Turkey
| | - Ebubekir Dirican
- Health Services Vocational School, Bayburt University, Bayburt, Turkey
| | | | - Ata Özen
- Department of Urology, Eskişehir Osmangazi University, Faculty of Medicine, Eskişehir, Turkey
| | - Semih Ayan
- Department of Urology, Istanbul Aydin University, Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Selda Kabadere
- Department of Physiology, EskişehirOsmangazi University, Faculty of Medicine, Eskişehir, Turkey
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Ao Z, Xiao D, Wu J, Sun J, Liu H. CRL4DCAF4 E3 ligase-mediated degradation of MEN1 transcriptionally reactivates hTERT to sustain immortalization in colorectal cancer cells. Carcinogenesis 2024:bgae024. [PMID: 38573327 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgae024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Telomerase reactivation is implicated in approximately 85% of human cancers, yet its underlying mechanism remains elusive. In this study, we elucidate that the Cullin RING Ubiquitin Ligase 4 (CRL4) complex drives the reactivation of human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) in colorectal cancer (CRC) by degrading the tumor suppressor, menin 1 (MEN1). Our data show that, in noncancerous intestinal epithelial cells, the transcription factor specificity protein 1 (Sp1) recruits both the histone acetyltransferase p300 and MEN1 to suppress hTERT expression, thus maintaining telomere shortness post-cell division. Inflammation-induced microenvironments trigger an activation of the CRL4DCAF4 E3 ligase, leading to MEN1 ubiquitination and degradation in CRC cells. This process nullifies MEN1's inhibitory action, reactivates hTERT expression at the transcriptional level, interrupts telomere shortening, and spurs uncontrolled cellular proliferation. Notably, MEN1 overexpression in CRC cells partially counteracts these oncogenic phenotypes. NSC1517, an inhibitor of the CRL4DCAF4 complex identified through high-throughput screening from a plant-derived chemical pool, hinders MEN1 degradation, attenuates hTERT expression, and suppresses tumor growth in mouse xenograft models. Collectively, our research elucidates the transcriptional mechanism driving hTERT reactivation in CRC. Targeting the CRL4DCAF4 E3 ligase emerges as a promising strategy to counteract cancer cell immortalization and curb tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhimin Ao
- Division of Surgery, Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Dan Xiao
- Division of Surgery, Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jing Wu
- Division of Surgery, Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ji Sun
- Division of Surgery, Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hong Liu
- Division of Surgery, Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Pérez González S, Heredia-Soto V, Girón de Francisco M, Pérez-Fernández E, Casans-Francés R, Mendiola Sabio M, González-Peramato P. Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase-Promoter Mutation in Young Patients with Bladder Tumors. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:2845-2855. [PMID: 38666908 PMCID: PMC11049539 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46040178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The TERT (Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase) gene promoter mutation is one of the most prevalent mutations in urothelial bladder tumors and this mutation is related to bladder tumor progression. Our purpose was to evaluate the presence of this mutation in a population of patients who were first diagnosed at age ≤ 40 years and to examine its relationship with tumor characteristics and progression. A molecular study was performed to detect the two most prevalent mutations in the TERT promoter (C228T and C250T). The study included 29 patients, with a mean follow-up of 152 months. There were no statistically significant differences in the clinical or tumor characteristics according to the presence or absence of the mutation. Although the mutation group showed poorer recurrence-free survival (RFS), there was no statistically significant difference and there was no difference in progression-free survival by group (p > 0.05). The pTERT mutations in bladder tumor cells occurred less frequently in younger patients than in older patients, a finding that could indicate different mechanisms of carcinogenesis. The trend towards lower RFS in patients with mutated pTERT needs to be confirmed by further studies, given the small number of patients included in these studies due to the low incidence of bladder tumors in this age group.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Victoria Heredia-Soto
- Translational Oncology Research Laboratory, Hospital La Paz Institute for Health Research (IdiPAZ), 28046 Madrid, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Research in the Cancer Network (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Rubén Casans-Francés
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, Infanta Elena University Hospital, 28342 Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Mendiola Sabio
- Center for Biomedical Research in the Cancer Network (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Molecular Pathology and Therapeutic Targets Group, Hospital La Paz Institute for Health Research (IdiPAZ), 28046 Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar González-Peramato
- Department of Pathology, La Paz University Hospital, 28046 Madrid, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Cellular Engineering Laboratory, Hospital La Paz Institute for Health Research (IdiPAZ), 28046 Madrid, Spain
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Huang M, Wang Y, Fang L, Liu C, Feng F, Liu L, Sun C. T cell senescence: a new perspective on immunotherapy in lung cancer. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1338680. [PMID: 38415245 PMCID: PMC10896971 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1338680] [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: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
T cell senescence is an indication of T cell dysfunction. The ability of senescent T cells to respond to cognate antigens is reduced and they are in the late stage of differentiation and proliferation; therefore, they cannot recognize and eliminate tumor cells in a timely and effective manner, leading to the formation of the suppressive tumor microenvironment. Establishing methods to reverse T cell senescence is particularly important for immunotherapy. Aging exacerbates profound changes in the immune system, leading to increased susceptibility to chronic, infectious, and autoimmune diseases. Patients with malignant lung tumors have impaired immune function with a high risk of recurrence, metastasis, and mortality. Immunotherapy based on PD-1, PD-L1, CTLA-4, and other immune checkpoints is promising for treating lung malignancies. However, T cell senescence can lead to low efficacy or unsuccessful treatment results in some immunotherapies. Efficiently blocking and reversing T cell senescence is a key goal of the enhancement of tumor immunotherapy. This study discusses the characteristics, mechanism, and expression of T cell senescence in malignant lung tumors and the treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengge Huang
- College of First Clinical Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yuetong Wang
- College of First Clinical Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Liguang Fang
- College of First Clinical Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Cun Liu
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Fubin Feng
- Department of Oncology, Weifang Traditional Chinese Hospital, Weifang, China
| | - Lijuan Liu
- Department of Oncology, Weifang Traditional Chinese Hospital, Weifang, China
| | - Changgang Sun
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
- Department of Oncology, Weifang Traditional Chinese Hospital, Weifang, China
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Peng L, Dan J, Huang W, Sang L, Tian H, Li Z, Li W, Liu J, Luo Y. The dual effects of Congea chinensis Moldenke on inhibiting tumor cell proliferation and delaying aging by activating TERT transcriptional activity. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 319:117103. [PMID: 37673201 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Natural medicinal plants, also named herbs, have attracted considerable research attention for their potential pharmacological activities, such as antitumor and longevity-promoting activities. Our previous review proposed that maintaining the homeostatic balance between aging and cancer may benefit organisms to enable tumor-free longevity. Congea chinensis Moldenke (CCM) is a plant species that grows on the border of Yunnan Province of China. Its medicinal value has been few reports until now. Thus, screening and extraction the ingredients from CCM that are both active tumor suppressors and TERT activators is a therapeutic strategy for improving tumor-free longevity. AIM OF THE STUDY To extract and evaluate the cytotoxic antitumor and TERT transcription-promoting activities of the plant CCM. MATERIALS AND METHODS The ingredients extracted from CCM were tested for transcriptional activation of p53 using pGL4-p53-GFP cells and for TERT expression using a real-time PCR assay. In vitro antitumor activity was detected by sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay and Annexin V/PI staining assay. The cell-permeable probe H2DCFDA was used to detect intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). Western blot was performed to verify predicated proteins regulated by the ingredients. RNA-sequence analysis was applied to predicate the underlying mechanism of CCM. RESULTS Both CCM and MPRC2-8, two novel extracts of Congea chinensis Moldenke, activated the expression of p53 and TERT and were selectively cytotoxic toward tumor cells. In addition, the cytotoxic mechanism of MPRC2-8 was identified as ROS generation-induced apoptosis. Interestingly, MPRC2-8 showed opposite regulatory effects on the SIRT1-p53 axis in A549 and HT-29 cells, which have different p53 statuses. RNA-seq analysis showed that CCM and MPRC2-8 induced the p53, apoptosis and ROS signaling pathways, consistent with the results of cellular experiments in vitro. CONCLUSION Our study reveals that CCM and MPRC2-8 have two complementary activities, antitumor activity and TERT-activating activity, with potential antitumor and longevity-improving effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Peng
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Aging and Tumor, Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, China
| | - Juhua Dan
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Aging and Tumor, Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, China
| | - Wenhui Huang
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Aging and Tumor, Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, China
| | - Lei Sang
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Aging and Tumor, Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, China
| | - Hao Tian
- Institute of Medicinal Plants, Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Kunming, 650200, China
| | - Zhiming Li
- Institute of Medicinal Plants, Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Kunming, 650200, China
| | - Wanyi Li
- Institute of Medicinal Plants, Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Kunming, 650200, China.
| | - Jing Liu
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Aging and Tumor, Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650500, China.
| | - Ying Luo
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis & Drug Development on Common Chronic Diseases, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China.
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Schellnegger M, Hofmann E, Carnieletto M, Kamolz LP. Unlocking longevity: the role of telomeres and its targeting interventions. FRONTIERS IN AGING 2024; 5:1339317. [PMID: 38333665 PMCID: PMC10850353 DOI: 10.3389/fragi.2024.1339317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Average life expectancy has been steadily increasing in developed countries worldwide. These demographic changes are associated with an ever-growing social and economic strain to healthcare systems as well as society. The aging process typically manifests as a decline in physiological and cognitive functions, accompanied by a rise in chronic diseases. Consequently, strategies that both mitigate age-related diseases and promote healthy aging are urgently needed. Telomere attrition, characterized by the shortening of telomeres with each cell division, paradoxically serves as both a protective mechanism and a contributor to tissue degeneration and age-related ailments. Based on the essential role of telomere biology in aging, research efforts aim to develop approaches designed to counteract telomere attrition, aiming to delay or reduce age-related diseases. In this review, telomere biology and its role in aging and age-related diseases is summarized along with recent approaches to interfere with telomere shortening aiming at well- and healthy-aging as well as longevity. As aging research enters a new era, this review emphasizes telomere-targeting therapeutics, including telomerase activators and tankyrase inhibitors, while also exploring the effects of antioxidative and anti-inflammatory agents, along with indirectly related approaches like statins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlies Schellnegger
- Division of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- COREMED–Centre for Regenerative and Precision Medicine, JOANNEUM RESEARCH Forschungsgesellschaft mbH, Graz, Austria
| | - Elisabeth Hofmann
- Division of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- COREMED–Centre for Regenerative and Precision Medicine, JOANNEUM RESEARCH Forschungsgesellschaft mbH, Graz, Austria
- Research Unit for Tissue Regeneration, Repair and Reconstruction, Division of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Martina Carnieletto
- Division of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- COREMED–Centre for Regenerative and Precision Medicine, JOANNEUM RESEARCH Forschungsgesellschaft mbH, Graz, Austria
| | - Lars-Peter Kamolz
- Division of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- COREMED–Centre for Regenerative and Precision Medicine, JOANNEUM RESEARCH Forschungsgesellschaft mbH, Graz, Austria
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Kim JY, Yang DW, Kim S, Choi JG. Retrospective Analysis of the Clinical Characteristics of Patients with Breast Cancer Treated with Telomerase Peptide Immunotherapy Combined with Cytotoxic Chemotherapy. BREAST CANCER (DOVE MEDICAL PRESS) 2023; 15:955-966. [PMID: 38146419 PMCID: PMC10749539 DOI: 10.2147/bctt.s431333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Telomerase activation, a critical step in cancer progression, occurs in approximately 95% of breast cancer cases. Telomerase is an attractive therapeutic target for breast cancer owing to its unique expression pattern. GV1001, a telomerase-derived peptide, is loaded onto human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class II antigen-presenting cells and binds to CD4+ T cell activating immune responses. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of co-administration of GV1001 and cytotoxic chemotherapy in patients with heavily-treated metastatic breast cancer. Patients and methods We analyzed 63 patients with breast cancer who received both GV1001 and cytotoxic chemotherapy. The GV 1001 administration methods involves 0.56 mg intradermal injection three times during the first week, one time at weeks 2, 3, 4, and 6, and then once every 28 days. The primary endpoint of this study was quality of life according to EORTC QLO-C30 and EQ-5D, while the secondary endpoint was the antitumor response according to RECIST 1.1, progression-free survival, overall survival, and toxicity profile. Results In 34 patients with HR+ breast cancer evaluable for tumor response, the disease control rate (DCR) and overall response rate (ORR) were 58.8% and 26.4%, respectively. The DCR and ORR were 66.6% and 28.5% in 21 patients with HER-2+ and 50% and 25% in patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), respectively. The median progression free survival was 10.4, 8.7, and 5.6 months in HR+, HER-2+, TNBC, respectively. The overall survival was 19.7, 13.2, and 9.4 months for patients with HR+, HER-2+, and TNBC, respectively. Most patients had an improved quality of life with statistically significant differences in some variables. The patients in this study experienced no additional toxicities other than the cytotoxic chemotherapy-associated side effects. Conclusion GV1001 is a relatively safe anticancer vaccine for patients with heavily-treated breast cancer and can to improve the quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jong Yeup Kim
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Won Yang
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sangjae Kim
- Department of Research and Development, Teloid Inc., Los Angeles, CA, 90010, USA
| | - Jong Gwon Choi
- Department of Oncology-Hematology, Konyang University Hospital, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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Kumar N, Sethi G. Telomerase and hallmarks of cancer: An intricate interplay governing cancer cell evolution. Cancer Lett 2023; 578:216459. [PMID: 37863351 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Transformed cells must acquire specific characteristics to be malignant. Weinberg and Hanahan characterize these characteristics as cancer hallmarks. Though these features are independently driven, substantial signaling crosstalk in transformed cells efficiently promotes these feature acquisitions. Telomerase is an enzyme complex that maintains telomere length. However, its main component, Telomere reverse transcriptase (TERT), has been found to interact with various signaling molecules like cMYC, NF-kB, BRG1 and cooperate in transcription and metabolic reprogramming, acting as a strong proponent of malignant features such as cell death resistance, sustained proliferation, angiogenesis activation, and metastasis, among others. It allows cells to avoid replicative senescence and achieve endless replicative potential. This review summarizes both the canonical and noncanonical functions of TERT and discusses how they promote cancer hallmarks. Understanding the role of Telomerase in promoting cancer hallmarks provides vital insight into the underlying mechanism of cancer genesis and progression and telomerase intervention as a possible therapeutic target for cancer treatment. More investigation into the precise molecular mechanisms of telomerase-mediated impacts on cancer hallmarks will contribute to developing more focused and customized cancer treatment methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naveen Kumar
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore, 138673, Singapore
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology and NUS Centre for Cancer Research, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117600, Singapore.
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Yegorov YE. Olovnikov, Telomeres, and Telomerase. Is It Possible to Prolong a Healthy Life? BIOCHEMISTRY. BIOKHIMIIA 2023; 88:1704-1718. [PMID: 38105192 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297923110032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
The science of telomeres and telomerase has made tremendous progress in recent decades. In this review, we consider it first in a historical context (the Carrel-Hayflick-Olovnikov-Blackburn chain of discoveries) and then review current knowledge on the telomere structure and dynamics in norm and pathology. Central to the review are consequences of the telomere shortening, including telomere position effects, DNA damage signaling, and increased genetic instability. Cell senescence and role of telomere length in its development are discussed separately. Therapeutic aspects and risks of telomere lengthening methods including use of telomerase and other approaches are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yegor E Yegorov
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991, Russia.
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Ma C, Li X, Ding W, Zhang X, Chen H, Feng Y. Effects of hTERT transfection on the telomere and telomerase of Periplaneta americana cells in vitro. AMB Express 2023; 13:118. [PMID: 37864620 PMCID: PMC10590340 DOI: 10.1186/s13568-023-01624-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Telomere and telomerase are crucial factors in cell division and chromosome stability. Telomerase activity in most cells depends on the transcription control by the telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT). The introduction of an exogenous human TERT (hTERT) in cultured cells could enhance telomerase activity and elongate the lifespan of various cells. Telomere elongation mechanisms vary between insects and are complex and unusual. Whether the use of exogenous hTERT can immortalize primary insect cells remains to be investigated. In this study, we used a recombinant virus expressing hTERT to infect primary cultured cells of Periplaneta americana and evaluated its effects on insect cell immortalization. We found that hTERT was successfully expressed and promoted the growth of P. americana cells, shortening their doubling time. This was due to the ability of hTERT to increase the activity of telomerase in P. americana cells, thus prolonging the telomeres. Our study lays the foundation for understanding the mechanisms of telomere elongation in P. americana, and suggests that the introduction of hTERT into insect cells could be an efficient way to establish certain insect cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenjing Ma
- Key Laboratory of Breeding and Utilization of Resource Insects of National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Institute of Highland Forest Science, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650224, China
- Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210037, China
| | - Xian Li
- Key Laboratory of Breeding and Utilization of Resource Insects of National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Institute of Highland Forest Science, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650224, China
| | - Weifeng Ding
- Key Laboratory of Breeding and Utilization of Resource Insects of National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Institute of Highland Forest Science, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650224, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Breeding and Utilization of Resource Insects of National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Institute of Highland Forest Science, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650224, China.
| | - Hang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Breeding and Utilization of Resource Insects of National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Institute of Highland Forest Science, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650224, China
| | - Ying Feng
- Key Laboratory of Breeding and Utilization of Resource Insects of National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Institute of Highland Forest Science, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650224, China
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Liang G, He Z, Peng H, Zeng M, Zhang X. Cigarette smoke extract induces the senescence of endothelial progenitor cells by upregulating p300. Tob Induc Dis 2023; 21:122. [PMID: 37794858 PMCID: PMC10546488 DOI: 10.18332/tid/170581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are the main source of endothelial cells. The senescence of EPCs is involved in the pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Cigarette smoke extract (CSE) can directly induce the dysfunction and increased expression of senescence-related markers in EPCs cultured in vitro. Histone acetyltransferase p300 is a transcriptional activator, and its changes can lead to cell senescence. The present study investigated whether CSE can induce the senescence of EPCs by upregulating p300. METHODS EPCs were isolated from bone marrow of C57BL/6J mice by density gradient centrifugation. The p300 inhibitor C646 and agonist CTPB were used to interfere with EPCs, cell cycle and apoptosis were detected by flow cytometry, the proportion of senile cells was counted by β-galactosidase staining, the protein expression of p300, H4K12, Cyclin D1, TERT and Ki67 were detected by western blot. RESULTS Compared with the control group, the cell cycle of CSE group and CTPB group were blocked, the apoptosis rate and early apoptosis rate were increased, the proportion of senile cells counted by β-galactosidase staining was increased, the expression of p300 and H4K12 protein were increased, the expression of Cyclin D1, TERT and Ki67 protein were decreased. C646 could partly alleviate the damages caused by CSE. CONCLUSIONS CSE may promote the apoptosis and senescence of EPCs by upregulating the expression of p300 and H4K12 protein, thus preventing the transition of EPCs from G1 phase to S phase, affecting telomerase synthesis, and reducing EPCs proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guibin Liang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhihui He
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Huaihuai Peng
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Menghao Zeng
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xuefeng Zhang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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15
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Dratwa M, Łacina P, Butrym A, Porzuczek D, Mazur G, Bogunia-Kubik K. Telomere length and hTERT genetic variants as potential prognostic markers in multiple myeloma. Sci Rep 2023; 13:15792. [PMID: 37737335 PMCID: PMC10517131 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-43141-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Telomere dysfunction is a notable event observed in many cancers contributing to their genomic instability. A major factor controlling telomere stability is the human telomerase reverse transcriptase catalytic subunit (hTERT). Telomere shortening has been observed in multiple myeloma (MM), a plasma cell malignancy with a complex and heterogeneous genetic background. In the present study, we aimed to analyse telomere length and hTERT genetic variants as potential markers of risk and survival in 251 MM patients. We found that telomere length was significantly shorter in MM patients than in healthy individuals, and patients with more advanced disease (stage III according to the International Staging System) had shorter telomeres than patients with less advanced disease. MM patients with hTERT allele rs2736100 T were characterized with significantly shorter progression-free survival (PFS). Moreover, allele rs2736100 T was also found to be less common in patients with disease progression in response to treatment. hTERT rs2853690 T was associated with higher haemoglobin blood levels and lower C-reactive protein. In conclusion, our results suggest that telomere length and hTERT genetic variability may affect MM development and can be potential prognostic markers in this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Dratwa
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunogenetics and Pharmacogenetics, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Piotr Łacina
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunogenetics and Pharmacogenetics, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Butrym
- Department of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Wroclaw Medical University, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Diana Porzuczek
- Department of Internal, Occupational Diseases, Hypertension and Clinical Oncology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Mazur
- Department of Internal, Occupational Diseases, Hypertension and Clinical Oncology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Bogunia-Kubik
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunogenetics and Pharmacogenetics, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wrocław, Poland.
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Wolf SE, Shalev I. The shelterin protein expansion of telomere dynamics: Linking early life adversity, life history, and the hallmarks of aging. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 152:105261. [PMID: 37268182 PMCID: PMC10527177 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105261] [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: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Aging is characterized by functional decline occurring alongside changes to several hallmarks of aging. One of the hallmarks includes attrition of repeated DNA sequences found at the ends of chromosomes called telomeres. While telomere attrition is linked to morbidity and mortality, whether and how it causally contributes to lifelong rates of functional decline is unclear. In this review, we propose the shelterin-telomere hypothesis of life history, in which telomere-binding shelterin proteins translate telomere attrition into a range of physiological outcomes, the extent of which may be modulated by currently understudied variation in shelterin protein levels. Shelterin proteins may expand the breadth and timing of consequences of telomere attrition, e.g., by translating early life adversity into acceleration of the aging process. We consider how the pleiotropic roles of shelterin proteins provide novel insights into natural variation in physiology, life history, and lifespan. We highlight key open questions that encourage the integrative, organismal study of shelterin proteins that enhances our understanding of the contribution of the telomere system to aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Wolf
- Department of Biobehavioral Health, Penn State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA.
| | - Idan Shalev
- Department of Biobehavioral Health, Penn State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
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Wang Y, Dai L, Huang R, Li W, Wu W. Prognosis signature for predicting the survival and immunotherapy response in esophageal carcinoma based on cellular senescence-related genes. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1203351. [PMID: 37664030 PMCID: PMC10470646 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1203351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cellular senescence occurs throughout life and can play beneficial roles in a variety of physiological processes, including embryonic development, tissue repair, and tumor suppression. However, the relationship between cellular senescence-related genes (CSRGs) and immunotherapy in esophageal carcinoma (ECa) remains poorly defined. Methods The data set used in the analysis was retrieved from TCGA (Research Resource Identifier (RRID): SCR_003193), GEO (RRID: SCR_005012), and CellAge databases. Data processing, statistical analysis, and diagram formation were conducted in R software (RRID: SCR_001905) and GraphPad Prism (RRID: SCR_002798). Based on CSRGs, we used the TCGA database to construct a prognostic signature for ECa and then validated it in the GEO database. The predictive efficiency of the signature was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, Cox regression analysis, nomogram, and calibration curves. According to the median risk score derived from CSRGs, patients with ECa were divided into high- and low-risk groups. Immune infiltration and immunotherapy were also analyzed between the two risk groups. Finally, the hub genes of the differences between the two risk groups were identified by the STRING (RRID: SCR_005223) database and Cytoscape (RRID: SCR_003032) software. Results A six-gene risk signature (DEK, RUNX1, SMARCA4, SREBF1, TERT, and TOP1) was constructed in the TCGA database. Patients in the high-risk group had a worse overall survival (OS) was disclosed by survival analysis. As expected, the signature presented equally prognostic significance in the GSE53624 cohort. Next, the Area Under ROC Curve (AUC=0.854) and multivariate Cox regression analysis (HR=3.381, 2.073-5.514, P<0.001) also proved that the risk signature has a high predictive ability. Furthermore, we can more accurately predict the prognosis of patients with ECa by nomogram constructed by risk score. The result of the TIDE algorithm showed that ECa patients in the high-risk group had a greater possibility of immune escape. At last, a total of ten hub genes (APOA1, MUC5AC, GC, APOA4, AMBP, FABP1, APOA2, SOX2, MUC8, MUC17) between two risk groups with the highest interaction degrees were identified. By further analysis, four hub genes (APOA4, AMBP, FABP1, and APOA2) were related to the survival differences of ECa. Conclusions Our study reveals comprehensive clues that a novel signature based on CSRGs may provide reliable prognosis prediction and insight into new therapy for patients with ECa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Wang
- Anhui No.2 Provinicial People's Hospital Clinical College of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Department of General Surgery, Anhui No.2 Provinicial People's Hospital, Hefei, China
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Longfei Dai
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Ran Huang
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Weisong Li
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Wenyong Wu
- Anhui No.2 Provinicial People's Hospital Clinical College of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Department of General Surgery, Anhui No.2 Provinicial People's Hospital, Hefei, China
- The Fifth Clinical Medical College of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
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Fischer AK, Semaan A, Wulf AL, Vokuhl C, Goltz D, Fischer HP. Pathology of Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Tumor-Bearing Liver Tissue in Association with hTERT Promoter Mutation. Int J Hepatol 2023; 2023:4313504. [PMID: 37593089 PMCID: PMC10432107 DOI: 10.1155/2023/4313504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The hTERT promoter mutation represents a common and early event in hepatocarcinogenesis, but its linkage to the morphological status of the underlying liver tissue is poorly understood. We analyzed the connection between the histopathological changes in tumor-bearing liver tissue and the occurrence of the hTERT promoter mutation in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), correlated with clinical data. Methods The study cohort comprised 160 histologically confirmed HCC in patients with or without cirrhosis that were investigated for the hTERT promoter mutation. We evaluated the frequency of the hTERT promoter mutation in patients with HCC with or without cirrhosis and correlated it with potential clinical and histopathological drivers. In particular, we examined tumor-bearing noncirrhotic liver tissue regarding inflammation; the modified histological activity index (mHAI), fibrosis, and steatosis; and its correlation with the frequency of the hTERT promoter mutation in HCC. We evaluated overall survival with multivariate Cox regression. Furthermore, we compared hTERT antibody immunohistochemistry and molecular hTERT promoter mutation analysis of both HCC and background liver tissue. Results The hTERT promoter mutation was especially related to HCC in cirrhotic compared with noncirrhotic liver (p < 0.001) and independently of cirrhosis in patients ≥ 60 years (p = 0.005). Furthermore, the hTERT promoter mutation was associated with cirrhosis caused by alcohol toxicity and hepatitis C virus infection. In noncirrhotic liver tissue, the frequency of hTERT-promoter-mutated HCC increased with the degree of inflammation and fibrosis. Nevertheless, 25% of the hTERT-promoter-mutated HCC developed in normal liver tissue without HCC risk factors. Multivariate Cox regression analysis did not reveal an influence of the hTERT promoter mutation in HCC on overall survival at 3, 5, and 16 years. Immunohistochemical analysis with the hTERT antibodies LS-B95 and 2D8 in hTERT-promoter-mutated HCC and hTERT-wildtype HCC showed a mildly stronger immunoreaction compared with the tumor-bearing liver tissue (LS-B95: p < 0.01, 2D8: p < 0.01). Conclusions Our study reveals a connection between pathological changes in tumor-bearing liver tissue and the hTERT promoter mutation in most HCC, even in noncirrhotic liver tissue. Immunohistochemical hTERT antibodies do not discriminate between hTERT-promoter-mutated and wildtype HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexander Semaan
- Department of General, Visceral, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University of Bonn, Venusberg Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Anna-Lena Wulf
- Institute of Pathology, University of Bonn, Venusberg Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Christian Vokuhl
- Institute of Pathology, University of Bonn, Venusberg Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Diane Goltz
- Institute of Pathology and Hematopathology Hamburg, Fangdieckstraße 75a, 22547 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hans-Peter Fischer
- Institute of Pathology, University of Bonn, Venusberg Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
- Institute of Pathology Troisdorf, Mendener Str. 12, 53840 Troisdorf, Germany
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Biglari N, Soltani-Zangbar MS, Mohammadian J, Mehdizadeh A, Abbasi K. ctDNA as a novel and promising approach for cancer diagnosis: a focus on hepatocellular carcinoma. EXCLI JOURNAL 2023; 22:752-780. [PMID: 37720239 PMCID: PMC10502204 DOI: 10.17179/excli2023-6277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most prevalent forms of cancer worldwide. Therefore, it is essential to diagnose and treat HCC patients promptly. As a novel discovery, circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) can be used to analyze the tumor type and the cancer location. Additionally, ctDNA assists the cancer stage determination, which enables medical professionals to provide patients with the most appropriate treatment. This review will discuss the HCC-related mutated genes diagnosed by ctDNA. In addition, we will introduce the different and the most appropriate ctDNA diagnosis approaches based on the facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Negin Biglari
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Sadegh Soltani-Zangbar
- Connective Tissue Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Jamal Mohammadian
- School of Advanced Medical Science, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Mehdizadeh
- Hematology and Oncology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Khadijeh Abbasi
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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20
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Giunco S, Padovan M, Angelini C, Cavallin F, Cerretti G, Morello M, Caccese M, Rizzo B, d'Avella D, Puppa AD, Chioffi F, De Bonis P, Zagonel V, De Rossi A, Lombardi G. Prognostic role and interaction of TERT promoter status, telomere length and MGMT promoter methylation in newly diagnosed IDH wild-type glioblastoma patients. ESMO Open 2023; 8:101570. [PMID: 37230028 DOI: 10.1016/j.esmoop.2023.101570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The clinical relevance of promoter mutations and single nucleotide polymorphism rs2853669 of telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) and telomere length in patients with isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) wild-type glioblastoma (GBM) patients remains unclear. Moreover, some studies speculated that TERT promoter status might influence the prognostic role of O6-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) promoter methylation in newly diagnosed GBM. We carried out a large study to investigate their clinical impact and their interaction in newly diagnosed GBM patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS We included 273 newly diagnosed IDH wild-type GBM patients who started treatment at Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV - IRCCS (Padua, Italy) from December 2016 to January 2020. TERT promoter mutations (-124 C>T and -146 C>T) and SNP rs2853669 (-245 T>C), relative telomere length (RTL) and MGMT methylation status were retrospectively assessed in this prospective cohort of patients. RESULTS Median overall survival (OS) of 273 newly diagnosed IDH wild-type GBM patients was 15 months. TERT promoter was mutated in 80.2% of patients, and most had the rs2853669 single nucleotide polymorphism as T/T genotype (46.2%). Median RTL was 1.57 (interquartile range 1.13-2.32). MGMT promoter was methylated in 53.4% of cases. At multivariable analysis, RTL and TERT promoter mutations were not associated with OS or progression-free survival (PFS). Notably, patients C carrier of rs2853669 (C/C+C/T genotypes) showed a better PFS compared with those with the T/T genotype (hazard ratio 0.69, P = 0.007). In terms of OS and PFS, all interactions between MGMT, TERT and RTL and between TERT and rs2853669 genotype were not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest the presence of the C variant allele at the rs2853669 of the TERT promoter as an attractive independent prognostic biomarker of disease progression in IDH wild-type GBM patients. RTL and TERT promoter mutational status were not correlated to survival regardless of MGMT methylation status.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Giunco
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy; Immunology and Molecular Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV - IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - M Padovan
- Department of Oncology, Oncology 1, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV - IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - C Angelini
- Neurosurgery, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - F Cavallin
- Independent Statistician, Solagna, Italy
| | - G Cerretti
- Department of Oncology, Oncology 1, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV - IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - M Morello
- Immunology and Molecular Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV - IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - M Caccese
- Department of Oncology, Oncology 1, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV - IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - B Rizzo
- Immunology and Molecular Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV - IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - D d'Avella
- Department of Neuroscience, Neurosurgery, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - A D Puppa
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Area and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - F Chioffi
- Neurosurgery, Azienda Ospedaliera- Università Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - P De Bonis
- Neurosurgery, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - V Zagonel
- Department of Oncology, Oncology 1, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV - IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - A De Rossi
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy; Immunology and Molecular Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV - IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - G Lombardi
- Department of Oncology, Oncology 1, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV - IRCCS, Padua, Italy.
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Parekh N, Garg A, Choudhary R, Gupta M, Kaur G, Ramniwas S, Shahwan M, Tuli HS, Sethi G. The Role of Natural Flavonoids as Telomerase Inhibitors in Suppressing Cancer Growth. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16040605. [PMID: 37111362 PMCID: PMC10143453 DOI: 10.3390/ph16040605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a complex and multifaceted group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. While cancer can be challenging and life-altering, advances in research and development have led to the identification of new promising anti-cancer targets. Telomerase is one such target that is overexpressed in almost all cancer cells and plays a critical role in maintaining telomere length, which is essential for cell proliferation and survival. Inhibiting telomerase activity can lead to telomere shortening and eventual cell death, thus presenting itself as a potential target for cancer therapy. Naturally occurring flavonoids are a class of compounds that have already been shown to possess different biological properties, including the anti-cancer property. They are present in various everyday food sources and richly present in fruits, nuts, soybeans, vegetables, tea, wine, and berries, to name a few. Thus, these flavonoids could inhibit or deactivate telomerase expression in cancer cells by different mechanisms, which include inhibiting the expression of hTERT, mRNA, protein, and nuclear translocation, inhibiting the binding of transcription factors to hTERT promoters, and even telomere shortening. Numerous cell line studies and in vivo experiments have supported this hypothesis, and this development could serve as a vital and innovative therapeutic option for cancer. In this light, we aim to elucidate the role of telomerase as a potential anti-cancer target. Subsequently, we have illustrated that how commonly found natural flavonoids demonstrate their anti-cancer activity via telomerase inactivation in different cancer types, thus proving the potential of these naturally occurring flavonoids as useful therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neel Parekh
- Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy & Technology Management, SVKM'S NMIMS, Vile Parle (W), Mumbai 400056, India
| | - Ashish Garg
- Department of P.G. Studies and Research in Chemistry and Pharmacy, Rani Durgavati University Jabalpur, Jabalpur 482001, India
| | - Renuka Choudhary
- Department of Biotechnology, Maharishi Markandeshwar, Deemed to be University, Ambala 133207, India
| | - Madhu Gupta
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, Pushp Vihar, New Delhi 110017, India
| | - Ginpreet Kaur
- Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy & Technology Management, SVKM'S NMIMS, Vile Parle (W), Mumbai 400056, India
| | - Seema Ramniwas
- University Centre for Research and Development, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chandigarh University, Gharuan, Mohali 140413, India
| | - Moyad Shahwan
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Ajman University, Ajman 346, United Arab Emirates
- Centre of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman 346, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hardeep Singh Tuli
- Department of Biotechnology, Maharishi Markandeshwar, Deemed to be University, Ambala 133207, India
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore
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22
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Boscolo-Rizzo P, Tirelli G, Polesel J, Sia E, Phillips V, Borsetto D, De Rossi A, Giunco S. TERT promoter mutations in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: A systematic review and meta-analysis on prevalence and prognostic significance. Oral Oncol 2023; 140:106398. [PMID: 37075587 DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2023.106398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To estimate the prevalence of two most common and mutually exclusive -124 C > T and -146 C > T TERT promoter mutations in HNSCC and analyse their prognostic role. MATERIALS AND METHODS The databases Medline (via Ovid), Embase (via Ovid), Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science (Core Collection) were searched from inception to December 2022 to identify studies analysing TERT promoter mutations in HNSCC. Pooled prevalence of TERT promoter mutations and hazard ratio (sHR) of death/progression, with corresponding confidence intervals (CI), were estimated. RESULTS The initial search returned 6416 articles, of which 17 studies, including 1830 patients, met the criteria for prevalence meta-analysis. Among them, 8 studies fitted the inclusion criterion to analyse the prognostic impact of TERT promoter mutations. Overall, 21% (95% CI: 12%-31%) of HNSCCs harboured TERT promoter mutation. TERT promoter mutations were more commonly found in oral cavity cancer (prevalence = 47%, 95% CI: 33%-61%), followed by laryngeal/hypopharyngeal cancer (prevalence = 12%, 95% CI: 4%-25%), while they were quite rare in oropharyngeal cancer (prevalence = 1%, 95% CI: 0%-4%). TERT promoter mutation -124 C > T was associated with a higher risk of death (sHR = 2.01, 95% CI: 1.25-3.23) and progression (sHR = 2.79, 95% CI: 1.77-4.40), while -146 C > T TERT promoter mutation did not show any significant correlation neither to overall nor progression-free survival. CONCLUSION TERT promoter mutations were mainly topographically restricted to oral cavity cancer. -124 C > T was the most common TERT promoter mutation and was significantly associated to worse outcome in HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Boscolo-Rizzo
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, Section of Otolaryngology, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy.
| | - Giancarlo Tirelli
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, Section of Otolaryngology, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Jerry Polesel
- Unit of Cancer Epidemiology, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, Aviano, Italy
| | - Egidio Sia
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, Section of Otolaryngology, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | | | - Daniele Borsetto
- Department of ENT, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Anita De Rossi
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, Section of Oncology and Immunology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy; Immunology and Diagnostic Molecular Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV- IRCCS, Padova, Italy
| | - Silvia Giunco
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, Section of Oncology and Immunology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy; Immunology and Diagnostic Molecular Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV- IRCCS, Padova, Italy
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Palamarchuk AI, Kovalenko EI, Streltsova MA. Multiple Actions of Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase in Cell Death Regulation. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11041091. [PMID: 37189709 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11041091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT), a core part of telomerase, has been known for a long time only for its telomere lengthening function by reverse transcription of RNA template. Currently, TERT is considered as an intriguing link between multiple signaling pathways. The diverse intracellular localization of TERT corresponds to a wide range of functional activities. In addition to the canonical function of protecting chromosome ends, TERT by itself or as a part of the telomerase complex participates in cell stress responses, gene regulation and mitochondria functioning. Upregulation of TERT expression and increased telomerase activity in cancer and somatic cells relate to improved survival and persistence of such cells. In this review, we summarize the data for a comprehensive understanding of the role of TERT in cell death regulation, with a focus on the interaction of TERT with signaling pathways involved in cell survival and stress response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia I. Palamarchuk
- Shemyakin & Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Ul. Miklukho-Maklaya 16/10, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Elena I. Kovalenko
- Shemyakin & Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Ul. Miklukho-Maklaya 16/10, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Maria A. Streltsova
- Shemyakin & Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Ul. Miklukho-Maklaya 16/10, 117997 Moscow, Russia
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Xue X, Wang J, Fu K, Dai S, Wu R, Peng C, Li Y. The role of miR-155 on liver diseases by modulating immunity, inflammation and tumorigenesis. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 116:109775. [PMID: 36753984 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.109775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The liver is a well-known metabolic organ that can be susceptible to external stimuli to affect its normal physiological function. Worldwide, the morbidity and mortality of liver diseases are skyrocketing every year, causing human health crises. Recently, new approaches such as biotechnology have been introduced to achieve optimal treatment and prognostic management of liver diseases. microRNAs (miRNAs), a kind of small non-coding RNA molecule, have the advantages of biodiversity, wide distribution and numerous members. Among these miRNAs, miR-155 is an important regulator of inflammation, immunity and tumorigenesis. In this review, the PubMed and Web of Science databases were searched from 2009 to 2022. After inclusion and exclusion, 64 articles were selected for a systematic review to comprehensively summarize the mechanisms of miR-155 regulating inflammation, immunity and tumorigenesis in liver diseases and liver cancer, covering in vitro, in vivo and clinical studies. Existing preclinical studies and clinical trials have listed that the up-regulation and down-regulation of miR-155 are significant in alcoholic liver injury, viral hepatitis, autoimmune hepatitis, infectious liver injury, liver transplantation and liver cancer. The immune and inflammation effects of miR-155 are manifested by regulating macrophage polarization, NK cell killing, Th17 cell and Th1/Th2 cell differentiation. Additionally, miR-155 is also committed to participating in the cell cycle, invasion and metastasis, immune escape and other processes to promote and intensify the development of liver cancer. In conclusion, miR-155 is not only a biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of liver diseases, but also plays a therapeutic role via regulating immunity, inflammation and tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyan Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Jing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Ke Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Shu Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Rui Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Cheng Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.
| | - Yunxia Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Key Laboratory of Standardization for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.
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25
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Cheng L, Zhang S, Wang M, Lopez-Beltran A. Biological and clinical perspectives of TERT promoter mutation detection on bladder cancer diagnosis and management. Hum Pathol 2023; 133:56-75. [PMID: 35700749 DOI: 10.1016/j.humpath.2022.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) promoter mutations are associated with increased TERT mRNA and TERT protein levels, telomerase activity, and shorter but stable telomere length. TERT promoter mutation is the most common mutation that occurs in approximately 60-80% of patients with bladder cancer. The TERT promoter mutations occur in a wide spectrum of urothelial lesions, including benign urothelial proliferation and tumor-like conditions, benign urothelial tumors, premalignant and putative precursor lesions, urothelial carcinoma and its variants, and nonurothelial malignancies. The prevalence and incidence of TERT promoter mutations in a total of 7259 cases from the urinary tract were systematically reviewed. Different platforms of TERT promoter mutation detection were presented. In this review, we also discussed the significance and clinical implications of TERT promoter mutation detection in urothelial tumorigenesis, surveillance and early detection, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, prognosis, prediction of treatment responses, and clinical outcome. Identification of TERT promoter mutations from urine or plasma cell-free DNA (liquid biopsy) will facilitate bladder cancer screening program and optimal clinical management. A better understanding of TERT promoter mutation and its pathway would open new therapeutic avenues for patients with bladder cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Cheng
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University and Lifespan Academic Medical Center, Providence, RI, 02903, USA.
| | - Shaobo Zhang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Mingsheng Wang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Antonio Lopez-Beltran
- Department of Morphological Sciences, University of Cordoba Medical School, Cordoba, E-14004, Spain
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26
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Xian S, Dosset M, Castro A, Carter H, Zanetti M. Transcriptional analysis links B cells and TERT expression to favorable prognosis in head and neck cancer. PNAS NEXUS 2023; 2:pgad046. [PMID: 36909826 PMCID: PMC10003760 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgad046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) is a conserved self-tumor antigen overexpressed in ∼85% of tumor cells and is immunogenic in cancer patients. The effect of TERT expression on the regulation of intratumor adaptive immunity has not yet been investigated. We used RNA sequencing data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) in 11 solid tumor types to investigate potential interactions between TERT expression, and B and T cell infiltrate in the tumor microenvironment. We found a positive correlation between TERT expression, B and T cells in four cancer types with the strongest association in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HSNCC). In HNSCC a Bhigh/TERThigh signature was associated with improved progression-free survival (PFS) (P = 0.0048). This effect was independent of HPV status and not shared in comparable analysis by other conserved tumor antigens (NYESO1, MUC1, MAGE, and CEA). Bhigh/TERThigh HNSCC tumors also harbored evidence of tertiary lymphoid structure (TLS) such as signatures for germinal center (GC) and switched memory B cells, central memory CD4 and effector memory CD8 T cells. Bhigh/TERThigh HNSCC tumors also showed an up-regulation of genes and pathways related to B and T cell activation, proliferation, migration, and cytotoxicity, while factors associated with immunosuppression and cancer cell invasiveness were down-regulated. In summary, our study uncovers a new association between high TERT expression and high B cell infiltrate in HNSCC, suggesting a potential benefit from therapeutic strategies that invigorate intratumor TERT-mediated T-B cooperation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su Xian
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Medicine, Bioinformatics and System Biology Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Magalie Dosset
- The Laboratory of Immunology, Department of Medicine and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Andrea Castro
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Medicine, Bioinformatics and System Biology Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Hannah Carter
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Medicine, Bioinformatics and System Biology Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Maurizio Zanetti
- The Laboratory of Immunology, Department of Medicine and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
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Wang H, Wang S, Wang H, Liang Y, Li Z. Sensitive and amplification-free detection of telomerase activity by self-extension of telomerase and trans-cleavage of CRISPR/Cas12a. Talanta 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2022.123999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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28
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Zhao C, Zhang L, Hu Y, Nie C, Chen TT, Chu X. Simultaneous Imaging and Visualizing the Association of Survivin mRNA and Telomerase in Living Cells by Using a Dual-Color Encoded DNA Nanomachine. Anal Chem 2023; 95:1498-1504. [PMID: 36598384 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.2c04531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Simultaneous imaging and especially visualizing the association of survivin mRNA and telomerase in living cells are of great value for the diagnosis and prognosis of cancer because their co-expression facilitates the development of cancer and identifies patients at high risk of tumor-related death. The challenge is to develop methods that enable visualizing the association of multiplex targets and avoid the distorted signals due to the different delivery efficiency of probes. Herein, we engineered a DNA triangular prism nanomachine (DTPN) for simultaneous multicolor imaging of survivin mRNA and telomerase and visualizing their association in living cells. Two recognizing probes targeted survivin mRNA and telomerase, and the reporter probe was assembled on the DTP in equal amounts, ensuring the same delivery efficiency of the probes to the living cells. The results showed that this DTPN could quantify intracellular survivin mRNA expression and telomerase activity. Moreover, it also enabled us to visualize the effect of the down-regulation of one target on the expression of another target under different drug stimulations. The results implied that our DTPN provided a promising platform for cancer diagnosis, prognosis, drug screening, and related biological research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Bio-Sensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P. R. China
| | - Lan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Bio-Sensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P. R. China
| | - Yanlei Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Bio-Sensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P. R. China
| | - Cunpeng Nie
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Bio-Sensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P. R. China
| | - Ting-Ting Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Bio-Sensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P. R. China
| | - Xia Chu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Bio-Sensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P. R. China
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29
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Alzoubi H, Minasi S, Gianno F, Antonelli M, Belardinilli F, Giangaspero F, Jaffrain-Rea ML, Buttarelli FR. Alternative Lengthening of Telomeres (ALT) and Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase Promoter Methylation in Recurrent Adult and Primary Pediatric Pituitary Neuroendocrine Tumors. Endocr Pathol 2022; 33:494-505. [PMID: 34993885 DOI: 10.1007/s12022-021-09702-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Neoplastic cells acquire the ability to proliferate endlessly by maintaining telomeres via telomerase, or alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT). The role of telomere maintenance in pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs) has yet to be thoroughly investigated. We analyzed surgical samples of 24 adult recurrent PitNETs (including onset and relapses for 14 of them) and 12 pediatric primary PitNETs. The presence of ALT was assessed using telomere-specific fluorescence in situ hybridization, methylation of telomerase reverse transcriptase promoter (TERTp) by methylation-specific PCR, and ATRX expression by immunohistochemistry. Among the adult recurrent PitNETs, we identified 3/24 (12.5%) ALT-positive cases. ALT was present from the onset and maintained in subsequent relapses, suggesting that this mechanism occurs early in tumorigenesis and is stable during progression. ATRX loss was only seen in one ALT-positive case. Noteworthy, ALT was observed in 3 out of 5 aggressive PitNETs, including two aggressive corticotroph tumors, eventually leading to patient's death. ALT-negative tumors (87.5%) were classified according to their low (29.2%), medium (50%), and high (8.3%) telomere fluorescence intensity, with no significant differences emerging in their molecular, clinical, or pathological characteristics. TERTp methylation was found in 6/24 cases (25%), with a total concordance in methylation status between onset and recurrences, suggesting that this mechanism remains stable throughout disease progression. TERTp methylation did not influence telomere length. In the pediatric cohort of PitNETs, TERTp methylation was also observed in 4/12 cases (33.3%), but no case of ALT activation was observed. In conclusion, ALT is triggered at onset and maintained during tumor progression in a subset of adult PitNETs, suggesting that it could be used for clinical purposes, as a potential predictor of aggressive behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiba Alzoubi
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Simone Minasi
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Anatomo-Pathological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Gianno
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Anatomo-Pathological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Manila Antonelli
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Anatomo-Pathological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Felice Giangaspero
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Anatomo-Pathological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Marie-Lise Jaffrain-Rea
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
- IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Francesca Romana Buttarelli
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Anatomo-Pathological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
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30
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Long E, Yin J, Funderburk KM, Xu M, Feng J, Kane A, Zhang T, Myers T, Golden A, Thakur R, Kong H, Jessop L, Kim EY, Jones K, Chari R, Machiela MJ, Yu K, Iles MM, Landi MT, Law MH, Chanock SJ, Brown KM, Choi J. Massively parallel reporter assays and variant scoring identified functional variants and target genes for melanoma loci and highlighted cell-type specificity. Am J Hum Genet 2022; 109:2210-2229. [PMID: 36423637 PMCID: PMC9748337 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2022.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The most recent genome-wide association study (GWAS) of cutaneous melanoma identified 54 risk-associated loci, but functional variants and their target genes for most have not been established. Here, we performed massively parallel reporter assays (MPRAs) by using malignant melanoma and normal melanocyte cells and further integrated multi-layer annotation to systematically prioritize functional variants and susceptibility genes from these GWAS loci. Of 1,992 risk-associated variants tested in MPRAs, we identified 285 from 42 loci (78% of the known loci) displaying significant allelic transcriptional activities in either cell type (FDR < 1%). We further characterized MPRA-significant variants by motif prediction, epigenomic annotation, and statistical/functional fine-mapping to create integrative variant scores, which prioritized one to six plausible candidate variants per locus for the 42 loci and nominated a single variant for 43% of these loci. Overlaying the MPRA-significant variants with genome-wide significant expression or methylation quantitative trait loci (eQTLs or meQTLs, respectively) from melanocytes or melanomas identified candidate susceptibility genes for 60% of variants (172 of 285 variants). CRISPRi of top-scoring variants validated their cis-regulatory effect on the eQTL target genes, MAFF (22q13.1) and GPRC5A (12p13.1). Finally, we identified 36 melanoma-specific and 45 melanocyte-specific MPRA-significant variants, a subset of which are linked to cell-type-specific target genes. Analyses of transcription factor availability in MPRA datasets and variant-transcription-factor interaction in eQTL datasets highlighted the roles of transcription factors in cell-type-specific variant functionality. In conclusion, MPRAs along with variant scoring effectively prioritized plausible candidates for most melanoma GWAS loci and highlighted cellular contexts where the susceptibility variants are functional.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erping Long
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jinhu Yin
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Karen M. Funderburk
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Mai Xu
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - James Feng
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Alexander Kane
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Tongwu Zhang
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Timothy Myers
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Alyxandra Golden
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Rohit Thakur
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Hyunkyung Kong
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Lea Jessop
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Eun Young Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kristine Jones
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Raj Chari
- Genome Modification Core, Frederick National Lab for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Mitchell J. Machiela
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Kai Yu
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | | - Mark M. Iles
- Leeds Institute for Data Analytics, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9NL, UK
| | - Maria Teresa Landi
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Matthew H. Law
- Statistical Genetics, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia,Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia,School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Stephen J. Chanock
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Kevin M. Brown
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jiyeon Choi
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA,Corresponding author
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Ye Z, Kilic G, Dabelsteen S, Marinova IN, Thøfner JF, Song M, Rudjord-Levann AM, Bagdonaite I, Vakhrushev SY, Brakebusch CH, Olsen JV, Wandall HH. Characterization of TGF-β signaling in a human organotypic skin model reveals that loss of TGF-βRII induces invasive tissue growth. Sci Signal 2022; 15:eabo2206. [DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.abo2206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor–β (TGF-β) signaling regulates various aspects of cell growth and differentiation and is often dysregulated in human cancers. We combined genetic engineering of a human organotypic three-dimensional (3D) skin model with global quantitative proteomics and phosphoproteomics to dissect the importance of essential components of the TGF-β signaling pathway, including the ligands TGF-β1, TGF-β2, and TGF-β3, the receptor TGF-βRII, and the intracellular effector SMAD4. Consistent with the antiproliferative effects of TGF-β signaling, the loss of TGF-β1 or SMAD4 promoted cell cycling and delayed epidermal differentiation. The loss of TGF-βRII, which abrogates both SMAD4-dependent and SMAD4-independent downstream signaling, more strongly affected cell proliferation and differentiation than did loss of SMAD4, and it induced invasive growth. TGF-βRII knockout reduced cell-matrix interactions, and the production of matrix proteins increased the production of cancer-associated cell-cell adhesion proteins and proinflammatory mediators and increased mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling. Inhibiting the activation of the ERK and p38 MAPK pathways blocked the development of the invasive phenotype upon the loss of TGF-βRII. This study provides a framework for exploring TGF-β signaling pathways in human epithelial tissue homeostasis and transformation using genetic engineering, 3D tissue models, and high-throughput quantitative proteomics and phosphoproteomics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zilu Ye
- Copenhagen Center for Glycomics, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Gülcan Kilic
- Copenhagen Center for Glycomics, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Section of Oral Biology and Immunopathology, School of Dentistry, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sally Dabelsteen
- Section of Oral Biology and Immunopathology, School of Dentistry, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Irina N. Marinova
- Copenhagen Center for Glycomics, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens F. B. Thøfner
- Copenhagen Center for Glycomics, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ming Song
- Copenhagen Center for Glycomics, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Asha M. Rudjord-Levann
- Copenhagen Center for Glycomics, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ieva Bagdonaite
- Copenhagen Center for Glycomics, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sergey Y. Vakhrushev
- Copenhagen Center for Glycomics, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Cord H. Brakebusch
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre, Biomedical Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jesper V. Olsen
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hans H. Wandall
- Copenhagen Center for Glycomics, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Dahoud W, Handler J, Parimi V, Meyer CF, Wethington SL, Eshleman JR, Vang R, Ronnett BM, Xing D. Adult Granulosa Cell Tumor With Sarcomatous Transformation: A Case Study With Emphasis on Molecular Alterations. Int J Gynecol Pathol 2022; 41:600-607. [PMID: 34856571 PMCID: PMC9167042 DOI: 10.1097/pgp.0000000000000845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Adult granulosa cells tumors (AGCTs) are typically low-grade indolent tumors. On rare occasions, they undergo high-grade/sarcomatous transformation and behave aggressively. This transformation is postulated to occur as the result of acquired genetic alterations, some of which may be eligible for targeted therapy. Here we report a rare case of AGCT with sarcomatous transformation that harbored distinct molecular alterations from those typically seen with AGCTs supporting a molecularly driven approach to these malignancies. The patient is a 56-yr-old G3P3 woman with a history of multiple recurrences of ovarian AGCT for which the first diagnosis was made at the age of 25 when she was evaluated for infertility. The ovarian tumor displayed typical features of AGCT with low-grade, bland morphology. The first extraovarian spread of tumor involving the cul-de-sac was reported at the age of 39. After that, recurrences occurred every 2 to 3 yr with involvement of multiple anatomic sites and repeated surgical resections. At the age of 55 she developed a symptomatic recurrence in the pelvis and underwent resection of an isolated lesion (specimen 1) to no gross residual disease. Within 4 wk of resection she developed significant pelvic pain and imaging showed recurrence of the mass. Therefore, in 5 mo after the initial resection she underwent repeat excision of the lesion (specimen 2) and associated bowel. The sections from specimen 1 showed a biphasic morphology: a low-grade component with morphology and immunophenotype consistent with a typical AGCT and a high-grade spindle cell component with features consistent with a high-grade sarcoma. Specimen 2 featured a pure high-grade sarcoma characterized by coagulative tumor cell necrosis, readily recognizable mitoses, highly atypical cells with vesicular nuclei and prominent nucleoli. SF-1 positivity and the presence of FOXL2 C134W mutation in the sarcomatous component support the notion of transformation of typical AGCT. While detected TERT promoter C228T mutation may play a role in this process, we further identified genetic alterations affecting PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, including mutations in PIK3CA , PIK3R1 , AKT1 , and NF2 , which may also contribute to tumor progression/transformation. These findings provide rationale for molecular/pathway-based targeted therapy for patients with advanced AGCT.
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Harris BHL, Macaulay VM, Harris DA, Klenerman P, Karpe F, Lord SR, Harris AL, Buffa FM. Obesity: a perfect storm for carcinogenesis. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2022; 41:491-515. [PMID: 36038791 PMCID: PMC9470699 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-022-10046-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Obesity-related cancers account for 40% of the cancer cases observed in the USA and obesity is overtaking smoking as the most widespread modifiable risk factor for carcinogenesis. Here, we use the hallmarks of cancer framework to delineate how obesity might influence the carcinogenic hallmarks in somatic cells. We discuss the effects of obesity on (a) sustaining proliferative signaling; (b) evading growth suppressors; (c) resisting cell death; (d) enabling replicative immortality; (e) inducing angiogenesis; (f) activating invasion and metastasis; (g) reprogramming energy metabolism; and (h) avoiding immune destruction, together with its effects on genome instability and tumour-promoting inflammation. We present the current understanding and controversies in this evolving field, and highlight some areas in need of further cross-disciplinary focus. For instance, the relative importance of the many potentially causative obesity-related factors is unclear for each type of malignancy. Even within a single tumour type, it is currently unknown whether one obesity-related factor consistently plays a predominant role, or if this varies between patients or, even in a single patient with time. Clarifying how the hallmarks are affected by obesity may lead to novel prevention and treatment strategies for the increasingly obese population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin H L Harris
- Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK. .,St Anne's College, 56 Woodstock Rd, Oxford, OX2 6HS, UK.
| | - Valentine M Macaulay
- Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | | | - Paul Klenerman
- Peter Medawar Building for Pathogen Research, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3SY, UK
| | - Fredrik Karpe
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7LE, UK
| | - Simon R Lord
- Early Phase Clinical Trials Unit, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, OX3 7LE, UK
| | - Adrian L Harris
- Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
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Ferguson DP, Leszczynski EC, Horton TH, Pfeiffer KA, Gardiner J, Pearson AL. C-reactive protein and telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) associate with chronic disease markers in a sample from low-income neighborhoods in Detroit, Michigan. SPORTS MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCE 2022; 4:275-279. [PMID: 36600969 PMCID: PMC9806694 DOI: 10.1016/j.smhs.2022.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Racial and ethnic minorities in economically deprived inner cities experience high rates of chronic diseases compared to neighborhoods with higher socioeconomic status (SES). However, these economically deprived populations are understudied in terms of biomarkers associated with chronic disease risk which include C-reactive protein (CRP), telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT), and glycosylated hemoglobin (A1C). We examined relationships between CRP and TERT and chronic disease indicators (body mass index [BMI] and A1C) in two low-income, predominantly African American (AA) neighborhoods in Detroit, Michigan. Sixty-nine adults (43 females, 26 males, mean age 46 years [y], standard deviation [SD] = 15.9) completed a health survey, anthropometry, and finger stick blood tests. A1C was measured using A1CNow test strips, and CRP and TERT levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) with samples extracted from dried blood spots. We examined CRP (mean = 4.9, SD = 3.1), TERT (mean = 32.5, SD = 15.1), and A1C (mean = 5.4, SD = 1.0) by BMI category. We fitted restricted maximum likelihood regression models to evaluate associations between CRP, TERT, BMI, and A1C, after adjustment for demographics and inclusion of a random effect for the neighborhood. In this predominantly AA sample (91%, 63/69), 68% had levels of CRP (means = 4.8 mg/L, SD = 3.0 for AAs; 6.4 mg/L, SD = 3.9 for all others) indicative of chronic inflammation (CRP greater than 3 mg/L). BMI was significantly associated with CRP (p = 0.004) and TERT (p = 0.026). TERT levels indicate that being overweight is associated with markers of chromosome remodeling, suggestive of chronic disease. CRP followed a similar trend with overweight individuals having higher inflammation and risk of chronic disease. Our findings warrant further exploration of additional factors that may influence CRP and TERT. Furthermore, examining populations in a more ethnically and/or economically diverse, yet still high proportion minority, sample will fill a knowledge gap in this understudied field.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Teresa H. Horton
- Department of Anthropology, Northwestern University, United States
| | | | - Joseph Gardiner
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, United States
| | - Amber L. Pearson
- Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences, Michigan State University, United States,Corresponding author. Department of Geography, Environment & Spatial Sciences, Michigan State Unviersity, East Lansing, MI, 48824, United States.
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35
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Akıncılar S, Chua J, Ng Q, Chan C, Eslami-S Z, Chen K, Low JL, Arumugam S, Aswad L, Chua C, Tan I, DasGupta R, Fullwood M, Tergaonkar V. Identification of mechanism of cancer-cell-specific reactivation of hTERT offers therapeutic opportunities for blocking telomerase specifically in human colorectal cancer. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 51:1-16. [PMID: 35697349 PMCID: PMC9841410 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Transcriptional reactivation of hTERT is the limiting step in tumorigenesis. While mutations in hTERT promoter present in 19% of cancers are recognized as key drivers of hTERT reactivation, mechanisms by which wildtype hTERT (WT-hTERT) promoter is reactivated, in majority of human cancers, remain unknown. Using primary colorectal cancers (CRC) we identified Tert INTeracting region 2 (T-INT2), the critical chromatin region essential for reactivating WT-hTERT promoter in CRCs. Elevated β-catenin and JunD level in CRC facilitates chromatin interaction between hTERT promoter and T-INT2 that is necessary to turn on hTERTexpression. Pharmacological screens uncovered salinomycin, which inhibits JunD mediated hTERT-T-INT2 interaction that is required for the formation of a stable transcription complex on the hTERT promoter. Our results showed for the first time how known CRC alterations, such as APC, lead to WT-hTERT promoter reactivation during stepwise-tumorigenesis and provide a new perspective for developing cancer-specific drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Semih Can Akıncılar
- Division of Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Laboratory of NFκB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 138673, Singapore
| | - Joelle Yi Heng Chua
- Division of Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Laboratory of NFκB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 138673, Singapore
| | - Qin Feng Ng
- Division of Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Laboratory of NFκB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 138673, Singapore
| | - Claire Hian Tzer Chan
- Division of Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Laboratory of NFκB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 138673, Singapore
| | - Zahra Eslami-S
- Division of Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Laboratory of NFκB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 138673, Singapore
| | - Kaijing Chen
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, 117599, Singapore
| | - Joo-Leng Low
- Laboratory of Precision Oncology and Cancer Evolution, Genome Institute of Singapore, A*STAR, 138672, Singapore
| | - Surendar Arumugam
- Division of Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Laboratory of NFκB Signaling, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 138673, Singapore
| | - Luay Aswad
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, 117599, Singapore
| | - Clarinda Chua
- Genome Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 138672, Singapore,Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 169610, Singapore
| | - Iain Beehuat Tan
- Genome Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 138672, Singapore,Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, 169610, Singapore
| | - Ramanuj DasGupta
- Laboratory of Precision Oncology and Cancer Evolution, Genome Institute of Singapore, A*STAR, 138672, Singapore
| | - Melissa Jane Fullwood
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, 117599, Singapore,School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 637551, Singapore
| | - Vinay Tergaonkar
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. Tel: +65 65869836; Fax: +65 67791117;
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Research Progress on G-Quadruplexes in Human Telomeres and Human Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase (hTERT) Promoter. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:2905663. [PMID: 35707279 PMCID: PMC9192192 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2905663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The upregulation telomerase activity is observed in over 85-90% of human cancers and provides an attractive target for cancer therapies. The high guanine content in the telomere DNA sequences and the hTERT promoter can form G-quadruplexes (G4s). Small molecules targeting G4s in telomeres and hTERT promoter could stabilize the G4s and inhibit hTERT expression and telomere extension. Several G4 ligands have shown inhibitory effects in cancer cells and xenograft mouse models, indicating these ligands have a potential for cancer therapies. The current review article describes the concept of the telomere, telomerase, and G4s. Moreover, the regulation of telomerase and G4s in telomeres and hTERT promoter is discussed as well. The summary of the small molecules targeting G4s in telomeric DNA sequences and the hTERT promoter will also be shown.
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37
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Emerging mechanisms of telomerase reactivation in cancer. Trends Cancer 2022; 8:632-641. [PMID: 35568649 PMCID: PMC7614490 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2022.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in the promoter of human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) result in hyperactivation of hTERT. Notably, all mutations are G>A transitions, frequently found in a wide range of cancer types, and causally associated with cancer progression. Initially, the mutations were understood to reactivate hTERT by generating novel E26 transformation-specific (ETS) binding sites. Recent work reveals the role of DNA secondary structure G-quadruplexes, telomere binding factor(s), and chromatin looping in hTERT regulation. Here, we discuss these emerging findings in relation to the clinically significant promoter mutations to provide a broader understanding of the context-dependent outcomes that result in hTERT activation in normal and pathogenic conditions.
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Momeni-Boroujeni A, Yousefi E, Gupta S, Benayed R, Berger MF, Ladanyi M, Monroe R, Kim J, Jungbluth A, Weigelt B, Park KJ. Evaluation of TERT mRNA expression using RNAscope®: A potential histopathologic diagnostic and prognostic tool. Pathol Res Pract 2022; 233:153892. [DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2022.153892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Olechnowicz A, Oleksiewicz U, Machnik M. KRAB-ZFPs and cancer stem cells identity. Genes Dis 2022. [PMID: 37492743 PMCID: PMC10363567 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2022.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies on carcinogenesis continue to provide new information about different disease-related processes. Among others, much research has focused on the involvement of cancer stem cells (CSCs) in tumor initiation and progression. Studying the similarities and differences between CSCs and physiological stem cells (SCs) allows for a better understanding of cancer biology. Recently, it was shown that stem cell identity is partially governed by the Krϋppel-associated box domain zinc finger proteins (KRAB-ZFPs), the biggest family of transcription regulators. Several KRAB-ZFP factors exert a known effect in tumor cells, acting as tumor suppressor genes (TSGs) or oncogenes, yet their role in CSCs is still poorly characterized. Here, we review recent studies regarding the influence of KRAB-ZFPs and their cofactor protein TRIM28 on CSCs phenotype, stemness features, migration and invasion potential, metastasis, and expression of parental markers.
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40
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Teissier T, Temkin V, Pollak RD, Cox LS. Crosstalk Between Senescent Bone Cells and the Bone Tissue Microenvironment Influences Bone Fragility During Chronological Age and in Diabetes. Front Physiol 2022; 13:812157. [PMID: 35388291 PMCID: PMC8978545 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.812157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Bone is a complex organ serving roles in skeletal support and movement, and is a source of blood cells including adaptive and innate immune cells. Structural and functional integrity is maintained through a balance between bone synthesis and bone degradation, dependent in part on mechanical loading but also on signaling and influences of the tissue microenvironment. Bone structure and the extracellular bone milieu change with age, predisposing to osteoporosis and increased fracture risk, and this is exacerbated in patients with diabetes. Such changes can include loss of bone mineral density, deterioration in micro-architecture, as well as decreased bone flexibility, through alteration of proteinaceous bone support structures, and accumulation of senescent cells. Senescence is a state of proliferation arrest accompanied by marked morphological and metabolic changes. It is driven by cellular stress and serves an important acute tumor suppressive mechanism when followed by immune-mediated senescent cell clearance. However, aging and pathological conditions including diabetes are associated with accumulation of senescent cells that generate a pro-inflammatory and tissue-destructive secretome (the SASP). The SASP impinges on the tissue microenvironment with detrimental local and systemic consequences; senescent cells are thought to contribute to the multimorbidity associated with advanced chronological age. Here, we assess factors that promote bone fragility, in the context both of chronological aging and accelerated aging in progeroid syndromes and in diabetes, including senescence-dependent alterations in the bone tissue microenvironment, and glycation changes to the tissue microenvironment that stimulate RAGE signaling, a process that is accelerated in diabetic patients. Finally, we discuss therapeutic interventions targeting RAGE signaling and cell senescence that show promise in improving bone health in older people and those living with diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thibault Teissier
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Vladislav Temkin
- Division of Medicine, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Rivka Dresner Pollak
- Division of Medicine, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
- Rivka Dresner Pollak,
| | - Lynne S. Cox
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Lynne S. Cox,
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41
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Liu R, Hu JJ, Wu X, Hu Q, Jiang W, Zhao Z, Xia F, Lou X. Precisely Detecting the Telomerase Activities by an AIEgen Probe with Dual Signal Outputs after Cell-Cycle Synchronization. Anal Chem 2022; 94:4874-4880. [PMID: 35276037 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.2c00583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
By maintaining the telomere lengths, telomerase can make the tumor cells avoid the apoptosis, thus, achieving the cell immortalization. In the past, a series of telomerase detection systems have been developed through utilizing the unique characteristic of telomerase extended primer. However, fluctuation of telomerase activity, along with the cell cycle progression, leads to ambiguous detection results. Here, we reported a dual signal output detection strategy based on cell-cycle synchronization for precisely detecting telomerase activities by using a new AIEgen probe SSNB. Experimental and simulating calculation results demonstrated that positively charged SSNB could interact with DNA through the electrostatic interaction and π-π interaction, as well as the hydrogen bonds. The aggregation of SSNB caused by the extended template strand primer (TP) could be observed in tumor cells, thus, indicating the telomerase activity in various cell lines. Furthermore, after cell cycle synchronization, it was found that the telomerase activity in the S phase was the highest, no matter from the fluorescence intensity or the ROS generation situation. Dual signal outputs of SSNB verified the significance and necessity of cell-cycle synchronization detection for telomerase activity. This strategy could open a new window for the biotargets of which activity is variational in time dimension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology, Faculty of Materials Science and Chemistry, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan 430078, China
| | - Jing-Jing Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology, Faculty of Materials Science and Chemistry, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan 430078, China
| | - Xia Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology, Faculty of Materials Science and Chemistry, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan 430078, China
| | - Qinyu Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology, Faculty of Materials Science and Chemistry, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan 430078, China
| | - Wenlian Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology, Faculty of Materials Science and Chemistry, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan 430078, China
| | - Zujin Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Luminescent Materials and Devices, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Luminescence from Molecular Aggregates, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Fan Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology, Faculty of Materials Science and Chemistry, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan 430078, China.,Zhejiang Institute, China University of Geosciences, Hangzhou, 311305, China
| | - Xiaoding Lou
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology, Faculty of Materials Science and Chemistry, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan 430078, China
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PITX1 Is a Regulator of TERT Expression in Prostate Cancer with Prognostic Power. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14051267. [PMID: 35267575 PMCID: PMC8909694 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Most prostate cancer is of an indolent form and is curable. However, some prostate cancer belongs to rather aggressive subtypes leading to metastasis and death, and immediate therapy is mandatory. However, for these, the therapeutic options are highly invasive, such as radical prostatectomy, radiation or brachytherapy. Hence, a precise diagnosis of these tumor subtypes is needed, and the thus far applied diagnostic means are insufficient for this. Besides this, for their endless cell divisions, prostate cancer cells need the enzyme telomerase to elongate their telomeres (chromatin endings). In this study, we developed a gene regulatory model based on large data from transcription profiles from prostate cancer and chromatin-immuno-precipitation studies. We identified the developmental regulator PITX1 regulating telomerase. Besides observing experimental evidence of PITX1′s functional role in telomerase regulation, we also found PITX1 serving as a prognostic marker, as concluded from an analysis of more than 15,000 prostate cancer samples. Abstract The current risk stratification in prostate cancer (PCa) is frequently insufficient to adequately predict disease development and outcome. One hallmark of cancer is telomere maintenance. For telomere maintenance, PCa cells exclusively employ telomerase, making it essential for this cancer entity. However, TERT, the catalytic protein component of the reverse transcriptase telomerase, itself does not suit as a prognostic marker for prostate cancer as it is rather low expressed. We investigated if, instead of TERT, transcription factors regulating TERT may suit as prognostic markers. To identify transcription factors regulating TERT, we developed and applied a new gene regulatory modeling strategy to a comprehensive transcriptome dataset of 445 primary PCa. Six transcription factors were predicted as TERT regulators, and most prominently, the developmental morphogenic factor PITX1. PITX1 expression positively correlated with telomere staining intensity in PCa tumor samples. Functional assays and chromatin immune-precipitation showed that PITX1 activates TERT expression in PCa cells. Clinically, we observed that PITX1 is an excellent prognostic marker, as concluded from an analysis of more than 15,000 PCa samples. PITX1 expression in tumor samples associated with (i) increased Ki67 expression indicating increased tumor growth, (ii) a worse prognosis, and (iii) correlated with telomere length.
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43
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Betulinic acid exerts antitumor effects on acute promyelocytic leukemia cells possibly via hTERT downregulation. GENE REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.genrep.2021.101435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Haraguchi K, Habu M, Yada N, Sasaguri M, Yoshioka I, Tominaga K. Human telomerase reverse transcriptase protein expression is associated with survival in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CLINICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL PATHOLOGY 2022; 15:29-37. [PMID: 35145581 PMCID: PMC8822205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Despite improvements in diagnosis and treatment, the 5-year survival of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), no matter the location, remains low, averaging 50%. Telomerase is expressed in 85% of malignancies and may play an important role in human carcinogenesis. Its catalytic component is human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT), which has been thought, but not proven, to be involved in survival with OSCC. We investigated whether hTERT protein was a prognostic factor in OSCC by evaluating its association with clinicopathologic findings and OSCC survival. We found that in comparison to patients with high hTERT expression, patients with low hTERT expression survived significantly longer, including a longer 5-year overall survival. In addition, overall survival was significantly correlated to hTERT expression and the histologic grade and N status of the tumor. Disease-free survival was significantly related to hTERT expression, the histologic grade and N status of the tumor, and mode of invasion. These results suggest that hTERT protein is involved in cervical lymph node metastasis, that its levels may be increased during carcinogenesis, and that it may influence tumor invasion. We believe that this study is the first to demonstrate that OSCC with high hTERT expression carries a worse prognosis than cases with low hTERT expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuya Haraguchi
- Department of Science of Physical Functions, Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Kyushu Dental UniversityKitakyushu, Japan
| | - Manabu Habu
- Department of Science of Physical Functions, Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Kyushu Dental UniversityKitakyushu, Japan
| | - Naomi Yada
- Department of Health Promotion, Division of Oral Pathology, Kyushu Dental UniversityKitakyushu, Japan
| | - Masaaki Sasaguri
- Department of Science of Physical Functions, Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Kyushu Dental UniversityKitakyushu, Japan
| | - Izumi Yoshioka
- Department of Science of Physical Functions, Division of Oral Medicine, Kyushu Dental UniversityKitakyushu, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Tominaga
- Department of Science of Physical Functions, Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Kyushu Dental UniversityKitakyushu, Japan
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Prouteau A, Mottier S, Primot A, Cadieu E, Bachelot L, Botherel N, Cabillic F, Houel A, Cornevin L, Kergal C, Corre S, Abadie J, Hitte C, Gilot D, Lindblad-Toh K, André C, Derrien T, Hedan B. Canine Oral Melanoma Genomic and Transcriptomic Study Defines Two Molecular Subgroups with Different Therapeutical Targets. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14020276. [PMID: 35053440 PMCID: PMC8774001 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14020276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In humans, mucosal melanoma (MM) is a rare and aggressive cancer. The canine model is frequently and spontaneously affected by MM, thus facilitating the collection of samples and the study of its genetic bases. Thanks to an integrative genomic and transcriptomic analysis of 32 canine MM samples, we identified two molecular subgroups of MM with a different microenvironment and structural variant (SV) content. We demonstrated that SVs are associated with recurrently amplified regions, and identified new candidate oncogenes (TRPM7, GABPB1, and SPPL2A) for MM. Our findings suggest the existence of two MM molecular subgroups that could benefit from dedicated therapies, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors or targeted therapies, for both human and veterinary medicine. Abstract Mucosal melanoma (MM) is a rare, aggressive clinical cancer. Despite recent advances in genetics and treatment, the prognosis of MM remains poor. Canine MM offers a relevant spontaneous and immunocompetent model to decipher the genetic bases and explore treatments for MM. We performed an integrative genomic and transcriptomic analysis of 32 canine MM samples, which identified two molecular subgroups with a different microenvironment and structural variant (SV) content. The overexpression of genes related to the microenvironment and T-cell response was associated with tumors harboring a lower content of SVs, whereas the overexpression of pigmentation-related pathways and oncogenes, such as TERT, was associated with a high SV burden. Using whole-genome sequencing, we showed that focal amplifications characterized complex chromosomal rearrangements targeting oncogenes, such as MDM2 or CDK4, and a recurrently amplified region on canine chromosome 30. We also demonstrated that the genes TRPM7, GABPB1, and SPPL2A, located in this CFA30 region, play a role in cell proliferation, and thus, may be considered as new candidate oncogenes for human MM. Our findings suggest the existence of two MM molecular subgroups that may benefit from dedicated therapies, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors or targeted therapies, for both human and veterinary medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anais Prouteau
- IGDR—UMR 6290, CNRS, University of Rennes 1, 35000 Rennes, France; (A.P.); (S.M.); (A.P.); (E.C.); (L.B.); (N.B.); (A.H.); (C.K.); (S.C.); (C.H.); (D.G.); (C.A.)
| | - Stephanie Mottier
- IGDR—UMR 6290, CNRS, University of Rennes 1, 35000 Rennes, France; (A.P.); (S.M.); (A.P.); (E.C.); (L.B.); (N.B.); (A.H.); (C.K.); (S.C.); (C.H.); (D.G.); (C.A.)
| | - Aline Primot
- IGDR—UMR 6290, CNRS, University of Rennes 1, 35000 Rennes, France; (A.P.); (S.M.); (A.P.); (E.C.); (L.B.); (N.B.); (A.H.); (C.K.); (S.C.); (C.H.); (D.G.); (C.A.)
| | - Edouard Cadieu
- IGDR—UMR 6290, CNRS, University of Rennes 1, 35000 Rennes, France; (A.P.); (S.M.); (A.P.); (E.C.); (L.B.); (N.B.); (A.H.); (C.K.); (S.C.); (C.H.); (D.G.); (C.A.)
| | - Laura Bachelot
- IGDR—UMR 6290, CNRS, University of Rennes 1, 35000 Rennes, France; (A.P.); (S.M.); (A.P.); (E.C.); (L.B.); (N.B.); (A.H.); (C.K.); (S.C.); (C.H.); (D.G.); (C.A.)
| | - Nadine Botherel
- IGDR—UMR 6290, CNRS, University of Rennes 1, 35000 Rennes, France; (A.P.); (S.M.); (A.P.); (E.C.); (L.B.); (N.B.); (A.H.); (C.K.); (S.C.); (C.H.); (D.G.); (C.A.)
| | - Florian Cabillic
- Laboratoire de Cytogénétique et Biologie Cellulaire, CHU de Rennes, INSERM, INRA, University of Rennes 1, Nutrition Metabolisms and Cancer, 35000 Rennes, France; (F.C.); (L.C.)
| | - Armel Houel
- IGDR—UMR 6290, CNRS, University of Rennes 1, 35000 Rennes, France; (A.P.); (S.M.); (A.P.); (E.C.); (L.B.); (N.B.); (A.H.); (C.K.); (S.C.); (C.H.); (D.G.); (C.A.)
| | - Laurence Cornevin
- Laboratoire de Cytogénétique et Biologie Cellulaire, CHU de Rennes, INSERM, INRA, University of Rennes 1, Nutrition Metabolisms and Cancer, 35000 Rennes, France; (F.C.); (L.C.)
| | - Camille Kergal
- IGDR—UMR 6290, CNRS, University of Rennes 1, 35000 Rennes, France; (A.P.); (S.M.); (A.P.); (E.C.); (L.B.); (N.B.); (A.H.); (C.K.); (S.C.); (C.H.); (D.G.); (C.A.)
| | - Sébastien Corre
- IGDR—UMR 6290, CNRS, University of Rennes 1, 35000 Rennes, France; (A.P.); (S.M.); (A.P.); (E.C.); (L.B.); (N.B.); (A.H.); (C.K.); (S.C.); (C.H.); (D.G.); (C.A.)
| | - Jérôme Abadie
- Laboniris, Department of Biology, Pathology and Food Sciences, Oniris, 44300 Nantes, France;
| | - Christophe Hitte
- IGDR—UMR 6290, CNRS, University of Rennes 1, 35000 Rennes, France; (A.P.); (S.M.); (A.P.); (E.C.); (L.B.); (N.B.); (A.H.); (C.K.); (S.C.); (C.H.); (D.G.); (C.A.)
| | - David Gilot
- IGDR—UMR 6290, CNRS, University of Rennes 1, 35000 Rennes, France; (A.P.); (S.M.); (A.P.); (E.C.); (L.B.); (N.B.); (A.H.); (C.K.); (S.C.); (C.H.); (D.G.); (C.A.)
| | - Kerstin Lindblad-Toh
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA;
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, SE-751 24 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Catherine André
- IGDR—UMR 6290, CNRS, University of Rennes 1, 35000 Rennes, France; (A.P.); (S.M.); (A.P.); (E.C.); (L.B.); (N.B.); (A.H.); (C.K.); (S.C.); (C.H.); (D.G.); (C.A.)
| | - Thomas Derrien
- IGDR—UMR 6290, CNRS, University of Rennes 1, 35000 Rennes, France; (A.P.); (S.M.); (A.P.); (E.C.); (L.B.); (N.B.); (A.H.); (C.K.); (S.C.); (C.H.); (D.G.); (C.A.)
- Correspondence: (T.D.); (B.H.); Tel.: +33-2-23-23-43-19 (B.H.)
| | - Benoit Hedan
- IGDR—UMR 6290, CNRS, University of Rennes 1, 35000 Rennes, France; (A.P.); (S.M.); (A.P.); (E.C.); (L.B.); (N.B.); (A.H.); (C.K.); (S.C.); (C.H.); (D.G.); (C.A.)
- Correspondence: (T.D.); (B.H.); Tel.: +33-2-23-23-43-19 (B.H.)
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Targeting Cancer with CRISPR/Cas9-Based Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23010573. [PMID: 35008996 PMCID: PMC8745084 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a devastating condition characterised by the uncontrolled division of cells with many forms remaining resistant to current treatment. A hallmark of cancer is the gradual accumulation of somatic mutations which drive tumorigenesis in cancerous cells, creating a mutation landscape distinctive to a cancer type, an individual patient or even a single tumour lesion. Gene editing with CRISPR/Cas9-based tools now enables the precise and permanent targeting of mutations and offers an opportunity to harness this technology to target oncogenic mutations. However, the development of safe and effective gene editing therapies for cancer relies on careful design to spare normal cells and avoid introducing other mutations. This article aims to describe recent advancements in cancer-selective treatments based on the CRISPR/Cas9 system, especially focusing on strategies for targeted delivery of the CRISPR/Cas9 machinery to affected cells, controlling Cas9 expression in tissues of interest and disrupting cancer-specific genes to result in selective death of malignant cells.
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Wang Y, Wu Z. The Clinical Significance and Transcription Regulation of a DNA Damage Repair Gene, SMC4, in Low-Grade Glioma via Integrated Bioinformatic Analysis. Front Oncol 2021; 11:761693. [PMID: 34868977 PMCID: PMC8636002 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.761693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioma is the most common type of malignant tumor in the central nervous system with an unfavorable prognosis and limited treatment. In this study, we are devoted to addressing the prognostic value of DNA damage repair-related genes in low-grade glioma (LGG). We plotted the landscape of DNA damage repair (DDR)-related genes and identified SMC4 as an independent prognostic marker with integrated bioinformatics analysis, which is overexpressed in different histologic subtypes of glioma. We observed that SMC4 expression is elevated in recurrent LGG patients or those with advanced histologic staging. SMC4 depletion inhibits proliferation and induces increased replication damage in LGG cells. Lastly, we predicted and validated the transcription modulation of SMC4 by a transcription factor, MYB, at the -976bp~ -837bp of the SMC4 promoter region in LGG cells. Together, our study identified SMC4 as a potential prognostic biomarker for LGG patients, which functions to promote cell proliferation by repairing replication damage and the expression of SMC4 could be transcriptionally regulated by MYB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- Department of Neurology, First Hospital of Quanzhou, Quanzhou, China
| | - Zhisheng Wu
- Department of Neurology, First Hospital of Quanzhou, Quanzhou, China
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TERT Promoter Mutations Increase Sense and Antisense Transcription from the TERT Promoter. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9121773. [PMID: 34944589 PMCID: PMC8698883 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9121773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Chief among mechanisms of telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) reactivation is the appearance of mutations in the TERT promoter. The two main TERT promoter mutations are C>T transitions located −146C>T and −124C>T upstream from the translational start site. They generate a novel Ets/TCF binding site. Both mutations are mutually exclusive and −124C>T is strikingly overrepresented in most cancers. We investigated whether this mutational bias and mutual exclusion could be due to transcriptional constraints. Methods: We compared sense and antisense transcription of a panel of TERT promoter-luciferase vectors harboring the −124C>T and -146C>T mutations alone or together. lncRNA TAPAS levels were measured by RT-PCR. Results: Both mutations generally increased TERT transcription by 2–4-fold regardless of upstream and downstream regulatory elements. The double mutant increased transcription in an additive fashion, arguing against a direct transcriptional constraint. The −146C>T mutation, alone or in combination with −124C>T, also unleashed antisense transcription. In line with this finding, lncRNA TAPAS was higher in cells with mutated TERT promoter (T98G and U87) than in cells with wild-type promoter, suggesting that lncRNA TAPAS may balance the effect of TERT promoter mutations. Conclusions: −146C>T and −124C>T TERT promoter mutations increase TERT sense and antisense transcription, and the double mutant features higher transcription levels. Increased antisense transcription may contain TERT expression within sustainable levels.
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Molecular Evidence of the Inhibitory Potential of Melatonin against NaAsO 2-Induced Aging in Male Rats. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26216603. [PMID: 34771016 PMCID: PMC8587717 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26216603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Arsenic (As) poisoning is widespread due to exposure to pollution. The toxic level of (As) causes oxidative stress-induced aging and tissue damage. Since melatonin (MLT) has anti-oxidant and anti-aging properties, we aimed to evaluate the protective effect of MLT against the toxicity of sodium arsenite (NaAsO2). Healthy male NMRI mice were divided into eight different groups. The control group received a standard regular diet. Other groups were treated with varying diets, including MLT alone, NaAsO2, and NaAsO2 plus MLT. After one month of treatment, biochemical and pathological tests were performed on blood, heart, and lung tissue samples. NaAsO2 increased the levels of TNF-α, 8-hydroxy-2-deoxy guanosine (8OHdG), malondialdehyde (MDA), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), increased the expression of TNF receptor type 1-associated death domain (TRADD) mRNA and telomerase reverse transcriptase, and decreased the expression of Klotho (KL) mRNA in both plasma and tissues. In contrast, MLT reduced MDA, ROS, HMGB1, lactate, and TNF-α enhanced the mRNA expression of KL, and suppressed the mRNA expression of the TERT and TRADD genes. Thus, MLT confers potent protection against NaAsO2- induced tissue injury and oxidative stress.
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TRIM28 is a transcriptional activator of the mutant TERT promoter in human bladder cancer. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2102423118. [PMID: 34518220 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2102423118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Bladder cancer (BC) has a 70% telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT or hTERT in humans) promoter mutation prevalence, commonly at -124 base pairs, and this is associated with increased hTERT expression and poor patient prognosis. We inserted a green fluorescent protein (GFP) tag in the mutant hTERT promoter allele to create BC cells expressing an hTERT-GFP fusion protein. These cells were used in a fluorescence-activated cell sorting-based pooled CRISPR-Cas9 Kinome knockout genetic screen to identify tripartite motif containing 28 (TRIM28) and TRIM24 as regulators of hTERT expression. TRIM28 activates, while TRIM24 suppresses, hTERT transcription from the mutated promoter allele. TRIM28 is recruited to the mutant promoter where it interacts with TRIM24, which inhibits its activity. Phosphorylation of TRIM28 through the mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) releases it from TRIM24 and induces hTERT transcription. TRIM28 expression promotes in vitro and in vivo BC cell growth and stratifies BC patient outcome. mTORC1 inhibition with rapamycin analog Ridaforolimus suppresses TRIM28 phosphorylation, hTERT expression, and cell viability. This study may lead to hTERT-directed cancer therapies with reduced effects on normal progenitor cells.
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