1
|
Su X, Ding X, Ding C, Wang G, Fu C, Liu F, Shi J, He W. The role of JMJD2A in immune evasion and malignant behavior of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 137:112401. [PMID: 38878485 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112401] [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: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the role of JMJD2A in radiotherapy tolerance of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). METHODS The levels of H3K9me3 modification were analyzed in anti-PD-1 therapy non-responder or responder patients, and the expression differences of H3K9me3-related modifying enzymes were assessed in TCGA-ESCC and ICGC cohorts. Subsequently, JMJD2A was knocked down in ESCC cells using CRISPR-Cas9 or lentivirus-mediated shRNA, and changes in malignant behavior of ESCC cells were observed. RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, and ChIP-seq analyses were then conducted to investigate the genes and downstream signaling pathways regulated by JMJD2A, and functional validation experiments were performed to analyze the role of downstream regulated genes and pathways in ESCC malignant behavior and immune evasion. RESULTS JMJD2A was significantly overexpressed in ESCC and anti-PD-1 therapy non-responders. Knockdown or deletion of JMJD2A significantly promoted the malignant behavior and immune evasion of ESCC. JMJD2A facilitated the structural changes in chromatin and promoted the binding of SMARCA4 to super-enhancers, thereby inducing the expression of GPX4. This resulted in the inhibition of radiation-induced DNA damage and cell ferroptosis, ultimately promoting the malignant behavior and immune evasion of ESCC cells. CONCLUSION JMJD2A plays an indispensable role in the malignant behavior and immune evasion of ESCC. It regulates the binding of SMARCA4 to super-enhancers and affects the chromatin's epigenetic landscape, thereby promoting the expression of GPX4 and attenuating iron-mediated cell death caused by radiotherapy. Consequently, it triggers the malignant behavior and immune evasion of ESCC cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyu Su
- Department of Oncology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China; School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xu Ding
- Department of Oncology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China; School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Chenxi Ding
- Department of Internal Medicine of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Guoqing Wang
- Department of Pathology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Chenchun Fu
- Department of Oncology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Fei Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Luhe People's Hospital of Nanjing, Nanjing 210000, China
| | - Jinjun Shi
- Department of Ultrasound, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Wei He
- Department of Thoracic surgery, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Krsek A, Baticic L, Sotosek V, Braut T. The Role of Biomarkers in HPV-Positive Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Towards Precision Medicine. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:1448. [PMID: 39001338 PMCID: PMC11241541 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14131448] [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: 06/10/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Head and neck cancer (HNC) represents a significant global health challenge, with squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) accounting for approximately 90% of all HNC cases. These malignancies, collectively referred to as head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), originate from the mucosal epithelium lining the larynx, pharynx, and oral cavity. The primary risk factors associated with HNSCC in economically disadvantaged nations have been chronic alcohol consumption and tobacco use. However, in more affluent countries, the landscape of HNSCC has shifted with the identification of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, particularly HPV-16, as a major risk factor, especially among nonsmokers. Understanding the evolving risk factors and the distinct biological behaviors of HPV-positive and HPV-negative HNSCC is critical for developing targeted treatment strategies and improving patient outcomes in this complex and diverse group of cancers. Accurate diagnosis of HPV-positive HNSCC is essential for developing a comprehensive model that integrates the molecular characteristics, immune microenvironment, and clinical outcomes. The aim of this comprehensive review was to summarize the current knowledge and advances in the identification of DNA, RNA, and protein biomarkers in bodily fluids and tissues that have introduced new possibilities for minimally or non-invasive cancer diagnosis, monitoring, and assessment of therapeutic responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antea Krsek
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia;
| | - Lara Baticic
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Biochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Vlatka Sotosek
- Department of Clinical Medical Sciences I, Faculty of Health Studies, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia;
- Department of Anesthesiology, Reanimatology, Emergency and Intensive Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Tamara Braut
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Clinical Hospital Centre Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia;
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Glinsky GV, Hercbergs A, Mousa SA, Lin HY, Davis PJ. Additional considerations in cancer cell radioresistance, integrin αvβ3 and thyroid hormones. Endocr Res 2024:1-4. [PMID: 38884586 DOI: 10.1080/07435800.2024.2361152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The existence of a functional relationship between a certain thyroid hormone analogue and cancer cell radioresistance has been shown by Leith and coworkers. The hormone analogue with relevance to malignant cells' radioresistance is tetraiodothyroacetic acid (tetrac). Tetrac is the deaminated derivative of L-thyroxine (T4), the principal product of the thyroid gland. Preclinical studies demonstrated that tetrac and chemically modified tetrac (CMT), e.g. a fluorobenzyl-conjugated tetrac analogue, restores radiosensitivity in certain radioresistant tumor cells. Due to their molecular, physico-chemical, and biological properties, actions of CMT analogues are believed to be initiated at the thyroid hormone analogue receptor site on plasma membrane integrin αvβ3. OBJECTIVE To explore possible molecular mechanisms of the potentially therapeutically beneficial effect of CMT on cancer cells' sensitivity to radiation, we analyzed actions of CMT analogues on expression of selected sets of genes that have been previously implicated in radioresistance of malignant cells. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS In the current study, we report that genome-wide gene expression profiling analysis of human glioblastoma (GBM) and acute myelocytic leukemia (AML) cell lines exposed in vitro to noncytotoxic doses of CMT has identified decreased expression of discrete trios of genes each of which was previously linked to cancer cells' radioresistance. Following the CMT treatment in AML cells, expression of PARP9, PARP15 and STAT3 genes was significantly reduced, while in GBM cells, expression of PRKDC, EGFR and CCNDI was significantly decreased by the drug. Notably, a broader spectrum of genes implicated in cancer cells' radioresistance was observed in primary patient-derived GBM cells after the CMT treatment. Extensive additional experimental and clinical studies are indicated, including analyses of individual patient tumor genomics and of an array of different tumor types to define the sub-sets of tumors manifesting radioresistance in which tetrac-based agents may be expected to enhance therapeutic effects of radiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gennadi V Glinsky
- Institute of Engineering on Medicine, University of California, San Diego/LaJolla, CA, USA
| | - Aleck Hercbergs
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Shaker A Mousa
- NanoPharmaceutials LLC, Troy, NY, Turkey
- Vascular Vision, Pharmaceuticals Co, Troy, NY, Turkey
| | - Hung-Yun Lin
- Cancer Center, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei, Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Paul J Davis
- NanoPharmaceutials LLC, Troy, NY, Turkey
- Department of Medicine, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Guo D, Zhou S, Liu R, Yao W, Li S, Zhang X, Shen W, Zhu S. NEK2 contributes to radioresistance in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma by inducing protective autophagy via regulating TRIM21. Cancer Cell Int 2024; 24:179. [PMID: 38783335 PMCID: PMC11112778 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-024-03367-5] [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: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Radiotherapy (RT) has been identified as a vital treatment for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), while the development of radioresistance remains a major obstacle in ESCC management. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of NIMA-related kinase 2 (NEK2) on radioresistance in ESCC cells and to reveal potential molecular mechanisms. METHODS Human esophageal epithelial cells (HEEC) and human ESCC cell lines were obtained from the Research Center of the Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University (Shijiazhuang, China). Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and flow cytometry assays were applied to assess the proliferation ability, cell cycle, apoptosis rates, and ROS production of ESCC cells. The colony-forming assay was used to estimate the effect of NEK2 on radiosensitivity. Autophagy was investigated by western blotting analysis, GFP-mRFP-LC3 fluorescence assay, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). RESULTS In the present study, our results showed that NEK2 was associated with radioresistance, cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, ROS production, and survival of ESCC. NEK2 knockdown could significantly inhibit growth while enhancing radiosensitivity and ROS production in ESCC cells. Interestingly, NEK2 knockdown inhibited ESCC cell autophagy and reduced autophagic flux, ultimately reversing NEK2-induced radioresistance. Mechanistically, NEK2 bound to and regulated the stability of tripartite motif-containing protein 21 (TRIM21). The accumulation of NEK2-induced light chain 3 beta 2 (LC3B II) can be reversed by the knockdown of TRIM21. CONCLUSION These results demonstrated that NEK2 activated autophagy through TRIM21, which may provide a promising therapeutic strategy for elucidating NEK2-mediated radioresistance in ESCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dong Guo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, China
| | - Shuo Zhou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, China
| | - Ruixue Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, China
| | - Weinan Yao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, China
| | - Shuguang Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, China
| | - Xueyuan Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, China
| | - Wenbin Shen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, China
| | - Shuchai Zhu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Bai G, Mahati S, Tulahong A, Eli M, Mao R. ZNF468 inhibits irradiation-induced G2/M cell cycle arrest and apoptosis by facilitating AURKA transcription in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 703:149687. [PMID: 38368674 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.149687] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND ZNF468 is a relatively unexplored gene that has been implicated in potential oncogenic properties in various cancer types. However, the exact role of ZNF468 in radiotherapy resistance of esophageal squamous cell carcinomas (ESCCs) is not well understood. METHODS Bioinformatic analysis was performed using the TCGA database to assess ZNF468 expression and prognostic significance in pan-cancer and ESCC. Functional experiments were conducted using ZNF468 overexpressing and knockdown cell lines to assess its impact on cell survival, DNA damage response, cell cycle, and apoptosis upon radiation. A luciferase reporter assay was utilized to validate ZNF468 binding to the AURKA promoter. RESULTS ZNF468 was significantly upregulated in diverse cancer types, including ESCC, and its high expression correlated with adverse prognosis in specific tumors. In the ESCC cohort, ZNF468 exhibited substantial upregulation in post-radiotherapy tissues, indicating its potential role in conferring radiotherapy resistance. Functional experiments revealed that ZNF468 enhances cell viability and facilitates DNA damage repair in radiotherapy-treated ESCC cells, while dampening the G2/M cell cycle arrest and apoptosis induced by radiation. Moreover, ZNF468 facilitated AURKA transcription, resulting in upregulated Aurora A expression, and subsequently inhibited P53 expression, unveiling key molecular mechanisms underlying radiotherapy resistance in ESCC. CONCLUSION ZNF468 plays an oncogenic role in ESCC and contributes to radiotherapy resistance. It enhances cell survival while dampening radiation-induced G2/M cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. By modulating AURKA and P53 expression, ZNF468 represents a promising therapeutic target for enhancing radiotherapy efficacy in ESCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ge Bai
- Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, 137 Liyushan South Road, Ürümqi, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, 830011, China
| | - Shaya Mahati
- Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, 137 Liyushan South Road, Ürümqi, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, 830011, China
| | - Asikeer Tulahong
- Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, 137 Liyushan South Road, Ürümqi, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, 830011, China
| | - Mayinur Eli
- Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, 137 Liyushan South Road, Ürümqi, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, 830011, China.
| | - Rui Mao
- Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, 137 Liyushan South Road, Ürümqi, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, 830011, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kookli K, Soleimani KT, Amr EF, Ehymayed HM, Zabibah RS, Daminova SB, Saadh MJ, Alsaikhan F, Adil M, Ali MS, Mohtashami S, Akhavan-Sigari R. Role of microRNA-146a in cancer development by regulating apoptosis. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 254:155050. [PMID: 38199132 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.155050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Despite great advances in diagnostic and treatment options for cancer, like chemotherapy surgery, and radiation therapy it continues to remain a major global health concern. Further research is necessary to find new biomarkers and possible treatment methods for cancer. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), tiny non-coding RNAs found naturally in the body, can influence the activity of several target genes. These genes are often disturbed in diseases like cancer, which perturbs functions like differentiation, cell division, cell cycle, apoptosis and proliferation. MiR-146a is a commonly and widely used miRNA that is often overexpressed in malignant tumors. The expression of miR-146a has been correlated with many pathological and physiological changes in cancer cells, such as the regulation of various cell death paths. It's been established that the control of cell death pathways has a huge influence on cancer progression. To improve our understanding of the interrelationship between miRNAs and cancer cell apoptosis, it's necessary to explore the impact of miRNAs through the alteration in their expression levels. Research has demonstrated that the appearance and spread of cancer can be mitigated by moderating the expression of certain miRNA - a commencement of treatment that presents a hopeful approach in managing cancer. Consequently, it is essential to explore the implications of miR-146a with respect to inducing different forms of tumor cell death, and evaluate its potential to serve as a target for improved chemotherapy outcomes. Through this review, we provide an outline of miR-146a's biogenesis and function, as well as its significant involvement in apoptosis. As well, we investigate the effects of exosomal miR-146a on the promotion of apoptosis in cancer cells and look into how it could possibly help combat chemotherapeutic resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keihan Kookli
- International Campus, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Eman Fathy Amr
- College of Nursing, National University of Science and Technology, Dhi Qar, Iraq
| | | | - Rahman S Zabibah
- Medical Laboratory Technology Department, College of Medical Technology, The Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq
| | - Shakhnoza B Daminova
- Department of Prevention of Dental Diseases, Tashkent State Dental Institute, Tashkent, Uzbekistan; Department of Scientific affairs, Tashkent Medical Pediatric Institute, Bogishamol Street 223, Tashkent, Uzbekistan
| | - Mohamed J Saadh
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Middle East University, Amman 11831, Jordan
| | - Fahad Alsaikhan
- College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj, Saudi Arabia; School of Pharmacy, Ibn Sina National College for Medical Studies, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| | | | | | - Saghar Mohtashami
- University of California Los Angeles, School of Dentistry, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Reza Akhavan-Sigari
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Medical Center Tuebingen, Germany; Department of Health Care Management and Clinical Research, Collegium Humanum Warsaw Management University Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Li W, Xu T, Jin H, Li M, Jia Q. Emerging role of cancer-associated fibroblasts in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 253:155002. [PMID: 38056131 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.155002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Esophageal carcinoma is the sixth leading cause of cancer death globally and the majority of global cases are esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Difficulty in diagnosis exists as more than 70% of ESCC patients are diagnosed at the intermediate or advanced stage. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have been considered one of the crucial components in the process of tumor growth, promoting communications between cancer cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME). CAFs grow alongside malignancies dynamically and interact with ESCC cells to promote their progression, proliferation, invasion, tumor escape, chemo- and radio-resistance, etc. It is believed that CAFs qualify as a promising direction for treatment. Analyzing CAFs' subtypes and functions will elucidate the involvement of CAFs in ESCC and aid in therapeutics. This review summarizes current information on CAFs in ESCC and focuses on the latest interaction between CAFs and ESCC cancer cell discoveries. The origin of CAFs and their communication with ESCC cells and TME are also demonstrated. On the foundation of a thorough analysis, we highlight the clinical prospects and CAFs-related therapies in ESCC in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenqing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Pathology, Xijing Hospital and School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Tianqi Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Pathology, Xijing Hospital and School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hai Jin
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang, China.
| | - Mingyang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Pathology, Xijing Hospital and School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.
| | - Qingge Jia
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Xi'an International Medical Center Hospital, Northwest University, Xi'an, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Zhang L, Zhang Y, Li K, Xue S. Hedgehog signaling and the glioma-associated oncogene in cancer radioresistance. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1257173. [PMID: 38020914 PMCID: PMC10679362 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1257173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor radioresistance remains a key clinical challenge. The Hedgehog (HH) signaling pathway and glioma-associated oncogene (GLI) are aberrantly activated in several cancers and are thought to contribute to cancer radioresistance by influencing DNA repair, reactive oxygen species production, apoptosis, autophagy, cancer stem cells, the cell cycle, and the tumor microenvironment. GLI is reported to activate the main DNA repair pathways, to interact with cell cycle regulators like Cyclin D and Cyclin E, to inhibit apoptosis via the activation of B-cell lymphoma-2, Forkhead Box M1, and the MYC proto-oncogene, to upregulate cell stemness related genes (Nanog, POU class 5 homeobox 1, SRY-box transcription factor 2, and the BMI1 proto-oncogene), and to promote cancer stem cell transformation. The inactivation of Patched, the receptor of HH, prevents caspase-mediated apoptosis. This causes some cancer cells to survive while others become cancer stem cells, resulting in cancer recurrence. Combination treatment using HH inhibitors (including GLI inhibitors) and conventional therapies may enhance treatment efficacy. However, the clinical use of HH signaling inhibitors is associated with toxic side effects and drug resistance. Nevertheless, selective HH agonists, which may relieve the adverse effects of inhibitors, have been developed in mouse models. Combination therapy with other pathway inhibitors or immunotherapy may effectively overcome resistance to HH inhibitors. A comprehensive cancer radiotherapy with HH or GLI inhibitor is more likely to enhance cancer treatment efficacy while further studies are still needed to overcome its adverse effects and drug resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhang
- Nephrology Department, The 1st Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yuhan Zhang
- General Surgery Center, Department of Thyroid Surgery, The 1st Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Kaixuan Li
- General Surgery Center, Department of Thyroid Surgery, The 1st Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Shuai Xue
- General Surgery Center, Department of Thyroid Surgery, The 1st Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Liu B, Zhang B, Qi J, Zhou H, Tan L, Huang J, Huang J, Fang X, Gong L, Luo J, Liu S, Fu L, Ling F, Ma S, Lai-wan Kwong D, Wang X, Guan XY. Targeting MFGE8 secreted by cancer-associated fibroblasts blocks angiogenesis and metastasis in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2307914120. [PMID: 37816055 PMCID: PMC10589644 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2307914120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play vital roles in establishing a suitable tumor microenvironment. In this study, RNA sequencing data revealed that CAFs could promote cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and ECM reconstitution by binding to integrin families and activating PI3K/AKT pathways in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). The secretions of CAFs play an important role in regulating these biological activities. Among these secretions, we found that MFGE8 is specifically secreted by CAFs in ESCC. Additionally, the secreted MFGE8 protein is essential in CAF-regulated vascularization, tumor proliferation, drug resistance, and metastasis. By binding to Integrin αVβ3/αVβ5 receptors, MFGE8 promotes tumor progression by activating both the PI3K/AKT and ERK/AKT pathways. Interestingly, the biological function of MFGE8 secreted by CAFs fully demonstrated the major role of CAFs in ESCC and its mode of mechanism, showing that MFGE8 could be a driver factor of CAFs in remodeling the tumor environment. In vivo treatment targeting CAFs-secreting MFGE8 or its receptor produced significant inhibitory effects on ESCC growth and metastasis, which provides an approach for the treatment of ESCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beilei Liu
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen518053, China
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong852, China
| | - Baifeng Zhang
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen518053, China
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong852, China
| | - Jiali Qi
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong852, China
| | - Hongyu Zhou
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong852, China
| | - Licheng Tan
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong852, China
| | - Jinlin Huang
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong852, China
| | - Jiao Huang
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong852, China
| | - Xiaona Fang
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen518053, China
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong852, China
| | - Lanqi Gong
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen518053, China
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong852, China
| | - Jie Luo
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong852, China
| | - Shan Liu
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong852, China
| | - Li Fu
- Department of Pharmacology and International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen518060, China
| | - Fei Ling
- School of Bioscience and Bioengineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou510006, China
| | - Stephianie Ma
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen518053, China
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong852, China
| | - Dora Lai-wan Kwong
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen518053, China
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong852, China
| | - Xin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Hong Kong510060, China
| | - Xin-Yuan Guan
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen518053, China
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong852, China
- Advanced Energy Science and Technology Guangdong Laboratory, Huizhou528200, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou510275, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Zhou J, Wu J, Wu G, Huang J, Zhang Y, Che J, Zhu K, Geng J, Fan Q. TBX18 knockdown sensitizes esophageal squamous cell carcinoma to radiotherapy by blocking the CHN1/RhoA axis. Radiother Oncol 2023; 186:109788. [PMID: 37399907 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2023.109788] [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: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Radioresistance is a challenge in the effective treatment of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Herein, this research ascertained whether TBX18 reduced the radiosensitivity of ESCC. METHODS Bioinformatics analysis was utilized to retrieve differentially expressed genes. Then, the expression of corresponding candidate genes was tested using qRT-PCR in ESCC clinical specimens, and TBX18 was selected for subsequent experiments. The binding between TBX18 and CHN1 was evaluated by dual-luciferase reporter and ChIP assays, and the relationship between CHN1 and RhoA was identified by GST pull-down. Ectopic expression or knockdown experiments and radiation treatment were performed in cells and the nude mouse xenograft model to clarify the impacts of TBX18, CHN1, and RhoA on radiosensitivity in ESCC. RESULTS Bioinformatics analysis and qRT-PCR retrieved upregulated TBX18 in ESCC for the follow-up study. Additionally, TBX18 was positively correlated with CHN1 in ESCC clinical specimens. Mechanistically, TBX18 bound to the CHN1 promoter region to transcriptionally activate CHN1, thus elevating RhoA activity. Moreover, TBX18 knockdown reduced ESCC cell proliferation and migration while augmenting their apoptosis after radiation, which was negated by further overexpressing CHN1 or RhoA. CHN1 or RhoA knockdown diminished ESCC cell proliferation and migration, as well as enhanced cell apoptosis, subsequent to radiation. Likewise, TBX18 overexpression increased ESCC cell autophagy after radiation, which was partially reversed by knockdown of RhoA. The results of in vivo xenograft experiments in nude mice were concurrent with the in vitro results. CONCLUSION TBX18 knockdown lowered CHN1 transcription and thus reduced RhoA activity, which sensitized ESCC cells to radiotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jialiang Zhou
- Depatement of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, PR China
| | - Jia Wu
- Depatement of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, PR China
| | - Gang Wu
- Depatement of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, PR China
| | - Jianfeng Huang
- Depatement of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, PR China
| | - Yunxia Zhang
- Depatement of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, PR China
| | - Jun Che
- Depatement of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, PR China
| | - Koujun Zhu
- Depatement of Thoracic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, PR China
| | - Jiqun Geng
- Depatement of Thoracic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, PR China
| | - Qiang Fan
- Depatement of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
An L, Li M, Jia Q. Mechanisms of radiotherapy resistance and radiosensitization strategies for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:140. [PMID: 37598158 PMCID: PMC10439611 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01839-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is the sixth most common cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, with more than half of them occurred in China. Radiotherapy (RT) has been widely used for treating ESCC. However, radiation-induced DNA damage response (DDR) can promote the release of cytokines and chemokines, and triggers inflammatory reactions and changes in the tumor microenvironment (TME), thereby inhibiting the immune function and causing the invasion and metastasis of ESCC. Radioresistance is the major cause of disease progression and mortality in cancer, and it is associated with heterogeneity. Therefore, a better understanding of the radioresistance mechanisms may generate more reversal strategies to improve the cure rates and survival periods of ESCC patients. We mainly summarized the possible mechanisms of radioresistance in order to reveal new targets for ESCC therapy. Then we summarized and compared the current strategies to reverse radioresistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lingbo An
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Pathology, Xijing Hospital and School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
- College of Medical Technology, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Mingyang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Pathology, Xijing Hospital and School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.
| | - Qingge Jia
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Xi'an International Medical Center Hospital, Northwest University, Xi'an, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Luo Z, Ding E, Yu L, Wang W, Guo Q, Li X, Wang Y, Li T, Zhang Y, Zhang X. Identification of hub necroptosis-related lncRNAs for prognosis prediction of esophageal carcinoma. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:204763. [PMID: 37263709 DOI: 10.18632/aging.204763] [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: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Necroptosis is a newly identified programmed cell death associated with the biological process of various cancers, including esophageal carcinoma (ESCA). Meanwhile, the dysregulation of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) is greatly implicated in ESCA progression and necroptosis regulation. However, the lncRNAs involved in regulating necroptosis in ESCA are still unclear. In this study, we aim to explore the expression profile of necroptosis-related lncRNAs (NRLs), and evaluate their roles in ESCA prognosis and treatment. In the present study, 198 differentially expressed NRLs were identified between the ESCA and adjacent normal tissues through screening the data extracted from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. And, a prognostic panel consisting of 6 NRLs was constructed using the LASSO algorithm and multivariate Cox regression analysis. The ESCA patients with high risks had a markedly reduced survival time and higher mortality prevalence. Moreover, C-index of 6 NRLs-panel was superior to 48 published prognostic models based on lncRNAs or mRNAs for ESCA. There were significant differences between the high-risk and low-risk groups in tumor-related pathways, genetic mutations, and drug sensitivity responses. In vitro analysis revealed that inhibition of PVT1 impeded the proliferation, migration, and colony formation of ESCA cells, increased the expressions of p-RIP1 and p-MLKL and promoted necroptosis. By contrast, PVT1 overexpression resulted in a decrease in necroptotic cell death events, thus promoting tumor progression. Collectively, the established 6-NRLs panel was a promising biomarker for the prognostic prediction of ESCA. Moreover, our current findings provided potential targets for individualized therapy for ESCA patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhengdong Luo
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - E Ding
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Longchen Yu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Wenwu Wang
- Hangzhou Lin’an District Fourth People’s Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Qining Guo
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xinyang Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yifeng Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Tingting Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Zhao F, Tian H, Wang Y, Zhang J, Liu F, Fu L. LINC01004-SPI1 axis-activated SIGLEC9 in tumor-associated macrophages induces radioresistance and the formation of immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2023; 72:1835-1851. [PMID: 36688997 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-022-03364-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Radioresistance and immunosuppression remain the major obstacles in the anti-cancer treatments. This work studies the functions of sialic acid binding Ig like lectin 9 (SIGLEC9) and its related molecules in radioresistance and immunosuppression in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). The single-cell analysis showed that SIGLEC9 was mainly expressed on tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). Monocytes-derived macrophages were co-cultured with ESCC cells and subjected to radiotherapy. High or low doses of radiotherapy induced SIGLEC9 upregulation and M2 polarization of TAMs. Artificial inhibition of SIGLEC9 in TAMs suppressed the radioresistance and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) in the co-cultured ESCC cells. Upstream molecules of SIGLEC9 were predicted via bioinformatics. LINC01004 recruited Spi-1 proto-oncogene (SPI1) in nucleus of TAMs to induce transcriptional activation of SIGLEC9. SIGLEC9 interacted with mucin 1 (MUC1). MUC1 overexpression in ESCCs induced M2 skewing of TAMs, enhanced radioresistance and immunosuppression, and promoted nuclear translocation of β-catenin to suppress radiotherapy-induced ferroptosis of ESCC cells. These effects were blocked upon SIGLEC9 suppression. In vitro results were reproduced in the animal models with xenograft tumors. Taken together, this study demonstrates that the LINC01004-SPI1 axis-activated SIGLEC9 in TAMs induces radioresistance and the formation of immunosuppressive TME in ESCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fen Zhao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, People's Republic of China.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong University, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Tian
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yungang Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianbo Zhang
- Departments of Pathology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Fang Liu
- Department of Imaging, Shandong Medical College, Jinan, 250002, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Fu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Silencing UBQLN2 Enhances the Radiosensitivity of Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma (ESCC) via Activating p38 MAPK. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2023; 2023:2339732. [PMID: 36644234 PMCID: PMC9836790 DOI: 10.1155/2023/2339732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Background Ubiquilin 2 (UBQLN2) is an adaptor of ubiquitinated proteins and the proteasome. The potential role of UBQLN2 in carcinogenesis has been demonstrated. However, its role in modulating the radiosensitivity of cancer is not clear. Here, we explored the radiosensitizing effect of silencing UBQLN2 on esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and its mechanisms. Methods We analyzed the prognostic role of UBQLN2 in the ESCC patient cohort from the Cancer Genomic Atlas (TCGA) database and our hospital. We also conducted a series of experiments in vivo and in vitro to investigate the effect of silencing UBQLN2 on ESCC radiosensitivity and its mechanisms. Results UBQLN2 is highly expressed in ESCC tissues and positively correlated with poor overall survival (OS). The knockdown of UBQLN2 dramatically increased the radiosensitivity of ESCC cells. Mechanically, UBQLN2 suppression substantially upregulated p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK). The p38 MAPK inhibitor SB203580 could reverse the radiation-enhancing effect induced by UBQLN2 knockdown. The direct interaction between UBQLN2 and p38 MAPK was confirmed by co-immunoprecipitation (CO-IP) assay. Furthermore, silencing UBQLN2 also inhibited the expression of phosphorylated DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (p-DNA-PKcs) after irradiation. Finally, the xenografted tumor experiment confirmed the radiosensitizing effect of silencing UBQLN2 on ESCC in vivo. Conclusion Our results suggest that silencing UBQLN2 enhances the radiosensitivity of ESCC by activating p38 MAPK, and UBQLN2 may be a potential target to enhance the radiosensitivity of ESCC.
Collapse
|
15
|
Huang T, Wu Z, Zhu S. The roles and mechanisms of the lncRNA-miRNA axis in the progression of esophageal cancer: a narrative review. J Thorac Dis 2022; 14:4545-4559. [PMID: 36524088 PMCID: PMC9745524 DOI: 10.21037/jtd-22-1449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Esophageal cancer is one of the most common malignant digestive tract tumors. Despite various treatment methods, the prognosis of patients remains unsatisfactory, largely due to an insufficient understanding of the mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis and progression of esophageal cancer. More than 98% of the nucleotide sequences in the human genome do not encode proteins, and their transcription products are noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), mainly long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs). Experiments have shown that lncRNAs and miRNAs play crucial roles in the occurrence and progression of various human malignancies. These ncRNAs influence the progression of esophageal cancer through an intricate regulatory network. We herein summarized the roles and mechanisms of the lncRNA-miRNA axis in esophageal cancer cell proliferation, apoptosis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), invasion and metastasis, drug resistance, radiotherapy resistance, and angiogenesis. This review provides a rationale for anticancer therapy that targets the lncRNA-miRNA axis in esophageal cancer. METHODS Related articles published in the PubMed database between 05/30/2008 to 09/10/2022 were identified using the following terms: "lncRNA AND miRNA AND esophageal cancer", "lncRNA AND miRNA AND cell proliferation", "lncRNA AND miRNA AND apoptosis", "lncRNA AND miRNA AND EMT", "lncRNA AND miRNA AND invasion and metastasis", "lncRNA AND miRNA AND drug resistance", and "lncRNA AND miRNA AND radiotherapy resistance". Published articles written in English available to readers were considered. KEY CONTENT AND FINDINGS We summarized the roles of the lncRNA-miRNA axis in the progression of esophageal cancer, including cell proliferation, apoptosis, EMT, invasion and metastasis, drug resistance, radio resistance, and other progressions, and determined that the lncRNA-miRNA axis may serve as a potential clinical treatment target for esophageal cancer. CONCLUSIONS The lncRNA-miRNA axis is closely related to the progression of esophageal cancer and may act as a potential biological target for the clinical treatment of patients with esophageal cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tao Huang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College (Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College), Wuhu, China
- Research Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
| | - Zhihao Wu
- Research Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
| | - Shaojin Zhu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College (Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College), Wuhu, China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Yang N, Lu X, Jiang Y, Zhao L, Wang D, Wei Y, Yu Y, Kim MO, Laster KV, Li X, Yuan B, Dong Z, Liu K. Arbidol inhibits human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma growth in vitro and in vivo through suppressing ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related protein kinase. eLife 2022; 11:73953. [PMID: 36082941 PMCID: PMC9512399 DOI: 10.7554/elife.73953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Human esophageal cancer has a global impact on human health due to its high incidence and mortality. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop new drugs to treat or prevent the prominent pathological subtype of esophageal cancer, esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Based upon the screening of drugs approved by the Food and Drug Administration, we discovered that Arbidol could effectively inhibit the proliferation of human ESCC in vitro. Next, we conducted a series of cell-based assays and found that Arbidol treatment inhibited the proliferation and colony formation ability of ESCC cells and promoted G1-phase cell cycle arrest. Phosphoproteomics experiments, in vitro kinase assays and pull-down assays were subsequently performed in order to identify the underlying growth inhibitory mechanism. We verified that Arbidol is a potential ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related (ATR) inhibitor via binding to ATR kinase to reduce the phosphorylation and activation of minichromosome maintenance protein 2 at Ser108. Finally, we demonstrated Arbidol had the inhibitory effect of ESCC in vivo by a patient-derived xenograft model. All together, Arbidol inhibits the proliferation of ESCC in vitro and in vivo through the DNA replication pathway and is associated with the cell cycle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ning Yang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Zhengzhou University
| | - Xuebo Lu
- Department of Pathophysiology, Zhengzhou University
| | - Yanan Jiang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Zhengzhou University
| | - Lili Zhao
- Department of Pathophysiology, Zhengzhou University
| | - Donghao Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Zhengzhou University
| | - Yaxing Wei
- Department of Pathophysiology, Zhengzhou University
| | - Yin Yu
- Department of Pathophysiology, Zhengzhou University
| | - Myoung Ok Kim
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University
| | | | - Xin Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, Zhengzhou University
| | - Baoyin Yuan
- Department of Pathophysiology, Zhengzhou University
| | - Zigang Dong
- Department of Pathophysiology, Zhengzhou University
| | - Kangdong Liu
- Department of Pathophysiology, Zhengzhou University
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Zheng J, Chen X, Huang B, Li J. A novel immune-related radioresistant lncRNAs signature based model for risk stratification and prognosis prediction in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Front Genet 2022; 13:921902. [PMID: 36147506 PMCID: PMC9485730 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.921902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and purpose: Radioresistance remains a major reason of radiotherapeutic failure in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Our study is to screen the immune-related long non-coding RNA (ir-lncRNAs) of radiation-resistant ESCC (rr-ESCC) via Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and to construct a prognostic risk model. Methods: Microarray data (GSE45670) related to radioresistance of ESCC was downloaded from GEO. Based on pathologic responses after chemoradiotherapy, patients were divided into a non-responder (17 samples) and responder group (11 samples), and the difference in expression profiles of ir-lncRNAs were compared therein. Ir-lncRNA pairs were constructed for the differentially expressed lncRNAs as prognostic variables, and the microarray dataset (GSE53625) was downloaded from GEO to verify the effect of ir-lncRNA pairs on the long-term survival of ESCC. After modelling, patients are divided into high- and low-risk groups according to prognostic risk scores, and the outcomes were compared within groups based on the COX proportional hazards model. The different expression of ir-lncRNAs were validated using ECA 109 and ECA 109R cell lines via RT-qPCR. Results: 26 ir-lncRNA genes were screened in the GSE45670 dataset with differential expression, and 180 ir-lncRNA pairs were constructed. After matching with ir-lncRNA pairs constructed by GSE53625, six ir-lncRNA pairs had a significant impact on the prognosis of ESCC from univariate analysis model, of which three ir-lncRNA pairs were significantly associated with prognosis in multivariate COX analysis. These three lncRNA pairs were used as prognostic indicators to construct a prognostic risk model, and the predicted risk scores were calculated. With a median value of 2.371, the patients were divided into two groups. The overall survival (OS) in the high-risk group was significantly worse than that in the low-risk group (p < 0.001). The 1-, 2-, and 3-year prediction performance of this risk-model was 0.666, 0.702, and 0.686, respectively. In the validation setting, three ir-lncRNAs were significantly up-regulated, while two ir-lncRNAs were obviouly down-regulated in the responder group. Conclusion: Ir-lncRNAs may be involved in the biological regulation of radioresistance in patients with ESCC; and the prognostic risk-model, established by three ir-lncRNAs pairs has important clinical value in predicting the prognosis of patients with rr-ESCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianqing Zheng
- Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian, China
- The Graduate School of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Xiaohui Chen
- Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- The Graduate School of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Bifen Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Quanzhou Medical College People’s Hospital Affiliated, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Jiancheng Li
- Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- The Graduate School of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- *Correspondence: Jiancheng Li,
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Qiu L, Yue J, Ding L, Yin Z, Zhang K, Zhang H. Cancer-associated fibroblasts: An emerging target against esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Cancer Lett 2022; 546:215860. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.215860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
|
19
|
Sang C, Rao D, Wu C, Xia Y, Si M, Tang Z. Role of circular RNAs in the diagnosis, regulation of drug resistance and prognosis of lung cancer (Review). Oncol Lett 2022; 24:302. [PMID: 35949591 PMCID: PMC9353231 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2022.13422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors in China and is the highest cause of mortality among male and female patients, both in urban and rural areas. A subset of patients with lung cancer only display chest tightness without any other obvious symptoms. This is because most symptoms do not manifest during the early stages of disease development. Consequently, most patients with lung cancer are diagnosed when the disease is in the advanced stages, when they are already unfit for surgical treatment. Furthermore, the prognosis of patients with lung cancer is poor. The 5-year survival rate of patients with stage IA lung cancer is 85%, compared with 6% in those with stage IV. This requires the development of strategies for early diagnosis, treatment and prognosis to improve the management of lung cancer. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) belong to a class of closed circular non-coding RNAs formed by reverse splicing of a precursor mRNA. These RNAs are highly stable, ubiquitously expressed, conserved, and show high specificity. CircRNAs regulate biological processes, such as the proliferation, differentiation and invasion of lung cancer cells. Therefore, they can be used as biomarkers for the early diagnosis and prognosis prediction of lung cancer, as well as novel targets for therapy design. In the present review, the biological characteristics and functions of circRNAs, as well as their application in the diagnosis, control of drug resistance and effect on the prognosis of patients with lung cancer, will be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chengpeng Sang
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi 341000, P.R. China
| | - Dingyu Rao
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi 341000, P.R. China
| | - Caixia Wu
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi 341000, P.R. China
| | - Yao Xia
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi 341000, P.R. China
| | - Maoyan Si
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases of Ministry of Education, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi 341000, P.R. China
| | - Zhixian Tang
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi 341000, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Xin H, Liu Y, Chen P, Yin T, Wang M, Liu T, Wen Z, Cheng Y. CD155 promotes radioresistance and malignancy of esophageal cancer by regulating Hippo-YAP pathway. Discov Oncol 2022; 13:53. [PMID: 35768666 PMCID: PMC9243211 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-022-00515-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The expression of CD155 has been observed to increase in various human cancers, but its role in the development of esophageal cancer (EC) is unclear. Radiotherapy is one of the primary therapeutic options for EC. However, radioresistance is still a severe issue in EC treatment. In this study, Oncomine database mining, immunohistochemistry, and survival analysis showed that higher expression of CD155 in patients with EC than in healthy controls. In vitro and in vivo, we found for the first time that irradiation increased the expression of CD155 in EC cells. CD155 knockdown inhibited cell proliferation and migration and tumor formation, and significantly increased radiosensitivity in EC. The in vivo model with high CD155 expression significantly promoted the proliferation and migration of EC cells. Furthermore, increased CD155 expression was associated with poor prognosis in patients with EC. CD155 regulated the Hippo-Yap pathway, influencing cell proliferation and migration. Therefore, CD155 is essential for the proliferation, migration, and radioresistance of EC. CD155 inhibition may be a viable strategy for improving radiation treatment efficacy in individuals with EC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huixian Xin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, 250012, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yuchen Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, 250012, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Pengxiang Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, 250012, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Tianwen Yin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital, and Institute, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 250012, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Meijie Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, 250012, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Tianyu Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, 250012, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zhihua Wen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, 250012, Jinan, Shandong, China.
| | - Yufeng Cheng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, 250012, Jinan, Shandong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Wang X, Gu M, Ju Y, Zhou J. Overcoming radio-resistance in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma via hypermethylation of PIK3C3 promoter region mediated by KDM5B loss. JOURNAL OF RADIATION RESEARCH 2022; 63:331-341. [PMID: 35333349 PMCID: PMC9124615 DOI: 10.1093/jrr/rrac004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Many patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) are inoperable because of old age or the advanced stage of the disease; thus radio- and chemotherapy are believed as the standard treatments for these patients. However, due to the radio-resistance of tumor cells that may develop during radiotherapy, results remain unsatisfactory. In this article, the possible relationship between the expression of lysine demethylase 5B (KDM5B) and ESCC radio-resistance is clarified, and the underlying mechanism is evaluated. Using the GSE75241 microarray, we identified KDM5B as a potential oncogene in ESCC. KDM5B was overexpressed in ESCC patients and cells. Inhibition of KDM5B enhanced the H3K4me3 methylation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase catalytic subunit type 3 (PIK3C3) promoter and induced the expression of PIK3C3. Knockdown of KDM5B or overexpression of PIK3C3 in KYSE-150 and TE-10 cells promoted apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, autophagy, and increased sensitivity to radiotherapy. Silencing of PIK3C3 attenuated the promoting effect of sh-KDM5B on the sensitivity of ESCC cells to radiotherapy. The inhibition of sh-KDM5B in radio-resistance of ESCC cells was also reproduced in vivo. Taken together, our findings provide evidence that reduced expression of KDM5B has a critical role in promoting ESCC radio-sensitivity by upregulating PIK3C3, suggesting KDM5B may function as an oncogene in ESCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaobo Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, Jiangsu, P.R. China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First People’s Hospital of Nantong, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Min Gu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First People’s Hospital of Nantong, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Yongjian Ju
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First People’s Hospital of Nantong, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Juying Zhou
- Corresponding author. Juying Zhou, Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No. 899, Pinghai Road, Suzhou 215006, Jiangsu, P.R. China. Tel/Fax: 0513-85061155;
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Lian L, Teng SB, Xia YY, Shen XM, Zheng Y, Han SG, Wang WJ, Xu XF, Zhou C. Development and verification of a hypoxia- and immune-associated prognosis signature for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. J Gastrointest Oncol 2022; 13:462-477. [PMID: 35557566 PMCID: PMC9086047 DOI: 10.21037/jgo-22-69] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 08/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Esophageal cancer is one of the most common gastrointestinal malignancies worldwide, with high morbidity and mortality in China. The clinical importance of the interaction between hypoxia and immune status in the tumor microenvironment has been established in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). This study aims to develop a new hypoxia- and immune-based gene signature to predict the survival of ESCC patients. METHODS The RNA-sequencing and clinical data of 173 cases of ESCC and 271 normal tissues were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data portal and the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) database. Hypoxia-related genes (HRGs) and immune-related genes (IRGs) were retrieved from publicly shared data. Differentially expressed gene (DEG) analyses were carried out by the DESeq2 method using the edgeR package in R. Based on the intersection of the DEGs and HRGs/IRGs, differentially expressed HRGs (DEHRGs) and differentially expressed IRGs (DEIRGs) were obtained. DEHRGs and DEIRGs associated with prognosis were evaluated using univariate Cox proportional hazards analysis. A prognostic risk score model was constructed according to the genes acquired through Cox regression. Univariate analysis and Cox proportional hazards analysis were used to determine the independent prognostic factors related to prognosis. A nomogram was developed to predict the 1-, 2-, and 3-year overall survival (OS) probability. RESULTS A total of 73 intersecting genes were obtained as DEHRGs and a total of 548 intersecting genes were obtained as DEIRGs. The risk score was established using 8 genes (FABP7, TLR1, SYTL1, APLN, OSM, EGFR, IL17RD, MYH9) acquired from univariate Cox analysis. Based on this 8-gene-based risk score, a risk prognosis classifier was constructed to classify the samples into high- and low-risk groups according to the median risk score. The nomogram model was constructed to predict the OS of ESCC patients. CONCLUSIONS The hypoxia- and immune-based gene signature might serve as a prognostic classifier for clinical decision-making regarding individualized management, follow-up plans, and treatment strategies for ESCC patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lian Lian
- Department of Oncology, Suzhou Xiangcheng People’s Hospital, Suzhou, China
| | - Shi-Bing Teng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Suzhou Xiangcheng People’s Hospital, Suzhou, China
| | - You-You Xia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Affiliated Lianyungang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University (The First People’s Hospital of Lianyungang), Lianyungang, China
| | - Xiao-Ming Shen
- Department of Oncology, Suzhou Xiangcheng People’s Hospital, Suzhou, China
| | - Yan Zheng
- Department of Oncology, Suzhou Xiangcheng People’s Hospital, Suzhou, China
| | - Shu-Guang Han
- Department of General Surgery, Suzhou Xiangcheng People’s Hospital, Suzhou, China
| | - Wen-Jie Wang
- Department of Radio-Oncology, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xue-Fei Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Suzhou Xiangcheng People’s Hospital, Suzhou, China
| | - Chong Zhou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Zhou H, Wang G, Xiao Z, Yang Y, Tian Z, Gao C, Han X, Sun W, Hou L, Liu J, Xue X. NRAGE Confers Radiation Resistance in 2D and 3D Cell Culture and Poor Outcome in Patients With Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2022; 12:831506. [PMID: 35433476 PMCID: PMC9010827 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.831506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
ObjectiveThe purpose of the study is to explore the mechanism of NRAGE enhancing radioresistance of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) in 2D and 3D levels.MethodsStably NRAGE-overexpressed ESCC cells and 3D-printing models for ESCC cells were established. Then, cellular malignancy indexes, such as cell morphology, proliferation, radioresistance, motility, apoptosis, cell cycle, and proteins of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, were compared between radioresistant and its parental cells in 2D and 3D levels. Additionally, 44 paraffin ESCC specimens with radical radiotherapy were selected to examine NRAGE and β-catenin protein expression and analyze the clinical correlation.ResultsExperiments in 2D culture showed that morphology of the Eca109/NRAGE cells was more irregular, elongated spindle-shaped and disappeared polarity. It obtained faster growth ability, stronger resistance to irradiation, enhanced motility, reduced apoptosis ratio and cell cycle rearrangement. Moreover, Western blot results showed β-catenin, p-Gsk-3β and CyclinD1 expressions were induced, while p-β-catenin and Gsk-3β expressions decreased in Eca109/NRAGE cells. Experiments in the 3D-printing model showed Eca109/NRAGE cell-laden 3D scaffolds had the advantage on growth and spheroiding according to the brightfield observation, scanning electron microscopy and Ki-67 IHC staining, and higher expression at the β-catenin protein. Clinical analysis showed that NRAGE expression was higher in tumor tissues than in control tissues of ESCC patients from the Public DataBase. Compared with radiotherapy effective group, both NRAGE total and nuclear and β-catenin nuclear expressions were significantly upregulated from ESCC specimens in invalid group. Further analysis showed a positive and linear correlation between NRAGE nuclear and β-catenin nuclear expressions. Additionally, results from univariate and multivariate analyses revealed NRAGE nuclear expression could serve as a risk factor for ESCC patients receiving radical radiotherapy.ConclusionESCC cells with NRAGE nuclear accumulation demonstrated greater radioresistance, which may be related to the activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. It indicated that NRAGE nuclear expression was a potential biomarker for monitoring radiotherapeutic response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huandi Zhou
- Department of Radiotherapy, Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Department of Central Laboratory, Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Guohui Wang
- Department of Radiotherapy, Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Zhiqing Xiao
- Department of Radiotherapy, Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Yu Yang
- Department of Radiotherapy, Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Zhesen Tian
- Department of Radiotherapy, Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Chen Gao
- Department of Radiotherapy, Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Xuetao Han
- Department of Radiotherapy, Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Department of Radiotherapy, Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Liubing Hou
- Department of Radiotherapy, Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- Department of Central Laboratory, Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Junling Liu
- Department of Radiotherapy, Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Xiaoying Xue
- Department of Radiotherapy, Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaoying Xue,
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Guo Y, Wang L, Yang H, Ding N. Knockdown long non-coding RNA HCP5 enhances the radiosensitivity of esophageal carcinoma by modulating AKT signaling activation. Bioengineered 2022; 13:884-893. [PMID: 34969363 PMCID: PMC8805942 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2021.2014386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been revealed to participate in cancer therapy. Especial in tumor radiotherapy, lncRNAs usually could enhance or restrict the radiosensitivity in different ways. LncRNA HCP5 is highly expressed in esophageal cancer and influenced the malignant behaviors of esophageal cancer cells. However, this study dedicates to clarify if lncRNA HCP5 affects the radiosensitivity of esophageal carcinoma. The expression levels of HCP5 in esophageal cancer and adjacent noncancerous tissue were first analyzed on the TCGA database and then detected by qRT-PCR. The related functional experiments were used to investigate whether the radiosensitivity of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma was affected by the inhibition of HCP5. The expression results showed HCP5 is upregulated in esophageal cancers compared to the normal tissues. Meanwhile, knockdown HCP5 further suppressed the proliferation and promoted the apoptosis of esophageal cancer cells treated with a 2 Gy dose of radiotherapy. Moreover, we uncovered that knockdown HCP5 eliminated radiotherapy resistance by modulating the miR-216a-3p/PDK1 axis to inhibit the AKT activation. Finally, rescue experiments pointed that lowering the miR-216a-3p expression weakened the inhibition effect of knockdown HCP5 on cells treated with radiotherapy. To summary, our results indicate that HCP5 is involved in esophageal carcinoma radiotherapy and knockdown HCP5 enhances the radiosensitivity of esophageal carcinoma by modulating AKT signaling activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yue Guo
- Hematology Department, Xiangyang No. 1 People's Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Lan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Xiangyang No. 1 People's Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Hui Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Xiangyang No. 1 People's Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Nannan Ding
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, China
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Kałafut J, Czerwonka A, Anameriç A, Przybyszewska-Podstawka A, Misiorek JO, Rivero-Müller A, Nees M. Shooting at Moving and Hidden Targets-Tumour Cell Plasticity and the Notch Signalling Pathway in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:6219. [PMID: 34944837 PMCID: PMC8699303 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13246219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) is often aggressive, with poor response to current therapies in approximately 40-50% of the patients. Current therapies are restricted to operation and irradiation, often combined with a small number of standard-of-care chemotherapeutic drugs, preferentially for advanced tumour patients. Only very recently, newer targeted therapies have entered the clinics, including Cetuximab, which targets the EGF receptor (EGFR), and several immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting the immune receptor PD-1 and its ligand PD-L1. HNSCC tumour tissues are characterized by a high degree of intra-tumour heterogeneity (ITH), and non-genetic alterations that may affect both non-transformed cells, such as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and transformed carcinoma cells. This very high degree of heterogeneity likely contributes to acquired drug resistance, tumour dormancy, relapse, and distant or lymph node metastasis. ITH, in turn, is likely promoted by pronounced tumour cell plasticity, which manifests in highly dynamic and reversible phenomena such as of partial or hybrid forms of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and enhanced tumour stemness. Stemness and tumour cell plasticity are strongly promoted by Notch signalling, which remains poorly understood especially in HNSCC. Here, we aim to elucidate how Notch signal may act both as a tumour suppressor and proto-oncogenic, probably during different stages of tumour cell initiation and progression. Notch signalling also interacts with numerous other signalling pathways, that may also have a decisive impact on tumour cell plasticity, acquired radio/chemoresistance, and metastatic progression of HNSCC. We outline the current stage of research related to Notch signalling, and how this pathway may be intricately interconnected with other, druggable targets and signalling mechanisms in HNSCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Kałafut
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Chodzki 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (J.K.); (A.C.); (A.A.); (A.P.-P.); (A.R.-M.)
| | - Arkadiusz Czerwonka
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Chodzki 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (J.K.); (A.C.); (A.A.); (A.P.-P.); (A.R.-M.)
| | - Alinda Anameriç
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Chodzki 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (J.K.); (A.C.); (A.A.); (A.P.-P.); (A.R.-M.)
| | - Alicja Przybyszewska-Podstawka
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Chodzki 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (J.K.); (A.C.); (A.A.); (A.P.-P.); (A.R.-M.)
| | - Julia O. Misiorek
- Department of Molecular Neurooncology, Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Noskowskiego 12/14, 61-704 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Adolfo Rivero-Müller
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Chodzki 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (J.K.); (A.C.); (A.A.); (A.P.-P.); (A.R.-M.)
| | - Matthias Nees
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Chodzki 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (J.K.); (A.C.); (A.A.); (A.P.-P.); (A.R.-M.)
- Western Finland Cancer Centre (FICAN West), Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, 20101 Turku, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Xu J, Chen Z, Fang Z, Chen S, Guo Y, Liu X, Chen K, Chen S. Long non-coding RNA OIP5-AS1 promotes the progression of esophageal cancer by regulating miR-30a/VOPP1 expression. Oncol Lett 2021; 22:651. [PMID: 34386073 PMCID: PMC8299025 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2021.12912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) serve an important role in the development of esophageal cancer (EC), which is the eighth most common type of cancer worldwide. lncRNA opa-interacting protein 5 antisense transcript 1 (OIP5-AS1) is associated with human malignancy. However, the biological roles of OIP5-AS1 in the development of EC remain unclear. In the present study, transfection was conducted, and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and western blot analysis were used for the detection of mRNA and protein expression, respectively. Furthermore, dual-luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation assays were used to study the interaction between miRNA and lncRNA or genes. The results revealed that OIP5-AS1 expression in EC tissues and cultured EC cells was upregulated, microRNA-30a (miR-30a) expression was downregulated. OIP5-AS1-knockdown suppressed the proliferation, migration and invasion of EC9706 and EC109 cells. miR-30a was confirmed to interact with OIP5-AS1, and miR-30a-mimics transfection ameliorated the effects of OIP5-AS1 in EC cells. Vesicular overexpressed in cancer prosurvival protein 1 (VOPP1) was verified as the direct target of miR-30a. VOPP1 expression was positively correlated with OIP5-AS1 expression in EC cells. Overexpression of VOPP1 ameliorated the negative effects of OIP5-AS1-knockdown on EC9706 and EC109 cells. In conclusion, OIP5-AS1 promoted the proliferation, migration and invasion of EC cells by increasing VOPP1 expression by sponging miR-30a.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiajun Xu
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated Jiujiang Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiujiang, Jianxi 332000, P.R. China
| | - Zhixi Chen
- College of Pharmacy, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jianxi 341000, P.R. China
| | - Zheng Fang
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated Jiujiang Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiujiang, Jianxi 332000, P.R. China
| | - Shixiong Chen
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated Jiujiang Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiujiang, Jianxi 332000, P.R. China
| | - Ying Guo
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated Jiujiang Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiujiang, Jianxi 332000, P.R. China
| | - Xianfeng Liu
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated Jiujiang Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiujiang, Jianxi 332000, P.R. China
| | - Kai Chen
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated Jiujiang Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiujiang, Jianxi 332000, P.R. China
| | - Shengjia Chen
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated Jiujiang Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiujiang, Jianxi 332000, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|