CDC20 and its downstream genes: potential prognosis factors of osteosarcoma

Key genes involved with prognosis were identified in lung adenocarcinoma by integrated bioinformatics analysis

Objective

By screening the core genes in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) with bioinformatics, our study evaluated its prognosis value and role in infiltration process of immune cells.

Methods

Using GEO database, we screened 5 gene chips, including GSE11072, GSE32863, GSE43458, GSE115002, and GSE116959. Then, we obtained the corresponding differentially expressed genes by analyzed 5 gene chips online by GEO2R (P < 0.05, |logFC| > 1). Then, through DAVID online platform, Cytoscape 3.6.1 software and PPI network analysis, the network was visualized and obtain the final core genes. Next, we plan to use the GEPIA, UALCAN, Kaplan-Meier plotter and Time 2.0 database for corresponding analysis. The GEPIA database was used to verify the expression of core genes in LUAD and normal lung tissues, and survival analysis was used to evaluate the value of core genes in the prognosis of LUAD patients. UALCAN was used to verify the expression of the LUAD core gene and promoter methylation status, and the predictive value of core genes was evaluated in LUAD patients by the Kaplan-Meier plotter online tool. Then, we used the Time 2.0 database to identify the relationship to immune infiltration in LUAD. Finally, we used the human protein atlas (HPA) database for online immunohistochemical analysis of the expressed proteins.

Results

The expression of CCNB2 and CDC20 in LUAD were higher than those in normal lung tissues, their increased expression was negatively correlated with the overall survival rate of LUAD, and they were involved in cell cycle signal transduction, oocyte meiosis signal transduction as well as the infiltration process of immune cells in LUAD. The expression proteins of CCNB2 and CDC20 were also different in lung cancer tissue and normal lung tissue. Therefore, CCNB2 and CDC20 were identified as the vital core genes.

Conclusion

CCNB2 and CDC20 are essential genes that may constitute prognostic biomarkers in LUAD, they also participate the immune infiltration process and protein expression process of LUAD, and might provides basis for clinical anti-tumor drug research.

Genetic deviation associated with photodynamic therapy in HeLa cell

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a method that is used in cancer treatment. The main therapeutic effect is the production of singlet oxygen (1O2). Phthalocyanines for PDT produce high singlet oxygen with absorbers of about 600-700 nm.

AIM

It is aimed to analyze cancer cell pathways by flow cytometry analysis and cancer-related genes with q-PCR device by applying phthalocyanine L1ZnPC, which we use as photosensitizer in photodynamic therapy, in HELA cell line. In this study, we investigate the molecular basis of L1ZnPC's anti-cancer activity.

MATERIAL METHOD

The cytotoxic effects of L1ZnPC, a phthalocyanine obtained from our previous study, in HELA cells were evaluated and it was determined that it led to a high rate of death as a result. The result of photodynamic therapy was analyzed using q-PCR. From the data received at the conclusion of this investigation, gene expression values were calculated, and expression levels were assessed using the 2-∆∆Ct method to examine the relative changes in these values. Cell death pathways were interpreted with the FLOW cytometer device. One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and the Tukey-Kramer Multiple Comparison Test with Post-hoc Test were used for the statistical analysis.

CONCLUSION

In our study, it was observed that HELA cancer cells underwent apoptosis at a rate of 80% with drug application plus photodynamic therapy by flow cytometry method. According to q-PCR results, CT values ​​of eight out of eighty-four genes were found to be significant and their association with cancer was evaluated. L1ZnPC is a new phthalocyanine used in this study and our findings should be supported by further studies. For this reason, different analyses are needed to be performed with this drug in different cancer cell lines. In conclusion, according to our results, this drug looks promising but still needs to be analyzed through new studies. It is necessary to examine in detail which signaling pathways they use and their mechanism of action. For this, additional experiments are required.

CDC20 in and out of mitosis: a prognostic factor and therapeutic target in hematological malignancies

Cell division cycle 20 homologue (CDC20) is a well-known regulator of cell cycle, as it controls the correct segregation of chromosomes during mitosis. Many studies have focused on the biological role of CDC20 in cancer development, as alterations of its functionality have been linked to genomic instability and evidence demonstrated that high CDC20 expression levels are associated with poor overall survival in solid cancers. More recently, novel CDC20 functions have been demonstrated or suggested, including the regulation of apoptosis and stemness properties and a correlation with immune cell infiltration. Here, we here summarize and discuss the role of CDC20 inside and outside mitosis, starting from its network of interacting proteins. In the last years, CDC20 has also attracted more interest in the blood cancer field, being overexpressed and showing an association with prognosis both in myeloid and lymphoid malignancies. Preclinical findings showed that selective CDC20 and APC/CCDC20/APC/CCDH1 inhibitors, namely Apcin and proTAME, are effective against lymphoma and multiple myeloma cells, resulting in mitotic arrest and apoptosis and synergizing with clinically-relevant drugs. The evidence and hypothesis presented in this review provide the input for further biological and chemical studies aiming to dissect novel potential CDC20 roles and targeting strategies in hematological malignancies.

The Roles of KIFC1 in the Development of Osteosarcoma: Characterization of Potential Therapeutic Targets

Background

As an important member of the mitotic kinesin family, kinesin family member C1 (KIFC1) is abnormally expressed in a variety of tumors. However, the roles of KIFC1 in the development of osteosarcoma (OS) have never been elucidated.

Methods

The expression of KIFC1 in OS tissues which was detected by immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining was further confirmed by Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis 2 (GEPIA2) database. The relationship between KIFC1 and CDC20 was analyzed by clinical data, STRING database, and GEPIA2 database. Survival analysis was performed through GEPIA2 database. To elucidate the roles of KIFC1 in OS, MG-63 and U-2 OS cells were treated with short hairpin RNA (shRNA) to knock down KIFC1 expression, and the knockdown efficiency was validated with quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blotting (WB). Moreover, colony formation and Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assays were utilized to evaluate cell proliferation.

Results

According to IHC staining and GEPIA2 analysis, the expression of KIFC1 in OS tissues was significantly higher than that in adjacent normal tissues, which was inversely connected to the prognosis. These results were consistent with our clinical data. Besides, KIFC1 was positively correlated with CDC20. In addition, KIFC1 shRNA could effectively silence KIFC1 expression in MG-63 and U-2 OS cells. Furthermore, the knockdown of KIFC1 inhibited the cell proliferation ability with increased cell apoptosis in MG-63 and U-2 OS cells.

Conclusion

KIFC1 was significantly upregulated in OS and promoted OS progression by cell proliferation. These findings offered new clues for OS diagnosis and prognosis, suggesting KIFC1 could be a potential therapeutic target for OS in further study.

3',4'-Dihydroxyflavonol Modulates the Cell Cycle in Cancer Cells: Implication as a Potential Combination Drug in Osteosarcoma

New agents are demanded to increase the therapeutic options for osteosarcoma (OS). Although OS is the most common bone cancer in children and adolescents, it is considered a rare disorder. Therefore, finding adjuvant drugs has potential to advance therapy for this disease. In this study, 3′,4′-dihydroxyflavonol (DiOHF) was investigated to assess the effects in OS cellular models in combination with doxorubicin (Dox). MG-63 and U2OS human OS cells were exposed to DiOHF and Dox and tested for cell viability and growth. To elucidate the inhibitory effects of DiOHF, additional studies were conducted to assess apoptosis and cell cycle distribution, gene expression quantification of cell cycle regulators, and cytokinesis-block cytome assay to determine nuclear division rate. DiOHF decreased OS cell growth and viability in a concentration-dependent manner. Its combination with Dox enabled Dox dose reduction in both cell lines, with synergistic interactions in U2OS cells. Although no significant apoptotic effects were detected at low concentrations, cytostatic effects were demonstrated in both cell lines. Incubation with DiOHF altered cell cycle dynamics and resulted in differential cyclin and cyclin-dependent kinase expression. Overall, this study presents an antiproliferative action of DiOHF in OS combination therapy via modulation of the cell cycle and nuclear division.

NUSAP1 Accelerates Osteosarcoma Cell Proliferation and Cell Cycle Progression via Upregulating CDC20 and Cyclin A2

Purpose

Nucleolar and spindle-associated protein 1 (NUSAP1) is a significant mitotic regulator and has been found to be implicated in carcinogenesis of several cancers. The aim of this study was to explore the functional role and underlying mechanisms of NUSAP1 in osteosarcoma.

Methods

Western blot assay and Real-time fluorescent quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) were employed to assess the expressions of NUSAP1, cell division cycle 20 homologue (CDC20) and cyclin A2 (CCNA2) in osteosarcoma cells. Cell proliferation was evaluated by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) assay, and flow cytometry was applied for exploring cell cycle. In addition, an osteosarcoma tumor-bearing mouse model was established by injection of transfected osteosarcoma cells. Tumor volume and protein expressions of Ki67 and PCNA were examined. Bioinformatics analysis and immunoprecipitation were used to identify the combination of NUSAP1 with CDC20 and CCNA2.

Results

The mRNA and protein expression of NUSAP1 were extremely upregulated in osteosarcoma cells. Overexpression of NUSAP1 promoted whereas NUSAP1 silencing suppressed cell proliferation and cell cycle progression in transfected osteosarcoma cells. In osteosarcoma mouse model, NUSAP1 expression affected tumor volume and levels of Ki67 and PCNA. Moreover, CDC20 or CCNA2 silencing inhibited NUSAP1-induced cell proliferation and cell cycle in osteosarcoma cells.

Conclusion

Our data demonstrated that upregulated NUSAP1 may exacerbate the development of osteosarcoma by accelerating the proliferation and cell cycle process of osteosarcoma cells by binding to CDC20 and CCNA2, suggesting NUSAP1 as a possible therapeutic target for treatment of osteosarcoma.

The biological function and clinical significance of STIL in osteosarcoma

Background

SCL/TAL1 interrupting locus (STIL) is associated with the progression of several tumors; however, the biological role of STIL in osteosarcoma remains poorly understood.

Methods

In this study, the clinical significance of STIL in osteosarcoma was analyzed by gene chip data recorded in public databases. STIL expression was silenced in osteosarcoma cell lines to observe the effects on proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and migration. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the osteosarcoma chip were analyzed using The Limma package, and STIL co-expressed genes were obtained via the Pearson correlation coefficient. The potential molecular mechanism of STIL in osteosarcoma was further explored by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways.

Results

Osteosarcoma was associated with higher STIL expression compared to the control samples, and the standardized mean difference (SMD) was 1.52. STIL also had a good ability to distinguish osteosarcoma from non-osteosarcoma samples [area under the curve (AUC) = 0.96]. After silencing STIL, osteosarcoma cell proliferation decreased, apoptosis increased, and the migratory and invasion ability decreased. A total of 294 STIL differentially co-expressed genes were screened, and a bioinformatics analysis found that differentially co-expressed genes were primarily enriched in the cell signaling pathways. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network indicated that the hub differentially co-expressed genes of STIL were CDK1, CCNB2, CDC20, CCNA2, BUB1, and AURKB.

Conclusions

STIL is associated with osteosarcoma proliferation and invasion, and may be promote the progression of osteosarcoma by regulating the expression of CDK1, CCNB2, CDC20, CCNA2, BUB1 and AURKB.

Connection Between CDC20 Expression and Hepatocellular Carcinoma Prognosis

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) occurs frequently in China, with high morbidity and mortality. Cell division cycle 20 homolog (CDC20) is reportedly related to many cancers. In this study, we discuss a potential link of CDC20 expression to HCC patients’ prognoses.

Material/Methods

Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was performed to assess CDC20 expression in HCC and the paired noncancerous tissues. Chi-square analysis was used to assess potential association of CDC20 expression with clinicopathologic profiles among HCC patients. The overall survival for HCC patients with different CDC20 expressions was assessed using the Kaplan-Meier method. To evaluate the prognostic value for HCC patients, Cox regression analyses were performed.

Results

The expression of CDC20 was elevated among HCC specimens compared with adjacent noncancerous ones (P<0.05). The expression of CDC20 was significantly related to differentiation (P<0.001), tumor node metastasis stage (P<0.001), and lymphatic metastasis (P<0.001). Moreover, HCC patients with high CDC20 expression had dismal overall survival rates compared with low CDC20 expression (P<0.05). CDC20 alone could forecast HCC prognoses according to multivariable Cox regression analysis (hazard ratio=2.354, 95% confidence interval=1.177–4.709, P=0.016).

Conclusions

Overexpressed CDC20 may act as a reliable biomarker for dismal prognoses among HCC patients.

LINC01278 is Highly Expressed in Osteosarcoma and Participates in the Development of Tumors by Mediating the miR-134-5p/KRAS Axis

Purpose

There is increasing evidence that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs), produce a critical regulatory effect on osteosarcoma (OS). LINC01278, as a newly discovered lncRNA, is found to be highly expressed in OS, but its related mechanism remains unclear. This research, therefore, is designed to study the mechanism of LINC01278 in OS and to find potential targets for clinical use.

Methods

qRT-PCR was applied to determine the relative expression of LINC01278 and analyze its diagnostic value in OS. CCK-8, Transwell and flow cytometry were utilized for the determination of cell proliferation, migration/invasion, and apoptosis. RIP and RNA pull-down experiments were used to verify the targeted binding effect of miR-134-5p and LINC01278. The relationship between miR-134-5p and LINC01278 or KRAS was analyzed using dual luciferase reporter gene. The effects of LINC01278 on tumor growth in nude mice was analyzed by in vivo experiment.

Results

qRT-PCR showed that LINC01278 increased in OS tissues and serum, indicating poor prognosis. In addition, LINC01278 was also of high value for OS diagnosis. Functional experiments showed that LINC01278 inhibited KRAS-mediated OS cell proliferation and metastasis through miR-134-5p. Finally, the results of an in vivo animal model indicated that LINC01278 promoted OS growth.

Conclusion

LINC01278 is expressed highly in OS, and patients with high LINC01278 expression have poor prognosis. Moreover, LINC01278 can suppress the proliferation and apoptosis of OS cells through mediating miR-134-5p/KRAS axis, which is expected to become a potential therapeutic target for OS.

Gene signatures with predictive and prognostic survival values in human osteosarcoma

Osteosarcoma is a common malignancy seen mainly in children and adolescents. The disease is characterized by poor overall prognosis and lower survival due to a lack of predictive markers. Many gene signatures with diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive values were evaluated to achieve better clinical outcomes. Two public data series, GSE21257 and UCSC Xena, were used to identify the minimum number of robust genes needed for a predictive signature to guide prognosis of patients with osteosarcoma. The lasso regression algorithm was used to analyze sequencing data from TCGA-TARGET, and methods such as Cox regression analysis, risk factor scoring, receiving operating curve, KMplot prognosis analysis, and nomogram were used to characterize the prognostic predictive power of the identified genes. Their utility was assessed using the GEO osteosarcoma dataset. Finally, the functional enrichment analysis of the identified genes was performed. A total of twenty-gene signatures were found to have a good prognostic value for predicting patient survival. Gene ontology analysis showed that the key genes related to osteosarcoma were categorized as peptide–antigen binding, clathrin-coated endocytic vesicle membrane, peptide binding, and MHC class II protein complex. The osteosarcoma related genes in these modules were significantly enriched in the processes of antigen processing and presentation, phagocytosis, cell adhesion molecules, Staphylococcus aureus infection. Twenty gene signatures were identified related to osteosarcoma, which would be helpful for predicting prognosis of patients with OS. Further, these signatures can be used to determine the subtypes of osteosarcoma.