1
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Pečar Fonović U, Kos J, Mitrović A. Compensational role between cathepsins. Biochimie 2024:S0300-9084(24)00085-3. [PMID: 38663456 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2024.04.010] [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: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/30/2024]
Abstract
Cathepsins, a family of lysosomal peptidases, play a crucial role in maintaining cellular homeostasis by regulating protein turnover and degradation as well as many specific regulatory actions that are important for proper cell function and human health. Alterations in the activity and expression of cathepsins have been observed in many diseases such as cancer, inflammation, neurodegenerative disorders, bone remodelling-related conditions and others. These changes are not exclusively harmful, but rather appear to be a compensatory response on the lack of one cathepsin in order to maintain tissue integrity. The upregulation of specific cathepsins in response to the inhibition or dysfunction of other cathepsins suggests a fine-tuned system of proteolytic balance and understanding the compensatory role of cathepsins may improve therapeutic potential of cathepsin's inhibitors. Selectively targeting one cathepsin or modulating their activity could offer new treatment strategies for a number of diseases. This review emphasises the need for comprehensive research into cathepsin biology in the context of disease. The identification of the specific cathepsins involved in compensatory responses, the elucidation of the underlying molecular mechanisms and the development of targeted interventions could lead to innovative therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urša Pečar Fonović
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva Cesta 7, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Janko Kos
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva Cesta 7, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia; Department of Biotechnology, Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova 39, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Ana Mitrović
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva Cesta 7, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia; Department of Biotechnology, Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova 39, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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2
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Dempsey PW, Sandu CM, Gonzalezirias R, Hantula S, Covarrubias-Zambrano O, Bossmann SH, Nagji AS, Veeramachaneni NK, Ermerak NO, Kocakaya D, Lacin T, Yildizeli B, Lilley P, Wen SWC, Nederby L, Hansen TF, Hilberg O. Description of an activity-based enzyme biosensor for lung cancer detection. COMMUNICATIONS MEDICINE 2024; 4:37. [PMID: 38443590 PMCID: PMC10914759 DOI: 10.1038/s43856-024-00461-7] [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: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lung cancer is associated with the greatest cancer mortality as it typically presents with incurable distributed disease. Biomarkers relevant to risk assessment for the detection of lung cancer continue to be a challenge because they are often not detectable during the asymptomatic curable stage of the disease. A solution to population-scale testing for lung cancer will require a combination of performance, scalability, cost-effectiveness, and simplicity. METHODS One solution is to measure the activity of serum available enzymes that contribute to the transformation process rather than counting biomarkers. Protease enzymes modify the environment during tumor growth and present an attractive target for detection. An activity based sensor platform sensitive to active protease enzymes is presented. A panel of 18 sensors was used to measure 750 sera samples from participants at increased risk for lung cancer with or without the disease. RESULTS A machine learning approach is applied to generate algorithms that detect 90% of cancer patients overall with a specificity of 82% including 90% sensitivity in Stage I when disease intervention is most effective and detection more challenging. CONCLUSION This approach is promising as a scalable, clinically useful platform to help detect patients who have lung cancer using a simple blood sample. The performance and cost profile is being pursued in studies as a platform for population wide screening.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Alykhan S Nagji
- University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC), Kansas City, KS, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Sara W C Wen
- Vejle Hospital, University Hospital of Southern Denmark, Vejle, Denmark
| | - Line Nederby
- Vejle Hospital, University Hospital of Southern Denmark, Vejle, Denmark
| | - Torben F Hansen
- Vejle Hospital, University Hospital of Southern Denmark, Vejle, Denmark
| | - Ole Hilberg
- Vejle Hospital, University Hospital of Southern Denmark, Vejle, Denmark
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3
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Baghy K, Ladányi A, Reszegi A, Kovalszky I. Insights into the Tumor Microenvironment-Components, Functions and Therapeutics. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17536. [PMID: 38139365 PMCID: PMC10743805 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Similarly to our healthy organs, the tumor tissue also constitutes an ecosystem. This implies that stromal cells acquire an altered phenotype in tandem with tumor cells, thereby promoting tumor survival. Cancer cells are fueled by abnormal blood vessels, allowing them to develop and proliferate. Tumor-associated fibroblasts adapt their cytokine and chemokine production to the needs of tumor cells and alter the peritumoral stroma by generating more collagen, thereby stiffening the matrix; these processes promote epithelial-mesenchymal transition and tumor cell invasion. Chronic inflammation and the mobilization of pro-tumorigenic inflammatory cells further facilitate tumor expansion. All of these events can impede the effective administration of tumor treatment; so, the successful inhibition of tumorous matrix remodeling could further enhance the success of antitumor therapy. Over the last decade, significant progress has been made with the introduction of novel immunotherapy that targets the inhibitory mechanisms of T cell activation. However, extensive research is also being conducted on the stromal components and other cell types of the tumor microenvironment (TME) that may serve as potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kornélia Baghy
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary;
| | - Andrea Ladányi
- Department of Surgical and Molecular Pathology and the National Tumor Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Oncology, 1122 Budapest, Hungary;
| | - Andrea Reszegi
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA;
- Department of Pathology, Forensic and Insurance Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1091 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ilona Kovalszky
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary;
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4
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Koistinen H, Kovanen RM, Hollenberg MD, Dufour A, Radisky ES, Stenman UH, Batra J, Clements J, Hooper JD, Diamandis E, Schilling O, Rannikko A, Mirtti T. The roles of proteases in prostate cancer. IUBMB Life 2023; 75:493-513. [PMID: 36598826 PMCID: PMC10159896 DOI: 10.1002/iub.2700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Since the proposition of the pro-invasive activity of proteolytic enzymes over 70 years ago, several roles for proteases in cancer progression have been established. About half of the 473 active human proteases are expressed in the prostate and many of the most well-characterized members of this enzyme family are regulated by androgens, hormones essential for development of prostate cancer. Most notably, several kallikrein-related peptidases, including KLK3 (prostate-specific antigen, PSA), the most well-known prostate cancer marker, and type II transmembrane serine proteases, such as TMPRSS2 and matriptase, have been extensively studied and found to promote prostate cancer progression. Recent findings also suggest a critical role for proteases in the development of advanced and aggressive castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Perhaps the most intriguing evidence for this role comes from studies showing that the protease-activated transmembrane proteins, Notch and CDCP1, are associated with the development of CRPC. Here, we review the roles of proteases in prostate cancer, with a special focus on their regulation by androgens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannu Koistinen
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Haematology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Finland
| | - Ruusu-Maaria Kovanen
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Haematology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Finland
- Research Program in Systems Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Pathology, HUS Diagnostic Centre, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Morley D Hollenberg
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology and Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Antoine Dufour
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology and Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Evette S. Radisky
- Department of Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida, U.S.A
| | - Ulf-Håkan Stenman
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Haematology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Finland
| | - Jyotsna Batra
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
- Translational Research Institute, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Judith Clements
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
- Translational Research Institute, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - John D. Hooper
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Eleftherios Diamandis
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Oliver Schilling
- Institute for Surgical Pathology, Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Antti Rannikko
- Research Program in Systems Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Urology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tuomas Mirtti
- Research Program in Systems Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Pathology, HUS Diagnostic Centre, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
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5
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Shen Z, Zhang P, Zhang W, Luo F, Xu H, Chen S, Kang M. IL-1RA inhibits esophageal carcinogenesis and lymphangiogenesis via downregulating VEGF-C and MMP9. Funct Integr Genomics 2023; 23:164. [PMID: 37198330 PMCID: PMC10191916 DOI: 10.1007/s10142-023-01049-5] [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: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA) has been shown to play an important role in cancer progression. However, its pathogenic effects and molecular mechanism in the malignant progression of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remain largely unknown. This study was designed to explore the function of IL-1RA in ESCC and determine the relationship between IL-1RA and lymph node metastasis in ESCC patients. The clinical relevance of IL-1RA in relation to the clinicopathological features and prognosis of 100 ESCC patients was analyzed. The function and underlying mechanisms of IL-1RA in the growth, invasion, and lymphatic metastasis in ESCC were explored both in vitro and in vivo. The therapeutic effect of anakinra, an IL-1 receptor antagonist, on ESCC was also evaluated in animal experiments. Downregulation of IL-1RA was observed in ESCC tissues and cells and was found to be strongly correlated with pathological stage (P = 0.034) and lymphatic metastasis (P = 0.038). Functional assays demonstrated that upregulation of IL-1RA reduced cell proliferation, migration, and lymphangiogenesis both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistic studies revealed that overexpression of IL-1RA activated the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in the ESCC cells through activation of MMP9 and regulation of the expression and secretion of VEGF-C through the PI3K/NF-κB pathway. Anakinra treatment resulted in significant inhibition of tumor growth, lymphangiogenesis, and metastasis. IL-1RA inhibits lymph node metastasis of ESCC by regulating the EMT through activation of matrix metalloproteinase 9(MMP9) and lymphangiogenesis, driven by VEGF-C and the NF-κB signaling pathway. Anakinra may be an effective drug for the inhibition of ESCC tumor formation and lymph node metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhimin Shen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Peipei Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Weiguang Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Fei Luo
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Hui Xu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Shuchen Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, China.
| | - Mingqiang Kang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, China.
- Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Cancer (Fujian Medical University), Ministry of Education, Fuzhou, 350122, China.
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Tumor Microbiology, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, Fujian, China.
- Key Laboratory of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery (Fujian Medical University), Fujian Province University, Fuzhou, China.
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6
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Kumar AA, Vine KL, Ranson M. Recent Advances in Targeting the Urokinase Plasminogen Activator with Nanotherapeutics. Mol Pharm 2023. [PMID: 37119285 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.3c00055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
The aberrant proteolytic landscape of the tumor microenvironment is a key contributor of cancer progression. Overexpression of urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) and/or its associated cell-surface receptor (uPAR) in tumor versus normal tissue is significantly associated with worse clinicopathological features and poorer patient survival across multiple cancer types. This is linked to mechanisms that facilitate tumor cell invasion and migration, via direct and downstream activation of various proteolytic processes that degrade the extracellular matrix─ultimately leading to metastasis. Targeting uPA has thus long been considered an attractive anticancer strategy. However, poor bioavailability of several uPA-selective small-molecule inhibitors has limited early clinical progress. Nanodelivery systems have emerged as an exciting method to enhance the pharmacokinetic (PK) profile of existing chemotherapeutics, allowing increased circulation time, improved bioavailability, and targeted delivery to tumor tissue. Combining uPA inhibitors with nanoparticle-based delivery systems thus offers a remarkable opportunity to overcome existing PK challenges associated with conventional uPA inhibitors, while leveraging potent candidates into novel targeted nanotherapeutics for an improved anticancer response in uPA positive tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashna A Kumar
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Kara L Vine
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Marie Ranson
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
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7
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Kim S. TMPRSS4, a type II transmembrane serine protease, as a potential therapeutic target in cancer. Exp Mol Med 2023; 55:716-724. [PMID: 37009799 PMCID: PMC10167312 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-023-00975-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteases are involved in almost all biological processes, implying their importance for both health and pathological conditions. Dysregulation of proteases is a key event in cancer. Initially, research identified their role in invasion and metastasis, but more recent studies have shown that proteases are involved in all stages of cancer development and progression, both directly through proteolytic activity and indirectly via regulation of cellular signaling and functions. Over the past two decades, a novel subfamily of serine proteases called type II transmembrane serine proteases (TTSPs) has been identified. Many TTSPs are overexpressed by a variety of tumors and are potential novel markers of tumor development and progression; these TTSPs are possible molecular targets for anticancer therapeutics. The transmembrane protease serine 4 (TMPRSS4), a member of the TTSP family, is upregulated in pancreatic, colorectal, gastric, lung, thyroid, prostate, and several other cancers; indeed, elevated expression of TMPRSS4 often correlates with poor prognosis. Based on its broad expression profile in cancer, TMPRSS4 has been the focus of attention in anticancer research. This review summarizes up-to-date information regarding the expression, regulation, and clinical relevance of TMPRSS4, as well as its role in pathological contexts, particularly in cancer. It also provides a general overview of epithelial-mesenchymal transition and TTSPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Semi Kim
- Microbiome Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejon, 34141, Korea.
- Department of Functional Genomics, Korea University of Science and Technology, Daejon, 34113, Korea.
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8
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Behring L, Ruiz-Gómez G, Trapp C, Morales M, Wodtke R, Köckerling M, Kopka K, Pisabarro MT, Pietzsch J, Löser R. Dipeptide-Derived Alkynes as Potent and Selective Irreversible Inhibitors of Cysteine Cathepsins. J Med Chem 2023; 66:3818-3851. [PMID: 36867428 PMCID: PMC10041539 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
The potential of designing irreversible alkyne-based inhibitors of cysteine cathepsins by isoelectronic replacement in reversibly acting potent peptide nitriles was explored. The synthesis of the dipeptide alkynes was developed with special emphasis on stereochemically homogeneous products obtained in the Gilbert-Seyferth homologation for C≡C bond formation. Twenty-three dipeptide alkynes and 12 analogous nitriles were synthesized and investigated for their inhibition of cathepsins B, L, S, and K. Numerous combinations of residues at positions P1 and P2 as well as terminal acyl groups allowed for the derivation of extensive structure-activity relationships, which were rationalized by computational covalent docking for selected examples. The determined inactivation constants of the alkynes at the target enzymes span a range of >3 orders of magnitude (3-10 133 M-1 s-1). Notably, the selectivity profiles of alkynes do not necessarily reflect those of the nitriles. Inhibitory activity at the cellular level was demonstrated for selected compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydia Behring
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
- Technische Universität Dresden, School of Science, Faculty of Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Mommsenstraße 4, 01069 Dresden, Germany
| | - Gloria Ruiz-Gómez
- BIOTEC, Technische Universität Dresden, Tatzberg 47-51, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Christian Trapp
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
| | - Maryann Morales
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
| | - Robert Wodtke
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
| | - Martin Köckerling
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Rostock, Albert-Einstein-Straße 3a, 18059 Rostock, Germany
| | - Klaus Kopka
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
- Technische Universität Dresden, School of Science, Faculty of Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Mommsenstraße 4, 01069 Dresden, Germany
| | - M Teresa Pisabarro
- BIOTEC, Technische Universität Dresden, Tatzberg 47-51, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Jens Pietzsch
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
- Technische Universität Dresden, School of Science, Faculty of Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Mommsenstraße 4, 01069 Dresden, Germany
| | - Reik Löser
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
- Technische Universität Dresden, School of Science, Faculty of Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Mommsenstraße 4, 01069 Dresden, Germany
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Cao Y, Zhou L, Fang Z, Zou Z, Zhao J, Zuo X, Li G. Application of functional peptides in the electrochemical and optical biosensing of cancer biomarkers. Chem Commun (Camb) 2023; 59:3383-3398. [PMID: 36808189 DOI: 10.1039/d2cc06824a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Early screening and diagnosis are the most effective ways to prevent the occurrence and progression of cancers, thus many biosensing strategies have been developed to achieve economic, rapid, and effective detection of various cancer biomarkers. Recently, functional peptides have been gaining increasing attention in cancer-related biosensing due to their advantageous features of a simple structure, ease of synthesis and modification, high stability, and good biorecognition, self-assembly and antifouling capabilities. Functional peptides can not only act as recognition ligands or enzyme substrates for the selective identification of different cancer biomarkers but also function as interfacial materials or self-assembly units to improve the biosensing performances. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in functional peptide-based biosensing of cancer biomarkers according to the used techniques and the roles of peptides. Particular attention is focused on the use of electrochemical and optical techniques, both of which are the most commonly used techniques in the field of biosensing. The challenges and promising prospects of functional peptide-based biosensors in clinical diagnosis are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Cao
- Center for Molecular Recognition and Biosensing, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ Repair, School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, P. R. China.
| | - Liang Zhou
- Center for Molecular Recognition and Biosensing, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ Repair, School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, P. R. China.
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China.
| | - Zhikai Fang
- Center for Molecular Recognition and Biosensing, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ Repair, School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, P. R. China.
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China.
| | - Zihan Zou
- Center for Molecular Recognition and Biosensing, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ Repair, School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, P. R. China.
| | - Jing Zhao
- Center for Molecular Recognition and Biosensing, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ Repair, School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, P. R. China.
| | - Xiaolei Zuo
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China.
| | - Genxi Li
- Center for Molecular Recognition and Biosensing, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Organ Repair, School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, P. R. China.
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, P. R. China.
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10
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Li J, Gao L, Wang A, Qian H, Zhu J, Ji S, Chen J, Liu Z, Ji C. Forkhead box L2 is a target of miR-133b and plays an important role in the pathogenesis of non-small cell lung cancer. Cancer Med 2023; 12:9826-9842. [PMID: 36846934 PMCID: PMC10166978 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.5746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Forkhead box L2 (FOXL2) has been recognized as a transcription factor in the progression of many malignancies, but its role in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains unclear. This research clarified on the role of FOXL2 and the specific molecular mechanism in NSCLC. METHODS RNA and protein levels were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blotting assays. Cell proliferation was examined by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) and clonogenic assays. Transwell and wound healing assays were used to detect cell invasion and migration. Cell cycle alterations were assessed by flow cytometry. The relationship between FOXL2 and miR-133b was verified by dual-luciferase reporter assays. In vivo metastasis was monitored in the tail vein-injected mice. RESULTS FOXL2 was upregulated in NSCLC cells and tissues. Downregulation of FOXL2 restrained cell proliferation, migration, and invasion and arrested the cell cycle of NSCLC cells. Moreover, FOXL2 promoted the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process of NSCLC cells by inducing the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)/Smad signaling pathway. miR-133b directly targeted the 3'-UTR of FOXL2 and negatively regulated FOXL2 expression. Knockdown of FOXL2 blocked metastasis in vivo. CONCLUSIONS miR-133b downregulates FOXL2 by targeting the 3'-UTR of FOXL2, thereby inhibiting cell proliferation, EMT and metastasis induced by the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway in NSCLC. FOXL2 may be a potential molecular target for treating NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Li
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,Suzhou Key Laboratory for Respiratory Diseases, Suzhou, China.,Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Lirong Gao
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,Suzhou Key Laboratory for Respiratory Diseases, Suzhou, China
| | - Anqi Wang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,Suzhou Key Laboratory for Respiratory Diseases, Suzhou, China
| | - Huiwen Qian
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jianjie Zhu
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,Suzhou Key Laboratory for Respiratory Diseases, Suzhou, China.,Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Shundong Ji
- Jiangsu Institute of Hematology, MOH Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jun Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Zeyi Liu
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,Suzhou Key Laboratory for Respiratory Diseases, Suzhou, China.,Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Cheng Ji
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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11
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Bi W, Yang M, Xing P, Huang T. MicroRNA miR-331-3p suppresses osteosarcoma progression via the Bcl-2/Bax and Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathways and the epithelial-mesenchymal transition by targeting N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase I (MGAT1). Bioengineered 2022; 13:14159-14174. [PMID: 35758024 PMCID: PMC9342255 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2022.2083855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS) is a high-grade malignant disease that is a prevalent primary malignant sarcoma of the bone. The purpose of this investigation was to therefore elucidate the association between miR-331-3p and OS development and to identify a potential underlying mechanism. Key genes involved in OS were selected using GSE65071 dataset from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA). Reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blotting were conducted to detect miR-331-3p, MGAT1, the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), Bcl-2/Bax and Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathways related proteins. Dual-luciferase reporter assay and TargetScan were used for validating interaction between MGAT1 mRNA and miR-331-3p. Biological effects of miR-331-3p and MGAT1 on OS cells were detected employing MTT, Transwell, wound healing and flow cytometry, respectively. MiR-331-3p was under-expressed in OS, and up-regulation or inhibition of its expression could significantly inhibit or promote the malignant phenotypes of OS cells. Furthermore, we found that MGAT1, a target of miR-331-3p, had elevated expression in OS. Interestingly, MGAT1 could partially alleviate the effect of miR-331-3p in vitro. Collectively, miR-331-3p acts as an critical tumor suppressor through inhibiting MGAT1, results in suppressed Wnt/β-Catenin pathway and decreased proliferation of OS cells; leads to increased apoptosis via Bcl-2/Bax pathway and inhibited migration and invasion ability via the EMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Bi
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Mengyue Yang
- Department of Cardiovascular, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Pengfei Xing
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Tao Huang
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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12
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Liu Z, Fang B, Cao J, Zhou Q, Zhu F, Fan L, Xue L, Huang C, Bo H. LINC00313 regulates the metastasis of testicular germ cell tumors through epithelial-mesenchyme transition and immune pathways. Bioengineered 2022; 13:12141-12155. [PMID: 35575252 PMCID: PMC9275957 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2022.2073128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumor (TGCT) is a relatively rare entity tumor, accounting for only 1% of all male cancers. However, it is the most common solid tumor in young men between 15 and 34 years old. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in various physiological and pathological processes. However, the functions of lncRNAs in TGCT have only rarely been investigated. LncRNAs associated with TGCT were identified using Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and UCSC XENA database data mining. The effects of LINC00313 on NCCIT cell migration and invasion were evaluated in transwell assays. The expression levels of epithelial-mesenchyme transition (EMT)-related proteins in cells knockdown of LINC00313 were analyzed by Western blot. Correlation analyses between lncRNA LINC00313 expression and copy number variation (CNV) and immune cell infiltration were carried out using The Cancer Genome Atl as (TCGA) data. The effect of Panobinostatin targeting LINC00313 in TGCT cells was investigated. We observed higher LINC00313 expression in TGCT. The migratory and invasive properties of TGCT cells were augmented by LINC00313, likely via its effects on modulating the expression of epithelial-mesenchyme transition (EMT) related proteins: CTNNB1, ZEB1, CDH2, Snail and VIM. Moreover, LINC00313 expression and CNV correlated negatively with the infiltration of immune cells. In addition, Panobinostat might be a possible candidate drug to target LINC00313 in TGCT. LINC00313 performs important pro-migration and invasion functions in the pathogenesis of TGCT. LINC00313 could be used as diagnostic, prognostic, immune marker and therapeutic target to develop effective treatment of TGCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhizhong Liu
- Department of Urology, Hunan Cancer Hospital, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Bairong Fang
- Department of Plastic and Aesthetic (Burn) Surgery, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Hunan, Changsha, China
| | - Jian Cao
- Department of Urology, Hunan Cancer Hospital, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qianyin Zhou
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Fang Zhu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Liqing Fan
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Lei Xue
- Department of Pathology, Hunan Cancer Hospital, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Chuan Huang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Hao Bo
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, Hunan, China
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13
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Nirschl CJ, Brodkin HR, Hicklin DJ, Ismail N, Morris K, Seidel-Dugan C, Steiner P, Steuert Z, Sullivan JM, Tyagi E, Winston WM, Salmeron A. Discovery of a Conditionally Activated IL-2 that Promotes Antitumor Immunity and Induces Tumor Regression. Cancer Immunol Res 2022; 10:581-596. [PMID: 35286392 PMCID: PMC9381102 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-21-0831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
IL-2 is a cytokine clinically approved for the treatment of melanoma and renal cell carcinoma. Unfortunately, its clinical utility is hindered by serious side effects driven by the systemic activity of the cytokine. Here, we describe the design and characterization of a conditionally activated IL-2 prodrug, WTX-124, that takes advantage of the dysregulated protease milieu of tumors. WTX-124 was engineered as a single molecule containing an inactivation domain and a half-life extension domain that are tethered to a fully active IL-2 by protease-cleavable linkers. We show that the inactivation domain prevented IL-2 from binding to its receptors in nontumor tissues, thereby minimizing the toxicity associated with systemic exposure to IL-2. The half-life extension element improves the pharmacokinetic profile of WTX-124 over free IL-2, allowing for greater exposure. WTX-124 was preferentially activated in tumor tissue by tumor-associated proteases, releasing active IL-2 in the tumor microenvironment. In vitro assays confirmed that the activity of WTX-124 was dependent on proteolytic activation, and in vivo WTX-124 treatment resulted in complete rejection of established tumors in a cleavage-dependent manner. Mechanistically, WTX-124 treatment triggered the activation of T cells and natural killer (NK) cells, and markedly shifted the immune activation profile of the tumor microenvironment, resulting in significant inhibition of tumor growth in syngeneic tumor models. Collectively, these data demonstrate that WTX-124 minimizes the toxicity of IL-2 treatment in the periphery while retaining the full pharmacology of IL-2 in the tumor microenvironment, supporting its further development as a cancer immunotherapy treatment. See related Spotlight by Silva, p. 544.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Cynthia Seidel-Dugan
- Corresponding Authors: Cynthia Seidel-Dugan, Werewolf Therapeutics, 1030 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138. Phone: 617-952-0542; Fax: 617-354-0510; E-mail: ; and Andres Salmeron,
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Andres Salmeron
- Corresponding Authors: Cynthia Seidel-Dugan, Werewolf Therapeutics, 1030 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138. Phone: 617-952-0542; Fax: 617-354-0510; E-mail: ; and Andres Salmeron,
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14
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Zhao R, Trainor PA. Epithelial to mesenchymal transition during mammalian neural crest cell delamination. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2022; 138:54-67. [PMID: 35277330 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2022.02.018] [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: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a well-defined cellular process that was discovered in chicken embryos and described as "epithelial to mesenchymal transformation" [1]. During EMT, epithelial cells lose their epithelial features and acquire mesenchymal character with migratory potential. EMT has subsequently been shown to be essential for both developmental and pathological processes including embryo morphogenesis, wound healing, tissue fibrosis and cancer [2]. During the past 5 years, interest and study of EMT especially in cancer biology have increased exponentially due to the implied role of EMT in multiple aspects of malignancy such as cell invasion, survival, stemness, metastasis, therapeutic resistance and tumor heterogeneity [3]. Since the process of EMT in embryogenesis and cancer progression shares similar phenotypic changes, core transcription factors and molecular mechanisms, it has been proposed that the initiation and development of carcinoma could be attributed to abnormal activation of EMT factors usually required for normal embryo development. Therefore, developmental EMT mechanisms, whose timing, location, and tissue origin are strictly regulated, could prove useful for uncovering new insights into the phenotypic changes and corresponding gene regulatory control of EMT under pathological conditions. In this review, we initially provide an overview of the phenotypic and molecular mechanisms involved in EMT and discuss the newly emerging concept of epithelial to mesenchymal plasticity (EMP). Then we focus on our current knowledge of a classic developmental EMT event, neural crest cell (NCC) delamination, highlighting key differences in our understanding of NCC EMT between mammalian and non-mammalian species. Lastly, we highlight available tools and future directions to advance our understanding of mammalian NCC EMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruonan Zhao
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO, USA; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Paul A Trainor
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO, USA; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA.
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15
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Habič A, Novak M, Majc B, Lah Turnšek T, Breznik B. Proteases Regulate Cancer Stem Cell Properties and Remodel Their Microenvironment. J Histochem Cytochem 2021; 69:775-794. [PMID: 34310223 DOI: 10.1369/00221554211035192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Proteolytic activity is perturbed in tumors and their microenvironment, and proteases also affect cancer stem cells (CSCs). CSCs are the therapy-resistant subpopulation of cancer cells with tumor-initiating capacity that reside in specialized tumor microenvironment niches. In this review, we briefly summarize the significance of proteases in regulating CSC activities with a focus on brain tumor glioblastoma. A plethora of proteases and their inhibitors participate in CSC invasiveness and affect intercellular interactions, enhancing CSC immune, irradiation, and chemotherapy resilience. Apart from their role in degrading the extracellular matrix enabling CSC migration in and out of their niches, we review the ability of proteases to modulate CSC properties, which prevents their elimination. When designing protease-oriented therapies, the multifaceted roles of proteases should be thoroughly investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anamarija Habič
- Department of Genetic Toxicology and Cancer Biology, National Institute of Biology, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,The Jožef Stefan International Postgraduate School, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Metka Novak
- Department of Genetic Toxicology and Cancer Biology, National Institute of Biology, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Bernarda Majc
- Department of Genetic Toxicology and Cancer Biology, National Institute of Biology, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,The Jožef Stefan International Postgraduate School, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Tamara Lah Turnšek
- Department of Genetic Toxicology and Cancer Biology, National Institute of Biology, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,The Jožef Stefan International Postgraduate School, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Barbara Breznik
- Department of Genetic Toxicology and Cancer Biology, National Institute of Biology, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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16
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Substrate-biased activity-based probes identify proteases that cleave receptor CDCP1. Nat Chem Biol 2021; 17:776-783. [PMID: 33859413 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-021-00783-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
CUB domain-containing protein 1 (CDCP1) is an oncogenic orphan transmembrane receptor and a promising target for the detection and treatment of cancer. Extracellular proteolysis of CDCP1 by poorly defined mechanisms induces pro-metastatic signaling. We describe a new approach for the rapid identification of proteases responsible for key proteolytic events using a substrate-biased activity-based probe (sbABP) that incorporates a substrate cleavage motif grafted onto a peptidyl diphenyl phosphonate warhead for specific target protease capture, isolation and identification. Using a CDCP1-biased probe, we identify urokinase (uPA) as the master regulator of CDCP1 proteolysis, which acts both by directly cleaving CDCP1 and by activating CDCP1-cleaving plasmin. We show that coexpression of uPA and CDCP1 is strongly predictive of poor disease outcome across multiple cancers and demonstrate that uPA-mediated CDCP1 proteolysis promotes metastasis in disease-relevant preclinical in vivo models. These results highlight CDCP1 cleavage as a potential target to disrupt cancer and establish sbABP technology as a new approach to identify disease-relevant proteases.
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17
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Morais C, Rajandram R, Blakeney JS, Iyer A, Suen JY, Johnson DW, Gobe GC, Fairlie DP, Vesey DA. Expression of protease activated receptor-2 is reduced in renal cell carcinoma biopsies and cell lines. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0248983. [PMID: 33765016 PMCID: PMC7993771 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0248983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Expression of the protease sensing receptor, protease activated receptor-2 (PAR2), is elevated in a variety of cancers and has been promoted as a potential therapeutic target. With the development of potent antagonists for this receptor, we hypothesised that they could be used to treat renal cell carcinoma (RCC). The expression of PAR2 was, therefore, examined in human RCC tissues and selected RCC cell lines. Histologically confirmed cases of RCC, together with paired non-involved kidney tissue, were used to produce a tissue microarray (TMA) and to extract total tissue RNA. Immunohistochemistry and qPCR were then used to assess PAR2 expression. In culture, RCC cell lines versus primary human kidney tubular epithelial cells (HTEC) were used to assess PAR2 expression by qPCR, immunocytochemistry and an intracellular calcium mobilization assay. The TMA revealed an 85% decrease in PAR2 expression in tumour tissue compared with normal kidney tissue. Likewise, qPCR showed a striking reduction in PAR2 mRNA in RCC compared with normal kidney. All RCC cell lines showed lower levels of PAR2 expression than HTEC. In conclusion, we found that PAR2 was reduced in RCC compared with normal kidney and is unlikely to be a target of interest in the treatment of this type of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christudas Morais
- Centre for Kidney Disease Research, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- Department of Urology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Retnagowri Rajandram
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan, Malaysia
| | - Jade S. Blakeney
- Centre for Inflammation and Disease Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Abishek Iyer
- Centre for Inflammation and Disease Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Jacky Y. Suen
- Centre for Inflammation and Disease Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - David W. Johnson
- Centre for Kidney Disease Research, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- Department of Nephrology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Glenda C. Gobe
- Centre for Kidney Disease Research, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - David P. Fairlie
- Centre for Inflammation and Disease Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - David A. Vesey
- Centre for Kidney Disease Research, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- Department of Nephrology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
- * E-mail:
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18
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Vizovisek M, Ristanovic D, Menghini S, Christiansen MG, Schuerle S. The Tumor Proteolytic Landscape: A Challenging Frontier in Cancer Diagnosis and Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22052514. [PMID: 33802262 PMCID: PMC7958950 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, dysregulation of proteases and atypical proteolysis have become increasingly recognized as important hallmarks of cancer, driving community-wide efforts to explore the proteolytic landscape of oncologic disease. With more than 100 proteases currently associated with different aspects of cancer development and progression, there is a clear impetus to harness their potential in the context of oncology. Advances in the protease field have yielded technologies enabling sensitive protease detection in various settings, paving the way towards diagnostic profiling of disease-related protease activity patterns. Methods including activity-based probes and substrates, antibodies, and various nanosystems that generate reporter signals, i.e., for PET or MRI, after interaction with the target protease have shown potential for clinical translation. Nevertheless, these technologies are costly, not easily multiplexed, and require advanced imaging technologies. While the current clinical applications of protease-responsive technologies in oncologic settings are still limited, emerging technologies and protease sensors are poised to enable comprehensive exploration of the tumor proteolytic landscape as a diagnostic and therapeutic frontier. This review aims to give an overview of the most relevant classes of proteases as indicators for tumor diagnosis, current approaches to detect and monitor their activity in vivo, and associated therapeutic applications.
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19
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Johansen ML, Perera R, Abenojar E, Wang X, Vincent J, Exner AA, Brady-Kalnay SM. Ultrasound-Based Molecular Imaging of Tumors with PTPmu Biomarker-Targeted Nanobubble Contrast Agents. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:1983. [PMID: 33671448 PMCID: PMC7922223 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ultrasound imaging is a widely used, readily accessible and safe imaging modality. Molecularly-targeted microbubble- and nanobubble-based contrast agents used in conjunction with ultrasound imaging expand the utility of this modality by specifically targeting and detecting biomarkers associated with different pathologies including cancer. In this study, nanobubbles directed to a cancer biomarker derived from the Receptor Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase mu, PTPmu, were evaluated alongside non-targeted nanobubbles using contrast enhanced ultrasound both in vitro and in vivo in mice. In vitro resonant mass and clinical ultrasound measurements showed gas-core, lipid-shelled nanobubbles conjugated to either a PTPmu-directed peptide or a Scrambled control peptide were equivalent. Mice with heterotopic human tumors expressing the PTPmu-biomarker were injected with PTPmu-targeted or control nanobubbles and dynamic contrast-enhanced ultrasound was performed. Tumor enhancement was more rapid and greater with PTPmu-targeted nanobubbles compared to the non-targeted control nanobubbles. Peak tumor enhancement by the PTPmu-targeted nanobubbles occurred within five minutes of contrast injection and was more than 35% higher than the Scrambled nanobubble signal for the subsequent two minutes. At later time points, the signal in tumors remained higher with PTPmu-targeted nanobubbles demonstrating that PTPmu-targeted nanobubbles recognize tumors using molecular ultrasound imaging and may be useful for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mette L. Johansen
- Department of Molecular Biology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44106-4960, USA; (M.L.J.); (J.V.)
| | - Reshani Perera
- Department of Radiology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106-4960, USA; (R.P.); (E.A.)
| | - Eric Abenojar
- Department of Radiology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106-4960, USA; (R.P.); (E.A.)
| | - Xinning Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106-7207, USA;
| | - Jason Vincent
- Department of Molecular Biology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44106-4960, USA; (M.L.J.); (J.V.)
| | - Agata A. Exner
- Department of Radiology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106-4960, USA; (R.P.); (E.A.)
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106-7207, USA;
| | - Susann M. Brady-Kalnay
- Department of Molecular Biology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44106-4960, USA; (M.L.J.); (J.V.)
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20
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Coban B, Bergonzini C, Zweemer AJM, Danen EHJ. Metastasis: crosstalk between tissue mechanics and tumour cell plasticity. Br J Cancer 2021; 124:49-57. [PMID: 33204023 PMCID: PMC7782541 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-020-01150-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the fact that different genetic programmes drive metastasis of solid tumours, the ultimate outcome is the same: tumour cells are empowered to pass a series of physical hurdles to escape the primary tumour and disseminate to other organs. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been proposed to drive the detachment of individual cells from primary tumour masses and facilitate the subsequent establishment of metastases in distant organs. However, this concept has been challenged by observations from pathologists and from studies in animal models, in which partial and transient acquisition of mesenchymal traits is seen but tumour cells travel collectively rather than as individuals. In this review, we discuss how crosstalk between a hybrid E/M state and variations in the mechanical aspects of the tumour microenvironment can provide tumour cells with the plasticity required for strategies to navigate surrounding tissues en route to dissemination. Targeting such plasticity provides therapeutic opportunities to combat metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bircan Coban
- Leiden Academic Center for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Cecilia Bergonzini
- Leiden Academic Center for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Annelien J M Zweemer
- Leiden Academic Center for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Erik H J Danen
- Leiden Academic Center for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands.
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21
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Wang CH, Wang LK, Wu CC, Chen ML, Kuo CY, Shyu RY, Tsai FM. Cathepsin V Mediates the Tazarotene-induced Gene 1-induced Reduction in Invasion in Colorectal Cancer Cells. Cell Biochem Biophys 2020; 78:483-494. [PMID: 32918681 DOI: 10.1007/s12013-020-00940-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Tazarotene-induced gene 1 (TIG1) is a retinoid acid receptor-responsive gene involved in cell differentiation and tumorigenesis. Aberrant methylation of CpG islands in the TIG1 promoter is found in multiple cancers. Currently, the exact mechanism underlying the anticancer effect of TIG1 is unknown. Here, we show that TIG1 interacts with cathepsin V (CTSV), which reduces CTSV stability and subsequently affects the production of activated urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA), an epithelial-mesenchymal transition-associated protein. Ectopic expression of CTSV increased the expression of activated uPA and the number of migrated and invaded cells, whereas ectopic TIG1 expression reversed the effects of CTSV on the uPA signaling pathway. Similar patterns in the production of activated uPA and number of migrated and invaded cells were also observed in TIG1-expressing and CTSV-knockdown cells. The results suggest that CTSV may participate in TIG1-regulated uPA activity and the associated downstream signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Hua Wang
- Department of Dermatology, Taipei Tzuchi Hospital, Buddhist Tzuchi Medical Foundation, New Taipei City, 231, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, 970, Taiwan
| | - Lu-Kai Wang
- Radiation Biology Core Laboratory, Institute for Radiological Research, Chang Gung University/Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taoyuan, 333, Taiwan
| | - Chang-Chieh Wu
- Department of Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital Keelung Branch, National Defense Medical Center, Keelung, 202, Taiwan
| | - Mao-Liang Chen
- Department of Research, Taipei Tzuchi Hospital, The Buddhist Tzuchi Medical Foundation, New Taipei City, 231, Taiwan
| | - Chan-Yen Kuo
- Department of Research, Taipei Tzuchi Hospital, The Buddhist Tzuchi Medical Foundation, New Taipei City, 231, Taiwan
| | - Rong-Yaun Shyu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Taipei Tzuchi Hospital, The Buddhist Tzuchi Medical Foundation, New Taipei City, 231, Taiwan.
| | - Fu-Ming Tsai
- Department of Research, Taipei Tzuchi Hospital, The Buddhist Tzuchi Medical Foundation, New Taipei City, 231, Taiwan.
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22
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De Donato M, Babini G, Mozzetti S, Buttarelli M, Ciucci A, Arduini G, De Rosa MC, Scambia G, Gallo D. KLF7: a new candidate biomarker and therapeutic target for high-grade serous ovarian cancer. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2020; 39:265. [PMID: 33250051 PMCID: PMC7702713 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-020-01775-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In spite of great progress in the surgical and clinical management, until now no significant improvement in overall survival of High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer (HGSOC) patients has been achieved. Important aspects for disease control remain unresolved, including unclear pathogenesis, high heterogeneity and relapse resistance after chemotherapy. Therefore, further research on molecular mechanisms involved in cancer progression are needed to find new targets for disease management. The Krüppel-like factors (KLFs) are a family of transcriptional regulators controlling several basic cellular processes, including proliferation, differentiation and migration. They have been shown to play a role in various cancer-relevant processes, in a context-dependent way. METHODS To investigate a possible role of KLF family members as prognostic biomarkers, we carried out a bioinformatic meta-analysis of ovarian transcriptome datasets in different cohorts of late-stage HGSOC patients. In vitro cellular models of HGSOC were used for functional studies exploring the role of KLF7 in disease development and progression. Finally, molecular modelling and virtual screening were performed to identify putative KLF7 inhibitors. RESULTS Bioinformatic analysis highlighted KLF7 as the most significant prognostic gene, among the 17 family members. Univariate and multivariate analyses identified KLF7 as an unfavourable prognostic marker for overall survival in late-stage TCGA-OV and GSE26712 HGSOC cohorts. Functional in vitro studies demonstrated that KLF7 can play a role as oncogene, driving tumour growth and dissemination. Mechanistic targets of KLF7 included genes involved in epithelial to mesenchymal transition, and in maintaining pluripotency and self-renewal characteristics of cancer stem cells. Finally, in silico analysis provided reliable information for drug-target interaction prediction. CONCLUSIONS Results from the present study provide the first evidence for an oncogenic role of KLF7 in HGSOC, suggesting it as a promising prognostic marker and therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta De Donato
- Unità di Medicina Traslazionale per la Salute della Donna e del Bambino, Dipartimento Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
- Dipartimento Universitario Scienze della Vita e Sanità Pubblica - Sezione di Ginecologia ed Ostetricia - Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168, Roma, Italy
| | - Gabriele Babini
- Dipartimento Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - Simona Mozzetti
- Dipartimento Universitario Scienze della Vita e Sanità Pubblica - Sezione di Ginecologia ed Ostetricia - Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168, Roma, Italy
| | - Marianna Buttarelli
- Unità di Medicina Traslazionale per la Salute della Donna e del Bambino, Dipartimento Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
- Dipartimento Universitario Scienze della Vita e Sanità Pubblica - Sezione di Ginecologia ed Ostetricia - Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168, Roma, Italy
| | - Alessandra Ciucci
- Unità di Medicina Traslazionale per la Salute della Donna e del Bambino, Dipartimento Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
- Dipartimento Universitario Scienze della Vita e Sanità Pubblica - Sezione di Ginecologia ed Ostetricia - Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168, Roma, Italy
| | - Gloria Arduini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biotecnologiche di base, Cliniche Intensivologiche e Perioperatorie, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Scambia
- Dipartimento Universitario Scienze della Vita e Sanità Pubblica - Sezione di Ginecologia ed Ostetricia - Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168, Roma, Italy
- Dipartimento Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - Daniela Gallo
- Unità di Medicina Traslazionale per la Salute della Donna e del Bambino, Dipartimento Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, Roma, Italy.
- Dipartimento Universitario Scienze della Vita e Sanità Pubblica - Sezione di Ginecologia ed Ostetricia - Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168, Roma, Italy.
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Xie X, He H, Zhang N, Wang X, Rui W, Xu D, Zhu Y. Overexpression of DDR1 Promotes Migration, Invasion, Though EMT-Related Molecule Expression and COL4A1/DDR1/MMP-2 Signaling Axis. Technol Cancer Res Treat 2020; 19:1533033820973277. [PMID: 33234027 PMCID: PMC7705183 DOI: 10.1177/1533033820973277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Discoidin domain receptor 1 (DDR1) belongs to a novel class of receptor tyrosine kinases. Previous evidence indicates that DDR1 overexpression promotes the aggressive growth of bladder cancer (BC) cells. This study aimed to investigate the molecular mechanisms by which DDR1 influences BC. Methods: DDR1 was transfected into human BC RT4 cells. DDR1, COL4A1, and MMP-2 expression in 30 BC tissues and paired adjacent tissues were examined by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and immunohistochemistry. Transwell assays were conducted to determine cell migration and invasion. RT-PCR and western blot (WB) were also used to measure the DDR1, COL4A1, MMP-2, and EMT-related gene (ZEB1 and SLUG) expression in RT4 cells after DDR1 overexpression. Results: COL4A1 and MMP-2 interacted with DDR1 in the PPI network. RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry results showed that both mRNA and protein levels of DDR1 and COL4A1 were significantly increased in BC tissue, while the expression of MMP-2 was increased only at the mRNA level (P < 0.05). Overexpression of DDR1 in RT4 cells significantly promoted their migratory and invasive capabilities in vitro (P < 0.05). Moreover, overexpression of DDR1 in RT4 cells increased the mRNA and protein expression of ZEB1, SLUG, COL4A1, and MMP-2 (P < 0.01). DDR1-mediated migration and invasion of RT4 cells were reversed after COL4A1-siRNA treatment. Conclusion: DDR1 may be a potential therapeutic target in BC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Xie
- Department of Urology, Ruijin Hospital, 56694Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongchao He
- Department of Urology, Ruijin Hospital, 56694Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ning Zhang
- Department of Urology, Ruijin Hospital, 56694Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaojing Wang
- Department of Urology, Ruijin Hospital, 56694Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenbin Rui
- Department of Urology, Ruijin Hospital, 56694Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Danfeng Xu
- Department of Urology, Ruijin Hospital, 56694Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Zhu
- Department of Urology, Ruijin Hospital, 56694Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Hermanowicz JM, Kwiatkowska I, Pawlak D. Important players in carcinogenesis as potential targets in cancer therapy: an update. Oncotarget 2020; 11:3078-3101. [PMID: 32850012 PMCID: PMC7429179 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.27689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of cancer is a problem that has accompanied mankind for years. The growing number of cases, emerging drug resistance, and the need to reduce the serious side effects of pharmacotherapy are forcing scientists to better understand the complex mechanisms responsible for the initiation, promotion, and progression of the disease. This paper discusses the modulation of the particular stages of carcinogenesis by selected physiological factors, including: acetylcholine (ACh), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR), fatty acid-binding proteins (FABPs), Bruton's tyrosine kinase (Btk), aquaporins (AQPs), insulin-like growth factor-2 (IGF-2), and exosomes. Understanding their role may contribute to the development of more effective and safer therapies based on new binding sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Magdalena Hermanowicz
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Bialystok, Mickiewicza, Bialystok, Poland
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Medical University of Bialystok, Mickiewicza, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Iwona Kwiatkowska
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Bialystok, Mickiewicza, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Dariusz Pawlak
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Bialystok, Mickiewicza, Bialystok, Poland
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Malik V, Garg S, Afzal S, Dhanjal JK, Yun CO, Kaul SC, Sundar D, Wadhwa R. Bioinformatics and Molecular Insights to Anti-Metastasis Activity of Triethylene Glycol Derivatives. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21155463. [PMID: 32751717 PMCID: PMC7432423 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21155463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The anti-metastatic and anti-angiogenic activities of triethylene glycol derivatives have been reported. In this study, we investigated their molecular mechanism(s) using bioinformatics and experimental tools. By molecular dynamics analysis, we found that (i) triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TD-10) and tetraethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TD-11) can act as inhibitors of the catalytic domain of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2, MMP-7 and MMP-9) by binding to the S1’ pocket of MMP-2 and MMP-9 and the catalytic Zn ion binding site of MMP-7, and that (ii) TD-11 can cause local disruption of the secondary structure of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) dimer and exhibit stable interaction at the binding interface of VEGFA receptor R1 complex. Cell-culture-based in vitro experiments showed anti-metastatic phenotypes as seen in migration and invasion assays in cancer cells by both TD-10 and TD-11. Underlying biochemical evidence revealed downregulation of VEGF and MMPs at the protein level; MMP-9 was also downregulated at the transcriptional level. By molecular analyses, we demonstrate that TD-10 and TD-11 target stress chaperone mortalin at the transcription and translational level, yielding decreased expression of vimentin, fibronectin and hnRNP-K, and increase in extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins (collagen IV and E-cadherin) endorsing reversal of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vidhi Malik
- DAILAB, Department of Biochemical Engineering & Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110 016, India;
| | - Sukant Garg
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 305 8565, Japan; (S.G.); (S.A.); (J.K.D.); (S.C.K.)
| | - Sajal Afzal
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 305 8565, Japan; (S.G.); (S.A.); (J.K.D.); (S.C.K.)
| | - Jaspreet Kaur Dhanjal
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 305 8565, Japan; (S.G.); (S.A.); (J.K.D.); (S.C.K.)
| | - Chae-Ok Yun
- Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul 133-791, Korea;
| | - Sunil C. Kaul
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 305 8565, Japan; (S.G.); (S.A.); (J.K.D.); (S.C.K.)
| | - Durai Sundar
- DAILAB, Department of Biochemical Engineering & Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110 016, India;
- Correspondence: (D.S.); (R.W.); Tel.: +91-11-2659-1066 (D.S.); +81-29-861-9464 (R.W.)
| | - Renu Wadhwa
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 305 8565, Japan; (S.G.); (S.A.); (J.K.D.); (S.C.K.)
- Correspondence: (D.S.); (R.W.); Tel.: +91-11-2659-1066 (D.S.); +81-29-861-9464 (R.W.)
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26
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Ginsenoside Rg3 Inhibits the Growth of Osteosarcoma and Attenuates Metastasis through the Wnt/ β-Catenin and EMT Signaling Pathway. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2020; 2020:6065124. [PMID: 32733585 PMCID: PMC7369650 DOI: 10.1155/2020/6065124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2020] [Revised: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common primary malignant bone cancer. An increasing number of studies have demonstrated that ginsenoside Rg3 (Rg3), which is extracted from the roots of the traditional Chinese herb Panax ginseng, plays a tumor suppression role in various malignant tumors. In the present study, we aimed at investigating the role of Rg3 in the proliferation, migration, and invasion of OS and at exploring the underlying mechanisms. Cell viability and proliferation were observed by MTT assay and crystal violet staining. The migration and invasion of cells were measured by wound-healing assay and Transwell method. Signaling pathway screening was investigated using luciferase reporter gene assay. qRT-PCR and western blot were performed to measure the expression of molecules involved in cell epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Results suggested that Rg3 could not only inhibit proliferation but also hamper the migration and invasion of OS. qRT-PCR and western blot demonstrated that a reduced level of MMP2/MMP7/MMP9 was induced after Rg3 treatment. In addition, the expression levels of proteins related to EMT and the Wnt/β-catenin pathway were downregulated. In summary, our data revealed that Rg3 could inhibit the proliferation, migration, and invasion of OS cells. This effect of Rg3 might be mediated by downregulating MMP2, MMP7, and MMP9 expression and suppressing EMT as well as the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Thus, Rg3 might be a potential agent for the treatment of OS.
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Zhu F, Bo H, Liu G, Li R, Liu Z, Fan L. SPANXN2 functions a cell migration inhibitor in testicular germ cell tumor cells. PeerJ 2020; 8:e9358. [PMID: 32612888 PMCID: PMC7319028 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.9358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background SPANX family members are thought to play an important role in cancer progression. The SPANXN2 is a gene expressed mainly in normal testis, but its role in testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) has yet to be investigated. TGCT is one of the most common solid tumors in young men and is associated with poor prognosis; however, effective prognostic indicators remain elusive. Therefore, we investigated the role of SPANXN2 in TGCT development. Methods SPANXN2 expression levels were validated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analyses of 14 TGCT samples and five adjacent normal tissue samples. SPANXN2 was transiently overexpressed in TGCT cells to study the consequences for cell function. The effects of SPANXN2 on cell migration were evaluated in transwell and wound healing assays. The effects on cloning ability were evaluated in colony formation assays. MTT assays and cell cycle analysis were used to detect the effects of SPANXN2 on cell proliferation. The expression levels of EMT- and AKT-related proteins in cells overexpressing SPANXN2 were analyzed by Western blotting. Results Compared with adjacent normal tissues, the Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis database showed SPANXN2 expression was downregulated in TGCTs which was consistent with the qRT-PCR analysis. SPANXN2 overexpression reduced cell migration and colony formation capability and downregulated expression of EMT- and AKT-related proteins, Vimentin, Snail, AKT, and p-AKT. Conclusion Our results suggest that SPANXN2 regulates TGCT cell migration via EMT- and AKT-related proteins although its role in the occurrence and development of TGCT remains to be fully elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Zhu
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic MedicalScience, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Hao Bo
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic MedicalScience, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Guangmin Liu
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic MedicalScience, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ruixue Li
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic MedicalScience, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhizhong Liu
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic MedicalScience, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Hunan Cancer Hospital, Department of Urology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Liqing Fan
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic MedicalScience, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, Hunan, China
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28
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Peng YX, Yu B, Qin H, Xue L, Liang YJ, Quan ZX. EMT-related gene expression is positively correlated with immunity and may be derived from stromal cells in osteosarcoma. PeerJ 2020; 8:e8489. [PMID: 32117617 PMCID: PMC7003688 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.8489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Osteosarcoma is the most common type of bone cancer in children and young adults. Recent studies have shown a correlation between epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related gene expression and immunity in human cancers. Here, we investigated the relationship among EMT, immune activity, stromal activity and tumor purity in osteosarcoma. Methods We defined EMT gene signatures and evaluated immune activity and stromal activity based on the gene expression and clinical data from three independent microarray datasets. These factors were evaluated by single sample Gene Set Enrichment Analyses and the ESTIMATE tool. Finally, we analyzed the key source of EMT gene expression in osteosarcoma using microarray datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus and human samples that we collected. Results EMT-related gene expression was positively correlated with immune and stromal activity in osteosarcoma. Tumor purity was negatively correlated with EMT, immune activity and stromal cells. We further demonstrated that high EMT gene expression could significantly predict poor overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) in osteosarcoma patients, while high immune activity cannot. However, combining these factors could have further prognostic value for osteosarcoma patients in terms of OS and RFS. Finally, we found that stromal cells may serve as a key source of EMT gene expression in osteosarcoma. Conclusion The results of this study reveal that the expression of EMT genes and immunity are positively correlated, but these signatures convey disparate prognostic information. Furthermore, the results indicate that EMT-related gene expression may be derived from stromal rather than epithelial cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin-Xiao Peng
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third People's Hospital of Chengdu, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Bin Yu
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third People's Hospital of Chengdu, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hui Qin
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third People's Hospital of Chengdu, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Li Xue
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third People's Hospital of Chengdu, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yi-Jian Liang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third People's Hospital of Chengdu, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Zheng-Xue Quan
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, Chongqing, China
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Chen T, Lei S, Zeng Z, Zhang J, Xue Y, Sun Y, Lan J, Xu S, Mao D, Guo B. Linc00261 inhibits metastasis and the WNT signaling pathway of pancreatic cancer by regulating a miR‑552‑5p/FOXO3 axis. Oncol Rep 2020; 43:930-942. [PMID: 32020223 PMCID: PMC7041108 DOI: 10.3892/or.2020.7480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The biological function of long non-coding RNA00261 (Linc00261) has been widely investigated in various types of cancer. The aim of the present study was to explore the role of Linc00261 in pancreatic cancer (PC). The expression of Linc00261 in patients with PC and PC cell lines was assessed using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and the association of Linc00261 expression with survival was analyzed in the online database, GEPIA. The effects of Linc00261 on PC cell metastasis in vitro and in vivo were determined using a wound healing assay, Transwell invasion assays and a nude mouse model of liver metastasis. The relationship between Linc00261, the miR-552-5p/forkhead box O3 (FOXO3) axis and the Wnt signaling pathway were determined using bioinformatics analysis, dual luciferase assay and western blotting. Linc00261 expression was significantly decreased in PC tissues and cell lines, and reduced expression was associated with less favorable outcomes in patients with PC. Linc00261 overexpression inhibited migration and invasion of PC cells in vitro, whereas knockdown of Linc00261 increased migration and invasion. Linc00261 overexpression also decreased metastasis of PC cells in vivo. Linc00261 was revealed to directly bind to microRNA (miR)-552-5p and to decrease the expression of miR-552-5p. In addition, Linc00261 overexpression increased the expression of FOXO3, a target gene of miR-552-5p, as well as inhibited the Wnt signaling pathway. Overexpression of miR-552-5p in Linc00261-overexpressing PC cells increased migration and invasion, as well as decreased the expression of FOXO3 and members of the Wnt signaling pathway. Collectively, the present study demonstrated that Linc00261 inhibited metastasis and the Wnt signaling pathway of PC by regulating the miR-552-5p/FOXO3 axis. Linc00261 may suppress the development of PC, and serve as a potential biomarker and effective target for the diagnosis and treatment of PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tengxiang Chen
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550009, P.R. China
| | - Shan Lei
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550009, P.R. China
| | - Zhirui Zeng
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550009, P.R. China
| | - Jinjuan Zhang
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550009, P.R. China
| | - Yan Xue
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550009, P.R. China
| | - Yuanmei Sun
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550009, P.R. China
| | - Jinzhi Lan
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550009, P.R. China
| | - Su Xu
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550009, P.R. China
| | - Dahua Mao
- Department of Breast Surgery, Wudang Affiliated Hospital, School of Clinical Medical Science, Guiyang, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550009, P.R. China
| | - Bing Guo
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550009, P.R. China
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